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inspiration

CONTENTS 7 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

PASHA CARTER

8 VIP GLOBAL MAGAZINE About Us

VIP KIDS 24 LEXI PROCTOR

How she changed her life with one boss move

10 MEET OUR

CONTRIBUTORS

VIP MONEY & BUSINESS 14 WWE SUPERSTAR

TRINITY “NAOMI” FATU

Surprising ways to elevate your brand

18 CAN QUITTING YOUR

JOB TOO EARLY CRUSH YOUR DREAM?

20 MY BLACK TEARS

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VIP COVER STORY 28 FORBES RILEY

Shares Her Top 5 Secrets To 2.5 Billion Dollars in Sales

VIP LIST 34 50 MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN IN BUSINESS FOR 2021

Changing the rules of entrepreneurship

VIP HEALTH & FITNESS 94 WHAT’S YOUR

WORKOUT STYLE?

Fitness Guru, Tanjie Brewer answers this burning question

98 FOUR SHOCKING

THINGS YOUR MASK MAY BE DOING TO YOUR SKIN AND HOW TO AVOID IT

100 A MOM’S MENTAL

HEALTH MEANS MORE THAN SHE KNOWS

VIP INSPIRATION 104 TANIEKA RANDALL

Cancer survivor creates products to take back her hair and life

108 5 WAYS TO FALL IN

LOVE WITH YOURSELF

VIP CELEBRITY NEWS 112 JAY JAMES

MAGAZINE

Living on the edge

117 HOW CELEBRITY BOSS MOMMIES BALANCE BUSINESS AND MOTHERHOOD

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Pasha Carter MANAGING EDITOR

Ann Marie Bryan CONTRIBUTORS

Tammy Allison Tanjie Brewer Teia Burroughs Bindu A. Chowritmootoo Donna Izzard Melanye Maclin Delene P. Musielak Ceirra Smith

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editor’s letter

Join the Movement!

GLOBAL MAGAZINE Connecting, empowering, and celebrating business leaders.

O

ne of the biggest wealth shifts is taking place right now. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Work smart! Be open and go for it! We created VIP Global Magazine to tell the journeys of entrepreneurs, not just their destinations. Each story gives you top-notch strategies to succeed in business, along with teachable moments. We are dedicated to raising the next generation of entrepreneurs, business leaders, and influencers.

In this issue, you’ll find a mix of features and articles on a wide range of topics—money and business, health and fitness, and celebrity news. We have highlighted the achievements of 50 phenomenal women in business, whose contributions cannot be ignored. In our cover story, the spotlight is on Forbes Riley, who wears many hats—award-winning TV host, author, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur. A leading health and wellness expert, Forbes is on a mission to promote health and fitness as a lifestyle.

This issue is all about the empowerment and autonomy of women. Quite fitting, as on Sunday, May 9, 2021, we will be celebrating Mother’s Day. Enjoy every minute! And on that special note, I dedicate this issue to Mrs. Annie Oliver, my wonderful mom, who recently passed. Mom was an advocate for women, providing the advice, support, and encouragement they needed to achieve their dreams. I am who I am because of my mother’s unconditional love and guidance. Mom lived a purposeful life; beautiful to see… even to the end.

As I’m writing to you, I’m brimming with excitement from the joyful memories of our January launch. Thank you for your encouraging inbox messages, texts, emails, and phone calls. This magazine is for you—who think differently, who don’t play by the normal rules, who insist there’s a better way, who refuse to give up on your goals and dreams. We have spent relentless hours perfecting this issue for you. It’s over to you now. You’re in for a treat. Enjoy!

Pasha Carter Editor-in-Chief

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magazine VIP GLOBAL MAGAZINE is a business media outlet that brings entrepreneurial resources to the forefront of digital media. Our content encourages aspiring creators and entrepreneurs to apply actionable advice and develop small businesses into industry-leading organizations.

We feature everything entrepreneurs and business leaders want to know about creating, marketing, and maintaining profitable companies. No matter where you are on your entrepreneurial journey, VIP Global Magazine is the ultimate resource for anyone looking to take their business to the next level.

Website

vipglobalmagazine.com Contact

info@vipglobalmagazine.com Advertise with us

info@vipglobalmagazine.com Subscribe

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Meet Our Tammy Allison, Esq. Pardon Attorney

A

ttorney Tammy Allison is the founder of the nation’s first black-owned expert federal executive clemency law firm, The Pardon Attorney™. She is also the managing member of Own Your Passion® where she offers individual and business consulting as well as Internal Investigations and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion trainings.

www.thepardonattorney.com

Bindu A. Chowritmootoo Life & Career Coach

B

indu is an entrepreneur, writer, motivational speaker, and certified life and career coach. She is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ignite It, LLC, a company built on women’s empowerment initiatives. Bindu is also the Founder and President of Precise Venture Consulting, LLC, a company that offers full service start up, operational management and business development services. She began her professional career in Boston, MA, and is currently a resident of Frisco, Texas.

www.ignititacademy.com

Tanjie Brewer Personal Trainer & Nutritionist

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anjie Brewer’s award-winning programs and fresh perspective towards fitness and wellness, has transformed the lives and bodies of countless women and men around the globe. She is a Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Nutritionist, Author, Motivational Speaker, Wardrobe Stylist, and CEO of Stylish and Fit. She has an unrelenting passion to see others rock their purpose with vitality and increase their esteem for a lifetime.

www.stylishandfit.com

Teia Burroughs Magazine Correspondent & Media Placement Professional

T

eia Burroughs of Columbia (SC) is a contributing writer for several national magazines. She is also a budding media personality and media placement specialist serving a select group of private clients. Teia specializes in celebrity, lifestyle, fashion, and beauty content. She has a passion for learning about businesses and how they grow and thrive with a special affinity for female-owned businesses. As an entrepreneur and mother, she prides herself on being able to balance her many roles well.

www.instagram.com/teiaburroughs

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Contributors Donna Izzard Multiple Revenue Streams Strategist

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onna Izzard is an author, International Speaker, and Multiple Revenue Streams Strategist.

She helps highly successful corporate professionals and faith-based leaders to blend their expertise and brilliance into profitable, passion-fueled businesses while maintaining their full-time careers and ministries. Donna was tagged as one of the top coaches to watch by the Huffington Post and recognized as one of the top 30 Black Global Leaders by Impact magazine.

www.donnaizzard.com

Dr. Melanye Maclin-Carroll, M.D. Dermatologist

M

elanye Maclin, M.D., aka ‘Dr. Mac,’ is a celebrity dermatologist who is passionate about educating the masses on skin and hair via multimedia. She has appeared on several outlets including The Steve Harvey Morning Show, Sirius XM, Radio One, WHUR (Frankski, Weekends with Ed Gordon, Daily Drum), FOX DC News, Chris Rock’s film Good Hair, Rock Newman TV, Sister 2 Sister, and Hype Hair magazine, for which she is also the Medical Director.

Dr. Mac is the CEO/President and Research Development Dermatologist for Innovative Hair Technology, Inc. which she founded in September 1999.

www.drmaclin.com

Dr. Delene P. Musielak, M.D. Board Certified Internist & Pediatrician

D

r. Musielak is dual-boarded in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. She is an Associate Program Director, super mom of Triplets, International Bestselling author, entrepreneur, corporate wellness coach and motivational speaker. She is known as Dr. Dee – Mom of Three on her podcast, The Dr. Mom Show, where she’s passionate about educating others about preventative medicine. Dr. Musielak is also the co-founder of ALEA Publishing, LLC. She has been featured in a multitude of media outlets including ABC News, The CW, Fox News, KSDK News, MizCEO, Glambitious, Thrive, Delux Magazine, and STL Parent.

www.drdelenemusielak.com

Ceirra Smith Freelance Writer

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eirra Smith is a twenty-something adventurer who grew up traversing the globe, first through the pages of books, and then in reality. She’s currently a freelance writer and ghostwriter for businesses, influencers, and several magazines including SheKnows, Essence, and Black Enterprise. Ceirra’s a lover of Jamaican food, romance novels, and online shopping. When she’s not surrounding herself with words, you can find her baking cookies or exploring nature with her fur baby Sasha.

www.instagram.com/cc_smitty/ 11

money & business

Bold&

Bad Beautiful wwe superstar trinity “naomi” fatu’s surprising ways to elevate your brand

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Stepping outside of your comfort zone will teach you to adapt and overcome in business and in life.

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money & business

“

Fans come to see women just as much as the men and we want the same opportunities they have.

“I choose the safe path, and I hated everything about traditional office jobs. I wasn’t able to express myself or be creative.” After seeing a live wrestling event in her home state of Florida, Trinity was mesmerized by the beauty, athleticism, and talent of female wrestlers. “Going to a show was an eye-opening experience. All of a sudden my purpose to entertain became clear.” Research and

“

F

rom contestant on NXT to star of reality show Total Divas on E!, wrestling champion Trinity “Naomi” Fatu has taken the sports entertainment industry by storm. The former Orlando Magic cheerleader is proof that building a successful brand happens over time, not overnight.

preparation landed Trinity at independent developmental program Florida Championship Wrestling, now WWE NXT, and three years later she made her main roster debut at WWE. Since then, Trinity won the first-ever women’s Battle Royal at WrestleMania, wrestled in Saudi Arabia, and became a two-time SmackDown Women’s Champion. “It took me almost eight years get from Florida Championship Wrestling to wrestling champion.” The wife of fellow WWE Superstar Jonathan Fatu (stage name Jimmy Uso) feels most comfortable and empowered performing for stadiums full of screaming fans, but it wasn’t always this way. “I second guessed my talents and questioned my place in this industry.” It wasn’t until she realized the impact of being a black female wrestler that she changed her thinking and started to Feel the Glow. “I made a conscious choice to

“My uniqueness is my superpower and there is more than enough room for all of us to succeed.”

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Creative Director/Fashion Styling by Chaz E. Foley & Photography by Michael Letterlough

stop negative self-talk and increase positivity. My uniqueness is my superpower and there is more than enough room for all of us to succeed.” Now, Trinity capitalizes on every opportunity to represent women, illustrate her culture, and expand her brand.

Gender Equality in the Industry She and fellow WWE icons are setting a new gold standard for sports entertainment. “We have a common goal to elevate the women’s division, which is only possible when we unite and advocate for ourselves.” For decades WWE has been associated with men, but the popularity of women in sports entertainment is changing gender stereotypes. “Ladies who have come before me and those in the industry now continue to fight for high quality matches and airtime. WWE’s new era of representing women and multiple cultures has elevated our platform. Fans come to see women just as much as the men and we want the same opportunities they have.”

Trinity’s top four tips for launching a brand

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Don’t be afraid to reinvent

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Trying something unexpected can really benefit your brand. It may not work the way you envisioned but stepping outside of Trust yourself your comfort zone will Keep believing in your teach you to adapt and Limit casual ability to learn, grow, overcome in business social media usage and succeed. If you and in life.

Seeking approval and stay on your toes and validation from stranpush though discomgers can mess with your fort, you’ll see that you confidence so try not are strong enough to to read comments or accomplish everything obsess over likes and you set out to do. followers.

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Visit Trinity Fatu www.instagram.com/trinity_fatu/?hl=en

Embrace your uniqueness Being a performer requires you to look a certain way, but I’m not afraid to flaunt my culture or my personality.

I Feel the Glow because I’m confident in who I am. Discover who you are and be her to the fullest!

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money & business

It’s the most controversial topic in the entrepreneur circle

Can quitting your job

too early crush your dream?

by Donna Izzard

I’m a proud employee and entrepreneur! I work at a Silent Investor (aka “my job”) but my job is only one of my revenue streams in my portfolio. While many are jumping ship or leaving their job to seek the adventurous journey of an entrepreneur, I decided to do both and win at it.

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vipglobalmagazine.com

money & business

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am of the mindset that you do not have to quit your job to win.

Everyone is not cut out to be an entrepreneur, and some have left their job prematurely because a coach advised them to do so.

Working in the dual role of employee by day and CEO by night, all while juggling her many hats and taking care of her family, is a choice that one must be committed to. There are many discussions on social media between full-time entrepreneurs and a part-time entrepreneur like me who continues to work a fulltime job while also operating a business. I believe that you can continue to work your full-time job until you come up with your exit strategy. The exit strategy should cover at a minimum your monthly living expenses for six months.

I would not leave my “silent investor” until I had acquired the skills, equipment and/or coaching investments, and while I was building my business at the same time. I have witnessed entrepreneurs who have stepped out on faith, only to find that they are worrying about their health and financial well-being.

How to calculate your Personal Exit Runway (P.E.R.) Score?

Your P.E.R. Score = Current Savings / Monthly Burn Rate Your monthly burn rate is your mortgage/rent, utility bills, entertainment, and any other monthly bills.

Your P.E.R. determines all. Your decision should be purely based on how quickly you can hit your personal burn rate or break-even point.

It is key for you to get additional revenue streams that do not compete with one another and that can run with minimal supervision. Another idea for additional income is to have passive income. vipglobalmagazine.com

There are three essential keys to being both employee and entrepreneur.

1. Time Management This is an important ingredient to manage your family, full-time job, business, and yourself.

I resigned on October 14, 2000. I quit Danka and two and a half weeks later I was on the Oprah Winfrey Show.

2. Team You need to build a team to assist in your vision. Virtual assistants are a great way to farm out tasks, freeing you up for higher valued items.

To run additional businesses, hire a team to assist. The team should be able to follow up on appointments and calls, do administrative tasks, respond to emails, and run social media outlets.

3. Finances You cannot build your business without finances. Use your Silent Investor to fund your business. I utilize my Silent Investor to fund my dreams as I am building other revenue streams. I use my Silent Investor to learn skills that I can utilize in my businesses. It’s a strategy. There are often times that an organization outsources positions or lays off staff and then the employee is left unable to secure employment in their particular field. I teach employees to have at least one additional stream.

As employees, we should always be learning new skills be able to take our skills and/or experiences and turn it into a business.

Spanx founder Sara Blakely credits her success to the fact that she actually kept her day job as an office equipment salesperson for two years, learning to work with minimal sleep as she got her form-fitting shapewear company off the ground.

Blakely did not want to resign from her day job until she was absolutely sure her small business idea would work, according to Forbes. By the time Blakely resigned in 2000 from what was then office equipment supplier Danka, she had already spent countless nights and weekends studying pantyhose design and existing patents. She would drive from her Atlanta home to North Carolina, where she sought out hosiery mills willing to make the product. “There were days that I’d be at Danka all day and the semi-trucks would drop boxes of Spanx outside my apartment. I resigned on October 14, 2000. I quit Danka and two and a half weeks later I was on the Oprah Winfrey Show,” Blakely says.

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leadership

My Black

Tears

by Tammy Allison, Esq.

When black women cry, their tears are villainized as if they are in some sort of rage—stereotypical angry black woman. When white women cry, their tears are victimized as if they are in some sort of trouble—stereotypical damsel in distress.

T

he exact same emotional response of tears somehow manages to have a completely different definition.

This dawned on me while I was still employed as a senior attorney with the U.S. Department of Justice in September 2019. I had to attend a mandatory threeday training out of state that I tried to get out of since I was still grappling with the anxiety of attending a contentious divorce hearing the day prior. Like most black women, I pushed through, smiled, and exchanged pleasantries while trying to hold it together.

After the last day of training as we all were wrapping up, I overheard my supervisor coordinating a carpool to the airport without including me. For whatever reason, feeling excluded started a stream of uncontrollable tears. I tried to compose myself, but it was one of those cries that had to come out. As I attempted to discreetly hold back the tears and sniff quietly, a different supervisor asked me what was wrong. I let him know, entered my Lyft, and made it back home safely.

A week later, after returning to business as usual, I unexpectantly received a performance log entry for being “visibly upset” at the training facility. To say that I was shocked is an understatement.

Visibly Upset: Its meaning varies depending solely on skin color.

Whether this occurs in the courtroom as a defendant, as seen in the Amber Guyger sentencing hearing, on the tennis court as seen with Serena Williams, or like me at work as a senior DOJ attorney, the responses to a black woman’s tears are so vastly different than that of a white woman.

In October 2019, after being convicted and sentenced for the murder of Botham Jean, Guyger’s white tears led to the black judge coming down off the bench to embrace Guyger and give her a Bible. Clearly her white tears equated to being viewed as “visibly upset” in a much different way than my black tears, or any defendant’s black tears in the criminal justice system.

In stark contrast, Serena Williams was penalized for showing emotion in the 2018

vipglobalmagazine.com

Black women have emotions and should not be expected to hold it all in.

U.S. Open; however, the same emotions by Aryna Sabalenka in the 2021 Australian Open garnered sympathy and support characterized empathetically by commentators as being “stressful” competing against Williams. In February 2021, after losing to Naomi Osaka, Williams’ tears were reported as being related to a possible retirement announcement, as opposed to just simply an emotional response to losing to Osako, the same person that she lost to at the 2018 U.S. Open. Interestingly enough, Eurosport described her as being “visibly upset.”

The duality of the definition of being “visibly upset” is rooted in micro-aggressions based on implicit biases, systemic racism, and institutionalized racism. Black women have emotions and should not be expected to hold it all in. Unfortunately, often time we feel as if we have to hide our emotions and remain unbreakably strong, out of the fear of being retaliated against, viewed as angry, or worse—death.

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Kids

Kids

From Pre-teen to Beauty Boss: How Lexi Proctor Changed her life with one boss move 24

“It’s my mission to provide girls with tools to build self-esteem and rock their curls with confidence.”

Kids

“Anyone looking to maintain a successful business should always remember the greatest investment you can make is in yourself and your dreams.”

F

ounder of the incredibly successful haircare line Curlanistas, Lexi Proctor is changing the way curly girls worldwide view their voluminous locks. In just a few years, she has catapulted her company into the stratosphere and mentored millions of Curlanistas on the importance of self-love.

“You don’t have to change any part of yourself to be accepted. Curly girls set trends, we have our own style,” says Proctor. “It’s my mission to provide girls with tools to build self-esteem and rock their curls with confidence.”

Author, Entrepreneur & Curl Activist Lexi Proctor sells Curlanistas products online and on the shelves of re26

tail giant Sally Beauty. Most recently, she launched a series of 100% virgin human hair drawstring ponytails of various textures. This beauty-preneur, however, wasn’t always a fan of her curly mane. In grade school, Lexi was teased because of the texture and volume of her hair. “Classmates would say rude things and call me broccoli head. Hearing negative words day after day hurt my feelings and made me resent my curls.” Luckily, Lexi’s mom encouraged her to keep rocking her big, bold curls—and she did.

Throughout her journey to self-acceptance inside and out, Lexi wrote affirmations and positive comments about her appearance in a notebook.

Soon after, she realized how much impact positive words had on her self-esteem and began writing her interactive children’s books Curly Girls Love Your Curls and The Ice Cream Talk: Love the Skin You’re In.

“No one should care about your company more than you do so spend significant time figuring out the best possible options for your business moving forward.”

“We underestimate the power of positive reinforcement and representation.

My books share positive messages about loving your natural hair, skin, and personality—three things that are rooted in self-esteem.” Lexi has learned to embrace her natural self and is on a mission to help young girls and teens do the same.

“Developing high self-esteem at a young age keeps hurtful comments from phasing you.” Proctor notes establishing self-love requires patience and reminds us that freedom comes with being completely comfortable in your own skin. “Unfortunately, lots of teens have negative experiences, like bullying. Curlanistas encourages you to embrace the unique, beautiful creation that you are, then provides you

with moisture-rich products to make those juicy curls pop!” Lexi’s haircare line includes curl defining custard, frizz-free detangler, curl cream, and several other hair accessories. “My products condition, hydrate, and refresh all natural-hair types. Curly girls love Curlanistas haircare because products soften and repair hair from the inside out, leaving a weightless, non-greasy shine.”

“I’m not just the CEO of Curlanistas, I’m a leader and role model, and I embrace those positions wholeheartedly. Anyone looking to maintain a successful business should always remember the greatest investment you can make is in yourself and your dreams.”

3 Steps to Becoming a Beauty Boss

01

Don’t underestimate the power of social media There is a surge in businesses utilizing social platforms to connect with and market to customers. Curlanistas is active on every major platform and we post and interact with customers on a regular basis.

02

Do your research No one should care about your company more than you do, so spend significant time figuring out the best possible options for your business moving forward. It’s not the most glamourous part of entrepreneurship, but it is the most necessary. Figure out what you want your product to do, how you’re going to set yourself apart from other people, and how you plan to market your product.

03

Create a series of goals

Visit Lexi Proctor at https:/a/www.curlanistas.com/.

Write your professional goals down and read them every day. Reviewing your aspirations daily keeps you encouraged during the tough times. To have a successful business, you need to have a “that’s good, but I can do better” mindset. I’ve accomplished so much since I started but I’m nowhere near where I want to be—and that’s exciting.

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cover story

Celebrity TV Host

Forbes Riley

5Secrets To

Top

$ 2.5Billion in Sales Pioneer behind the As Seen On TV infomercial phenomenon, Forbes Riley has hosted over 180 infomercials and sold on QVC and HSN for nearly 30 years, generating more than $2.5 billion in global sales.

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“If you don’t have success selling your products, you’re not giving consumers what they want.

You’re focused on giving them what you want.”

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cover story

“D

eveloping a million-dollar business requires you to see life differently, think differently, and self-talk differently.”

This is the captivating energy of Forbes Riley, speaker, success coach, and creator of the SpinGym fitness sensation. “Figure out what you love to do, what ignites you, and go do it”, says the Long Island, New York native who made her television debut with Bob Hope on NBC’s Miss Teenage America pageant.

Riley originally pursued a career in theatre, with dreams of becoming an actress, but her unique ability to connect with and empower people led her down a different path.

Creating Your Ideal Business and Life “Your first memory is what sparks your entire hard drive of life. Be it traumatic, empowering, good, or bad. The baggage of your life affects how you speak to yourself, your business partners, your kids, and even how you conduct yourself on social media.” She continues, “Life happens for you not to you. Regardless of the events, how you respond is always within your control.” Riley has successfully taught entrepreneurs all over the world that reconnecting with their purpose and igniting their passion will shatter limiting beliefs and create abundance in all areas of their lives. “We have the ability to change memories, take away traumas, and unblock areas that prevented us from succeeding.” Her formula is simple: Dream It, Believe It, Achieve It. “I am the living embodiment of massive failure after failure, but I didn’t let that stop me. Changing your mindset will create and unlock unimagined opportunities. I view the word No as N-O, Never-ending Opportunities. Despite all my failures, I have the audacity to believe in my abilities so much that No is still a Yes.”

Crush it on Camera Forbes Riley created Crush it on Camera, a program that teaches novice entrepreneurs industry secrets to market like a pro! Learn the art of the pitch, and how to engage, excite, and enroll your audience into your vision. This program refines communication skills, builds confidence on and off camera, and provides you with an expert-level pitch video to post or send anywhere, anytime.

“I’m going to teach you how to pitch and get a Yes. When you engage consumers and explain how your product or 30

Forbes Riley’s Top 5 Success Tips:

service can benefit them, the whole dynamic changes. If you don’t have success selling your products, you’re not giving consumers what they want. You’re focused on giving them what you want.”

Forbes Riley is a realist who credits success in life and business changing her perspective and doing what she loves. “The work that I’ve been doing is from the heart. I’m on a mission to not only serve, but help people get out of the ‘I can’t’ mindset. Stop thinking that you’re less than, or not deserving.”

“I have the audacity to believe in my abilities so much that No is still a Yes.” Successful programs Forbes Factor Live and The Billionaire Business Academy were created with a goal to inspire others to their greatness. Despite being an introvert, Forbes learned to seize opportunities, speak up, and rely on her inner voice to be a guide. “You are the sum of the obstacles you overcome, so be somebody no one thought you could be.”

1

Surround yourself with the right people

Your circle should wholeheartedly believe in your ability to succeed as much as you do. Find mentors and experts in your field and attend their seminars; learn as much as you can from them.

Delegate

You can’t do everything, so stop trying. Use your resources to find people who excel in areas you don’t and add them to your team.

3

Your network is your net worth

Go to networking events and make connections with people. Business cards are opportunities on standby. They are relationships you can establish and partnerships you can build on. Importantly, call people when you don’t need them so when you do, they’re there.

Make good use of your time

Watch a masterclass, listen to a podcast, or read a book that will get you one step closer to your goals.

5 Visit Forbes Riley at https://shopforbesriley.com

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Maximize your business online

4

The internet is being used to create business and substantial revenue. If you don’t have multiple streams of income or don’t understand how to make money online in this tech-based world, you’re missing out.

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1A

Zoe Saldana BESE Promoting positive Latino stories

ctress Zoe Saldana was on a mission to promote positive Latino stories when she created digital platform, BESE. Lack of positive representation for multicultural individuals, like her three sons, motivated Zoe to launch a medium that recognizes and empowers communities that have previously been excluded from mainstream media. Instead of complaining from the sidelines, the star of Avatar chose to create a business with that purpose.

BESE celebrates multi-cultural identities and provides a space for young people to engage and generate conversation. Since launching BESE, Zoe has continued to champion the importance of self-acceptance among multicultural Latinos and amplify the untold stories that reflect today’s wide range of American cultures.

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Carrie Underwood CALIA

F i t n e s s a p pa r e l a n d ac c e s s o r i e s

C

ountry superstar Carrie Underwood’s fitness apparel CALIA features activewear, swimwear, and everyday accessories for women who are always on the move.

Designed for those who never want to sacrifice fashion for function, pieces of CALIA have bold prints, versatile silhouettes, and soft fabrics to keep women comfortable and confident all day long. As if that weren’t impressive enough, Carrie also created Fit52 to help men and women find their paths to fitness and self-love. Every Fit52 workout is uniquely challenging, yet adaptable to the demands of busy lives. To start, simply download the app and choose a ‘Path’ based on your personal goals.

Fit52 and CALIA were created by Carrie to empower women inside and out!

3

Karrueche Tran Kae by Karrueche Jewelry Collections

K

arrueche Tran, best known for her role as Virginia Loc on TNT’s hit series Claws, launched Kae by Karrueche jewelry in the fall of 2020. Inspired by the 90s and love for her hometown, Los Angeles, the debut collection Goldmine featured thick gold chains, door knocker earrings, and small shell hoops. The model/actress followed up with three other collections Jade, Hoops, and Chainz—because a girl can never have too much jewelry. Kae by Karrueche has beautifully detailed, classic pieces that compliment any outfit. While majority of the collection is gold, Karrueche includes silver options for the most popular earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. This collection was launched with the intention of inspiring women of all ages to feel their most confident selves and it does just that.

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Priyanka Chopra Jonas Anomaly High-qualit y product s for all hair t ypes

F

ormer Miss World and now hair-care founder Priyanka Chopra Jonas dropped Anomaly, a line of high-quality products for all hair types, earlier this year. At just $6 per product, Anomaly bridges the gap between affordability and sustainability, plus it gives your hair the TLC it deserves. So how does her product stand out from the rest?

Anomaly’s formulas are vegan, and all bottles are made from 100% plastic trash. The actress and producer’s unconventional haircare line is quickly becoming a favorite for women all over the world. But she didn’t stop there. Priyanka released New York Times Best Selling Memoir Unfinished, which chronicles important moments in her dual-continent life and career through a collection of stories and essays. She also opened Indian fusion restaurant SONA, in New York, New York. Priyanka may be new to entrepreneurship, but she’s no stranger to working for what she wants until she gets it.

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Tia Mowry Anser A n e w l i n e o f v i ta m i n s

T

ia Mowry is an advocate for healthy living and she’s teaching women (and men) how to care for themselves and their children using natural supplements that target wellness, restful sleep, and body restoration. Tia believes that we are the answer to our own well-being, so she partnered with BioSchwartz and UTA to create a new line of vitamins: Anser. Containing over a dozen essential vitamins and minerals we may be missing in our daily diet, Anser products help with immune support, weight and digestion, beauty, mood, and sleep. As if the Cooking Channel alum wasn’t busy enough, Tia recently announced her second cookbook The Quick Fix Kitchen, as well as Spice by Tia Mowry which will include barware, coffee, tea, hydration, and outdoor items.

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Issa Rae Sienna Naturals

N at u r a l h a i r c a r e p r o d u ct s

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nsecure creator and star Issa Rae co-owns natural haircare product Sienna Naturals, which is formulated by women with textured hair for women with textured hair. With the mission to create a clean haircare regimen, Issa and Hannah Diop launched a stream of products that are good for you and the planet. Sienna Naturals is all about hair and scalp health. Issa Rae believes the more natural hair is showcased and celebrated in the media, the better it will be to teach hair-love and hair-acceptance. The Lovebirds star, who recently inked a five-year contract with WarnerMedia (HBO, HBO Max, and Warner Brothers), hopes Sienna Naturals will empower women with textured hair to love their curls and feel confident that the products they use are good for their hair, scalp, and body.

7T

Jordyn Woods fRSTPLACE

W o r k o u t a n d w e e k ly m e a l p r e p

hroughout her journey of fitness and self-love, Jordyn Woods shared parts of her workout and weekly meal prep on social media. Soon after, many of her 11.8 million Instagram followers began requesting her workout regimen, leading to the launch of FrstPlace.

Workout programs, which can be completed in the gym or in the comforts of your own home, are complete with nutrition guides and fitness videos to inspire users to continue putting themselves first! Jordyn credits fitness for changing her life and wants to help change the lives of others.

Each 12-week guide is designed to help users familiarize themselves with exercises over 4-week blocks, before introducing new and progressively challenging exercises and routines. The reality star used quarantine to her advantage by creating FrstPlace Challenge, where members of the fitness community used their FrstPlace guides to hold each other accountable, then share and celebrate their progress.

Becoming the best version of you is challenging; with FrstPlace you’ll have encouragement and accountability every step of the way.

8W

Ayesha Curry Sweet July A lifestyle magazine

ho says women can’t have it all? Model and Food Network star Ayesha Curry is proving to be a successful, multidimensional businesswoman. Alongside Chef Michael Mina, the Cover Girl opened San Francisco restaurant International Smoke and had immediate success. The immense popularity would lead to two more locations, one in Las Vegas, Nevada and the other in San Diego, California. The mommy-blogger uses Ayesha Curry Cookware to showcase delicious meals on Instagram that can also be found on the pages of New York Times best-selling cookbooks The Seasoned Life and The Full Plate.

Ayesha also co-owns Domaine Curry Wine with her sister-in-law Sydel Curry, and recently launched lifestyle magazine Sweet July. Whew! Talk about having a full plate!

IT’S MY PLEASURE TO INTRODUCE

POWERFUL IN THE BUSINESS OF PUBLISHING MAGAZINES WITH CONTENT THAT INFORMS, INSPIRES, AND ENTERTAINS.

Dr. Pasha Carter

FOUNDER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, VIP GLOBAL MAGAZINE

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hese change-makers are motivating and equipping others to rise above their fears and leave their marks on the world. Follow these amazing women on social media. Celebrate them. Stand with them. We collaborate, not compete, while setting an example for the next generation of female entrepreneurs.

9FIND AND FORGE YOUR OWN PATH W I T H

Dr. Jessica Mosley STEWARD-OW NE R OF MIZC E O MAGAZINE

One piece of advice that I would give to a wom an that is in business is to let business be business!

Always conduct business on the highest level of integrity! Put people in contracts and when appropriate, an NDA.

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r. Jessica Mosley is a serial entrepreneur with no plans to stop any time soon. A talented and dedicated media professional, Jessica, has more than decade plus of experience helping organizations communicate more effectively. She has developed strategic communications plans, garnered extensive media coverage, produced marketing materials, coordinated special events, and a host of other communications activities.

She is regularly invited to speak to female business owners and industry leaders on a variety of topics, including the business benefits of social networking, how to effectively run a successful business, and strategic management of communications activities.

Her background as a VP in banking, extensive knowledge in health care and municipal environments brings a wellrounded perspective to her work with her entrepreneurial clients and organizations.

Her clients have been featured in multiple media affiliates such as Huffington Post, Sheen Magazine, and Forbes, Essence, Black Enterprise, Ebony.com, Beautifully Said, Rolling Out Magazine, Good Day Charlotte, MSNBC, FOX, People, Source, Yahoo Finance, just to name a few.

She has interviewed authors, celebrities, and high achieving men and women from all around the world. Jessica is also the Steward-Owner of the MizCEO Entrepreneurial Media Brand, Sovereign Care Home Care, Sovereign Care Home Medical Transportation, and Sovereign Care Medical Training Center.

She is also Steward Owner of Deborah’s Place for Battered women, children, and nonviolent ex-offenders.

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10FACE YOUR GIANTS W I T H

Dr. Shekina Farr Moore

CH IE F EXECUT I VE OFFICER, FORMIDABLE WOMAN ®

To run your business like a business, you will need a supporting cast—an A-Team. A chartered professional accountant, a publicist, a social media manager, an attorney, a bank business consultant, an insurance agen t, and assistants.

In my line of work, I also have writers, stylists, photographers, board members, webmasters, and coaches. Your supporting cast is key as they help to keep you focused on your main thing— working on your business. I learned from many failures that I am only as strong as my team. So, fire fast and hire slow so that you can work with those who are truly about this life.

I

run Formidable Woman®, an international confidence and women’s empowerment brand whose mission is to champion confidence in women. Our ideal client is the woman who looks great on paper but who hasn’t yet accepted her greatness. She needs an usher like I did. What sets us apart is our holistic approach to building and equipping women with confidence. Confidence is such a key factor in personal, social, emotional, and professional development. It literally transcends all areas of our lives and can make or break both our success and access. With this in mind, we have built and continue to offer products, tools, courses, and services that build this confidence in women— Business, Image, Mindset, Finances, Relationships, Health, Education.

Having been a woman who has struggled with confidence, my journey to gaining it made me want to see every woman experience it. It completely alters how we show up in the world. It opens doors and rolls out carpets. I moved to Atlanta with a 9-month-old baby on a wing and a prayer. I was unhappy, overweight, had lost friends, and was overwhelmed with feelings of failure. Five years later I was named among Atlanta’s Power 25 and lauded by the Mayor, Georgia House of Representatives and President Barack Obama.

I became a Formidable Woman® by simply making a decision. I share this story not to brag, but to echo to anyone in similar circumstances that you are one decision away from a 180-degree turn-around.

11CREATEDr. YOURAshley SEAT ATLittle THE TABLE W I T H

CHI EF EX ECU TIVE OFFICER/FOU NDE R ASHLE Y LITTLE E NTE RPRISE S, LLC

There is power in networking and collaborating. Please get rid of the scarcity mentality and understand ‘We Can All Win’ at the end of the day.

D

r. Ashley Little is the CEO/Founder of Ashley Little Enterprises, LLC which encompasses her Media, Consulting Work, Writing, Ghost Writing, Book Publishing, Book Coaching, Project Management, Magazine, Public Relations & Marketing, and Empowerment Speaking. In addition, she is an Award-Winning Serial Entrepreneur, TV/Radio Host, International Speaker, Keynote Speaker, Media Maven, Journalist, Writer, Host, Philanthropist, Business Coach, Investor, Advisor for She Wins Society and 12X Best Selling Author. As seen on Black Enterprise, Sheen Magazine (Print and Online), Voyage ATL, Fox Soul TV, NBC, Fox, CBS, BlackNews.Com, Vocal, Medium, Hustle and Soul, BlackBusiness.com and many more.

She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, and a member of Alpha Phi Omega. She is very involved in her community, organizations, and non-profits. Currently, she is the Co-Founder of Sweetheart Scholars Nonprofit Organization 501 (c) (3) along with three other powerful women. This scholarship is given out annually to African American females from her hometown of Wadesboro, North Carolina who are attending college to help with their expenses.

Dr. Little believes it takes a village to raise a child and to never forget where you come from. She is a strong believer in giving back to her community and knows our young ladies need vision, direction, and strong mentorship.

Dr. Little is the CEO/Founder/Visionary of The HBCU Experience Movement, LLC the first Black-owned company to launch books written and published by prominent alumni throughout the world who attended Historically Black Colleges & Universities.

As authors, they share a powerful collection of stories on how their unique college experience has moulded them into the people they are today. Our company’s goal is to change the narrative by sharing Black stories and investing financially back into our HBCUs to increase young alumni giving and enrolment. Dr. Little is also the Editor and Chief of Creating Your Seat At The Table International Magazine and Writing and Publishing Coach for the WILDE Winner’s Circle.

12 STAND UP AND STAND OUT W I T H

Cheryl Polote Williamson

CEO O F CHERY L POLOTE W ILLIAMS ON, LLC & WILLIAMSON ME DIA GROUP

Surround yourself with women business owners who are five to ten levels above where you are currently in your business. Also, enroll in as man y free courses from th e Small Business Administration as possible.

N

ationally acclaimed multi best-selling author, award-winning filmmaker and executive producer, transformational speaker, and certified life coach, Cheryl Polote Williamson is a global leader who has successfully ushered 435 individuals into entrepreneurships.

Williamson is the CEO and Founder of Williamson Media Group, LLC, and Cheryl Polote Williamson, LLC, where her knowledge, expertise, and resources connect others to their purpose. She has received multiple national and international media features and several leadership awards including the 2020 African American Literary Award for Self-Published Author of the Year, and she’s one of the 2021 Texas Women’s Foundation Maura Women Helping Women and Young Leadership Award recipients.

Williamson is also the Founder and CEO of Soul Reborn, a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization that has supported more than 4500 disenfranchised, under-served, and previously incarcerated women through lectures and conferences. Through a widely supported Housing Development Initiative, Soul Reborn also educates individuals and communities on crime statistics, employment opportunities, business creation and a variety of resources.

13 BUILD YOUR BRAND W I T H

Pam Perry

PP PR ESI D EN T O F PAMPERRYPR.COM | PU BLICITY STRATE GIST | P UBLI SHER | P ODCASTER

Know that all money ain’t good money. Know when to say ‘no’ and walk away. And only work with clients you love -and those that have the same values as you do.

Stay consistent and remember your calling!

P

am Perry is an awardwinning communications professional. She has been called by Publishers Weekly a “PR Guru” and featured in many major publications and on more than 100 radio and TV programs. She also has a 20-year career expertise in marketing, public relations, and journalism in Detroit. She is the publisher of Speakers Magazine.

After working with Pam, her clients have been featured on CNN, TBN, The Word Network, Radio One, Oprah Magazine, Tom Joyner Morning Show, Essence, Ebony, Black Enterprise, PBS – and many other major media outlets. Her clients have been offered major publishing contracts and have created successful full-time careers as “authorpreneurs” earning six-figures.

Known as the master of connecting the right people, for the right project, at the right time – Pam Perry works hard to help her clients brand (and get paid) like a superstar.

14GET UP AND WIN W I T H

Telishia Berry

PUBLI SHER O F COU RAG EOU S WOMAN MAGAZINE

I’ve learned that entrepreneurship is not always easy.

There may be challenges on your journey.

But success is possible with perseverance. Technology is consistently changing, so take the time to acquire new information and learn new skills to stay ahead of the rest. Be resilient when adversity arises. Losing is also part of the game of winning. You must keep going and don’t quit no matter what.

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elishia Berry is the publisher of Courageous Woman Magazine and its spin-off publications, Courageous Men Magazine, and Authors Who Launch Magazine.

The year 2021 marks ten years of publishing, over 1,000 stories and articles, and 100+ cover stories, including Vanessa Bell Calloway, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Vikki Winans, Jody Watley, Claressa Shields, Oleta Adams, Vivica Fox, and more. Telishia is the author of The Baptist Junkie a Christianfriendly drama. She has published over 160 women in anthologies, with the most recent being I am My Sister’s Keeper.

Telishia is the recipient of numerous awards, including the WIP (Women in Power) Award, Phenomenal Woman Award, Resolution Award, Publishing Excellence Award, and Best Media Platform Award. She is happily divorced and the mother of 4 adults, Kendre’ Berry, a film and TV actor, most known for his role as “Jabari” on the TV sitcom Girlfriends, Tisha, photographer and film director, Toi, a fashion model and entrepreneur, and Kennedy, a stylist, and one grandson, Ezra.

Women

UNSTOPPABLE A DRIVING FORCE IN THEIR RESPECTIVE INDUSTRIES

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hese innovative, enthusiastic, and determined entrepreneurs are on the move—shattering the glass ceiling and paving their own paths.

We are highlighting their achievements because they show the world anything is possible. They come from diverse industries but made our list for one simple reason: They are succeeding in business and are inspiring others to do the same. Yes, they have turned their passions into profit, and so can you!

15 MINISTER Laticia Nicole Beatty Founder, Purposed Professionals, Inc.

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inister LaTicia Nicole Beatty is a certified life coach, motivational speaker, bestselling author, independent business owner, and founder of a non-profit organization, Purposed Professionals Inc. But, most importantly she is a child of the Almighty God and is on a mission to encourage and transform people out of dead situations with her #Speaklife Enterprises. Minister LaTicia’s outlook on entrepreneurship is to help women to build businesses on solid foundations while healing from past trauma.

Which people or books have had the most influence on your growth and why?

Simon Sinek’s book Start With Why: How Leadership Inspires Everyone to Take Action, has been inspiring. This book encourages me to act and has helped me develop leadership skill to lead my clients and business partner to create wealth.

Talk about the biggest failure you’ve had.

What did you learn from it?

The biggest failure that I had is when I returned to corporate America to help a nursing home get back on track. I am a nursing home administrator and registered nurse by trade and retired from Corporate America 2018 to become a full-time entrepreneur. March 23, 2020, I returned to work and seven days later I was diagnosed with COVID-19. I was out sick for 2 ½ months due to complication with asthma. The management of that company plotted to fire me while I was home sick because I was not healing fast enough to return to work, and I felt like the biggest failure. After healing I soon realized that I was not happy with the politics and racism within corporate America. Furthermore, I started another income stream with my own vitamin and tea company and did not return to work.

What keeps you going when things get tough in your business?

There is an old saying, when the going gets tough, the tough get going. I see every problem as an opportunity to create a solution. A positive mindset is the key to happiness in business. My thought process is that I never lose, I learn.

What are your 3 favorite tools for doing something you care about?

The three platforms that I use the most are Facebook, IG, and now Clubhouse.

What are the most common objections you get about buying your product/ service? How do you answer them?

The most common objection I get about my network marketing company is when people ask me is it a pyramid scheme and I educate them on network marketing being a smart way to earn residual income.

What has been your biggest customer success story? Why do you think it was a success?

My biggest customer success story is when a stranger reads about my testimony on

how I started my tea and vitamin company when I had COVID-19 last year and how the tea helped me heal. The customer contacted me through Facebook and told me she had 10 family members affected by COVID-19 and waited to buy tea for them all. All ten of then took the Speaklife Immunity Tea for 14 days and all of them survived COVID-19. It was truly a blessing.

What 3 things does anyone starting in your industry need to know?

1.

Believe in yourself.

2.

Never quit.

3.

Define your every day.

way

16DR. CHERYL WOOD America’s #1 Speaker Development Coach

CW

Don’t back down from pursuing your big drea m even when the manifestation of everything you’ve been working hard for doesn’t show up immediately. Dare to be persistent, consistent and tena cious in order to create a business that ultimately will work as hard for you as you’ve worked for it!

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r. Cheryl Wood is an International Empowerment Speaker, TEDx Speaker, 14x Best-Selling Author, Leadership Expert, and America’s #1 Speaker Development Coach.

She equips men and women with the tools to unleash the power of their voice, transform lives with their story, and monetize their expertise. Dr. Wood has trained countless leaders across the United States and abroad in South Africa, India, France, United Kingdom, Canada and the Bahamas.

She empowers people to get out of their comfort zone, take calculated risks, pursue their big dreams, and become the best version of themselves.

Dr. Wood has been featured on ABC, Radio One, Forbes Magazine, Huffington Post, Essence, Black Enterprise, Rolling Out, Sheen Magazine, Good Morning Washington, Fox 5 News, Fox 45 News, The Washington Informer, The Baltimore Times, Afro-American Newspaper and numerous other media outlets. She has delivered riveting keynote presentations for a host of large and small organizations including NASA, The United Nations, Verizon, Capital One, United States Department of Defense, United States Department of Agriculture, National Association of Legal Professionals, Federally Employed Women, Blacks In Government and the Congressional Black Caucus, to name a few. Dr. Wood is committed to empowering men and women globally to make their unique fingerprint count and to create a living legacy starting today.

17KIMBERLY BUCHANAN FO UN D ER, U NLOCK YOU R POTENTIAL ONLINE P LAT FO R M

Walk boldly into the unknown... the stars may never align perfectly, so yo u should start right where you are, with what you have, then continue to build on it as you move along. The worst thing you can ever do is to stop, stand still, and wait.

K

imberly Buchanan is an international bestselling author, speaker, certified transformation coach and an awardwinning corporate professional. She is also a wife, mom, and host of The Unlock Your Potential Podcast.

Kimberly is best known for creating the Unlock Your Potential online platform. She created the platform for ambitious and courageous professionals with desires to make an impact on the world while still managing work, family, and life. Kimberly provides valuable content, training, and transformational coaching to help them overcome their fears and gain the courage to use their unique skill sets to extend their brands beyond their day jobs, and into a side hustle or small business that pays them.

Kimberly has 25 years of experience as a corporate communications professional, earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in the field. She gained her consulting experience by working with some of the largest, global companies in the world including Daimler Chrysler, Discover Card, Accenture, and many others. She has appeared in newspapers, TV and on nationally syndicated radio. She has contributed her business, productivity, branding, and life planning expertise to national publications, including Forbes, Thrive Global and The Huffington Post.

18KIM BULLOCK-HENNIX FO UNDER AND ADVOCATE FOR TH E AMB ITIOUS WOME N M OVEM ENT

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ifestyle and Abundance Coach Kim Bullock-Hennix is a highly requested, results driven Abundance Mindset Expert, Royal Protocol Spiritual Teacher, Elite AwardWinning Author, and Founder and Advocate for the Ambitious Women Movement. She serves masses of entrepreneurial women and online influencers with strategic masterclasses and seminars to inspire them to show up powerfully as Queen in their business and personal life.

What keeps me going when things get rough in my business is my daily morning routine. I pray, mediate and follow God’s strategic plan to execute my day. What I have learned is persistency will help you to reach your goals, however it’s consistency which will keep your success.

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill has been extremely influential in my life and so has The Prosperous Coach by Steve Chandler. These two books have expanded my mindset to understand the power we have to create a fabulous life. I learned we will elevate only as high as our thinking will allow us to.

I have learned to use the power of my words to keep me going when things get challenging. Positive affirmations are all over my home to remind me I am co-creators with God. I speak into existence what I desire to achieve.

If there is a new entrepreneur who is seeking to be a life coach, the first thing I would tell them is to find a specific niche they are passionate about. The second thing I would tell them is to surround themselves with individuals who are successful in that area and become a student of success. The final thing I would share is to trust the process and do not get discouraged when you feel as if your business is not moving as fast as you think it should. Comparison is the thief of joy. Do not compare yourself to others, enjoy your own personal success journey.

19KEARN CROCKETT CHERRY

OWNER, PRN HOME CARE/CO-FOUND ER O F SU CCESS WO M EN’ S CO NF ER ENCE

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peaker, best-selling author, and award-winning businesswoman, Kearn Cherry is a female tycoon with a leg-up in successful entrepreneurship. Laying to rest any stigma surrounding the stagnancy of female leadership in the Deep South, Kearn has enjoyed more than two decades of excellence, as the CEO of a thriving health care business on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. Kearn Cherry effortlessly graced the pages of one of the most popular publications in the world, Essence Magazine.

Featured in both their local, and international publications, Kearn was recognized as the “Comeback Queen,” confirming her commitment to exemplify dynamic business agility.

As the co-founder and director of Success Women’s Conference which had over 17,000 virtual attendees, creator of Level Up Summit and Power Up Summit, Kearn Crockett Cherry is known as the Butts in the Seats Queen. Mrs. Cherry is a #1

Bestselling visionary author with book anthology such as Trailblazers Who Lead I and soon to be release Make It Happen and Trailblazers Who Lead II. She and her husband, Dennis, are the proud owners of PRN Home Care where they serve the elderly and disabled in their community for the last twenty-four years.

Which people or books have had the

most influence on your growth and why?

Dr. George C. Fraser’s Success Runs In Our Race, Bob Burg’s Go-Giver Sell More, Dennis Kimbro’s Think and Grow Rich, Michael E. Gerber’s The E Myth, and Jeffery Gitomer’s Little Red Book on Selling.

Talk about the biggest failure you’ve had. What did you learn from it?

I chose the wrong partner/sponsor for my caregiver conference. All money isn’t good money. All partners are not for you. Sometimes, you have to walk away.

After having over 600 attendees, annual for six years, my caregiver’s conference concept was stolen by a corporate partner. They saw it as just business. Not having a contractual agreement was my mistake. I did rebound with a new conference call Success Women’s Conference where we had 17,000 virtually in 2020. In-person, the same conference averages between 1,100 - 1,500 attendees. At the end of the day, God had something better for me.

What keeps you going when things get tough in your business?

Prayer keeps me going and my relationship with Jehovah God. It’s important to spend some quiet time in the morning. This will help you keep a sound mind and make sound decisions. My husband and I often sit down and talk about the direction of the business as well. You must be willing to adjust and pivot because in all things there are “peaks and valleys.”

Change is inevitable.

What are the most common objections you get about buying your product/ service? How do you answer them?

In all of my businesses, I would say price.

People really want things for free. I have gotten much better at stating my prices and not giving things away.

I know my value and what I bring to the table. I do realize that everyone cannot afford what I offer, especially my coaching services.

After creating events and conferences for almost 20 years, I cannot offer my services for free or discounted.

I encourage other coaches to stop “swimming in the local pond.” It’s time to start “swimming in the global ocean.”

There’s a Scripture (John 4:44) a prophet has no honor in his own country. Stop thinking about local business only.

It’s time to start thinking about global business.

What has been your biggest customer success story?

Why do you think it was a success?

My biggest success stories are from my book anthologies — Trailblazers Who Lead and Make It Happen. My anthologies are about sharing your story and increasing your visibility. I create opportunities for each author to become more visible if they choose to participate. Many of the authors from these anthologies started with low visibility and no promotion. I am simply amazed at where they are now and the things they are doing. Many have started their own anthology, podcast, radio shows, events, and speaking on major stages. I am truly honored to work with so many great individuals. I now help others do their own book anthology too.

JESSICA DE SERRE 20 BOISSONNEAULT

EN TR EP RENEU R | INTERNATIONAL B E STSE LLING AUT HO R | WOMEN EMPOW ERMENT ADVOC ATE

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essica is a 2x international bestselling author, entrepreneur, and a women empowerment advocate. She is a proud mom and in a very loving thriving relationship. She has been in the aviation industry the past 11 years and is a true world passionate traveler.

She is the leader and author of the upcoming book “I am a Flight Attendant and that is my Superpower”. Currently studying NLP, she is a life-time learner! She is dedicated to sparkle her contagious energy everywhere she goes.

Jessica is the founder of the Women Empowerment Wednesday Show. Her mission is to elevate women to lean into their power, passion, and unbending positivity. She is also the founder of Women in Power where you can participate to empowering events. You can purchase your copy of her two bestselling books; 365 Empowering Stories and 30+1 Resilient Stories; as well for my upcoming book ‘I am a Flight Attendant and that is my Superpower’. Jessica is all about giving back therefore all the money collected from the sale of 365 Empowering Stories is donated directly to her little 11-year-old sister Sarah with cerebral palsy. She is your book anthology specialist. She is your empowering coach. She looks forward to empowering you to live and create the life you love.

Which people or books have had the most influence on your growth and why?

I have 4 books that had the biggest influence on who I am today. First is the Bible. Second is the Success Principles by Jack Canfield. Third is Think and Grow Rich. Fourth is The Secret. I am a big advocate on feeding your brain and growing on a daily basis. These four books have helped me grow to another level and are still part of my daily growth. I have learned so many tools such as being clear on your purpose and mission. Tools on manifestation and being very clear on who you want to be, who you want to become and what are your clear goals. These tools have shaped who I am today. I am super grateful.

Talk about the biggest failure you’ve had. What did you learn from it?

My biggest life failure was not believing in myself. I say it as my biggest failure because without believing in myself I made choices in every area if my life that were not in alignment with living a great, powerful and purposeful life. I have made choices in my love relationships that were very toxic. I have also made bad choices with my nuances.

I have often put myself in situation that were not respecting my boundaries and respecting myself. I have also always wanted to become an entrepreneur however never believed I could. I have learnt over the years with the incredible help of mentors, coaches, and personal growth programs to believe in myself. To love myself first and everything else happens. It is magic!

What 3 things does anyone starting in your industry need to know?

Whether starting as a coach, entrepreneur, or author, you need to invest in yourself. Investing in yourself is the greatest investment you will ever make, and it is necessary in order to serve others. Second get mentors. Mentors have paved the way. There is a blueprint to success. Mentors will gladly share with you what worked for them and what didn’t. Mentors also believe in you and will be your biggest cheerleaders! Third have faith. We don’t always understand or clearly see the end goal. Have faith, follow your intuition by being kind and loving to yourself.

21VEE ESCARMENT P RESIDE NT & CEO, GENER ATIONAL W EA LT H THR OUGH HOMEOWNER SHI P, I NC.

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ee Escarment is an entrepreneur, speaker, actress, singer, and host. She is the President and CEO of Generational Wealth through Homeownership Inc. a 501(c)(3) nonprofit housing counseling agency and President and CEO of Generational Wealth through Real Estate, LLC a real estate development company. My outlook on entrepreneurship is the true entrepreneur is a doer, not a dreamer. I create. I take risks. I live my passion. I am an entrepreneur.

Which people or books have had the most influence on your growth and why?

I am an avid reader and a lifelong learner. I have read books such as Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki, Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill, Put Your Dream to the Test by John C. Maxwell, Live Your Dreams by Les Brown, Unleash the Power Within by Tony Robbins, and 7 Strategies for Wealth and Happiness by Jim Rohn. I read and listen to a variety of successful leaders. I read books to obtain information. Applied knowledge is the key to the next level. Wealth is first created in the mind. Once you change your mind set your life will change. I take courses, webinars, and seminars continuously in my industry in order for me to be successful.

What does a typical day in your week look like?

I oversee the fiscal management of both Generational Wealth through Real Estate LLC and Generational Wealth through Homeownership Inc., which serves clients throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties. For my nonprofit organization, I oversee the administration and planning for the 501(c)(3) and lead community outreach and fundraising so that the nonprofit can provide workshops and programs on debt management and financial literacy as well as housing, credit, and post-purchase counseling. As CEO of Generational Wealth through Real Estate LLC, I focus on acquiring properties and overseeing construction for both new development and property rehab, reviewing and approving contracts for services, and researching zoning ordinances, as we build and impact communities one property at a time.

What keeps you going when things get tough in your business?

I am a woman of God with strong faith.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. When things get tough in my business I pray to God. I ask God for wisdom, understanding, discernment, knowledge, and clear vision. My why keeps me going when things get tough. People lose their way when they lose their why. A woman who walks in purpose doesn’t have to chase people or opportunities. Her light causes people and opportunities to pursue her. Never settle for less than God’s best for your life! There is nothing I am more passionate about than empowering the next generation.

22 TONYA FAIRLEY M ULT I P LE SALON OW NER | DEVELOPER OF STRANDZ UNLI M I T ED

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s CEO and Founder of Strandz Unlimited Corp, Root Success Coaching, Strandz Unlimited Beauty Supply, and Strandz Hair Studio, I empower and equip women to get to the root, engage, and create results in their personal and professional life. Maximize their potential by removing those things that no longer serve their purpose.

They learn to lead a purpose driven life. As a Certified Coach, Speaker and trainer I am always seeking to add value to others in my daily journey.

Strandz Unlimited Hydro-Curlz provides unlimited potential product/service for all curl types. Strandz products are crafted to give your curlz hydration, definition and minimized frizz all day long. Our products are made with organic watercress oil, bamboo, murumuru butter and other clean ingredients.

The most influential people in my life are my mom (Foster Mom) Gloria and my Husband, LaMont. My mother saw something in me as a kid that made her nurture my confidence. She never gave up on me despite how broken I was when she got me. My Husband wants to say “no” or “babe” stop but he understands my passion and love to help others. He understands my love of being behind the chair, coaching and speaking. He understands my love for mentoring fatherless daughters so they understand they may have been broken but they are not broke. My children are my ultimate why. I keep going so they understand no matter your circumstances if you keep your mind focused you can achieve anything.

I start my day with meditation and prayer and depending on where my schedule has me for the day will determine what business gets the priority. Prayer, prayer, and more prayer. I learned early that I must seek the wisdom of God both when the skies are clear and when the clouds are grey. Depression sets in when things aren’t going right, and no one is responsible to shift my focus but me. I have my cheerleaders, and three friends for over 25 years that I depend on, Zelda, Nancee, and Karen. No matter what I am going through one of the three will give me what I need. My sister Nina has been such a blessing to my moral psyche, my marriage, and my ability to be honest and humble to myself.

What keeps me going when things get tough in my business is knowing I have a purpose for what I am doing. I was raised in a foster home, homeless, and abused.

During that time, I didn’t understand how anyone could ever believe in me. I learned no one will believe in you if you do not believe in yourself.

Learning to believe in myself has allowed me to grow several 6-figure businesses and teach others to do the same.

My biggest customer success story comes from a Jewish lady who tried my hair care line and called to speak to me. She advised me with all the products that she has tried she struggled with fragrance, gluten, and silicone. My product was the first one she was able to use that did not cause an adverse reaction. It was a success because up to today she has referred 37 people and I have never met her. Our products are sulfate, silicone, paraben, and gluten free, and vegan. No artificial colors or fragrances with both organic and natural ingredients.

23JANNELLE FORBES OW NER, FORBES MEDIA AG ENCY

A

s a sought-after global ambassador, recognized expert in public relations, monetization, and women’s empowerment, Jannelle shows organizations, businesses, emerging entrepreneurs, and future innovators how to shift gears and monetize their expertise by leveraging the power of their skills set to thrive in their industry. Looking for a speaker, coach or consultant that knows how to break barriers and shift you out of your stuck place? Then look no further than Jannelle M. Forbes.

What would you say to a business owner that is currently struggling?

To the struggling business owner, I want you to just breathe.

Refocus. Re-strategize and execute. It’s okay to un-learn to relearn. Move with the speed of time. It may be the time for you to add or subtract a product or service. It may be the time for you to enhance and shift your brand to match your industry driving in those organic sales. You’re looking at a woman that lived off of $1500 a month. Crazy right? I used to think failure wasn’t an option and all things had to be perfect. Over the years I’ve learned that it was okay to fail, and all things didn’t have to be perfect. We don’t always have to get it right the first time. Failing gives us the opportunity to do it over learning what we didn’t learn in the first place. Only this time it will be done better leaving a solid foundation for us to build wealth.

Something to think about. We were all babies at one point or another in our lives. All of us had to learn to crawl before we walk. Walk before we run. We fell on our tummy’s some of us even got bruises. But we picked ourselves up and moved.

What’s your point, Jannelle? Keep moving.

This is how I speak to myself: Wake up! You cannot quit.

Remember why you’re doing this.

No one’s coming to save you. Go out and create your own miracle. Build your own table. Don’t give up. Don’t punk out.

Somebody is studying your survival. You never know who’s watching you and being inspired by it. Become unstoppable!

What keeps you going when things get tough in your business?

I simply ask myself a few questions.

1. Jannelle, don’t you see how far you came from where you were just 6 years ago? Look at the obstacles and challenges you’ve successfully managed to overcome. Sometimes I am in a tunnel vision mode and never take the time to just look around. Looking at how far I have come usually is what I need to get me motivated and moving again.

2. Why are you doing this? The number one reason I do what I do is for my two sons. I was 7 months pregnant with my oldest and didn’t know. By the time I found out it was time for me to be induced by the doctor. I can remember the doctor saying, “Your baby stopped breathing”.

I almost lost my life, giving birth to him. Sadly, the twin didn’t make it, but he did. After losing 3 babies, 7 years later I was able to give birth to my youngest. Within 2 months I was having major contractions. I was on bed rest the entire pregnancy. But he is here today. Even if I don’t want to move, I am constantly reminded of my reason why I breathe and live to succeed in my businesses. My two young kings keep me going and pulls me through. I’m doing this for them. They are my why. So, I don’t have the time to sit back and wallow in my failures or struggles. They deserve a quality of life because God has entrusted me with them.

24SHMEKA GIBSON

ENTREPRENEUR | COLLEGE PROFESSOR, PSYCHOLOGY

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hmeka Gibson is a business owner and the mother of two daughters. Shmeka has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a Master of Science in Psychology, and a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology with a Focus in Inferential Statistics. Shmeka is a college professor and teaches anything in the field of Psychology. Shmeka has over 15 years of experience in clinical/counseling psychology, data analytics, grant writing, HR, project management, business coaching/consulting and organizational development.

Innate Success Corp. provides a variety of business options, tools and resources needed to develop business owners, organize business practices, enhance the leader traits in individuals, and promote potential business leaders.

Innate Success Corporation provides contract services to organizations in need of organizational infrastructure development and program management, research and applying to funding opportunities and data analytics. Innate Success also offers a business mentorship program for startup companies. Shmeka is an author of 3 books entitled Changing the Mindset, and the host of her own radio show, with WDRB, called “Mindset Shift with Dr. Gibs.”

What would you say to a business owner that is currently struggling?

• • • • •

Take a break to evaluate your current business practices.

Identify and/or pray for understanding of your purpose.

Set some goals using the SMART goal process.

Trust the process and be patient.

Identify a mentor, coach, or consultant to help synthesize and organize your thought.

• Network to build some positive business relationships.

• Invest in yourself.

What 3 things does anyone starting in your industry need to know?

In today’s season, we have many coaches and consultants. I would recommend that anyone interested in going in this field of work must have: 1. A passion for helping people.

So many people enter the social services field without a heart, and they just look at the money. Many times, the very person that needs your support may not have the financial resources and, in many cases, those are the best relationships and success stories.

2. Education and experience.

It is very disheartening to see people that enter this field without experience and education. When I say experience, I mean more than personal experiences. We must work with others to gain understanding from many perspectives and learn to address many different scenarios. Also, do not enter a field of coaching that is not your expertise, (for example, a coach/ consultant should not be providing services to people with trauma if they have never worked with the population or have a degree/license, etc.)

3. A Plan If you enter the field of coaching and consulting without a plan of action, then you will have challenges with your business. Develop a model that you can use based on previous works experience, education, and research, this will help you establish a program model that will separate you from others in your field.

25JENNIFER GILCHREST FOU N D ER , P L AT IN U M R E- CO

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ennifer Gilchrest is the founder of Platinum RE-CO, a Real Estate Brokerage franchise, of Platinum PROP-MGMT property management company and GPP a real estate development company with the corporate office of the brokerage based in Newcastle, Oklahoma. She is also a credit card and payroll processor for businesses, Mother, and her newest role is a loving GIGI to her favorite fans.

Which people or books have had the most influence on your growth and why?

Who Moved My Cheese? is a book that focuses on goals, life changes and overcoming obstacles which I think has been very inherent, especially this past year. You always have to overcome obstacles (for example, the pandemic) to reach your goals and continue to achieve growth. As I was in my early 30’s managing a sales team and sales managers from 2 states of all men in an industrial setting, and they were not excited about a young female being who they were reporting to. I knew I needed to provide value and show how I was truly invested in them, bringing great knowledge and value to their location and to them as leaders and individuals. I sent the book asking each to initial and date once they read it, flew them into the Oklahoma City location for a thorough training on how to increase their sales by being educated on the accessories, therefore increasing their paycheck.

My first time to meet with them, and it was groundbreaking. This 1952 company tripled their “forklift accessory” record sales within 9 months.

What would you say to a business owner that is currently struggling?

Continue to look forward so you fail forward! I feel that I have an intuition about business, where it will be in 6 months, 1 year, 5 years and so looking far into the future and building the most solid and thorough foundation for long term growth and goals is critical. Ensure that where you do invest time and money (one in the same) is a large ROI (Return on Investment), and not a “pay and pray” scenario. Don’t spend what you don’t have. Build a plan and work with intention to achieve it without deviating. To be successful is about constantly watching and planning, adjusting your sails to continue to overcome obstacles and master the 20% of what you like to do most that sets you apart from industry competitors.

What are the most common objections you get about buying your product/service? How do you answer them?

The biggest objection we face is the misconception that not using a licensed realtor would save them money. Sellers then may allow unqualified “buyers’’ into their homes, offer statements that could land them in court by disclosing unnecessary information, and not disclosing proper or required information. Everyone is held to the Fair Housing Act, not just realtors. There are so many ways to stumble or harm one another through the process, that it should be handled by a trained professional with local knowledge of the area. We heavily believe in education and although most consumers have a “general understanding” of how the process works, it is often quite risky to assume they understand the legalities, proper paperwork, timing, negotiations and each risk and reward that each decision encompasses. Statistically, a Licensed Realtor sells the property by being a professional knowing actual local value, marketing, and negotiation strategy to not only maximize the overall profit margin but also recompense their own commission. Purchasing one of life’s largest investments without a Licensed Realtor is like assuming you know just enough to perform your own appendectomy.

26DR. STACIE NC GRANT FO UNDER, DESTINY DES IGNERS UNIVE RSITY®

D

r. Stacie NC Grant is an award-winning international speaker, a best-selling author, influencer, master facilitator, producer, and the founder of Destiny Designers University®, the only training and development platform for Faithpreneurs (faith-based entrepreneurs & professionals). Dr. Grant is the Chief Brilliance Officer of C&G Enterprises Unlimited, LLC an MWBE firm that focuses on meeting facilitation and professional development training services (www.CGEUnlimited.com).

Training is delivered through live and self-directed courses and supported through books, products, and other merchandise. Faithpreneurs® gather annually in August for the Annual Faithpreneur Weekend 3 Day Transformational (www.

FaithpreneurWeekend.com) and Experience.

What keeps you going when things get tough in your business?

When things get tough in my business, I open up, and read my signature book Action Action Despite the Distraction…7 Life Lessons on How to Thrive and Live Your Destiny Now. I have taken the same dose of medicine I give my Faithpreneurs®.

Faithpreneurs® are faith-based entrepreneurs and faith-based professionals who grow their wealth generating practices around an affinity to God and faith who learn how to leverage their Relationships, Resources and Revenue to create sustainable legacies by being cash flow positive and unapologetically profitable!

Only you know what has been placed on your heart, what is bubbling up in your spirit, what you know you have been put on the planet to do. Taking action on those dreams requires an unwavering faith in knowing that if God gave it to you, He will also make the provision for you to manifest it. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said it best “Faith is taking the first step even if you don’t see the entire staircase.” My journey has been and continues to be a process. I had to make a decision to walk by faith and not by sight. Just because I couldn’t see how the bills would be paid, how the contracts would be signed or how the healing & restoration would happen, I had to take daily action to exercise my faith that God’s word will never return unto Him void. No matter what situations look like, it is the building up of our faith that helps us not to doubt, even for a second that we can get through every trial, challenge, or obstacle.

On your journey, life will show up in interesting ways that will test your resolve to walking in your Divine Assignment. I had to find a way to encourage myself when there were no contracts, no money, limited to no support and a myriad of other obstacles. It was in answering a question about how I was doing, that the following words leaped out of my soul through my lips: ACTION ACTION… DESPITE THE DISTRACTION! I invite you to share my battle cry. When you start to second-guess your reasons to complete your divine assignment ACTION ACTION… DESPITE THE DISTRACTION! When everybody else seems to have given up and doesn’t believe in your dream let your battle cry be: ACTION ACTION… DESPITE THE DISTRACTION! When your goals and your dreams seem impossible to reach and all you have is that little voice and resolve inside of you telling you not to quit before you get your blessing, let your battle cry continue to be ACTION ACTION… DESPITE THE DISTRACTION! You can download the first chapter of, Action Action Despite the Distraction…7 Life Lessons on How to Thrive and Live Your Destiny Now for free at www.ActionActionBook.com.

REDEFINE YOUR STORY 27 Morgan Hardman

AU T H O R , L . A . ST Y L E M AG A Z I N E | S P E A K E R | CO N S U LTA N T

I

f you aren’t intentional about your thoughts, you’ll talk yourself out of your dreams.

Don’t allow negative thought and doubt to take up rentfree space in your mind all day.

Take each negative thought and invert it. Replace it with a positive affirmation that you speak aloud and let it rewire your mindset. The second thing you must do is create an asset.

An asset is more than real estate. It can be your book, blog, YouTube channel, social media presence, product, or company.

Don’t let your gifts sit idle. Use them to secure your future and make the world a better place.

Today, people are earning a living in ways their ancestors never imagined possible. Don’t sit on the side-lines. Use your gifts to create assets.

I’m not just a businesswoman, I’m a business. As an author, speaker, and consultant my goal is to help inspire and uplift everyone I come in contact with.

My life isn’t about myself, it’s about purpose and service. For many years I didn’t understand the importance of a “personal brand.” It’s much more than what you see online. It’s your mindset, your daily actions, your schedule and routine, and even your credit score. I’ve made many mistakes as an entrepreneur learning the ropes, but over time I gained a new perspective and I want to share some of those tips with you!

28DR. JENNIFER HARRIS FOUNDER & C EO, PU RSES, PU MPS AN D P OW E R N E T WO R K ™

D

r. Jennifer Harris is a Certified Wealth Strategist for Women.

Known as the woman with the “Midas Touch”, everything she touches turns to legacy. Dr. Jennifer is the Founder and CEO of Purses, Pumps and Power Network™ her global and worldwide movement for women to step into their destiny of wealth. Her organization teaches women how to attain seven (7) Purses of Wealth and the pumps represent the life work that women must do in their lives, businesses, and careers.

What keeps you going when things get tough in your business?

What keeps me going when things get tough in my business is faith and prayer. I have had to lean on my faith a lot over the last 20 plus years as an entrepreneur and business owner. There were many times I wanted to quit. When I lost my mother to cancer in 2007, I wanted to quit, get a job, and just throw it all in. But during that difficult time, I knew that I had to pray and ask God for the strength to continue on. When the housing market crashed and I watched my clients lose it all, I relied on my faith to not only get them through but also to sustain and grow my business. Then just four years later my father died suddenly of a heart attack and my world was crushed yet again. So losing both my parents before the age of forty has been hard as anything I have had to overcome. Lots of faith and daily prayer continues to this day to bring me through and stay on top.

What are the most common objections you get about buying your product/service? How do you answer them?

One of the most common objections I get about my service or product is “Can I afford it, and should I just wait?” My answer is always “Scared Money Don’t Make Money, Closed Mouths Don’t Get Fed, and Time Waits for No One.” There’s always going to be some obstacle that will try and get in the way of your greatness. Until you invest in yourself you will not see the return on your investment which is you. Bet on yourself and you win every time. Don’t look back three or five years from now wishing you would have started today. I once read that wealthy people make decisions quickly and slow to change their minds. Poor people make decisions slowly and quickly to change them. Declare today “I will not live in the fear of my doubts.” Sometimes you have to just JUMP. Your dreams and aspirations are waiting for you to make them a reality.

What 3 things does anyone starting in your industry need to know?

1. Having a winning mindset allows you to be unstoppable. But not just any mindset, a winning mindset. I remember my dad who was my first coach and he made me play sports at the age of 4 and up.

He instilled in me that having a winning mindset not only places confidence in you but also courage. There will always be tough times, but you will last in my industry with the right winning mindset.

2. Developing the right skills will always allow you to not only stay in business but start multiple businesses.

It’s the skills that pays the bills. Learning those negotiating skills, people skills, marketing skills and social media skills. That way even if you move across the country or have to start all over again you are well equipped to do so. No one can ever take your skills away from you plus you will make a lot of money in my industry with the right skills.

3. Investing in the right coach or mentor will not only set you up for success but help you avoid the pitfalls to make. Look at the greats like Lebron James, Serena Williams, Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods just to name a few. They all have great coaches and mentors. Be willing to invest in coaches that are right for you, invest in courses, invest in the right team and invest in your clients.

Mentors are golden. You cannot go it alone in this industry and you need someone to pour into you so that you can pull out all that internal greatness.

29DERRICKA HARWELL

I

CO-OWNER & CO-FOUNDER, BEAUTI FYCREDI T.CO M

am Derricka Harwell, co-owner and co-founder of BeautifyCredit.com (founded with my husband Antario Harwell). I am also an awardwinning author with my credit education book Beautiful Credit a, two-time proclamation recipient for my work in the community, was given my own day “Derricka Harwell Day” by the Mayors of Milwaukee WI, and Shelby County TN. I am a virtual professor for the 3e Programs Credit Education Course conducted at Yale University, Howard University and Virginia Commonwealth University, where a scholarship was placed in my name for my work with educating the youth. I am a mother of 6 with a 7th on the way and my outlook on entrepreneurship is this: Solve a problem. A successful business is one that solves a problem and creates a real solution, after that money will come just focus on the people first.

The people who had the most influence over my life and my success, are my husband and children.

My husband assisted me in re-discovering who I am. Also, he assisted me with getting “Derricka” together, so I could assist in getting other people together. He has a brilliant business mind that opened me up to a new world. My children are a huge influence in every aspect of my life because they are my why. I never make a move without thinking about each one of them. I want to make them proud and build a legacy that their children’s children’s children will rant about for years after I’m no longer here.

When times get tough what keeps me going in business, is family; and not just my family but that over 1,500 families we have assisted in conquering their dreams and breaking chains, as well as the thousands of families to come. Knowing that we are fulfilling a major purpose in life through education and financial literacy for people in our own communities is enough motivation to push you through even on the worst of days. Additionally, knowing the expectations that my husband and I have on our family means we have pretty big shoes to fill as well, to create opportunities that have never been created for us and prepare to open or build doors for the next generation and the next generation, that is enough motivation to make sure you never leave “ grind mode” no matter what season you’re in.

To any struggling business owner, I say in the famous words of Uncle Luke, “don’t stop get it, get it,” but seriously, don’t stop. That moment where you want to give up means you’re right on the brink of your breakthrough. I sat in a 1995 Ford Explorer that was once my home and contemplated ending my life. In my book I failed, but I refused to give up and, in my opinion, I have one of the greatest comeback stories of all times since Jesus! I went from minimums to millions, from homeless to homeowner, from rags to riches and from food stamps to Forbes worthy! People doubted me, laughed at me, gossiped about me and now when they discuss me, they have to add, but she’s a multimillionaire changing the world. I’m no different than you. If I can do it, you can too.

30 CHELSEA JENNINGS C H IE F E XECUTI VE O FFI CER , L I VE WITH PURPOSE

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y motto is live with purpose. This simple motto has helped shape the businesswoman that I am today. We all have a unique purpose in life, and we are meant to shine. I strive every day to be myself and to shine my light into the world. Our light is a contagious beam, which allows other people to unconsciously shine their light. So, I encourage you to just be you, shine your light, and live with purpose unapologetically.

Chelsea Jennings is an entrepreneur and professional athlete from Fort Worth, Texas. She is the CEO of LWP, a blossoming lifestyle clothing brand.

She attended college at Texas A&M University on a basketball scholarship.

She was the first female African American student athlete to graduate from the College of Architecture. She is a young, hard-working businesswoman that started her business venture in 2017.

Chelsea Jennings is a fulltime entrepreneur, but also an overseas professional basketball player.

Overcoming life’s obstacles, Chelsea has acquired and maintained a successful career, aspiring to inspire on a global level.

LWP stands for Live With Purpose, a testimony to Chelsea’s journey.

If you pursue life with purpose, you are limitless and destined for greatness. Her goal is to continue to grow and spread this positive message around the world to not just live, but to Live With Purpose.

31DR. YOLANDA JERRY

CEO & FOU NDER, YJ EMPOW ERMENT SOLUTIONS, LLC AND YJ INS PIRES

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r. Yolanda Jerry is retired Air Force veteran, bestselling author, speaker, business guru, and CEO and Founder of YJ Empowerment Solutions LLC and YJ Inspires, a multidisciplinary advocacy program, invented to help clients push beyond their past traumas, and elevate to the next level, both personally and professionally. Affectionately known as the “Empowerment Advocate”, Dr. Jerry is known for her innate ability to exhort multi-generational audiences through her powerful and relatable messages; as she passionately advocates for truth, healing, resiliency, and personal growth. Yolanda delivers an awe-inspiring proponent perspective against domestic violence, youth bullying, and sexual assault. Through the vernacular of a survivor, she impacts many, inspiring them to create the best version of themselves despite tragedy, and to become intentional, in the pursuit of their life’s purpose and goals.

What keeps you going when things get tough in your business?

I remember why I started. As a survivor of Domestic Violence Abuse, I want to always be a light for those who suffer in silence. Additionally, even before my father left this world, in his last days he spoke life into me, and I promised I would never give up. My business was born because of my father. I know he isn’t physically here with me, but I carry him in my heart. I want him to always be proud. I’m thankful my mother is still alive and well to witness all I’ve been able to accomplish thus far. Lastly, I stay in prayer and lean on God not just in tough times but praise Him in the great times as well. I know my faith in God is greater than any obstacle I’ll ever face.

What 3 things does anyone starting in your industry need to know?

1. Pick your niche and know your ideal client.

2. Hone in on essentials skills for life coaches and advocates: Effective communication, active listening, awareness, action planning, zero in on non-verbals, show compassion, empathy and give people grace.

3. Ensure you are set up and protected legally.

Which people or books had the most influence on your growth and why?

I am most inspired by the beautiful and graceful Michelle Obama, including having read her book Becoming. I love how she carries herself with poise and I love how she is family-oriented and supports her husband. In her book I was able to relate to how she talked about losing her father too soon, as I’ve lost my father. When she talked about her love for her father, and how painful that loss was, I couldn’t stop the tears from flowing. Her book shared her vulnerability, authenticity, true self and showed we all have experiences in life we grow through.

Despite all odds and hurdles, she kept going. There are a lot of things I want to model about myself that I see in her. Such a phenomenal woman and leader.

DR. MISSY JOHNSON 32

CEO & VI SIONARY OF FEARLESS WOME N ROC K, LLC ™

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MJ r. Missy Johnson has survived three neardeath experiences with an occurrence where doctors only projected a three percent chance of living, but through her fearless faith, she has created an empire of courageous, bold, and resilient women worldwide.

Dr. Missy is the CEO and Visionary of Fearless Women Rock LLC ™, a BET Health Initiative screenwriter of her movie The Party, premiering October 2021. She is also an international speaker, coach, and 3x Amazon best-selling author.

After leaving corporate America and transitioning into another career and starting a business, she discovered that women’s struggle on how to begin or reinvent themselves without starting over. The flagship service Dr. Missy offers through her signature program is Courageous Women Find Strength During the Storm, an anthology book where women can share powerful stories.

She also offers her Bookit Brandit Bankit ™ sixmonth program for women seeking to create a personal brand footprint as they evolve into entrepreneurship. Write your book, brand the product, and create a bank from seven streams of income, and we show you how. Dr. Missy’s belief is that you have a powerful story, and the world needs to hear it.

What would you say to a business owner that is currently struggling?

Sometimes, we look like we have it all together, but struggling is a part of the journey. It is very hard but trust the process. When this occurs, it is time to remember why you started. Pray first and foremost. Ask yourself, what is the one thing that is most important that is income-producing?

Seek help if needed because you cannot build a business alone. That means invest in yourself and get a coach because that will be the game changer in your business. Finally, take time for self-care.

What keeps you going when things get tough in your business?

Family keeps me going in business. It is important to me that they see that it can be done. I am a church girl from Detroit, and I want to see people win. Many times, people look for role models on television, and it is great. However, if they see a family role model in front of them, it sends a message of hope and inspiration they can achieve their success.

Change your mindset and trust the process. Dr. Martin King said it best; “Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase; just take the first step.”

33ERICA LANE

M ON EY ELEVAT I O N STRATEG IST | BESTSELLING AUT H OR | I NT ER NATIONAL S PEAKER

E

EL

rica Lane is known to the world as the Money Elevation Strategist and has developed an exceptional money management approach, which enabled her to triple her income in only three years. Her accolades include the title of Award-Winning Money Coach, Best Selling Author, and International Speaker. Her definition of success has always been to work directly with others and inspire change in money habits and therefore outcomes. As a natural motivational speaker, she empowers women to achieve their goals, dreams, and financial success, on their terms.

What keeps you going when things get tough in your business?

When things get tough in my business I think about those moments when I have impacted a woman’s life by helping her tell her best financial story. I remember her excitement when she calls me because she sees progress, her joy, or her feeling of overcoming motivates me. In other words, I dig into why I started in the first place. I never take for granted that the work I do changes lives and family legacies. And because that is the case, I think about all the women I’ve served over the years and would they have received their transformation if I quit my business because it got tough. And that’s the very moment I know I have to push through. Not just for the women I have served but for those I will serve globally and those who benefit because their mother, aunt, sister, friend, cousin, etc. was my client and shared what they learned!

What would you say to a business owner that is currently struggling?

I would tell someone struggling in business, we’ve ALL been there! With almost 20 years of entrepreneurial experience, there is not one entrepreneur I know, am friends with or have mentored me, that hasn’t been at this point. And that includes me, a few times. You are not alone. But here are 3 strategies that has helped us all: 1) Get help to evaluate your business, without emotions, to find the root cause of your struggle.

2) Devise a plan and execute (heavy on the execute!)

3) Appreciate every win in the process. I teach my entrepreneur coaching clients to remember, even a small win is still a win!

What 3 things does anyone starting in your industry need to know?

1. Be authentic. Your (prospective) clients will smell a fake 10,000 miles away. There is only one you. No one else can do your thing quite like you. And that’s what your clients pay for, you!

2. Coach in excellence. If you promised it, deliver it.

And if after you have tried to move mountains, but you still cannot deliver it, communicate with your clients. There is nothing worse than a ghost coach. A ghost coach will eventually become a broke coach.

3. The best coaches have coaches. In coaching, consistent one to one professional development is critical to your business.

In your first 5 years, you should have at least one coach. As your business grows, so will your coaching needs. You have to invest in coaching at the level (and above) what you are asking your clients to do. To be a great coach, you must be on the receiving end of great coaching!

34HOPE LENOIR

HL

CA R EER COACH | INSPIRATIONAL S PEAKE R | AUT HO R | FOU NDER, RISE AND FLY, LLC

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ope LeNoir is the founder of Rise and Fly LLC, with more than 19 years of industry experience. She serves as a global expert career and leadership coach, inspirational speaker and the award-winning, internationally read, author of Workday Catalyst. Rise and Fly, LLC supports its clients beyond traditional skill building.

As an expert career and leadership coach, her clients include professionals across the globe including those in Bangalore, London and across the US with a focus on connecting professional + spiritual purpose to get the right people in the right places with an advance use of skills and satisfaction.

Hope LeNoir has been a captivating speaker who empowers thousands of audience members to build their skills and disrupt their industry. Hope is also a Certified Diversity Executive and double International Stevie Award winner who views entrepreneurship as a customized way to transform the professional world by solving huge, core, career issues.

What keeps you going when things get tough in your business?

Being aware that I am operating in my given purpose is one of the things that gets me through tough times. Knowing my purpose gives me faith in what I do and why I do it. It is also the foundation for growing and innovating in my business. Once I discovered spiritual and professional purpose is one in the same and saw the success it brings, I wanted to share with other professionals. I want to see them advance in a career just for them. One that grows them - gives them satisfaction, happiness and better health. That motivates me.

Helping the right professionals get in the right place, with the right set of diversified skills gives me a rush! It inspires me, especially knowing that I have a gift that is specifically chosen for me to share. Energizing audio and video clips with a tip or two motivate me too. It reminds me that someone else has been through this challenge and there are answers to get through to a more successful outcome.

Which people or books have had the most influence on your growth and why?

It’s hard to choose one person as I’ve grabbed so many soundbites and gained so much knowledge from countless individuals in my field and in my everyday life. Some of my favorite books include The Servant by James Hunter which reinforced the way I effectively lead my teams, Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson and Kenneth Blanchard which reminded me to stop going to the same place when my cheese is not there, and Expect to Win by Carla Harris which taught me a lot of soft skills that are necessary to win in business.

I talk about great books for working professionals in my secret video on Youtube. Shhhhhh.

What would you say to a business owner that is currently struggling?

If you are operating in your professional + spiritual purpose, know that you have a Creator that will help lead you to where you need to go.

You got this! Instead of feeling down, take the time to reflect on the “why” then find your “move forward” triggers that gets you excited.

For example, is it motivational and educational video clips that give you tips and tricks to solve a problem? Is it a certain kind of music that sparks an innovative idea? Is it a chat with an accountability partner who will drive you to keep building? Is it a prayer that gets to the real core of the problem? Is it a haircut or new outfit that shakes you back to your greatness? Just as important, is your coach, mentor or sponsor available to help give you the lift you need to move forward? Everyone is not the same and every need is not the same when struggling, so ask yourself a few “why” and “what-do-I-need” questions. Then, boldly use that positive tactic to move you to your professional purpose in a huge way.

35 DR. BRIDGET LEONARD E XE C U T I V E N U R S E | L EA D ER S H I P/ M OTI VATI O N A L SPE A KE R | L I F E COAC H

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hat may have broken others Dr. Bridget Leonard uses as building blocks to her next level of success; she embodies the word perseverance. She is committed to helping people identify their strategic goals, tear down potential barriers, and develop strategies to make their dreams a reality. From motivating the masses, team building, and engagement, to employee recognition and professional advancement opportunities, Dr. Bridget is sure to leave a mark on the hearts and minds of attendees through her speaking and nuggets of wisdom.

Dr. Leonard’s innate ability to encourage, motivate, and inspire others has transformed the lives of hundreds in the nursing industry and the marketplace at-large. Through her coaching she will engage you in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires you to maximize personal and professional potential by facilitating the creation of personal and professional goals. As a nursing leader with over 25 years of experience she provides leadership and motivational speaking; her transparency, courage, and motivation empowers people to know anything is possible when they are committed to doing the work.

As a life skills coach and public speaker, it is very important to know these three things:

1. Believe in yourself. If you don’t believe in yourself, you will tend to shy away from opportunities that are meant for you to excel and/ or help others. Know your worth, show up confident, and show that you are the expert that can help them achieve desired goals.

2. Stay Ready! Have the following ready to send at a moment’s notice: • Professional headshot and full body picture.

• Personal bios. Have a 150-word version and a longer, more detailed version that describes who you are, what you do, and what you have to offer.

• One page speaker sheet or one page sheet detailing services you offer as a coach.

•

Professional 10-minute reel of a previous speech or compilation of testimonials about your coaching.

3. Ensure you have a digital footprint whether it is a landing page describing what you have to offer or a website.

All of John Maxwell’s leadership books have inspired me to be the best leader I can be. My favorite book by Mr. Maxwell is The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth, I immediately gravitated to the 2nd law which is The Law of Awareness: You must know yourself to grow yourself.

I did not begin to flourish in my life and career till I completed a self-reflection and decided I wanted more out of life. Once I realized my potential and my worth the world was at my fingertips; no goal was unachievable, and anything was possible.

What keeps me going when things get tough in my business is remembering my personal mission statement.

My mission statement reads, “I will positively impact at least one person, every day, through words, thoughts, or actions.” This statement allows me to start each day with intention, to focus on goals, and to make a positive difference not only in my life, but also in the lives of others. I’ve learned sharing myself with others allows them to see that the barriers in their lives can become building blocks to their best life, nothing can stop them from achieving their goals if they are willing to do the work.

36 NADIA MONSANO FO U N D ER , M Y S I ST ER K E E P E R

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adia Monsano is a mother of one, graphic designer and a retired veteran of the US Army after serving for 10 years. She has over 5 years of experience in branding, marketing, and networking. She started My Sister Keeper to help women in business connect to their customers through digital marketing and networking. She believes that the most beautiful thing a woman can wear is their confidence.

My Sister Keeper provides graphic design services through digital products and services. We have our positive quotes apparel line that not only spreads positive vibes throughout the community but also helps us nuance women who want to start their business. We envision a world in which all women, regardless of race, ethnicity, income level or social status, are nurtured and empowered to reach their fullest potential.

My biggest success story is working with a young lady who had just gotten released from her job after being there for 10 years. Due to the pandemic the company had to reduce staff. I had my online show Candid Conversations with My Sister Keeper and the topic for that show was “Keeping It Honest about Starting Your Business.” I went through the ups and downs of what I went through when starting My Sister Keeper. I received an email from this young lady the next day telling me “thank you” for the information from my show. We connected the very next day and started working with each other. Within 2 months I designed her cookbook with a unique twist to it. She shares her recipes along with personal stories to go with them on why she loves these dishes that she shares with her family. She is now proudly promoting her cookbook online with the marketing materials I designed for her. We are about to start on her next project.

The 3 things that you need to know when starting your business: 1. Customer service is the key to the success of your business.

When you provide excellent customer service you will receive word of mouth referrals from your customers which will help grow your business. You will also get fantastic testimonials.

2. Your product or service needs to solve a need for your target audience. Stay focused on your target audience and provide the best product or service.

3. Invest in yourself. Invest in training, courses, and a business coach. The more you learn about your industry the better you will be able to enhance your services.

When things are going tough in my business I focus on the “Why” I got started with My Sister Keeper.

My Sister Keeper was designed to help women in business remove any barriers from being successful within their business. I have experience in launching several businesses and non-profit organizations. While helping women launch their business, I realized some of the obstacles that business owners face are branding, networking, and creating the right digital materials to attract the right customers. I realized that there was a need for a company to help women network and support each other. We are only as successful as the network we surround ourselves with. I am dedicated to the success of each woman success in business.

37CHERYL NEAL F ounde r a n d C EO , Bt he N o w , Inc .

Co -chai r , At la n t a Re g i o na l C o unc i l , Sm iths on ia n

DON’T SWEA T THE SMALL ST U FF! R EMEMB ER , EV ER Y T H I N G I S SMALL .

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heryl Neal, a native of Omaha, Nebraska, is a businesswoman, philanthropist, and voter rights activists.

She is the Founder and CEO of BtheNow, an organization dedicated to motivating and educating the community to use the power of their vote to make a difference, and Co-chair of the Atlanta Regional Council of the Smithsonian. She was also appointed to the National Ambassador Committee for the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture and Abbvie’s Executive Advisory Committee for Communication and Force for Racial Justice. Cheryl believes if a person is educated, engaged, and informed on any subject, they will take action.

Cheryl received her Bachelor of Business Administration degree from C r e i g h t o n U n i v e r s i t y and MBA with a concentration of Health Services Administration from Howard University. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She, her husband, and her daughter reside in Duluth, GA.

38 CHARCORA PALMER Foun der & Owner, Total P.O.W.E.R. Financial Services

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harcora Palmer is the founder and owner of Total P.O.W.E.R. Financial Services and has empowered communities with opportunities. Her business services extend from credit repair to unsecured loans from $10,000 to $400,000 and tax preparation to individuals and businesses. Under the unsecured loan platform, she educates clients on leveraging real estate to pay off student loans aggressively, becoming first time investors, and launching their own luxury car rental company. In addition, she empowers clients nationwide to start their own businesses.

As an entrepreneur, #1 International Amazon bestselling co-author of The Q.U.E.E.N. Experience: Snatch Your Confidence Back, and Speaker, Palmer, has been featured on FOX, NBC, CBS, BlackNews.com, The Los Angeles Tribune, Duchess International Magazine and many more. She has graced the stages of “Girls on Fire”, “The Comeback Champion”, “Success Leaves Clues”, “The Nikki Rich Show” and “The Leadership Experience” Tour 2021 with Shawn Fair.” Her upcoming T.V Show P.O.W.E.R Talk with Charcora Palmer, will be aired on OnStage Plus, starting in June 2021.

The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell has equipped me to challenge myself as a leader. #5 - The Law of Addition reminds me to be a great leader, while serving. That’s the best lesson one could take.

When things get tough in my business, I remind myself of my why. For me, it is to create a legacy for my children and be their role model. I strive every day to show them that, there is much success in creating their own.

JEWANDRA RAWLS-INGRAM, PH.D 39 CEO , Pro sp e rity S u p p o rt Se r v i c e s , In c .

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BL ewandra Rawls-Ingram, Ph.D., is a developmental specialist whose focus is creating personalized services and care for children and their families at Prosperity Support Services, Inc. in Georgia. With a family centered approach, she helps children and families understand and become prosperous when faced with developmental, behavioral, and diagnosed conditions.

My passion to guide others to a life of prosperity begin over 25 years ago. As a developmental specialist and mother of an Autistic child, I saw the disparities that life offered, and the difficulties families faced with integration.

I realized my experience was not limited to me but much larger than myself. I have the ability to make a difference.

We provide cognitive therapy, sensory integration, ASD testing, behavior management and family coaching in the home, school, community and through telehealth.

Creating personalized services that directly impact the lives of families is our specialty. We eliminate the multifaceted barriers that families may face when coping with challenging dynamics.

What keeps me going when things get tough in my business is my family and the families I serve. My family consists of a husband that is my biggest fan, a daughter that wants to be like me, and a son with Autism that needs me to be his life-long advocate. The families I serve are in need of my support, guidance, and reciprocity. This keeps me fueled and focused. The person that has had the most influence on my growth is my mother, Shirley Brown.

She worked in the special education field for almost 40 years. Early on she inspired me to volunteer in the special education community with an open heart and no judgment of others. I fell in love with the population, and I continue to be galvanized into action.

My biggest success story is when families get to hear their child’s first words, feed themselves independently, or something as simple as look in their parents’ eyes for the first time. These are successes because the population I work with can have an infinite continuum of life-long developmental issues with tremendous diversity between them. This can be strenuous, challenging, and overwhelming for families and can leave them hopeless at times. My job is to give them hope for themselves and their child.

The 3 things anyone starting in this industry need to know is to first have a heart for the community. You have to prepare to be of service to others that are in need of your non-judgmental support. Secondly, this industry needs someone who is resilient, determined, and focused. You will fight a lot of battles as an advocate for others and it is important to be educated on laws, for example Sec. 300.8 (c) (1)-IDEA. Finally, a college degree in the field of developmental or clinical psychology, special education, psychometry, or Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) will help open doors into the world of Autism Spectrum Disorders.

40PAULEANNA REID F ound e r , Th e Wr i t e r sB l o k

Peop l e ov e r com p l i c a t e t h i n g s.

Take i t b ack t o t h e b a si c s.

Pen and p ap e r . Wr i t e d o w n your v is i on and sp e a k i t i n t o exis t e nce . F ol l o w t h r o u g h with s t r at e g i z i n g d a i l y . S m a l l thin g s mov e t h e n e e d l e .

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auleanna Reid is a senior contributor at ForbesWomen and founder of The WritersBlok, a full-service celebrity ghostwriting agency. A purpose-driven entrepreneur with a storied career, when she doesn’t have a pen in her hand you can find Pauleanna mentoring millennial women and delivering university guest lectures on entrepreneurship, fulfilling a passion to light up dull classroom curriculums with real-world experience.

She is also a mental health advocate and public speaker widely known for using clever wit and candor to help young adults see beyond the limits of their circumstances.

Pauleanna founded New Girl on the Block, a mentorship program, in 2015 and to-date has helped more than 200 women successfully launch full-time businesses and or profitable side-hustles. She recently graduated from the Women’s Leadership Program at Yale School of Management and when she is not working, Pauleanna is an active member of a chess club, and loves to volunteer.

41 L.A. ROBERTS

I ntern a t ion a l B e st s e l l i ng A ut ho r | Br e a kthr o ugh S t ra teg ist | Exe cu t i v e C o ns ul t a nt

Su dd e nl y , t he r e w i l l b e a s hift and it c an h a pp e n t o d a y . A r e y o u r e a d y?

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.A. Roberts is a two-time international best-selling author who has consulted for more than 10 years as a breakthrough strategist, speaker, and consultant. She believes entrepreneurship is a beautiful extension of your purpose. Sharing your gifts with the world is necessary to maintain balance in life and create your own freedom.

What keeps you going when things get tough in your business?

My Papa keeps me going but also the promise of generations to come. I am currently building a legacy and empire for my future children, nieces, and nephews. My desire is to lay a foundation for them to see and experience. I want to show them what stepping out on faith to see your dreams become a reality looks like. To be completely honest there have been days when I just wanted to quit but I won’t because they deserve better. I want them to travel the world and experience beautiful and amazing things in their lives.

So, in the moment when it gets tough, and I want to give up I imagine what the moment would mean for me 10 years from now and how it will affect my family. Allowing one moment to take opportunities away from them is not acceptable so I push through thinking of them and not just of myself.

Which people or books have had the most influence on your growth and why?

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill has had a major impact on my life.

I remember reading it when I was 18 years old, and the concepts were foreign. I couldn’t wrap my mind around the principles because I wasn’t ready for what they meant. I picked up the book again in 2020 and I was blown away. If I had to choose one of the points in the book that had the greatest impact it would be the little girl who would not take no for an answer. To me her fear of returning without what she was sent for was greater than the no she received so she kept asking. She didn’t back down until she got what she came for. I live in a space of childlike faith so that story sparked something amazing in me. I often refer to it and it keeps me going. If she could step up, push through and keep asking so can I. What would you say to a business owner that is currently struggling?

My advice to a business owner who is currently struggling would be breathe, take a step back, celebrate and re-evaluate. Sometimes as business owners we are too hard on ourselves. We don’t take a moment and let all that we have really accomplished sink in. The unfortunate sickness of comparison can blur our vision as we are looking at everything and everyone else. Breathe - Take some time to relax. Self-care is needed in order to maintain. Your mental and physical health is so important. Most people don’t realize it until they are forced to. Take a step back - Look at your accomplishments from a different perspective. Give yourself the credit you deserve for getting as far as you have. Celebrate - Always celebrate small and big wins. They all matter because you worked hard for them and you deserve it. Re-Evaluate - Take the time to make sure you are going in the right direction for your business in this season. if something is not working its ok, try something else. There is nothing wrong with reinventing yourself and starting from there. Do that until you find your flow. I am the Queen of reinvention. It can be a beautiful process.

42NICOLE ROBERTS JONES B ank r o ll Yo ur Br illiance Expe rt | Founde r & CEO of N R J Ent er p r is es

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icole Roberts Jones is uniquely gifted at one thing – drawing out what’s best in you and helping you take your Brilliance to The Bank. She is a nationally recognized transformational speaker, best-selling author, bankroll your brilliance expert and is the Founder & CEO of NRJ Enterprises. From her days in the entertainment industry working in Talent Management and Casting, coupled with her groundbreaking work with young women, she expanded her capacity and began coaching women and created the Brilliance Mastery Academy, a platform she uses to coach women entrepreneurs to build an empire from their expertise. Ultimately her goal is to help women build a bridge between their business and living as the highest and best version of who God created them to be.

Talk about the biggest failure you’ve had. What did you learn from it?

I realized that if I was going to get to my next level in life, I had to release my limiting belief of not feeling good enough. I had to let go of being so focused on what other people thought about me and what other people said about me. What they thought I should do and be and instead, really begin to define me for myself. When I came to this realization it was back in 1993, while I was in one of the greatest seasons of my life, by everybody else’s definition. I spent years being okay with everyone else’s definition of who I should be and what I should do. When I stopped to define me for myself, it was at a time that I had built an incredible career in the entertainment industry, working for one of Viacom’s largest cable networks, we had an outreach to 89 million homes on a weekly basis.

From there I was elevated into a Casting Director position with one of the number 1 television shows on Fox and this job then led me to work on a team of an entertainment group where together what we produced was responsible in generating over 12.6 billion dollars annually. On top of all of that I was going to all the hot Hollywood parties. I was bumping elbows with all the stars and dating a few, but at the same time saying to myself, “I don’t think this is really who I am.” Now don’t get me wrong Hollywood was great. But at the same time, I had this whisper inside of me saying, “Nicole there is something bigger waiting for you” but I had no idea what that was. I remember feeling like I was standing at a fork in the road. A fork that made me look at myself in the mirror and for the first time in my life ask myself, “what do you want?” In that moment, I was willing to become unrecognizable for my future. I was willing in that moment to no longer care what anyone else thought I should be or do and I began to listen to my heart. It was in this place that I discovered my power and my purpose and began to grow me.

What keeps you going when things get tough in your business?

What keeps me going is my purpose. When I stepped into the realization of my purpose in 1993, it was me finally saying yes to the rumble in my belly and as I did, I felt a fire in me! Like I had flipped on the switch to my own power. This power boost was when I unleashed what I call my fierce. Much like Beyoncé did when she created her alter ego, Sasha Fierce, years ago. It was that Fierce inside of me I unleashed that started me on my path to purpose, power and prosperity. It is knowing my purpose, standing fully in it and growing it that continues me on this path to this day.

43TAJUANA ROSS C EO , Ge t O ve r Yo ur s e l f C a r e e r a nd L ife C o achin g , I n c .

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idely known as ‘The LinkedIn Professor’, Tajuana Ross is the CEO of Get Over Yourself Career and Life Coaching, Inc., a #1 bestselling author, an award-winning speaker, an award-winning Certified Branding Coach and LinkedIn ghostwriter to the stars. After leaving life as a corporate rat-racer in 2014, Tajuana began her coaching business and has used her ‘tough love’ approach to become an Influencer in her field. You’ll catch Tajuana on a mission to change the world, one brand at a time, in her signature “Mohawk, Blazer and Chucks”, currently based in the suburbs of Chicago.

With her Signature Framework, Tajuana teaches ‘Experts’ how to monetize their brands more effectively, in order to be seen as ‘Influencers’, so they can go from being the hunter to being the hunted. Her focus with them includes leveraging LinkedIn to establish brand credibility, publishing their first Best Selling book to solidify brand authority and building their paid-speaking business to increase brand exposure. As a result of working with her, Tajuana’s clients are able to shift their mindset about their brand and begin to consistently attract their ideal demographic.

Which people or books have had the most influence on your growth and why?

My biggest influence is Janice Bryant Howroyd, the CEO of the ActOne Group and the first black woman to own a billion-dollar business. Her book, Acting Up: Winning in Business and Life Using Down-Home Wisdom has taught me how to repurpose my pain into being a part of my purpose. Changing the narrative and running toward things that historically represented pain allowed me to remain true to my journey while running my business from a place of pure authenticity.

What keeps you going when things get tough in your business?

Practicing gratitude keeps me rooted when business gets tough.

No matter how uncomfortable it may get at times, there are constant reminders everywhere that force me to see how incredibly fortunate I am to do what I love. Being an entrepreneur is certainly not easy, but I’m terribly grateful that I chose this route which has given me the power to make an impact.

44LENIKA SCOTT

E n t r e p r e n e u r | Au t h or | Sp i r i t u al Lea der

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enika Scott is a powerhouse world leader and extraordinary businesswoman on the rise! Radiating with a contagious entrepreneurial spirit and an unmatched standard of excellence, she has already established such a powerful impact in several industries. A woman with many roles, Lenika is widely known as a kingdom-based entrepreneur, author, relentless spiritual leader, and proud mother of six daughters.

Generating multiple millions within her businesses over the span of a decade, Lenika has coined the befitting title as “The Millionaire Mom”.

Which people or books have had the most influence on your growth and why?

The person who had the most impact on my life was my mother.

I saw a woman who worked so hard to take care of her children.

She was determined to provide the best life she could, given the cards she had been dealt. She instilled in me values at an early age that would greatly serve me through my adult years but would have a profound impact in my business career. One of the most precious values she taught me was to honor and respect people. Honor is defined as high respect or esteem. When we honor others, we let them know they are significant and valuable.

When seeds of value and significance are sown in others a harvest will always be produced. Your wealth is in people!

Talk about the biggest failure you’ve had. What did you learn from it?

In 2009, my husband and I built a million-dollar business from the ground up and two years later our business crumbled and crashed losing everything. Ground zero, home assets gone. As a result, I found myself standing in the line feeling broken and ashamed requesting food stamps/government assistance. What else could I do? We have a large family and mouths needed to be fed. Through this process we had to quickly change our mindset and make a decision. To this day I quote two personal sayings that I came up with during my time of despair.

1. Focus on the promise and not the pain.

2. Do not let your down place define you.

Whatever you focus on the most will grow. If we would have focused on our pain and trials, we would have continued to produce pain and trials however, we chose to focus on our God given abilities, skills, and talents. We knew if we were able to build a million-dollar business before we certainly could do it again. We didn’t allow our down place which was our wilderness to define us. We saw ourselves as victorious and we attracted what we saw.

What would you say to a business owner that is currently struggling?

To the business owner that is currently struggling I would definitely recommend them finding their focus.

As mentioned in the last answer, many times as an entrepreneur our focus is so broad, and we find ourselves not operating at our full potential because we are all over the place. Since focus is absolutely critical to your attraction to wealth, you must be aware of all distractions. Respect your goals, dreams, and values by maintaining your focus. Find the things that are working for you, zone in and focus on those!

45TONYA SCOTT Entrepreneur | Motivational Speaker

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onya Joyner-Scott is a passion driven entrepreneur and speaker with a desire to see people live an upgraded life beyond their wildest dreams.

Tonya and her husband Dexter Scott are affectionally known as The Upgraders. Together, they challenge people through the world’s 1st challenged based masterminding and coaching system. This program is helping people get out of their way and on with life.

No more excuses, instead, action! They are also building wealth with a team of likeminded individuals, offering health and wellness products that are helping people lose weight, cleanse their colon and vital organs, and build the body’s ability to fight.

A major part of my growth has to do with the mind renewal. It’s something my husband Dexter and I teach, and it’s something we both had to learn ourselves and put into action. We can’t get enough of it because it had everything to do with how our lives shifting. There isn’t a day that passes where we aren’t reading or listening from some of the industry’s great masterminds! Dr. Caroline Leaf, neuroscientist, has had much influence on my growth and development. Her books and lectures helped me understand better who I am as a person, one who God created. One of my favorite books is The Perfect You. This book and God’s Word have turned my life around, resulting in me getting out of my and God’s way and on with my purpose led destiny. It feels good to be able to help other women do the same.

The biggest failure I had happened after my husband and I left our government jobs to build a business in the direct sales industry. In less than a year, just as fast as the business went up, it came down. We lost our home, car, and what used to be a good credit score was now gone and instead showing a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. I was devastated! I was already afraid to step out in the first place, and now this... I spent the next several years as a stay-at-home mom, while my husband found a job that supported our family. I started engaging the emotional hurts from my past that caused me to question my selfworth. This process was my way of trying to make sense of the rise and fall. I was convincing myself that business wasn’t for me... that I didn’t have what it took to be a businesswoman. Oh, how wrong I was!

This process was life changing for me. What I learned from this period in my life was God gives tests, but it’s up to me to take those tests, and not run from them or hide from them. The desires in our hearts don’t go away, but in order for me to have them I had to learn that it was okay to fail and most importantly, that who I am is not defined by what I do, did or even failed to do. It is from this lesson that I rose and launched out again. This time I was more mindful of God’s presence in my life as my guide. Tests still come, but now, regardless of the struggles, pain, mistakes, fears, and the list goes on, I no longer run, but instead I learn, grow and I keep going.

46 FELICIA SHANKEN CEO & Founder of the Philadelphia Women’s Network Connection, LLC and PWNC Foundation Inc

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elicia Shanken is a Women Strategist and Business Builder. She is the CEO/Founder of the Philadelphia Women’s Network Connection, LLC and PWNC Foundation, Inc. 501(c)(3). PWNC is about strategizing with women business owners by identifying their strengths, building quality connections, and sharing resources that will get excellent and proven results in their business.

I have always told anyone that is looking to get into Entrepreneurship, it is not for the faint at heart. There will be many days you will question yourself and there will be days that you know it is worth it. The balance is real What keeps you going when things get tough in your business?

What keeps me going is a great support system. They will help you, especially on those days when you question yourself about what and why you are doing what you do. The one’s that remind me of my why? God bless them!

My spiritual grounding has gotten me through some of the toughest times of my life.

Some people still don’t understand this one but my haters, I appreciate them because they keep me accountable to do what I say I am going to do. They are always waiting and watching for you to fail. Lastly the thought of going back to having a corporate job… it took me too long to get out of that corporate world and I have no intentions of going back.

What would you say to a business owner that is currently struggling?

Don’t ever quit, take a break, change around some of the goals if you have to, always remember your why and don’t listen to other people’s opinions, that is none of your business.

One day it will just click if you hang in there long enough. Yes, you are struggling now but that doesn’t mean it will be forever. Look at the lessons you are learning and adjust accordingly.

Anyone that is very successful in their business will tell you their story and believe me 90% of the story is not glamours. Is your dream bigger than your fear or any obstacle that may come your way? If so then buckle up, the road ahead will be rough sometimes, people won’t support you including some family members, but you have to find your tribe. There will be many sacrifices but in the end it will all be worth it, I promise you. Lastly, I will meet you at the very top, now go walk in your purpose.

47 MYA SMITH-EDMONDS Owner of 7 McDonald’s Franchises

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ya is a Child of the King... with a Huge Heart and a lady who knows what she wants, walking in purpose and intention. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from University of Houston with a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and minor in African American Studies. She’s an entrepreneur of 7 McDonald’s Restaurants, Real Estate Investor, Co-Founder of The SMITH Foundation, Inc., Amazon’s #1 Best Selling Author, one of CORE Magazine’s Top 100 Most Influential Blacks today and more. She has received various awards and proclamations, including being recognized by United States Congresswomen Sheila Jackson Lee and Sylvia Garcia, Mayor of the City of Houston Sylvester Turner and Houston City Council At Large, Position 4 Amanda K. Edwards. She has been featured in and on the Cover of Purpose Magazine, featured in Sheen Magazine, Houston Style Magazine, and many more. She’s grateful and inspired to continue to be a blessing to others and the Kingdom of God. She is a public speaker and has a genuine heart and special love for children. She enjoys coordinating community giveaways with local businesses and avidly supporting empowerment youth programs.

The Smith Foundation, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that was established to reach, uplift, support, enhance the lives of, and empower all people to reach their full potential. Our purpose is to organize and maximize the power of simply “People Helping People” to support communities in need and create a platform for people to experience the joy of serving. The mission is to send as many high school students as we possibly can to college, provide food by doing food drives, provide school supplies, and Christmas toys to underprivileged schools and communities.

What keeps me going when things get tough in my business is the word of God. I stand on 3 Scriptures - James 1:12, 1 Corinthians 2:9, and Jeremiah 29:11. In James 1:12, God tells us that, not only will we face trials, but He Promises, that if we will persevere and don’t quit or give up, we will receive the victory. 1 Corinthians 2:9 is a promise from God that He will bless us (those that love him) in ways that eyes have never seen, ears have never heard, and the mind cannot fathom. We will be blessed far beyond anything we could have imagined. Jeremiah 29:11 contains a promise that God has good things in store for us. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

What I would say to a business owner that is struggling is to keep their “why” in front of them and stay focused on their goals. It is very important to not quit because their commitment brings God on the scene. In James 1:12, God tells us that, not only will we face trials, but He promises, that if we will persevere, we will be victorious.

3 things that anyone starting a business need to know: 1. Know your numbers (P&Ls, cost of goods sold, inventory, expenses, cash flow, net income, etc.) If you don’t know your numbers, you don’t know your business, and you could be out of business, yet you are opening the doors every day.

2. There is no shortcut to hard work. Once you decide what you want to do; just stay focused on it and master it by being a student of your craft letting no one outwork you. Work like your success depends on you and pray hard, because you know, it’s all God!” 3. Keep God first in every decision you make. God’s way will always work out for your good!

48SHERIE THOMAS Serial Entrepreneur | Founder & CEO Of Medical Money Makers

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Sherie Thomas turned what she felt was rejection into an epic adventure. At age 22, Sherie stepped out on faith and became an entrepreneur and never looked back.

Completing a degree in Business Systems Analysis, Sherie’s adventurous spirit has taken her all over the world facilitating others with her art of entrepreneurship and business strategies, opening, and managing facilities from Louisiana to Puerto Rico.

She has become a guru in strategic management, prison reform, policy, and curriculum development; but more importantly, she is a highly sought-after reimbursement expert. As the founder and CEO of Medical Money Makers, Louisiana Healthcare Institute, Workforce & Development and The EpiCenter, and Director of Outreach & Engagement for the Justice & Accountability Center of Louisiana, Sherie utilizes her skills learned as a serial entrepreneur to teach others the code to the highest level. Sherie Thomas is a dream cultivator, influencer, public speaker, and business strategist with a gift to transform dreams and visions into reality.

My parents have influenced my growth. My dad taught me dedication and resilience. My mother taught me endurance and loyalty.

What felt like my biggest failure turned into an accomplishment. I learned that God has the last say and nothing is above His will.

A typical day begins at 5 a.m. with Scriptures and coffee. When things get tough in my business I pray and remember my purpose. I would tell a business owner who is struggling to let God lead you and be ready to pivot whenever necessary. When things get tough, I remember the vision that God has given, and I stand on the principles of endurance. The most common objection I received regarding my services is the willingness to commit to a 6-8-month term.

My proudest success stories have come through mentorship. One mentee has turned what was an idea into a 6-figure income, traveling the world and cooking for celebrities, at highly publicized events and on television shows.

I also facilitated the growth of another mentee in turning her community service into a highly sought-after marketing company.

While my client’s success is just as exciting and financially buzzworthy, my personal gratification is stemmed for helping to encourage others to push themselves to reach their full potential, even when it seems impossible.

Three things someone needs to know when starting in my industry is to keep God first, pay attention in training, and be prepared to pivot when necessary.

My favorite tools are the Bible, music, and food.

49SONIA WHITE Founder, Smile Foundation, Inc.

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onia White’s strength is in her persistence and passion and love of life and always striving for excellence. The Smile Foundation, Inc, Smart Men In Leadership Excellence (S.M.I.L.E.) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to encourage, empower, educate and mentor young minority men to be successful in life.

The books that have had the most influence and growth in my life are the Bible, Michelle Obama’s Becoming, Dr. Myles Munroe’s In Pursuit of Purpose, God Is My CEO by Larry Julian, anything from John Maxwell, and so many more.

The biggest in influence in my life is my beloved grandmother Aria Brown, my phenomenal best friend since 2nd grade, Dr. Nicole Evans Ross, and my beautiful mother. My wonderful children Maya Nicole, Dakari, and Demetrius have also had a tremendous impact and influence on my life they are my rock and foundation and the reason I keep going.

The biggest failure I have had was being terminated from a job that I did my best and this taught me that I still have my gift and that I am not defined by what I do there are so many more great opportunities to strive for. It was a blessing in disguise. It helped me to see the gift was in me.

My typical day is an average of 14 hours or more working in the healthcare field in addition to working on my nonprofit that is mentoring and educating young minority men in all aspects to be successful in life and provide the necessary tools, education, support. life skills and mentors for them to be successful in life. It doesn’t matter what time you get up as long as you are productive during the time that you are awake and always striving to do our best.

The things that keep me going when things get tough is my passion for helping people, my vision, my faith, my why in this world and my children and wanting to also build a legacy for our family and generations to come.

I would say to a business owner that is struggling is to never give up, have that one friend, family member and or associate that you can confide in, and most of all trust God and have him lead you.

Struggle is part of the process and I have not known one single successful person that has not struggled or encountered some type of adversity. The struggle is strength and is necessary to build upon your weakness. Keep going!

When things get tough in my business being a new venture is viewing the success that is the prize at the end. Actually, there is no end, you have to continue to grow and evolve in your personal and professional endeavors and life. I was in the military and the key word was paradigm. We must never remain complacent and never stop learning. Read, read, read!

My favorite mantra is proper planning prevents poor performance.

We must have plans and goals and a strategy to reach them.

Success is intentional.

50DEE BOWDEN FOU NDER, BCS S OLU TIONS

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ee Bowden created BCS Solutions and is on a mission to see small businesses learn to solve cash flow problems by sharing how to “Collect the Cash. The Sale is not Complete until the Money is in the Bank.” Dee has over 10 years of financial recovery experience in which she collected over $10 million dollars for several companies and government agencies.

Dee enjoys listening to smooth Jazz, riding Ferris wheels, and attending wine tastings!

Which people or books have had the most influence on my growth and why?

The books that have had the most influence on my growth are I Declare by Joel Osteen, Think and Grow Rich a Black Choice by Dr. Dennis Kimbro and Napoleon Hill and Secrets to Exceptional Living by Joyce Meyer. Through reading these books and many more, I began a journey of discovering what was possible with faith, hard work, and getting mentored through the books.

What keeps me going when things get tough in business or in life?

I am a person of faith, so my daily time spent with God is how I fuel up for the day. I must have my 30 minutes of devotional time and a good cup of tea. It’s remembering all the time that God has been faithful when I was scared, not sure that creating a business was good idea, watching my self-talk and having that one good friend that I can be transparent with who listens and then injects her brilliance to get me unstuck so I can keep going. It’s like playing sports you must relate to people who will encourage you, help you course correct as needed and speak words of encouragement as fuel to keep going. Having coaches, mentors, cheerleaders, and friends are necessary components to being successful.

To the person reading this who may say that’s great for you you’re successful, I share that I had to start on this journey by deciding that I wanted something different and then deciding to get after it by investing in my education, looking for opportunities to connect with other business owners, be willing to share my story and not know if it would connect or resonate with people. The journey to success comes with taking risks, being vulnerable, admitting when you don’t know something and not being afraid to ask for assistance. No one who is successful got there on their own.

Gratitude is one of the things that keeps me going when things get tough. I keep a sign in my office that states Gratitude in all capital letters because I don’t want to forget to express my gratitude in the tough times so that I have better lessons and strength to rely on and celebrate when I get to the other side.

Dee has been featured in Forbes, Thrive Global and Black Enterprise Magazines.

health & fitness

What’s your

workout style?

Fitness Guru, Tanjie Brewer answers this burning question

by Tanjie Brewer

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ike fashion, everybody has their own workout style, and they find joy in doing it. In this article, I will help reveal your preferred workout method, or what I refer to as your body’s signature workout style.

Here are the top five fitness styles. Find out which one is your workout style and see my tips to refine it.

The Insane Eclectic Barbell This style likes classes like insanity, CrossFit, and Ninja Warrior. It’s all about the challenge of pushing the body past where it’s screaming for you to stop. Before you know it, you’ve entered a place 94

of euphoric exhaustion. You enjoy the press, and you want more of the burn. So, you keep going until the sweat causes your clothing to cling to your legs and chest for dear life. Your eyes filling with sweat as you shout that last rep, and your barbells fall to the ground roaring your praise. Many might consider you Wonder Woman or just shy of Incredible Hulk, however you lack something very important. It’s your dedication to stretching.

To increase your flair with this particular style, it’s important to include a recovery yoga or stretch day. Many who find themselves flourishing in this style can also be susceptible to injuries. Stretching prevents them, so if you want to continue with such fitness insanity, just make sure you stretch it out to increase your Insane Eclectic Barbell Flair. vipglobalmagazine.com

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health & fitness

The Vintage Lifestyle Lifter This particular style believes in quality over quantity. You are not caught up in the large amount of weight that is lifted but the consistency of the method. You desire muscular balance, and your focus is lean muscle and a steady dress or pants

size. Rarely do you move from the scope of your fitness comfort zone.

You don’t hang out long in the squat rack area or with the large weights.

You simply desire to gradually and safely increase your weight amount while sticking to exercises that have worked for countless years. You believe that certain exercises are timeless. While you are more disciplined with your cardio than most, you lack the ability to veer out into the unknown. It’s important to have muscular confusion and keep your body on its tippy toes. Therefore, it is important to mix up your workout by using a variety of weights that you haven’t used in a while as well as challenging yourself by increasing the weight above what you feel is comfortable. That will increase your flair as a Vintage Lifestyle Lifter.

The Mosaic Marathon Mountaineer

Many people who run long periods at a time without properly incorporating strength training can break down their muscles.

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This workout style enjoys the outdoors. You’d much rather hike or ride your bike for long miles looking at the trees sway in the wind. Very rarely will we find you on an elliptical reading a magazine. You’d take more joy in seeing the pictures of nature come to life while running on the different terrains. We might find you in a 5K race or training for a marathon along the beach. Although your endurance is amazing, many times you lack the balance with strength training. Many people who run long periods at a time without properly incorporating strength training can break down their muscles. Therefore, it’s paramount to have a strength training routine incorporated with your cardio training each week. This will add to your Mosaic Marathon Mountaineer Flair. vipglobalmagazine.com

health & fitness

The YogaNista

The Dashing Dancer This style prefers classes like Zumba, hip-hop, Jazzercise, and anything that will disguise exercise.

You’d much rather have fun moving the body with music instead of lifting weights. You prefer working out with a group of people because you feel their energy and need their motivation. The thought of a stair stepper going nowhere bores you to your core. While many people admire your moves, you lack the endurance training. Dashing Dancers are great with interval training workouts but have a hard time enduring for a long period of time at a challenging pace. To increase the flair for this workout style, it is important to incorporate endurance training. See how long you can run or speed walk at a challenging pace.

This should be a length of time 30 minutes or greater. You will quickly find the Dashing Dancer move with more flair. vipglobalmagazine.com

It’s great to use your own body weight to increase strength but adding a variety of weights will challenge the body in a greater dimension.

This style prefers classes like yoga, Pilates, Barre, and other stretching classes. You enjoy taking time to release the cares of the day with self-reflection as well as self-awareness. You enjoy calming music, and you like to take time with your movements. You don’t like to be rushed but your desire is to enjoy the strength you feel in the moment.

Classes like Bikram Yoga send the greatest pleasure to your senses.

Although you might be able to do an incredible handstand, many of you need the balance of strength training. It’s great to use your own body weight to increase strength but adding a variety of weights will challenge the body in a greater dimension. Soon the YogaNista will start stretching with greater flair.

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health & fitness

Four shocking things

your mask may be doing to your skin and how to avoid it

Healthy Skin Tips

During COVID-19

By Dr. Melanye Maclin-Carroll, M.D.

Wow! Before we were three months into 2020, an awful pandemic emerged due to a Coronavirus called COVID-19 and that has truly changed our lives.

Not only are we suffering mentally from deaths of loved ones, but we are also dealing with few common skin issues directly related to protecting our health.

Masks are essential protective daily items to reduce the chance of your respiratory droplets getting on objects and others, especially if less than ten feet from you. However, be aware of the various mask skin issues:

1

Moisture can build up under a mask. This can potentially cause a red itchy facial rash similar to diaper rash from yeast overgrowth. It may respond to a topical antifungal cream such as clotrimazole to help relieve rash. Try to take off your mask when safe and not around anyone less than ten feet, wiping your face immediately after removing, and using breathable cotton fabric masks.

Those that use the most protective N95 are also encouraged to follow the above recommendations.

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2

Mask acne or ‘maskne’ is an acne like reaction caused by clogging of your pores due to oil buildup and surface bacteria from wearing masks. It can also make your underlying acne worse. Regardless of the acne reason, avoid all oil-based products on your face. Pick up an acne wash which contains two percent salicylic acid and use a benzoyl peroxide gel on affected face areas morning and night.

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Mask irritation/ allergic dermatitis from the fabric itself can also cause skin problems. You may have an irritant burning reaction with or without redness or an allergic itchy red rash. Once you notice the rash, stop using that mask and apply an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream. Find a replacement mask made of a different fabric. Also, hand wash fabric masks every two days with soap and warm water to reduce bacteria and dirt buildup.

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Mask lip burns may occur if you must wear the hospital grade N95 for extended times. The ultra-protective multiple layers of fabric may cause lip burns from the carbon dioxide that you exhale remaining in the mask.

Try alternating with more breathable masks when safe.

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health & fitness Hand washing is mandatory to reduce COVID-19 spread. Therefore, your hands have been under a great deal of recent irritation. It is best to use soap and warm water for at least twenty seconds. To reduce the irritation, apply a heavy hand cream with ingredients such as shea butter, petrolatum, or cocoa butter after washing. If you are unable to use a sink, the next best protection is hand sanitizer with greater than 60% alcohol. This product is extra drying especially since you are using it more frequently and it can also cause an irritant chemical rash. Barrier hand creams contain ingredients that trap moisture, so hands don’t get as dry between washings or uses of sanitizer.

We are encouraged to disinfect areas frequently to reduce the spread of COVID-19 as well. The excess use of chemical based cleaning agents can cause your hands to become extra dry. You may also get a red or burning rash called irritant

hand dermatitis. The key is for you to wash your hands thoroughly after using chemicals to avoid transfer to other body parts. Simple over the counter hydrocortisone cream twice a day can relieve hand irritation.

This pandemic has also caused a lot of stress which has led to a rapid onset of fine lines, wrinkles, and gray hair. Because hair and skin start within, the special marine protein and collagen proprietary nutrient blend in BellaNutri natural supplement will help improve these issues. Use consistently for at least six months to best get nutrients working in your system.

Despite these potential skin issues, it is still more critical to continue wearing your mask, washing, and sanitizing your hands frequently during the day, disinfecting objects, and social distancing at least ten feet away.

I will be happy to answer any questions via www.drmaclin.com.

**Disclaimer: Information in this article is for educational purposes. If you are suffering from a skin or hair issue, please check with your doctor for clinical evaluation**

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health & fitness

Mothers Around The Globe Are In Crisis:

A Mom’s Mental Health Means More T ha n She Kn ows

by Dr. Delene P. Musielak, M.D.

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Make yourself a priority and don’t only celebrate yourself this month, but every day.

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mother’s mental health not only affects her but also those around her, including her family. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, one out of five individuals are affected by a mental illness, and with the Covid-19 pandemic, those numbers continue to rise. To really make it hit home, one out of every two individuals will be affected by a mental illness at some point in their life. [1] So, essentially, look at the person next to you. One of you will be affected by a mental illness.

As women, we go through many ups and downs. Not only in our professional lives, but also our personal lives. However, the resilience of women is amazing. That resilience goes through many trials and is tested on multiple levels. Unfortunately, even though women somehow always find the strength to push through, sometimes their mental health can be affected, whether it involves loneliness, depression, anxiety or even alcohol use.

So, what can moms do to keep their mental health in check, especially during a pandemic? Here are ways that moms can stay S.A.N.E. during difficult times:

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Self-care

This word is essentially not in a mother’s vocabulary. We are so good at putting ourselves on the backburner. I know there are not enough hours in a day for mamas. That’s at least how I feel, and there’s totally a limit to the number of hours of sleep we can sacrifice without it taking a toll on us mentally and physically.

As a side note, the recommended amount of sleep for adults is 7-8 hours every night.

With that being said, moms don’t realize how important self-care is, or, as I like to call it, “me time.” This is time that is dedicated to you. During this time, you can do something that is relaxing. This may be as simple as reading a book, watching your favorite show, getting a massage, or listening to your favorite music. Ultimately, my point is, make time for yourself! If we, as mamas, are not mentally or physically healthy and happy, that will trickle down to our families.

2

Attitude

A mother’s self-esteem and confidence are vital and definitely affect her children. If a mom doesn’t feel good about herself and always puts herself down, her children will most likely start seeing themselves in that same image. That’s why, ladies, it’s so important to realize how strong and amazing you are. Carry that confidence and show it. Note that I didn’t say pride. Carry yourself confidently but humbly.

Spirituality makes up a part of our attitude also. Our underlying faith is so important. Knowing that God has a perfect plan for our lives helps put our hearts and minds at rest. That faith and trust decreases any doubt and anxiety. If you have an attitude of giving up and throw in the towel easily, you’ll never get anything accomplished. However, if you have an attitude of perseverance and passion, you will find a way to push through. If we exemplify an attitude of gratitude, our children will mirror that same attitude.

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Through your journey of life, don’t forget you are beautiful, you are strong, you are amazing, and you can do anything you put your mind to do!

3

Nutrition

As mamas, we want our families to eat healthy.

Sometimes this can be difficult because we all have busy schedules. However, what we feed our bodies also affects our minds. If you’re eating junk that is exactly what is building up in your body and brain. On the flip side, if we’re not eating enough (that is, very low-calorie intake), that can affect our energy. Don’t keep tons of bad snacks in the house. If it is accessible, you will get to it. Worse yet, your kids will get to it. According to a Harvard study, there is a decreased risk of depression in individuals who have a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and unprocessed foods. [2] So, make healthy choices.

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4

Exercise

For our mental health to stay strong, our physical health must be strong.

Exercising not only keeps us in shape externally but also internally. It is a great way to release stress. When we exercise, we release what I call “happy hormones,” like endorphins. These help us feel good about ourselves, improves our mood, and decreases the likelihood of depression and anxiety. When we feel good, we do a better job at encouraging others, which includes our families. And again, if our kids see that we have an active lifestyle, they will be more active. This is so important, especially during this time of the pandemic where almost everything has gone virtual, and the amount of screen time and inactivity have skyrocketed.

Well, there you have it: four simple tips you can start implementing today to stay S.A.N.E. and encourage your family during a time of uncertainty. As we take time this month to celebrate women of the past and present, we need to make a deliberate effort to apply these tactics so we can be strong and raise strong women of the future.

I challenge you to give it a try. I know you can do it! Make yourself a priority and don’t only celebrate yourself this month, but every day. Make it a habit! Through your journey of life, don’t forget you are beautiful, you are strong, you are amazing, and you can do anything you put your mind to do! Remember, small changes make a big impact. So today, start living, loving, and building your legacy because you mean more than you know, Mom!

References: 1. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/ statistics/mental-illness.shtml.

2. Harvard Education. https://www. health.harvard.edu/blog/nutritional-psychiatry-your-brain-on-fo od-201511168626

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inspiration

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anieka Vance Randall

CANCER SURVIVOR CREATES PRODUCTS TO TAKE BACK HER HAIR AND LIFE Could Tee’s Hair Secret be the next Black-owned beauty brand to break the billion-dollar barrier?

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anieka Vance Randall is the creator of Tee’s Hair Secret, a revolutionary natural hair care line. While growing up in New Orleans she always had a passion for helping others, which led her to pursue nursing. Little did she know she would be diagnosed with cancer in 2011 right before graduating. In 2014, Tee’s journey to healing led to the creation of healthy hair products while using her RN skills to help women take charge of their hair and their health.

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oday, Tanieka is an entrepreneur, bestselling author, international speaker, and cancer survivor. Her ultimate goal is to help millions of women discover their potential and confidently walk in their God-given purpose.

We had an opportunity to speak with Tanieka about her passion for growing healthy hair and all the other amazing things she is doing.

Walk us through your journey to starting your hair product line. I’ve have always loved experimenting with butters and different oils for my hair.

In 2010, I got serious about maintaining my natural hair and not relaxing it again. A year later, when I was diagnosed with cancer, I already had created a hair oil blend. I tweaked the blend and continued to use it even as my hair fell out from chemo. Yes, I continued with it even with tears

I love these products

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flowing down my face. I kept going!

I found myself sharing hair tips and my oil blend with family and friends over the years as my hair grew longer and thicker than it had ever been in my adult life. In 2014, after mixing up body scrubs and soaps I posted them online to show Facebook friends and people asked if I was selling them. Of course, I said yes, even though that wasn’t the plan. People quickly asked me to create hair products, so I taught myself how to formulate conditioner and I introduced my hair oil, which is now our best-selling product, Glorious Growth Hair and Scalp Oil. We now have a full line of hair products that are catered to growing and maintaining healthy hair. As a RN, I also strive to not only provide great products but also to educate others on how taking care of ourselves on the inside is a direct reflection of our hair and overall body on the outside.

What has been your most satisfying moment in business? It has to be a family moment actually. I left my RN job last August to work fulltime in my business. When I was still working, for homework my 7-year-old twins were asked what’s my favorite thing to do and one of them said sleeping and that crushed me.

Recently I randomly asked her what’s my favorite thing to do and she said spending time with them. I felt so complete in that moment. They are almost 8 and all they have known is busy sleeping mommy but now since I decided to stop putting my dreams on hold for the job I had I can spend more time with my family.

How has COVID-19 changed your business? What strategies should entrepreneurs adopt to ensure that they thrive in these times? Our business has actually thrived and grew immensely in the past year and that

the best for your hair

What are three major keys to building a successful business? Being patient and realizing that the road will not always be smooth but keep going. Being a consistent student and never stop learning about your craft. Realizing it’s not about you, you are here and started your business for others.

What is your advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? Don’t get caught up in comparing yourself to others. Our journey is unique and not cookie cutter. Research is vital, Google is one of my best friends. Ask lots of ques-

tions and surround yourself with likeminded people. I am in an amazing mastermind founded by Lamar and Ronnie Tyler of Traffic, Sales and Profit. They have a free Facebook group with thousands of business owners that are open and willing. Environments like TSP are great for new or even more seasoned entrepreneurs.

What helps you to keep going even when things are tough? Truly knowing that there is a calling over my life. After surviving cancer, I realized that I am truly here for something greater and want to make an impact on the world, even if one person at a time. If God still wakes me up, that means I’m not finished. Maybe I’m stubborn but I honestly don’t know how to stop. I may have to pivot and learn from lessons given to me, but failure is never an option.

What’s next for you? We are currently in a massive growing phase; we will be moving to a warehouse soon and hiring more staff. We are always in the lab researching to expand our product offerings. I’m starting to consult new beauty brand businesses to help them avoid some of my setbacks as well.

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After surviving cancer, I realized that I am truly here for something greater and want to make an impact on the world, even if one person at a time.

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led me to leaving my RN job. In order to thrive it’s vital to seek help when needed and don’t be afraid to ask questions. This may mean investing in help from others and also offering others help when they need it. All investments are not about money. It can be investing in a network and taking time to read through resources.

We all are valuable in different ways but sometimes don’t realize it. Tap into your value. If you are struggling, you may have to switch something up but don’t ever count yourself out.

Learn to pivot as needed and keep going! Be a Netflix, not a Blockbuster.

Visit Tanieka Vance Randall https://teeshairsecret.com/ 107

money & business

5 Ways

to Fall in Love with Yourself

by Bindu Chowritmootoo

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ow often have you heard the phrase “You need to learn to love yourself first before you love others”? For many people, the concept of self-love means treating yourself to a day of relaxation, indulging in retail therapy, or having just a night to yourself. Others may view self-love as being selfish or egocentric. You may hear the phrase “It’s your world, we are just living in it.” Honestly, the first time I heard that phrase a wave of guilt came over me. However, I later realized that my level of confidence made someone uncomfortable enough to think it was all about me. I will not apologize for my self-confidence. I will not apologize for the fact that I love and respect myself enough to be driven and successful.

The true feeling of self-love needs to be cultivated and nurtured throughout all phases of your life. Loving yourself requires a deeper insight into your own mind and feelings and how you perceive yourself as an individual.

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5 Ways to Fall in Love with Yourself:

1

Establish Healthy Habits

The body and mind are intertwined. Make a conscious effort to focus on consistent activities related to quality sleep, healthy nutrition, stress management, physical activity, and relaxation techniques. Establishing healthy habits help combat depression, anxiety, and insecurity. vipglobalmagazine.com

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Establish Your Limits

What happens when you overextend yourself? What happens when you have trouble saying “no”? When you do not set boundaries with others, you begin to feel underappreciated, and disrespected. Knowing and establishing your limits allows others to see you at your best.

3

Never Settle

Most people feel guilty for wanting only the best for themselves. Because of this, people start to settle for the “next best thing.” When you start to settle for things versus aiming for the best thing, you run the risk of regretting your decision. Sometimes, going the extra mile to achieve what is important to you adds to yourself your personal growth.

Loving requires a deeper insight into your own mind and feelings and how you perceive yourself as an individual.

4

Embrace Your Flaws

We all have our own flaws. Embrace them. Own them.

The moment you acknowledge your flaws, you are steps away from establishing a guide for self-improvement. Don’t let your flaws hold you back from getting on with life. Make your flaws awesome – Be Flawsome!

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Set the Bar High

Instead of having low or average expectations of your life — set the bar high. When you have average expectations, you tend to have average results. You deserve more. Aim for the successful career. Aim for the strong, healthy body. Aim for the romantic relationship. Setting the bar high sends the message that you respect yourself enough to only want the best.

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LIVING ON THE EDGE Meet world class parkour athlete

s e m a J y Ja

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he video https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=AOdmU7EOHLk opens in grayscale, a striking contrast with the upbeat music and hopeful message of Rea Garvey’s “Is It Love?” I watch as a young man comfortably stands on the ledge of a tall building. Watching him framed against the grayed-out sky, he seems fearless. The concrete buildings around him, rather than being obstacles, raise him to new heights. A few minutes later, with effortless grace, he runs and leaps over the railing atop another high-rise building and lands firmly on his feet. Impressive! Those were eye-popping and memorable images of Jay James—parkour professional athlete, model, and musician.

Most people would probably agree that James has the same infectious allure as other sporting greats like LeBron James and Michael Jordan. Nevertheless, as fascinating and skillful as James is, he is just as humble. And from the moment he begins to speak, he is engaging, thoughtful, and forthcoming. We sat down with James to discuss his many talents and interests, chief among them parkour.

The Parkour Aficionado To understand Jay James, one must first understand parkour which is gaining a lot of traction worldwide. Coming out of France in the late 1990s, parkour developed from military obstacle training. This acrobatic discipline requires its practitioners to move efficiently through their environments in the quickest way possible. Consequently, parkour athletes are more body aware and often show improvement in their proprioception. In this sport, your body is your greatest weapon. This is a philosophy that James, like all parkour professionals, takes seriously.

Parkour is not for the average person, so it comes as no surprise that James is not your average man. From a young age, James had been interested in Japan’s pop and visual culture, particularly anime and manga. This interest led to his practice of martial arts, particularly Ninpo, Tae Kwon Do, Hapkido, and Capoeira.

While parkour seems to be a natural path for James, he had one wall to scale before any other: his fear of heights.

“When I was a little kid my biggest fear was a long fall ... got rid of that,” James states. To do this, James put par-

From a young age, James had been interested in Japan’s pop and visual culture, particularly anime and manga.

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In his late teens, James had the opportunity to train with the Japanese parkour athletes in Japan, on a trip sponsored by his parkour mentor. kour philosophy into practice, changing his outlook on the ‘wall.’ This diligent tracer recounted how he had climbed a tree and refused to come down for approximately 2 hours while he “retrained his brain.” Smiling, James adds, “Some of the things I feared have become my favorite things. Like snakes and long falls. The greatest things are often on the other side of what you’re afraid of. Just what you need.”

In his late teens, James had the opportunity to train with the Japanese parkour athletes in Japan, on a trip sponsored by his parkour mentor. He was the only American in the group, and he appreciated the opportunity to gain valuable insights and build his parkour skillset, while having the pleasure of celebrating his birthday. James describes his first trip to Japan as a “mind blowing” experience.

His second visit to Japan, with Kat Marsh and the British rock band Bring Me the Horizon, gave James another chance to train with the Japanese parkour athletes. James recounted with enthusiasm how he stayed in a capsule hotel during his third visit to Japan - about a month after having returned to the states when he received news 114

that he had booked his first TV gig in Tokyo. This opportunity took him back to Japan for a third time where he was able to get a taste of what it meant to be on screen, as a guest star on The Toppa Fairu - American Police: The Fearless Hijackers – a preparation, no doubt, for the big screen of his dreams.

In 2013, while in college, James got the break he was hoping for when an agent found him. In true parkour spirit, he left college and moved to Los Angeles, where he worked on several film and media projects. After completing his projects, James returned home to finish his degree, before leaving again for Los Angeles in 2016. With his raw talent, James has gone on to amaze viewers while playing roles in films like Left in this Mag MV, Watch the Leaves MV, The Chase, and Birds Eye Parkour, to name a few. Some of James’ television work includes My Carolina CBS17 News Parkour Lesson, World Chase Tag USA 2020, Professional Parkour Athlete 2017 WRAL News, and The Art of Parkour 2010. In addition, he has appeared in several commercials—The Greatest Showman, Carl’s Jr, Academy Sports & Outdoors, Lay’s Potato Chips, Nerf, and Overstock.

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Blazing the Trail for Others

mael Rodriguez, a former Genbukan certified instructor and head of the Niji no Hashi Dojo. All ages and skills levels are welcome.

Since 2012, James has spent much of his time building his brand Rahyz Cary Fitness. Founded in Cary, North Carolina, the name itself is homage to his hometown, and the philosophy of his branding is rooted in “Rahyz,” which means to ‘rise’ above all. The name is manifested in the company’s emblem, which is that of a “legendary spirit” – a shapeshifter – that signifies adaptability. Rahyz Cary Fitness offers three main services: coaching, event performance, and film and media services.

The Soulful Musician

So, how did the COVID-19 pandemic affect such an onthe-go man? As expected, the pandemic did not slow James down. A man of big ideas and execution, James spent 2020 planning the opening of his new Ninpo Bugei dojo and Parkour park, Rahyz Cary Fitness Training Grounds (www.RCFTrainingGrounds.com). While the facility has been under construction for a few months, James is planning the grand opening on May 1, 2021. Rahyz Cary Fitness Training Grounds is already off to a bright start, offering Ninpo classes with James and Sensei Is-

In 2015, while doing a project, James tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). He knew recovery would take some time, so he wanted to do something that was meaningful.

It was during this time that James purchased a guitar and learned to play and sing to pass the time. Today, when he’s not backflipping off buildings, participating in parkour tournaments, or teaching, James can be found creating music. He describes his music as “passionate and sensitive,” and added, “Every song is like an entry in my journal.”

Writing songs and performing serves a way for James to release his emotions and thoughts, as well as push for awareness and resolution of issues. He currently has three new musical projects on the horizon - the first being his new upcoming single “Antidote (feat. Zarutt Malai & ek0) - Jay James”.

If you find yourself wanting to embody the Rahyz “legendary spirit,” be sure to check out James’ clothing line. To support James and his music career, check out his singles “Watch the Leaves” and “Left in this Mag,” available for purchase on iTunes and Google Play, and streaming on all major music platforms like Apple Music and Spotify.

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Jay James

FOLLOW JAY ON INSTAGRAM @JayJamesRahyz. Learn some new skills and level up at his dojo, the Rahyz Cary Fitness Training Grounds: www.rcftraininggrounds.com.

Visit Jay James atht www.jayjamesofficial.com.

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How Celebrity Boss

Mommies Balance

When it comes to being a boss, there is always so much to do. There may be inventory that has to be ordered, meetings to manage, calls to make, websites to be built, social media management, and the list goes on and on. Add to that list being a mom and business owner. Being present and effective in all your roles can be a challenge. Here are tips from three of the hottest celeb moms to help you find and create balance.

by Teia Burroughs

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Boss Mommy Tip #1 Inspired by Beyonce

Your family and health come before your work.

In her 2019 Netflix documentary entitled Homecoming, Beyonce chronicled her history-making performance at Coachella and all the hard work it took to prepare for the infamous festival.

She gave us an inside look into her life as she trained, rehearsed, and coordinated the show, taking breaks between sessions to spend time with her children. The superstar singer shared how much her body went through having just given birth and then adopting a very strict diet and exercise regimen to prepare for the show. She says in the film, “I will never do that to my body again,” referring to the physical toll. “I can’t rehearse fifteen hours straight.

I have children. I am not even trying to be who I was,” says Queen Bey. Beyonce and husband Sean “Jay-Z” Carter have three amazing little people, one of which, Blue Ivy, recently won a Grammy at the 2021 award ceremony.

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Boss Mommy Tip #2 Inspired by Ciara

Find your support system so you can create balance.

Ciara is a woman of many talents — singer, songwriter, dancer, media personality and national spokeswoman, just to name a few. The multi-talented, Grammy Award-winning artist, now Ciara Wilson, also beautifully transitioned into her most rewarding roles earning her the titles of wife and mother. With a full career and a full life at home, while also being in such a high-profile relationship, Ciara has her hands full, to say the least. In a recent interview with Forbes, she talks about how she manages the various roles.

“Having family support is huge,” she said in the interview. She said that she feels that having this support allows her to be able to check things off her “to do” lists while knowing she has trusted care for her children. Having a network like this allows you to focus on the challenges of developing your business without having to split your focus.

This network can consist of family and/ or trusted friends for those that may not be able to afford the expense of additional help. Ciara is the mother to three beautiful little people, one with her previous mate, rapper Future, and two with her husband, NFL superstar Russell Wilson.

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Boss Mommy Tip #3 Inspired by Kandi Burruss

Learn to multitask.

Kandi Burruss has mastered many roles in both music and business and much of it plays out for us to see on the Bravo reality show Real Housewives of Atlanta. Starting at a very young age in the music industry, she has always been known for her business savvy. Fast forward to today, Burruss is still going strong in the music world and has also leaned, pretty successfully, into the acting world. Outside of the entertainment industry, she has also knocked down business barriers as a boutique and restaurant owner, among other business ventures. Burruss credits her ability to multitask for her ability to get so many things done at once. In an interview with Atlanta News Now, Burruss says that many women multitask their way through life.

As a mother to a college student, two children in the infant to toddler range, and stepmother to her husband Todd Tucker’s adult daughter, knowing how to multitask is certainly essential for this boss mommy.

Women are such phenomenal beings.

We have the capacity to dominate in our industries and be amazing mothers at the same time. Our world is different now in many ways but as women, we can adapt and continue to rise to the occasion.

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