Phenomenal Woman Magazine

FEB 2024

HOW WILL YOU SHOW UP THIS YEAR? SECRETS TO SUCCESSFULLY AVOIDING RESOLUTION FAILURE

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RELATIONSHIPS ARE THE KEY TO THE FUNDING VAULT

A'SHIRA NELSON

Tax Manager & Director, Wellspring Financial Advisors / Creator, Savvy Girl Money

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Shelley M. Shockley Managing Editor Writers Shelley M. Shockley Marsha Walker Eastwood Brittany Garrett Rhonda Crowder

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Creative Belé Wondwossen Jason Garrett Cover Story: Shelley Shockley Photos: Jason Garrett The Blush Gallery Contributing Writers Rhonda Crowder Michelle Phillips Fay Marianna Marron Letitia Nall Stephanie Phelps Kimberly Smith-Woodford

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From the Editor: Shelley M. Shockley

HOW WILL YOU SHOW UP THIS YEAR ?

It's a new year. Will there be a new you at the end of twelve months? Annually, we begin a new year with hopes, dreams, and plans to be a new, better person, but does that transformation become reality?

60% of the best-laid plans from 2023 were not completed, and many of us beat ourselves up about it. I plan to give myself grace in the coming year when things don't go as planned. Here is an example of that grace. In preparation for the close of 2023, I attended a Vision Board session filled with great information on preparing a board with purpose. The board would not just offer dreams but an actual plan to succeed. To be clear, I have yet to finish that board, but the information provided still lingers, and before the March lion roars, I will complete my 2024 board.

In many ways, the vision board is the modern list of New Year's resolutions. It's New Year's Eve, and you sit down and begin to note everything you will do in the next 365 days to improve yourself. You vow to lose that 20 pounds added during the pandemic. Save more money. Stop smoking, drinking, or bingeing the latest Netflix series. You're going to read more, go to church, and several other things.

With the list complete, you review it and - wait! This sounds familiar, so you race to your desk drawer, pull out your 2023 list, and realize many items are the same.

Pardon me for transferring my habits to you if you're one of the few people who actually stick to your list of resolutions. If you stopped listing resolutions and created vision boards like me, I'm sure the same scenario would work on boards.

This year, let's finish the boards or lists, but instead of beating ourselves up when we don't finish one-fourth of the items by March 31st, reorganize and commit to trying harder. Most importantly, let's LIVE in 2024!

Get outside and experience the beauty of Cleveland during all four seasons. CREATE - learn a new hobby

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or just doodle in your journal. I strongly suggest journaling as a means to complete the vision.

I recently attended a workshop, and the facilitator suggested writing three intentions in your journal in the morning. Next, list what you must do to fulfill these intentions. Before turning in for the evening, start an evening journal practice to determine your success in satisfying your daily intentions.

Finally, LOVE - yourself, life, and those around you.

Committing to living, creating, and loving is a good start. We will add on more as we work our way through the year.

Columnist Marsha Walker Eastwood offers a different view on resolutions as she explains the secret to fulfilling the items on that list. Eastwood delves into your psyche by using some of the most common lose weight, save money, and buy a car, helping you understand why you want to do these things. The “why” is vital to your success. I encourage you to sit with this column and evaluate your list.

Finances play an integral role in completing visions and resolutions and in helping you eliminate fears and skepticism surrounding money; we introduce you to A'Shira Nelson. A'Shira is a Tax Manager, Director, and creator of Savvy Girl Money. She is living out her dream while working to inform and educate women so they, too, can live out their dreams. If you have insecurities with money, I encourage you to read about Nelson and follow her on all the social platforms.

Are you looking for the “Bag” to start or scale your entrepreneurial efforts? Look no further than our feature on relationships and funding. Gloria Ware, founder of “Get the Bag,” offers the “tea” on relationship building and its impact on your bottom line.

In each of these features, the core philosophy is to show up in all spaces, trust that you are worthy, and enjoy the experiences.

Until we meet between the pages again, be blessed.

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COVER

HOW WILL YOU SHOW UP THIS YEAR? Shelley M. Shockley

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SECRETS TO SUCCESSFULLY AVOIDING RESOLUTION FAILURE Marsha Walker Eastwood

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RELATIONSHIPS ARE THE KEY TO THE FUNDING VAULT Gloria M. Ware

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Walsh University Offers FREE Mental Health Symposium

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TONJEH BAH, MD PAGE 16

A'SHIRA NELSON

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As a young girl, A'Shira loved math and developed an understanding of financial issues and the challenges associated with money. Illustrating her drive, she said, “I grew up in the inner city of Cleveland, in Garden Valley and we were on every government assistance possible. As a young girl, I was very aware of my surroundings. We were all on the same government assistance in these projects. I wanted to figure out a way, at a very young age, how I could change this narrative for my family. How could I help my community get out of this rat race of being on public assistance.”

DELICIOUS RECIPES www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 5

SECRETS TO SUCCESSFULLY AVOIDING RESOLUTION FAILURE “There will be obstacles. There will be doubters. There will be mistakes. But with hard work, there are no limits." —Michael Phelps During the last few weeks of every year, there are always discussions about By: Marsha Walker Eastwood, resolutions. The ideas B.S.Ed, MSHSVC fly fast and furious, PWM Contributing Writer each uttered with a certainty of success that is both comedic and disingenuous.

There are, of course, the frivolous fantasies of striking it rich via the lottery or being promoted from chief cook and pot washer to executive status somewhere. Then there are the heartfelt wishes to become better people and humbler and kinder. Then there are the more realistic goals such as losing weight and/or getting healthy which are not necessarily the same thing, as purchasing a new car, going back to school, getting finances in better order, or maybe even purchasing a house.

During the first two weeks of the year, most resolutions fail, and the reason is that most were made for the wrong reason, and the lack of planning. First, you need to determine why you made the resolution in the first place.

Is it an annual ritual that begins at the stroke of midnight where you vow to engage in something that would seemingly be beneficial to you? Do families, friends, or co-workers coerce the resolution, or is it something you genuinely believe can be accomplished in the upcoming twelve months?

There are several secrets to achieving a successful resolution. The first is to keep it to yourself. The minute you divulge the content of your resolution, you are setting yourself up for failure. The naysayers will nod their collective heads in quiet and oftentimes not-so-quiet dismissal, especially if you have a track record of not following through. The second and most important secret is planning, planning, planning! When did the idea of the resolution pop into your head, and why? What is the end goal twelve months from now? What is the plan that will create a path to meeting your goal?

For a significant number of people losing weight is their number one priority resolution. It sounds good to say, “I'm going on a diet.” Why do you want to go on a diet – for health reasons or cosmetic reasons? What kind of diet?

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Do you shop and/or cook for a family or just yourself? Can you afford the diet, and do you have the time and energy to do the research necessary to make it work? Are you capable of planning a week's worth of menus or a month's worth? Are you willing to make dietary sacrifices? Have you made the same resolution before and suffered failure, and do you truly understand why it failed?

If you are going on a diet for health reasons, have you discussed the issue with your primary care physician or a nutritionist in person or online? If you are winging it on your own have you done due diligence when it comes to researching exercise programs that will aid in your weight loss? How regimented are you? Have you investigated support groups, walking partners and the like? If you are going on a diet for ego reasons (to look good for other people) do you have an endgame for cosmetic surgery after the weight loss? Many of these questions may seem trivial but they – along with your well-thought-out plan – are the keys to keeping the resolution and reaching your goal in 52 weeks.

Maybe your resolution isn't about health, but may still involve your lifestyle – buying a car for example. The commute to work or school can sometimes be a logistical nightmare when using public transportation.

The inconvenience of being out in the elements, the simple process of getting from point A to point B and beyond can sometimes be overwhelming, especially if children are involved. Thus at the start of the year a lot of folks resolve to buy a car. For some the choice of their new ride involves keeping up appearances – with neighbors, co-workers, or their own family. If cars were people they would be rated as very nice, nice, cranky, and sometimey. When it comes to looks they can be beautiful, pretty, sufficient, or utilitarian (aka beater).

Once again, the question to address is the logic behind buying a car. If we look at the who, what, where, when, and why. Who are you buying the car for? Is it a second car? Is it a family car? Is it for a college student? What kind of car do you need? An SUV? A sedan? A gas saver?

It's just something to get around in and the make and model are not considerations. Where is the best place to buy the car – a dealer, a used car lot, someone you know, a Facebook marketplace, or an auction? When is the best

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and worst times of year to buy a car? Daniel Robinson of Marketwatch states, “New Year's Eve and Christmas Eve are the best holidays for car buying. Shop in the fall to get discounts on existing stock before new models come in.

Depending on the location, Monday or Tuesday can be the best time to shop every week.

Before any shopping is done, once again, map out a strategy. How much money do you have saved for a down payment? Do you have a trade-in? How are you planning to finance the purchase? Are you counting on using your tax refund, and if additional funding is needed, do you have financing lined up, or are you depending on the dealer to seek financing for you? Can you afford to have a monthly payment? The successful plan would include revisiting your monthly budget, considering all of your purchase options, and having a mechanic you know and trust to examine whatever car you are considering purchasing and the cost of insurance. A dealer will require full coverage, while liability only may be the way to go, depending on the car. Do you have money put aside for routine maintenance? Remember, a vehicle is only as good as its upkeep.

The worst thing to consider in your plan is trying to keep up with anyone. Remember, you are buying a car for

transportation, not to woo or wow anyone. Don't let ego derail your plan and make your resolution an epic failure.

Once again, the plan is the key to success. If the plan guides you, then your ego won't.

It seems as if, with every passing month, it becomes more and more challenging to keep up with the ever-rising cost of rental units. As a tenant, you are at the mercy of the auditor's office that dictates property values and taxes and the mercy of the landlord who generously passes those fees and taxes along to you. This may be your primary consideration for purchasing a home. Making a resolution to purchase a home definitely requires visiting your finances. Researching options is paramount because it is the largest purchase you will ever make. If you are just making it from paycheck to paycheck, the better resolution would be to map out a strategy to save enough for a down payment, whether it be large or small, and revisit the idea again later in the year. Realtor.com forecasts that mortgage rates will average about 6.8% during 2024 and end the year closer to 6.5%. Lawrence Yun, chief economist at NAR, said he expects the 30-year fixed mortgage rate to average lower, at 6.3% in 2024, and that the Fed will cut rates four times which could calm inflationary conditions, in response to slower economic activity.<

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH ▒▒ F E B R U A R Y

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GOOD READS AS WE CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH Beloved PULITZER PRIZE WINNER • NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • A spellbinding novel that transforms history into a story as powerful as Exodus and as intimate as a lullaby.

This ”brutally powerful, mesmerizing story” (People) is an unflinchingly look into the abyss of slavery, from the acclaimed Nobel Prize winner.

Sethe was born a slave and escaped to Ohio, but eighteen years later she is still not free. Sethe has too many memories of Sweet Home, the beautiful farm where so many hideous things happened. And Sethe’s new home is haunted by the ghost of her baby, who died nameless and whose tombstone is engraved with a single word: Beloved.

TONI MORRISON AUTHOR

“A masterwork…. Wonderful…. I can’t imagine American literature without it.” —John Leonard, Los Angeles Times

The 1619 Project #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • NAACP IMAGE AWARD WINNER • A dramatic expansion of a groundbreaking work of journalism, The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story offers a profoundly revealing vision of the American past and present. “[A] groundbreaking compendium . . . bracing and urgent . . . This collection is an extraordinary update to an ongoing project of vital truth-telling.”—Esquire NOW AN EMMY-NOMINATED HULU ORIGINAL DOCUSERIES • FINALIST FOR THE KIRKUS PRIZE • ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR: The Washington Post, NPR, Esquire, Marie Claire, Electric Lit, Ms. magazine, Kirkus Reviews, Booklist

NIKOLE HANNAH-JONES AUTHOR

In late August 1619, a ship arrived in the British colony of Virginia bearing a cargo of twenty to thirty enslaved people from Africa.

Their arrival led to the barbaric and unprecedented system of American chattel slavery that would last for the next 250 years. This is sometimes referred to as the country’s original sin, but it is more than that: It is the source of so much that still defines the United States.

The Fire Next Time A stirring, intimate reflection on the nature of race and American nationhood that has inspired generations of writers and thinkers, first published in 1963, the same year as the March on Washington “The finest essay I’ve ever read.”—Ta-Nehisi Coates, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the National Book Award winner Between the World and Me With clarity, conviction, and passion, James Baldwin delivers a dire warning of the effects of racism that remains urgent nearly sixty years after its original publication.

JAMES BALDWIN AUTHOR In the first of two essays, “My Dungeon Shook: Letter to My Nephew on the One Hundredth Anniversary of the Emancipation,” Baldwin offers kind and unflinching counsel on what it means to be Black in the United States and explains the twisted logic of American racism. www.PHENOMENALWOMAN.me ▒ 9

Relationships are the Key to the Funding Vault

By Gloria M. Ware, CEO and Chief Rainmaker, Get The Bag LLC

Starting or growing a business requires access to multiple forms of capital – financial, social, and customer. Each form plays a valuable role in your business and personal success. Today, let's explore financial capital and the role of relationships as a secret ingredient to unlocking the funding vault. One of the keys to success is building a solid personal connection with potential funders. It's about turning an intimidating process into an opportunity to develop genuine, mutually beneficial relationships.

The Heart of Funding: It's All About Connections Think of securing funding not just as a financial transaction but as a process for expanding your knowledge, your network, and your brand awareness. Whether it's with a bank, an investor, or a grantmaker, getting to know them as more than just a source of funds is vital. After all, people invest in people they trust and believe in.

Stay Connected Digitally: Keep the conversation going through LinkedIn or Threads.

Share updates about your business, interesting finds, or a quick note to celebrate their achievements. It's a subtle yet effective way to stay on their radar.

Regular, Meaningful Updates Every now and then, share your progress. Got a new milestone or challenge? Let them know. Keep it brief but informative – it shows you value their time and involvement.

Extend Invitations Hosting a community event or a business function? Invite them! It's a great way to show them another side of you and your business in a more relaxed setting.

Diversify Your Funding Circle Engage with various potential funders. It broadens your horizon and reduces dependency on a single source.

Common Missteps to Avoid Building Bridges with Funders

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Lack of Preparation: Approaching a funder without thorough research can lead to missed opportunities.

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Neglecting Personal Connection: Remember, funders invest in people, not just business plans.

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Inconsistent Communication: Stay in touch regularly, not just when you need something.

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Over-reliance on One Source: Diversifying your potential funders minimizes risks and opens up more opportunities.

Know Your Funder Inside Out Before you meet, do a little digging. Check out their websites, social profiles, and any available articles or interviews. This homework isn't just about impressing them; it's about understanding their interests and aligning them with your vision.

Make Meetings Matter When you get that coffee chat, focus on building rapport.

Share your story and vision (be concise); equally important, learn about theirs. This is your chance to show them the face behind the business plan.

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Recommended Reads for A Deeper Dive 1. “Build The Damn Thing: How to Start a Successful Business If You're Not a Rich White Guy” by Kathryn Finney: This book is a valuable r e s o u r c e f o r e n t r e p r e n e u r s f r o m d i ve r s e backgrounds. Kathryn Finney offers practical guidance on navigating the entrepreneurial landscape, emphasizing the importance of networking and relationship-building in a way that's accessible and empowering.

2. “Venture Deals: Be Smarter Than Your Lawyer and Venture Capitalist” by Brad Feld and Jason Mendelson: Ideal for anyone looking to understand venture capital, this book demystifies funding processes and investor relations. It's a must-read for business owners and professionals keen on learning about negotiation, deal structures, and effective engagement with investors.

3. “Networkin g f or Peop le Wh o H ate Networking: A Field Guide for Introverts, the Overwhelmed, and the Underconnected” by Devora Zack: Zack's book is perfect for those who find traditional networking challenging. It provides alternative strategies for building meaningful connections, catering to different personality types, and is especially helpful for introverts.

G E T T H E B A G. ARE YOU A BLACK WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR SEEKING TO ...

■ Grow your business to $1Million+.

■ Transition from side-hustler to CEO. ■ Be inspired by and learn from a community of BOSSES. ■ Easily access info about small business grants, funding and business opportunities.

■ Gain insider tips and information about business funding options.

■ Succeed in business AND be inspired to practice self-care.

■ Discover Black women-owned and socially responsible brands.

■ Meet authentic champions of Black womenowned businesses who want you to succeed.

■ Have fun!

LOOK NO FURTHER, VISIT US @ www.getthebag.biz /or/ info@getthebag.biz

4. “The Introvert Entrepreneur: Amplify Your Strengths and Create Success on Your Own Terms” by Beth Buelow: This book is a fantastic resource for introverts who are navigating the entrepreneurial world. Buelow offers insights and strategies on how to leverage introverted qualities as strengths in business and networking. It's particularly relevant for those who need to build relationships with funders and collaborators while staying true to their introverted nature.

Conclusion There you have it – a friendly yet professional approach to building relationships with funders. It's about combining your business acumen with a touch of personal connection. By doing so, you're not just seeking funds; you're building a community around your business vision. Go ahead, make those connections and watch your business thrive!

Feel free to share your strategies for relationship building with me at gloria.ware@getthebag.biz .

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Walsh University Offers FREE Mental Health Symposium to Address Challenges Facing Youth and Young Adults Designed for Mental Health Professionals, Community Partners and Walsh Faculty, Staff and Students, Event Includes Panel on Challenges and Strategies for Social and Emotional Wellness North Canton, OH: Walsh University's School of Behavioral Health Sciences is hosting a mental health symposium for mental health professionals, community partners, and Walsh faculty, staff, coaches and students that addresses issues such as COVID-19 anxiety, depression and social media pressures affecting young people. The free event will be held Friday, Feb. 23, from 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., in the Barrette Business and Community Center, and provides four contact hours with a certificate of attendance.

The event includes a panel of industry experts who will share challenges and strategies for social and emotional wellness, including a dynamic line-up of speakers.

The opening address, The Process of Discovering Your Unique Footprint in the World of Mental Health, will be presented by Quebec Gibbins '13, '18, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S,with the State of Ohio. He has a Master of Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling from Walsh University. Gibbins focuses on working with a wide variety of clientele, including adults, marriage and family, adolescence, children, foster care, trauma, mood and adjustment issues.

The morning speaker, Autumn Brown '22, will present, Through the Eyes of a Clinician: Current Issues Facing Adolescents and the Impact on Well-Being. Brown is a Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, in Ohio and holds a Master of Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling from Walsh University. She specializes in working with clients who struggle with addiction, anxiety, depression, mood disorders and other mental health needs or concerns. Brown has an extensive history working with women, students, and those with dual diagnosis.

The featured keynote, Beyond the Breakdown: Unraveling and Rebuilding the Self, will be presented by Cyrus Ausar, who overcame adversity himself to become an acclaimed depression and suicide prevention expert.

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He has raised over $6 million for non-profit organizations. Ausar was the youngest recipient of the United Way's Emerging Philanthropy Award and the Daymond Mumford Humanitarian Award. Cyrus owns an award-winning mental health café called “Greatness Café,” providing a safe space for individuals to find support and nourishment for their minds and souls.

Guest Panelists Claire Killian '22, MOT, OTR/L (Applied Behavioral Connections) Sharon Hoopingarner, Psychiatric NP (The Center for Renewed Minds/Phoenix Rising Behavioral Health Care Services) Merisa Salazar, LISW (Branch Counseling and Trauma Center) Veronica Gehring '22, LPC (The Center for Renewed Minds/AVO Behavioral Health and Recovery) Macayla Williams '20, PA-C (ONE Health Ohio) To register for this free event, visit https://walsh.edu/symposium.

Symposium Schedule 7:30 a.m.

8-8:45 a.m.

8:45-9:15 a.m.

9:30-10:45 a.m.

11-11:55 a.m.

11:55 a.m.

Check-in and Complimentary Breakfast Opening Address: The Process of Discovering Your Unique Footprint in the World of Mental Health Morning Speaker: Through the Eyes of a Clinician: Current Issues Facing Adolescents and the Impact on Well-Being Panel Discussion: Challenges and Strategies for Social and Emotional Wellness in Youth and Young Adults Featured Keynote: Beyond the Breakdown: Unraveling and Rebuilding the Self Closing remarks

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jabalidevgroup.com

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PHOTOS: JASON GARRETT The Blush Gallery

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A'SHIRA NELSON,

MAKING SAVVY MOVES IN ACCOUNTING

BY SHELLEY SHOCKLEY PWM MANAGING EDITOR Longstanding biases and misguided perceptions of the abilities of women continue to shape the educational paths of young girls, leading to a lack of representation in science, technology, and math (STEM) careers.

These beliefs served as fuel for Nancy Grace Roman, known as the “Mother of the Hubble Telescope,” when more than seventy years ago, her quest to continue her math studies was met with gender bias. Speaking on Voice of America, she recalled, “I still remember asking my high school guidance teacher to take a second year of algebra instead of a fifth year of Latin. She looked down her nose at me and sneered, 'What lady would take mathematics instead of Latin?”

While the circumstances are different today, bias continues to steer girls away from the study of STEM subjects, leading to a need for more diversity in these fields. One area with a higher margin of women is in the workforce of Accountants & Auditors, where in 2021, women represented 60.5% of the workforce and men represented 39.5%. The racial diversity is much lower, with Asians representing 12% and Blacks only 8.88% of the workforce, according to Data USA. Key factors causing these disparities, according to the American Association of University Women, include Gender Stereotypes, Male-Dominated Cultures, Fewer Role Models, and Math Anxiety.

The lack of role models could have short-circuited the career of A'Shira Nelson, Tax Manager and Director for Wellspring Financial Advisors and creator of Savvy Girl Money. High-spirited and passionate about all things finance, Nelson recently shared her journey into the world of finance with Phenomenal Woman.

As a young girl, A'Shira loved math and developed an understanding of financial issues and the challenges associated with money. Illustrating her drive, she said, “I grew up in the inner city of Cleveland, in Garden Valley and we were on every government assistance possible.

As a young girl, I was very aware of my surroundings. We were all on the same government assistance in these projects. I wanted to figure out a way, at a very young age, how I could change this narrative for my family. How could I help my community get out of this rat race of being on public assistance.”

The answer didn't come immediately, but the passion and drive resulted in Nelson excelling in high school on all fronts. She served as Class President, Captain of Dance Line, and Prom Queen - all a testament to her popularity.

She said, “I was definitely the book girl, but I was also super social and super popular.” In high school, she excelled in and loved her math courses, but she didn't have a plan for what would be next.

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I’m succeeding because I stopped trying to fit in a little box. I just showed up as myself. I told myself a couple of years ago if they don’t like me for me, then I don’t have to be here. I’m going to be me, I’m going to show up as my true self, my true black self.

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She thought about becoming a teacher because she knew some great teachers and even considered social work because she had family members in the field. Her boyfriend, now husband's mom, suggested accounting as a career path. His mom worked for one of the top four accounting firms and thought this might be a good career path for A'Shira.

As the oldest of six children, the family has always been the North Star in Nelson's life. When asked about highlights of her childhood, she said, “Being a part of a large family was always nice. To this day, we are super duper close. We take a vacation together annually and have Sunday dinner every week.” So it's no surprise that after spending her freshman year at Bowling Green State University, she wanted to be even closer to home.

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She recalled, “I wanted to be closer to my siblings and my boyfriend, now husband. My baby sister was one at the time, and I wanted to be a part of her growing up.” With that goal, Nelson transferred to the University of Akron to continue her studies. The transition offered challenges, but focus and clearing hurdles to achieve her dreams are part of her character.

When she entered UA's College of Business, the lack of diversity was evident, but she said it was worse when she began taking her core accounting classes. She said of the experience, “It was very reflective of the accounting industry. I was the only minority in my classes. It felt very lonely.” She received a slight reprieve in her general education classes, where the student population was more diverse. She described her experience in her accounting classes, “I felt like a fish out of water.”

To navigate the sense of isolation, she said, “Honestly, I'm really good at sucking it up and putting on my big girl panties while realizing this is temporary.” The feelings of loneliness that cropped up in class, she said, were temporary feelings, and instead of focusing on those, she remembered her “why.” “My why was my family - my siblings, my parents, and now in my career, it is my husband and my two daughters,” Nelson explained.

Continuing, she said, “I was more into, what kind of internship can I get. I was providing for myself. I was the first in my family to go to college, and I didn't want to fail at it. There really wasn't anything to fall back on. When I moved out of the house, it wasn't really like a going back for me. There were six kids, two adults, and eight of us in three bedrooms. When I moved out of that house and out of that bed, another kid was moving into that bed. There was no more room, so I had to figure out life and make a way for myself. I didn't want the typical college distractions to kind of mess up my future or my life at the time because there was no going back or no one to fall back on.”

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Choosing a career where black accountants represent a mere 8% of the workforce has challenged Nelson to remember her why, and remained focused. After graduation, she began her career as an accountant with PNC Bank. At this time, she also received certification as a CPA, she said to ensure she was competitive in the industry. After leaving the bank, Nelson has honed her skills in financial planning with MAI Capital Management LLC, HW & Co., and Apple Growth Partners. With each new firm, her growth is evident as she started as an accountant and is now a Tax Manager and Director. Along this journey, the lack of diversity has never altered, she said, “It's been like that my entire career. There has always been one or two black people. I have only worked with two black men.”

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Due to her focus on her why, her college experience was intentionally more subdued than her high school years.

While attending UA, she pledged Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. as a way of connecting with like-minded women interested in education, and business and furthering their futures.

Living this reality, she's having conversations with others in the industry and doing her part to change the narrative of the accounting field. She said, “For me, an accountant is still your traditional role. You can be an auditor or tax preparer and work for a firm or a government agency.

Accounting is the language of business. Every company needs an accountant or some form of it. Entering this career, I felt I would always have a job. If everybody needs some form of accounting, then I should have a job, and that has been my reality.”

Nelson explained how she created that reality, “I'm succeeding because I stopped trying to fit in a little box. I just showed up as myself. I told myself a couple of years ago if they don't like me for me, then I don't have to be here. I'm going to be me, I'm going to show up as my true self, my true black self.” This change was necessary, she said, because “During the first half of my career, I felt like I had to wear a mask, I felt I had to be someone I wasn't. I was trying to fit in a box.” Trying to fit in this box, she said, “resulted in status quo going through my day. I stopped trying to play safe and be who I really was, and that's when I found success.”

As Director of the Tax Department at Wellspring Financial Advisors, Nelson teaches associates about taxes and helps them understand tax compliance and tax planning.

Training is only a portion of her work. She handles compliance work, preparing tax returns for individuals and businesses, as well as advising them on tax planning. She said, “Everything has a tax effect. If you make an investment, what will be the effect on your taxes?”

Her clients are wealthy individuals and businesses, and the knowledge she shares with them can also benefit those of lesser means. For example, she offered insight into the advice she would give a salaried employee. “I would start by reviewing the earned income, then check your withholdings and make sure you have the correct withholdings from your W2. Next, I would see how I can reduce your taxable income. If you are saving for retirement, diverting money into your retirement account will ensure you pay less in taxes. You won't pay today, you'll pay later. What are your retirement goals? What other things do you want to do?” The goal, she said, is for you to “save for your future and pay fewer taxes today.”

Nelson further explained, “As a co-founder of the DEI committee alongside three other directors at my firm, I gauge our success by our capacity to make a positive

impact within both our firm and the community. Internally, our goal is to cultivate an environment where individuals feel empowered to authentically express themselves. To measure this, we conduct an annual anonymous survey to assess our progress.” She continued, “Externally, our success in the community is measured by our hands-on involvement in marginalized communities, actively seeking opportunities to volunteer and make a meaningful impact.”

Offering financial advice and understanding finances correlates with another one of Nelson's “whys,” and led her to create Savvy Girl Money, a social media platform she launched according to her website to “personally help millennials break generational habits when it comes to money. I can help eliminate a lot of stress by teaching you about finance. I work with individuals that don't know what to do with their money and how to manage their money. Essentially, they're allowing their money to decide what they do. No more! It's time to tell your money what it's going to do. It is very women-focused, with an emphasis on millennials.”

During her interview with Phenomenal Woman, she said, “When I went to the University of Akron I remembered my “why” I wanted to learn more about finances and businesses so that I could take that information back to my family and my community. I started Savvy Girl Money in 2015 after becoming a CPA. I envisioned it to be a financial hub, where people can go to my website or social media page to get answers to their financial questions.” Prior to the launch, she found herself always answering the same questions about finances, and she said, “I wanted to have something recorded that I could just send them - that was my idea from Savvy Girl Money from the beginning.”

She said the success of the platform took shape in 2017 when a co-worker mentioned his girlfriend was paying off her student loan debt. The idea of paying off student loan debt was foreign to Nelson, she said, “I've never heard of anyone paying off their student loans. Honestly, where I'm from it (student loan) was a debt collector that you didn't answer. I always made small payments, like the bare minimum they would allow me to pay.” Intrigued by the idea, Nelson challenged herself to become student loan debt-free. Not only did she challenge herself, but she shared her journey on Savvy Girl. Her transparency in taking her viewers with her as she paid off her student loan debt in two years helped to grow her brand on social media.

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After successfully retiring the first $25,000 of debt, Nelson challenged herself to pay off her remaining debt - credit cards and auto loan debt in one year. She explained her process, “I'm sharing my budget. I'm sharing the sacrifices I'm making, and how I'm earning extra income.” Not only was she helping others, but her work was being noticed.

Locally, she has been recognized by Crain's 40 under 40, the Ohio Society of CPAs, and this year, she has been recognized by the YWCA Women of Achievement.

The ultimate recognition, she said is, “The awards in working with and partnering with other brands. So, not only do I have my job as a CPA or Tax Manager, but I'm also working with other brands, putting out or helping them develop content. It's definitely expanding the Savvy Girl brand.

Not only has Savvy Girl developed an online community, but Nelson has witnessed her husband's transformation as an outgrowth of the brand. She said he has always been supportive of her work with Savvy Girl, but she never pushed her beliefs or habits on him. Explaining, “We started off so young, and we grew up together, so any philosophies I had it was like cool, we can talk about it but this is for me I don't want to push this off on you.”

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She said that when she challenged herself to pay off her debt, the couple had a joint account for bills, so they would each make their contributions, and anything she had left she used to pay down the debt. Along the way, she's sharing her success and what she's learning with him, but he is still spending. Over the last five years, she has noticed a transformation. They now have a vacation fund and joint financial goals. When she knew he was transformed, they were on a family vacation, and he questioned whether they should spend $100 for a dinner, she had to explain that it was all good because they had a vacation fund and as long as they didn't go over that amount they were fine.

The proud teacher said of his change, “He is all about it now, it's just crazy. Five years ago, that just wasn't him. I grew up with a love for personal finance and money and I had some natural talent, I felt like in order for him to be successful he had to become a part of this journey at his own pace.”

To raise awareness about careers in accounting and finance, Nelson speaks to high school and college students as her part in shrinking the gender and race gaps.

To learn more about Savvy Girl money visit: savvygirlmoney.com

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Take Control of Your Blood Pressure 7 changes to help manage your health What you eat and drink, as well as your activity level and habits, affect your heart and brain health and are essential for managing blood pressure, cholesterol and more. High blood pressure (readings consistently higher than 130/80 mm Hg) is a leading cause and controllable risk factor for heart disease and stroke as well as other issues such as kidney failure, vision loss and sexual problems.

In fact, nearly half of all American adults have high blood pressure, or hypertension, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but many may not even realize they have it unless they experience other complications. What's more, ethnicity can also play a role in your risk factors.

For example, Hispanic adults have some of the highest prevalence of poorly controlled blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association, which is one of the major risk factors for heart disease. Due to longstanding systemic barriers, such as a historic lack of 22 ▒ JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2024

access to health care and nutritious foods, the Hispanic and Latino community is disproportionately affected by heart disease and related health issues.

Additionally, Black women of childbearing age are more than twice as likely to have uncontrolled blood pressure than their white counterparts, according to research published in a special Go Red for Women issue of the “Journal of the American Heart Association.” Food insecurity, or lack of access to adequate healthy food options, is also higher among Hispanic and Black women compared to white women, and one of the social factors that may impact high blood pressure risk.

To help maintain blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg and manage risk factors, the American Heart Association with national support from Elevance Health Foundation recommends these lifestyle changes.

Maintain a healthy weight. If you're overweight or obese, you're at increased risk of high blood pressure.

Losing as few as 10 pounds (or 3-5% of your body weight) can provide health benefits, including lowering or preventing high blood pressure. Talk to your health care provider about a healthy approach to weight loss, including caloric intake and activities that may help both lose and maintain weight.

Eat healthier. Eating fruits and vegetables, such as mangos, avocados and blueberries, can lower blood pressure over time. Other smart choices include nuts and seeds, whole grains, low-fat dairy, lean proteins and fish.

The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, or DASH, eating plan is geared toward reducing blood pressure and helps create a heart-healthy eating style.

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Reduce sodium. Americans consume up to 75% of their sodium from processed foods like soups, tomato sauce, condiments and canned goods. To help cut back, read labels when shopping and choose lower-sodium versions of your favorite foods, skip the table salt and consider spices and herbs as seasoning alternatives.

Limit alcohol. Drinking too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure. If you drink, limit consumption to no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women.

Quit smoking. Every time you smoke, it causes a temporary increase in blood pressure.

Both smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke also increase the risk for plaque buildup inside the arteries, a process high blood pressure is known to accelerate.

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Manage stress. Stress is known to contribute to risk factors for high blood pressure like poor diet and excessive alcohol consumption.

Practicing relaxation techniques, such as yoga or deep breathing, practicing gratitude and doing things you enjoy can help reduce stress.

Get active. Physical activity not only helps control high blood pressure, it also aids in weight management, strengthens your heart and lowers stress levels. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity physical activity, such as brisk walking.

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Find more advice for managing your blood pressure at Heart.org/highbloodpressure.

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Better-for-You Meals from Breakfast to Dinner

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Visit Culinary.net to find more touchdown-worthy tailgate recipes.

Game Day Buffalo Chicken Dip Servings: 3-4 2 cups shredded chicken 8 ounces cream cheese 1/2 cup sour cream 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, plus additional for topping, divided 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1 heavy pinch dried dill 1/2 cup hot sauce 2 green onions, chopped blue cheese crumbles, chips vegetable sticks Heat oven to 400 F.

Add Savory Spice to Game Day Celebrations Powering up for a successful game day starts with a pregame spread, and no tailgate or homegate is complete without a spicy dip that brings the heat.

In bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese, onion powder, garlic powder and dried dill until combined. Add hot sauce; mix until combined.

This Game Day Buffalo Chicken Dip is a perfect solution for firing up your crowd as it requires little preparation so you save precious time before kickoff. Whether you bake shortly before the game begins or make it ahead of time for a parking lot party, simply keep it warm and serve with chips or veggie sticks for a quick, shareable appetizer.

Transfer mixture from bowl to oven-safe dish. Top with additional shredded cheese, to taste.

efore the end zone dances and sideline celebrations, settling in for a winning game day experience starts with delicious foods. Whether your football parties take place at home, in the backyard or right outside the stadium, kicking it off with savory appetizers can get the crowd on its feet.

Keep your game plan simple this season and light up the scoreboard with fan favorites like dips and wings. These versions are both easy to prepare and can be enjoyed fresh or made in advance and kept warm or reheated to energize your fellow diehards.

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Bake until cheese is melted, approximately 15 minutes.

Top with blue cheese crumbles and chopped green onion.

Serve warm with chips and vegetable sticks.

Score a Touchdown with a Game Day Dip One of the best ways to take tailgating to the next level this season is by making healthier versions of classic game day fare. For example, you can be the MVP of your game day gathering with a delicious, hall-of-fame-worthy appetizer. Call an audible by using fresh, easy and healthy ingredients to make it better for you and score extra points with family and friends.

This Game Day Taco Dip takes fan-favorite flavors – beef, refried beans, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, cheese, tomatoes and black olives – and adds a twist with the Fresh Express Butter Supreme Salad kit. This tasty, colorful blend of green butter lettuce, red butter lettuce, radicchio and baby chard is available in the refrigerated produce department and is perfect for creating healthier versions of beloved tailgating dips, snacks, finger foods and more.

Visit FreshExpress.com to discover more winning game day recipe ideas and find a retailer near you.

Game Day Taco Dip Prep time: 25 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes Servings: 12 1 1 1/4 2 1

pound ground beef package (1 ounce) taco seasoning cup water tablespoons minced cilantro can (16 ounces) refried beans, zesty salsa

flavor 1 jar (16 ounces) thick and chunky salsa, medium or hot 2 cups guacamole 1/2 cup sour cream 3 packages (5 ounces each) Fresh Express Butter Supreme 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese 1 cup tomatoes, chopped 1 can (2 1/4 ounces) sliced black olives, drained 1 package (14 ounces) tortilla chips In skillet over medium-high heat, cook beef 5 minutes, or until no longer pink. Sprinkle with taco seasoning; mix well. Add water; cook 2 minutes, or until water is absorbed. Transfer to bowl; cool to room temperature. Add cilantro; mix well.

In 9-inch pie plate, evenly spread refried beans; top with seasoned ground beef and salsa. Add spoonfuls of guacamole across top of salsa then carefully spread to smooth.

Place sour cream in small resealable bag; cut off corner. Pipe sour cream to create football shape on guacamole.

Put pie plate in center of 15-by-18-inch tray.

Arrange salad blend around pie plate. Top with cheddar cheese, tomatoes and olives. Serve with tortilla chips.

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DEC 2023

CIERA SANDERS FOUNDER/CEO I CARE HEALTHCARE SERVICES THE ART OF BUSINESS GIVING LET'S CREATE JOY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

DR. TONJEH BAH, MD

Hematology/Oncology, The MetroHealth System

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