Inspiring You Magazine

Inspiring You Publisher, Creative & Editorial Director Johnetta A. Alston

Editor-In-Chief

Visit us at Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inspiringyoumagazine/

Visit us at Instagram:

Shemetra Carter

https://www.instagram.com/inspiringyoumagazine/

Contributors

Email us at:

Jennifer Eichelberger Ken Johnson Kelly Valentine Jones Kristina Krizman Jackie Madison Sonya McIntosh Terassah Thompson

inspiringyoumagazineimn@ gmail.com

Inspiring You Magazine is published bi-monthly by Enyala Publishing, INC. All content is copyrighted 2023

MARCH | APRIL 2023

INSPIRING YOU MAGAZNINE Inspired Health

CONTENTS inspired beauty

p10 Detox vs Cleanse: Everything You Need to Know, by Kelly Jones

inspired technology

p14 Recipe for Beauty by johnetta

Inspired Lifestyles

p18

By Terassah Thompson

p26 Refresh and Renew and Spring Trip? By Kristina Krizman.

inspired FITNESS

inspired art

what inspires you

p12 Spring Into Fitness!

How to Jumpstart Your Fitness Routine

by Jackie Madison

p28 Inspired Art with Milton Elliott

p24

inspired lives p25

16 20 MEET CHEF LATOYA GAMBLE.

Time For a New Start

By Ken Johnson, M.A., LPC 05

publisher note 06

Meet The Contributors 15

Look N Eyes Photography 30

Work Your DASH Off

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

PAGE 5

W

ho inspired your style? Think about it. Every one of us has or had a woman in our lives that totally had “it”. You know what I mean. The woman who was always so pulled together, so impeccably groomed, that could walk into a room and make an entrance without even trying. Was it your mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, cousin, teacher, a few of them? Men this goes for you too! Style isn’t gender specific. What man in your life made you want to stand taller, had the handkerchief ready, shoes always polished, and was the perfect gentleman?

STYLE INSPIRATION

The beauty salons and barber shops of days gone by are reminiscent of a more elegant time. A time when the focus really could be you without all of the distractions we deal with today. I’d like to think that those days are closer than we think. I know they are.

What images helped to shape the person you’ve become. If you’ve lost sight of that, find a way to get it back. I promise that it’s in that place where you’ll find the perfect base for your style platform.

Everything comes full circle. Styles in clothing, hair, makeup, etc. have a way of coming around again.

Some things we’ve seen a few times.

Prepare for your own style transformation. Find ways to incorporate some old images and put a new spin on it... yours! I love the whole idea of a transformation. There are physical transformations, spiritual transformations and definitely style transformations. When you’re ready for yours, when you’re really ready to embrace the new you, you’ll know it and nothing will get in the way. No matter what kind you embrace, you’ve got to know that it’s time for you. Life, none of this, is a dress rehearsal. Most times you get one shot at it. Don’t waste it.

I’m a huge proponent, of closet shopping.

Have some fun with it. That’s right, put some music on, get in your closet and have a ball. We all have things that we haven’t worn in a while, forgot we had, too small, too big, whatever the reason. How about those moments of buyer’s remorse, “What was I thinking?” Just know that you’ll be fine. Decide what you’ll do with all of the items you’re ready to part with. You could always sell them, give to or exchange with family or friends and my favorite one, donate. Something feels so good about knowing that I could be helping someone else. That’s all the reason I need. Here’s to wonderful YOU!

Light, Love & Inspiration,

johnetta

CONTRIBUTORS

PAGE 6

MEET THE CONTRIBUTORS Shemetra Carter Editor-in-Chief Shemetra Carter is a native of Dallas, Texas.

She has a BFA in theater from New York University (TSOA).

She has an MA from CAU in African and African-American Studies. Her training includes performing with the historic Negro Ensemble Company, as well as acting, directing, playwriting and producing throughout Dallas, New York and Atlanta.

Onion Man Productions produced her 10 Minute Play”Dear Bruh.” Most recently, her monologues were included in “50in50: Writing Women into Existence” at Brooklyn’s Billie Holiday Theatre, Waco Theater Center in Los Angeles and 50in50’s Shattering Glass Ceiling Anniversary.

Jackie Madison NESTA Certified Lifestyle & Weight Management Specialist

Jackie Madison is a National Exercise & Sports Trainer Association certified Lifestyle & Weight Management Specialistand has worked in the medical industry for over 20 years.

She is the practice Administrator for Southern Plastic Surgery & Laser Lights Cosmetic Laser Center. It is in the medical industry that she realized her passion for helping people achieve their own personal healthy lifestyle.

Jackie’s purpose and passion in life is to motivate and inspire Women and young Girls to improve their overall health and fitness for lasting lifestyle changes.

Through her business and now Non-Profit Organization Glamour Girl Fitness, Jackie closely works with patients and clients to help them achieve their weight loss and management goals by identifying obstacles, managing time and stress, and providing healthy eating techniques. She requires accountability, but will offer strong support and motivation to help her clients achieve success.

The focus of Glamour Girl Fitness has expanded from just the individual mom to the mom and child/children. The birthing of the Glamour Girl Fitness‘’ Mommy & Me “motivational program which helps to motivate, inspire and keep moms accountable.

Promoting her message of “FAMILY, FUN, and FELLOWSHIP through FITNESS”

Jennifer Eichelberger Rev. Dr. Jennifer Eichelberger founded and presides over Jennifer Eichelberger Ministries.

Eichelberger has extensive background in Christian radio and television programming.

Eichelberger studied Business Education at Marshall University and Public Relations at George Washington University.

She is also a graduate of Jericho Christian Training College (JCTC) and Vision Alliance. She has a Paralegal degree from the University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education and an honorary Doctor of Divinity from School of the Great Commission.

Jackie Madison CEO Glamour Girl Fitness,Inc. (404) 274-7586 www.glamourgirlfitness.org

Her professional affiliations include Kingdomwood Women in Films, WIFTA, Black Women Film Network, Women of Power, and Georgia Christian Business Network.

Eichelberger is a charter member and the first president of the Gwinnett Section of NCNW. She is a Life Member of NCNW and currently serves on the Good Health Wins Committee. She is the Immediate Past President of the National Council of Negro Women Gwinnett Section and served as State of Georgia NCNW Chaplain 2019-2021; She is proud member of Top Ladies of Distinction (TLOD), North Atlanta Chapter as well as a member of Interstate North Toastmasters where she serves as Vice President of Education.

Rev. Dr. Eichelberger is author of three books and has won numerous awards for her work in television production and in the community; most notably the Life Time Achievement Award signed by President Biden and Vice President Harris. She was also awarded a Humanitarian Award presented by Trinity International University of Ambassadors.

She is married to the legendary Dr. Herbert L. Eichelberger, a professor at Clark Atlanta University. They are both active members of First Congregational Church of Atlanta, where Rev. Dr. Dwight Andrews is Senior Pastor. She serves is clergy, member of the Altar Guild and chair of the Women's Fellowship Ministry.

CONTRIBUTORS

PAGE 7

Kelly Valentine Jones Hi! My name is Kelly Jones. I am married to a wonderful man that I do not deserve. We just celebrated 29 years together, and there’s nowhere else I would rather be than by his side! We have two gorgeous grown daughters, one son-in-law (almost two!), and a precious grandbaby boy – we love watching their stories unfold. Currently I am learning all the things about parenting adult children (it’s harder and more wonderful than I ever dreamed) and about being a new grandmama to the most joyful baby on the planet. I am a pastor’s wife, a former Registered Nurse, and I recently left the classroom after 17 years in public education. I loved teaching high school, but it was time for the next chapter of my own story. Stick around to see what’s next!

Kristina Krizman

Ken Johnson Ken Johnson is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor.

He is an ordained minister of the gospel and Founder and Administrative director of East-West Psychotherapy in Marietta, Georgia. He is an alumni of Leadership Cobb 2017. He is on the Board of Georgia Metropolitan Dance Theater.

He has participated in Dancing With The StarsMarietta winning the Judges Choice and People’s Choice Awards all while being paralyzed and in a wheelchair due to a medical emergency in 2013. Ken also sings with The Strand Ole Opry at the Strand Theatre in Marietta, Georgia. Ken serves on the Community Advisory Committee for Shepherd Center, Rehabilitation Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. Ken is active in his local church congregation. Ken has been married for 38 years to Cathy. They have two grown daughters, a sonin-law, and two grandchildren. Ken’s relationship to Jesus Christ is the most important thing in his life. Knowing God is in the midst of his circumstances allows him to experience joy in suffering and the hope for a better tomorrow.

Kristina Krizman has been a Licensed Esthetician for over 20 years. She previously owned an award winning Day Spa in Savannah, Georgia and now resides in Asheville, NC. While her earned degree in accounting was put to good use in her early years, she has been interested in the beauty and fashion industry all her life. After having her first facial at age 14, she spent many years studying on her own.

She earned her esthetic license from the International School of Skin and Nails in Atlanta, GA and has logged over 100 post graduate hours through the International Dermal Institute based in California.

Kristina has also done runway and print modeling and worked as a nail tech. Now, Kristina enjoys coaching people in good skin care practices, offering fashion and etiquette advise to friends and family and sharing inspirational messages. In a nutshell, she would describe herself as follows: Esthetician, Volunteer, Customer Service Professional, Auntie/Great Auntie, Sister, Grams, Flower Lover, Clothes Horse, World Traveler, ‘All Things Positive promoter’, Better Half to my Better Half, Junior Leaguer, Disney Lover … and not necessarily in that order!

For questions and connecting, you can reach me via email: kris. krizman@icloud.com . I also have a weekly post on Instagram called ‘Words for Wednesday’ – sharing positive vibes. (kaknc)

CONTRIBUTORS

PAGE 8

Sonya McIntosh Creative, versatile, and passionate about her gift, Sonya is a master cosmetologist with over 20+ years of color and styling experience. She obtained her license at Dudley’s Cosmetology University, in Kernersville, North Carolina, and since then she has been navigating the world of beauty and hair.

While a native of Gainesville, Ga, Sonya has resided in Atlanta, Ga since 1998, where she is the proud owner/stylist of Salon Daisy. Committed to diversifying her experience portfolio, Sonya has also showcased her talents and skills in the television and film industry. Her latest projects/films were Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Fantasy Football (Movie), and Sweet Magnolia’s (Series - Season 2), just to name a few. When she’s not behind the chair, Sonya enjoys fashion styling, designing beaded jewelry, traveling, and spending time with family and close friends.

Her contact Info: IG: @salondaisyatlanta Email: sondaisy1@yahoo.com

Terassah Thompson I am a Nashville native currently residing near Atlanta, Georgia. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a Master’s degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, and an MBA in Strategic Management. I have been dabbling in online and digital marketing since retiring from the U.S. Army in 2013 and am the CEO of All Web LLC, a digital marketing agency for budding entrepreneurs. In my free time, I love exploring new knitting and crochet patterns and creating beautiful, handmade items.

Heaven in Your Home Restaurant Chef Latoya Gamble is your incredible restaurateur, community advocate, and now Host of her own Cooking Show on Inspiration Media Network!

IMN

106 Adamson Square Suite B Carrollton, GA 30117 (678) 664-1547 https://www.heaveninyourhomerestaraunt.com

INSPIRED HEALTH

PAGE 10

Detox vs Cleanse:

Everything You Need to Know!

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DETOX AND A CLEANSE?

By Kelly Jones, R.N., Short Answer: A B.S.N., M.Ed. cleanse is focused

specifically on the digestive tract, while a detox can happen elsewhere in the body. Many use the terms detoxing and cleansing interchangeably. I get it—they are related, but the benefits differ widely, and there are some distinct differences that are important to point out.

Knowing the difference can help you determine which one is right for you, so that you can find products and implement solutions that work for you and your body’s needs.

As we move into warmer months (Hello Spring – we already love you!) our energy levels and our motivation levels soar, and for good reason! There’s nothing like the warmth of a fresh spring day to put a pep in your step. Simply put, it gets easier to put healthy things into our bodies (like vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, protein and nutrient-packed supplements) during these warmer months, but it is also essential for us to get the unwanted stuff (toxins and pollutants) out of our bodies as well. Winter clothing hides a multitude of indulgences from the heartier seasonal foods, am I right?

That’s where detoxing and cleansing come in.

DETOX/CLEANSE 101:

DETOX, YOUR BODY WILL BE EXTREMELY TOXIC. Fact: Your body detoxes itself every day, through natural God-given processes. We are constantly exposed to small amounts of heavy metals, plastics and toxins through our foods and our environments. God has given our bodies the ability to deal with these things on their own. Because of this, the best detox and cleanse products are ones that support these natural processes, rather than those that force your body to do something it isn’t used to.

MYTH #2: THERE IS SUBSTANTIATED SCIENCE BEHIND ALL DETOX AND CLEANSE DIETS. Fact: While there can be very little scientific research behind some claims, an educated consumer can still separate the wheat from the chaff. I encourage you to seek out brands and products that cite scientific studies that back up those claims – you’ll find them as footnotes on product web pages or in their marketing materials. Even better if the brand has credited doctors and scientists on their advisory boards.

MYTH #3: FOR A CLEANSE TO BE EFFECTIVE, YOU WILL HAVE TO STARVE YOURSELF. Fact: Not true. If you starve yourself (eating nothing but lemon juice, vinegar, cayenne pepper and water for a week) you may be keeping harmful substances out of your body, which is a good thing, but you are also depriving your body of helpful substances and beneficial nutrients, which can lead to very bad consequences. (NIH, 2019)

Let’s take a look at the facts behind the fads:

DETOXING AND CLEANSING THE RIGHT WAY:

MYTH #1: WITHOUT A CLEANSE OR

It’s an honorable thing to want to rid your body of

INSPIRED HEALTH detox and cleansing in our bodies. Supplementing with a fully methylated multivitamin can be the missing link for the nutritional gaps in our standard American diet.

SMART TIP #3: MAKE IT A LIFESTYLE, NOT A PURGE! THE BEST HEALTH DECISIONS ARE SMALL WINS MADE CONSISTENTLY OVER TIME. It is critical to use products that are safe, gentle and effective for long term use. My desire is to see you incorporate natural detox and cleansing into your regular maintenance routine, embracing prevention as a lifestyle, not just as a quick fix. Your body needs to be detoxed and cleansed—that’s why it has built-in mechanisms for doing just that.

However, many of the programs you see touted online are trying to force your body into detoxing or cleansing beyond its natural practice, and that can cause some unwanted side effects.

The best way to detox and cleanse is to support your body’s natural processes through nutrition, exercise, intentionally addressing gut heath and by taking natural supplements that support your God-given detox pathways. excess toxins and waste in the name of health and happiness, but let’s do it in the right way. Here are the most important things for you to remember: SMART TIP #1: GO BIG ON GUT HEALTH! Your digestive tract has its own unique detox and cleansing processes. When you focus on prevention rather than prescription through using quality prebiotics and probiotics, you’re promoting your own digestive health, which results in a boosted immune response, mood support, decreased inflammation and weight management.

SMART TIP #2: FOCUS ON NOURISHMENT! In order to function and feel your best, your body needs vitamins, minerals and nutrients. Focus on eating quality leafy greens, fruits and vegetables – bonus points when they are in season! And, remember the power of protein, because amino acids are required to complete the liver’s detox pathways.

(Blum, MD, 2017) Broccoli, kale, watermelon, beets and blueberries are major players in supporting both

I want you to be happier and healthier; that means putting the right things in your body, and making sure the other stuff comes out. Just make sure you’re doing it in a healthy way, and you’ll feel better for it.

If you would like more information on the specific prebiotics, probiotics and methylated multivitamin that I am using, please reach out to me at the links provided in my bio. It would be my honor to help coach and support you to your best health in 2023!

Reference/Source: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/detoxes-andcleanses-what-you-need-to-know https://blumhealthmd.com/2017/05/12/whats-thedifference-between-a-detox-and-a-clea nse/?doing_ wp_cron=1677365811.0261769294738769531250

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INSPIRED FITNESS

PAGE 12

Spring Into Fitness!

HOW TO JUMPSTART YOUR FITNESS ROUTINE

I

t’s springtime! As soon as you step out the door, you’re surrounded by bright colors and new beginnings ready to blossom. Why not have a blossoming of your own by springing into a new fitness routine? It’s always a good time to invest in yourself, and these tips will help you get moving.

PLAY WITH MULTIPLE OPTIONS First of all, notice that I said “play”...yes, fitness can and should be fun! There are so many ways to work out, and different activities appeal to different people. When you’re starting out, play around with your options and try out a variety of types of workouts and classes.

This serves two purposes: it helps you avoid boredom because you have plenty of variety and it lets you find your groove with the activities you enjoy most. Joining a gym is a great way to do this because there are so many classes and types of equipment in one place.

START WITH SMALL CHANGES

Jackie Madison

One of the most common mistakes when starting a workout routine is feeling the need to make up for lost time by going too hard too soon. You have no need to feel ashamed of being inactive in the past. Today is a new day and you’re starting fresh, exactly where you’re supposed to be. Take it easy and build up over time so you don’t derail yourself with an injury or by burning out.

INSPIRED FITNESS

PAGE 13

ESTABLISH A WAY TO TRACK YOUR PROGRESS It’s so easy to get discouraged in a fitness program because you don’t think you’re seeing results, especially if your only metric is the scale. The scale can be deceptive and it can make it look like you aren’t losing weight when you’re burning fat and building muscle.

Instead, track your improvement by doing a fitness assessment in your first week. This could include metrics like: • Resting heart rate • How many push-ups you can do • How long you can hold a plank • How far you can run without taking a break • Body measurements • And other fitness-related metrics Do the same thing again after a month or two and you’ll be amazed by how much you’re improving in a short time!

It can be tough to see those changes if you don’t have a concrete measurement.

OBSERVE WHAT MOTIVATES YOU Everyone is motivated to work out by different things, so it’s all about discovering what works for you. Is it easier if you work out at home because you don’t have the added time of driving somewhere? Or is it easier if you go somewhere else because you aren’t distracted by all the to-dos at home?

Whatever the case might be, find your groove.

FIND YOUR JAMS

Byline:

It might sound superficial but let me tell you, the right music can make a world of difference! Research actually shows that people feel less discomfort and fatigue while listening to music, and when your body is moving in sync with great music, you find energy you didn’t know you had.

The focus of Glamour Girl Fitness has expanded from just the individual mom to the mom and child/children. The birthing of the Glamour Girl Fitness‘’ Mommy & Me “motivational program which helps to motivate, inspire and keep moms accountable.

Promoting her message of “FAMILY, FUN, and FELLOWSHIP through FITNESS”

SPRINGING INTO A NEW, MORE FIT YOU Springtime is all about new beginnings, so take advantage of this time of year to become a healthier, happier, more confident you. The tips above are all you need to get started.

Jackie Madison

CEO Glamour Girl Fitness,Inc. (404) 274-7586 www.glamourgirlfitness.org

recipe

INSPIRED BEAUTY

PAGE 14

FOR BEAUTY

I

originally wrote this right after the Christmas holidays. I decided to leave the intro alone because I’m sure it’ll apply just when you need it. The recipe below is timeless.

By now you’re probably beginning to catch your breath a little after the holiday whirlwind. That time of year that always seems to sweep us off of our very tired feet and like Dorothy in OZ we lose our way just a bit. Just as Dorothy never missed a beat in her ruby slippers, you don’t need to either.

Now that you’ve landed and you’re secure once again in your favorite pair of pumps, what’s on your beauty agenda? Here are a few ways to get back on the beauty track and love the woman you see in the mirror. She needs to become your new best friend!

Beauty, and what it means is different for each of us. It conjures up images that can be a little intimidating. That doesn’t have to be the case. Don’t allow yourself to be thrown by all of the images we’re constantly bombarded with. Watch what you identify with and don’t ever leave you out of the mix. It’s a new year, a new beginning and the world is waiting for you. Create your own recipe for beauty!

Ready?

Belief - A heaping, healthy dose of belief in you and what your unique purpose is. Wrap your arms around it and don’t let go. 2 cups

Exception - Be the exception, not the rule. Don’t be afraid to raise the bar in your life, to step up and expect more. It’ll be there. 1 cup Audacious - Do something for you that makes you feel like a million bucks and then do it again and again. Have the audacity to do something you didn’t think possible. 3 tbs Unique - There’s no one in the universe like you. Honey that’s reason to celebrate ½ cup Truce- Promise to forgive yourself of all that’s happened in the past. Make a truce with yourself to just let it go. If you don’t keep track, nobody else will and if they do so what.

They’ll have wrinkles and you won’t. © ¼ cup Yesterday- The word says it all. Live in the moment because all you have is now. ¾ cup Blend these ingredients on a beautiful canvas and sprinkle it with confidence, a lot of it and watch what happens. The woman you see in the mirror will stand taller, with her head held high, smiling more and liking what she sees. Enjoy your new best friend. It’s a beautiful thing. Oh yeah, one last note.

Go claim what’s yours!! Enjoy the new spin on beauty.

Light, Love & Inspiration,

Johnetta

LookNeyes Photography LLC Hey Great Peeps it’s your girl Tiffany Sherrell, the Eyes behind LookNeyes Photography LLC. I am a native of Durham NC, the proud mother of 2 and grandmother of 4. I am a creative, a visionary, and a Woman of the Most High God who gets all the Glory for every ounce of my being!!

@lookneyes_photography LookNeyes Photography LLC linktr.ee/lookneyesphotographyllc

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start

INSPIRED FAITH

time for a new

By Ken Johnson, M.A., LPC

Founder & CEO, East West Psychotherapy Associates Marietta, GA

C

an you feel it?

Spring is in the air.

I look forward to a reawakening. The cold staleness of winter gives way to the warmth and newness of Spring.

This is the perfect time to reassess your personal life. It may be time for a fresh start. Consider where you are right now. Are there parts of you that need a reboot? A fresh start? Going forward, what changes do you need to make to be a better person?

Each of us have times in our life where we become overwhelmed and over committed. We try to say “yes” to everyone and everything.

Our western culture today tells us we should “have it all”, “if you dream it, you can have it.” We become gods to our own belief that we are the most important person.

Who are we kidding? We can’t have it all because this world is not ours to begin with. God is the creator of this world and we are entrusted to take care of it. Whatever we do or whoever we become, it is God’s grace that keeps us moving forward.

INSPIRED FAITH Whenever we find ourselves spinning our wheels and getting nowhere, it is time to stop and reconsider how we got here. For many of us, it’s recognizing we are doing too much. We are being too busy.

At some point every one of us must decide to start again, begin to move forward and change our circumstances for the better. Here are three ways I have found that help me get a fresh start.

Being too busy leads to exhaustion which can lead to stress and depression due to mental health fatigue.

Our physical bodies can’t handle the stress and it shows up in high blood pressure, digestive problems, headaches, sleep disturbances, emergency visits to the doctor, heart attacks, strokes and even death.

*Inventory my life and begin to eliminate the nonessentials.

I have seen firsthand in my own life how stress can affect my health. Doing too much, over committing myself, and thinking I’m the only one who can get the job done right has caused me to suffer from Generalized Anxiety Disorder and has landed me in the Emergency Room on several occasions. I realize that if I don’t get a hold of my stress, I run the risk of serious health problems. I told myself “time for a fresh start.”

The question is, how does one reboot their life?

How does one have a fresh start? I think one starts by looking at scripture. Isaiah 43:18-19 tells us, “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a

“REMEMBER NOT THE FORMER THINGS, NOR CONSIDER THE THINGS OF OLD. BEHOLD, I AM DOING A NEW THING; NOW IT SPRINGS FORTH, DO YOU NOT PERCEIVE IT? I WILL MAKE A WAY IN THE WILDERNESS AND RIVERS IN THE DESERT.” way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” Too often we hold onto our past mistakes, we remember when we have been hurt or done wrong, we feel broken and unnecessary, we want to quit and not go on. But God tells us He is doing something new in us. He wants us to give up our failures, our old hurts, our cluttered lives and start over right where we are.

God wants us to join Him. In Psalms 46:10, God says “Surrender your anxiety. Be still and realize that I am God.” I don’t know about you, but I could sit and ponder that verse all day.

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What’s not working for me now in my present state?

It might have worked last year. This year it is not bringing me joy. It is better to stop doing the things that are no longer essential so I can take a break, recharge and look for new opportunities. *Decide on one or two commitments that bring me joy and concentrate on these.

I am more productive and less stressed when I have less on my plate. Fewer responsibilities mean I can concentrate on those activities that really bring me joy.

I can really make a difference when less is more. *Spend time with God every day.

As a believer in Christ, I know how important it is to stay in touch with my Savior. There are times I find I am so busy that I lose touch with God. I forget to keep my mind on Him. I must remember to: *Pray (talk to God) *Read my Bible (listen to God) *Recognize God all around me (find God) By practicing these three areas of change, I find my stress begins to subside. I’m less anxious and find more joy in my everyday routine. I also find the more I practice getting close to God, the more I discover God’s plan for my life. There is no stress in Christ who is our great comforter. Do you need a new start in life? Now’s the time to be intentional and slow down. Let some things go and rest in the Father.

Spring is just around the corner.

Byline: It is through God that I have found true healing.

For more information visit eastwestpsych.com or contact Ken at kjohnson@eastwestpsych.com.

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inspired TECHNOLOGY INSPIRED TECHNOLOGY

Terassah Thompson

I

In this day and age of technology, businesses need to acknowledge how important it is to have a robust presence online. Because the vast majority of customers now conduct their product and service research online, it is necessary to maintain a website that is both current and contains information that is pertinent to the audience you are trying to reach.

Yet, having a website alone cannot fully develop a significant online presence. In addition, businesses need to keep up a continuous and engaging presence on social media to attract the attention of a larger audience, win the trust of customers, and win their continued loyalty.

Platforms for social media have become an essential component of our day-to-day lives, and businesses may make use of these platforms to connect with their target audience in a manner that is both more genuine and more genuinely personal. Establishing a robust online presence that differentiates you from your competitors may be accomplished through the dissemination of material that is pertinent and engaging, the handling of consumer questions and comments, and the formation of communities centered on your brand.

It is crucial to build a social media strategy that corresponds with your overall marketing goals to

INSPIRED TECHNOLOGY

get the most out of your social media presence and make the most of the opportunities it presents. This entails determining your ideal customers, deciding which social media channels are best suited to reach them, and producing content that strikes an emotional chord with those customers. You may raise the visibility of your content and connect with a larger audience if you effectively use hashtags, keywords, and graphic components.

In addition, it is essential to monitor the stats of your social media accounts to understand how you’re mastering it and to make any necessary improvements. You can measure the efficacy of your social media marketing efforts and make decisions based on the data collected by social media analytics tools such as Hootsuite, Sprout Social, and Buffer. These tools provide detailed insights into engagement, reach, and conversion rates.

Maintaining a consistent presence across several platforms is another essential step in developing a robust social media presence. Maintaining a consistent presence in the minds of your readers and steadily gaining ground over time can be facilitated by posting on a predetermined schedule.

By planning and scheduling your social media posts in advance with the help of a social media scheduler, you can ensure that you have a consistent stream of information that is both pertinent to and interesting for your audience.

Also, it is essential to interact with your audience and promptly answer their comments and messages when they reach out to you in order to maintain their engagement. This demonstrates that you are devoted to developing a connection with them and that you value the input that they provide. You will be able to obtain vital insights into the requirements and preferences of your audience if you establish a twoway dialogue with them and adapt your social media strategy accordingly if you do so.

A robust social media presence may help you generate leads, attract traffic to your website, and build brand

PAGE 19

awareness in addition to allowing you to interact with your target audience and build relationships with them. You may reach a greater audience and drive more traffic to your website if you utilize social media advertising and include links to your website in the content you share on social media platforms.

To recap, in this day and age, it is absolutely essential for an organization to establish a robust online footprint if they want their organization to be successful. It is not enough to simply have a website in order to have a significant presence on the internet.

You need to have a strong presence on social media in order to effectively grow your brand and attract the people you want as customers.

You can establish a powerful online presence that sets you apart from your competitors by regularly posting relevant and engaging content, interacting with your audience, and monitoring your social media metrics.

This will allow you to create a brand identity that is consistent and visually appealing across your website and social media channels.

Terassah has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a Master’s degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, and an MBA in Strategic Management. I have been dabbling in online and digital marketing since retiring from the U.S. Army in 2013 and am the CEO of All Web LLC, a digital marketing agency for budding entrepreneurs.

Visit her at: allwebllc.com

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/AllWebLLC

Email her at:

social@allwebllc.com

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COVER STORY

Fabulous Food

with

Chef LaToya Gamble

COVER STORY

TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOU. I’m a mother of three, a wife, an entrepreneur of two businesses my Restaurant Heaven In Your Home, and nonprofit One Body Many Members. I’m definitely a

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child of the most High God. I’m an Overcomer! time.

WHO OR WHAT INSPIRED YOUR LOVE FOR IT?

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN COOKING?

My grandmother and a whole lot of older women in our community at the

Over three decades

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COVER STORY

WHEN DID YOU KNOW THAT YOU WANTED TO DO THIS PROFESSIONALLY? It comes so naturally to me, like breathing air.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU? My husband Tracy Gamble inspires me.

HOW DO YOU KEEP GOING ON DAYS WHEN THINGS GET TOUGH? When I don’t know how to do anything else cooking always comes up. It is truly my calling. It makes me get up when times are tough.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM AND TEAM. The word of God is my support system. It definitely makes me feel like I can do all things through it.

COVER STORY

HOW ARE YOU MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR COMMUNITY? Just being my authentic self.

WHAT MAKES YOU HAPPY? Good movies, my family and knowing without a doubt, that I have something to do in my life worth fulfilling.

HOW DO YOU UNWIND AND JUST TAKE A BREAK? Long hot baths, and a good nights sleep.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE DISH? No. WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU? Hosting my own cooking show on Inspiration Media Network.

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WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

What Inspires You? All of us at Inspiring You Magazine want to know what inspires you.

How do you keep going? How do you stay grounded?

What makes your heart happy? What makes you smile?

Just a few ideas to get you started.

SEND STORY AND A PHOTO TO:

INSPIRINGYOUMAGAZINEIMN@GMAIL.COM

Your submission gives consent to publish your story and photo in both digital and print versions of Inspiring You Magazine.

lives INSPIRED LIVES

inspired

Inspiration is everywhere. We all meet people every day that are using their lives to make a difference.

Each issue of Inspiring You Magazine, we want to focus on individuals that are making a difference in their communities, homes, and workplace, anyway they can. Is it you? Someone you know? We’d love to hear about it! Send your story and a photo to:

INSPIRINGYOUMAGAZINEIMN@GMAIL.COM Your submission and photo give consent to be published in both digital and print versions of Inspiring You Magazine.

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INSPIRED LIFESTYLES

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Refresh and Renew – AND SPRING TRIP?

S

ince I’m a ‘jack of all trades … and master of some. I hope you will enjoy my ‘jumping around’ to different subjects that fit the mood of the season.

Spring brings with it thoughts of rebounding, renewing, rejuvenating and all things REFRESHING! Take a moment to consider what speaks to your soul that will bring you closer to these joys of Springtime. My biggest ‘perk me up’ for Springtime is a bit of travel. It can be near or far, just a change of scenery can lift my spirits. It’s a great way to meet new people, get new perspectives, do a little shopping or just sit quietly in nature. It’s about the only thing that will keep me from the ever-lengthening to-do list. A short getaway can certainly refresh your soul, ease your mind and clear your head.

STEPS TO A CAREFREE TRIP …

•

PLAN THE TRIP

•

CREATE MASTER ‘PACK THIS’ AND MEDICAL INFO LISTS

•

TIDY UP BEFORE YOU GO

•

HAVE FUN

HERE’S HOW TO PLAN IT! MAKE IT SIMPLE AND STRESS-FREE TO DO. 1. Choose your location and mode of transport.

2. What kind of accommodations you are looking for?

Hotel, Airbnb, resort? Make sure the location fits your needs: grocery stores and/or restaurants nearby, pool, activities and sites to see. Also, look to avoid the little things that can be travel irritants (no elevators, difficult to park, not in walking distance to the things you want to do, no restaurant on site, etc.)

INSPIRED LIFESTYLES

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3. Optimal reservations are cancelable or changeable – just in case you need to adjust your dates. Annual travel insurance is a good way to protect yourself from last minute disruptions if they are ‘non-refundable / nonchangeable’. Travel Insured International offers a great annual plan that covers a small amount of cancellations and has great medical coverage for less than $100 per person. (I am working on a medical claim now!) You can also add additional cancelation coverage value to this policy for any trips, all year long, based on the cost you want to insure.

4. Take printed copies of your confirmations. It’s nice to have them conveniently on your phone or tablet – sometimes you just can’t get the technology to work when you need it. There have been a few occasions when the proof in my hand was invaluable!

LISTS ARE YOUR BEST FRIEND! 1. Type up a checklist of all the necessities you take on vacation. Once you have it, you can print one out for each trip. A sure way not to forget anything and not have to strain your brain each time you pack. A simple Excel worksheet does an amazing job allowing you to make different columns and checkboxes to denote ‘packed’. Some useful columns are: Toiletries, Never Forget (glasses, cell phone, wallet, makeup …) Electronics, Basics (coats/hats, umbrella, snacks/drinks…) This leaves way more time for the fun part – deciding on and packing clothes and shoes so you look FABULOUS! 2. IMPORTANT! Also, create a list, for yourself and family, that includes all pertinent medical information.

This becomes key in case of emergency or just a pop to Urgent Care for something simple. Going into medical centers or hospitals unexpectedly while traveling is stressful. When they start asking you all the questions about medications (type, what dosage, how often), allergies, surgeries … you can simply hand them this list and they input it directly to their computer. You don’t have to worry that you’ve missed something and they are glad to simply transcribe it. Plus, if your spouse or other family member isn’t able to answer those questions you will have a copy of their information to share.

BEFORE YOU LEAVE HOME! 1. You never know what might happen while traveling and even if nothing unusual does, you will feel wonderful stepping back into a clean and tidy home. You will already have suitcases to empty, things to put away and laundry to do. Make sure your bed is made (fresh sheets are a good idea), put away any clutter, run the dishwasher, take out the trash and water the plants. This will keep you in that feeling of calm. Have the mail held while you’re gone and ask the neighbors to grab any packages that arrive so you don’t have to worry about any of that while relaxing on vacation!

ENJOY YOUR SPRING AND HOPE YOU FEEL REJUVENATED!

Byline: Rev. Dr. Eichelberger is author of three books and has won numerous awards for her work in television production and in the community; most notably the Life Time Achievement Award signed by President Biden and Vice President Harris. She was also awarded a Humanitarian Award presented by Trinity International University of Ambassadors. Additionally she has been honored to do opening prayer for Rev.Jessie Jackson at Rainbow Coalition as well as working alongside Ambassador Andrew Young.

She enjoys writing, shopping when traveling to place like, New York, Paris, Istanbul and Israel. She also enjoys Broadway plays, music-jazz, classical as well as playing her flute.

INSPIRED ART

with Milton

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Inspired Art Elliott

Where are you from?

I am originally from a small town in Massachusetts called Fairhaven.

How long have you been acting?

I’ve been acting on and off for 40 years.

When did that passion become real?

When I met fellow actors doing community theater in Virginia. I was in the U.S. Coast Guard at the time, stationed in Yorktown, Virginia.

I auditioned for local community theater plays and got cast in every one I auditioned for. So, I decided to pursue this passion further once I was out of the Coast Guard.

Where did you study?

I studied at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts. One of the most prestigious acting conservatories in the US! In costume as Reverend Tooker in the play, Cat On A Hot Tin Roof

What do you enjoy most about being a professional actor?

The chance to play a number of different characters, meeting other actors, and, of course, performing on stage. . .love it.

INSPIRED ART

What are you currently working on?

How do you stay focused?

I am currently in rehearsals for an Off-Broadway production of CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF in which I play the role of Reverend Tooker.

I keep my “Eyes on the Prize”…self discipline

Who are your heroes in this industry, if any?

What keeps you going?

Knowing that the best is yet to come!

I have great respect for many English actors who still take time in their careers to go back and do live theater.

Many “movie stars” in America would be totally lost performing on stage.

How can we follow you and support your craft?

What/Who inspires you?

I am a member of Ruth Stage. Our website can be found at ruthstage.org. I’m also on Instagram IG:@ miltbrooklyn, Facebook- Milton Elliott.

I don’t wan to come off as conceited, but I inspire myself. I’ve been through many things that have made my life very difficult, but I get back up and keep on keeping on-following my dream to be a working actor.

I’m retired from teaching, so I can pursue my dream full time.

How do you handle rejection/ the inevitable No’s?

I just understand that it’s part of the business. It’s a HIGHLY competitive business. I know I’m good at what I do and if I just keep getting out there and try to make things happen, I’ll succeed.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Never give up on your dream!!

Please follow Milt at IG:@miltbrooklyn and FB: Milton Elliott.

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DASH OFF!

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W

Work Your Dash Off!

e’ve all seen one, stood at a graveside and passed a cemetery.

Maybe it’s real personal for you. Perhaps you lost a loved one, a best friend. Let’s take it a step further. Think about all of the eulogies you’ve heard, how many memorial services you’ve been a part of. At every one of these events, we hear about that person’s dash.

It’s called a eulogy! Clarity is a beautiful thing, with that in mind, here’s what I mean by DASH. When you look at a tombstone or other marker, the dash is the line you see between the dates of a person’s birth and death.

That person didn’t know when they’d be born, or when they’d die.

However, here’s the deal, they were in total control of and owned their dash. The good, the bad, the painful, the joyous, the exciting, the happy, the ugly. In essence, they wrote their own eulogy by how they lived their life!

Hear my heart on this. I’m in no way referring to or talking about the awful things that’s happened to people that were totally out of their control. Things like abuse (physical, emotional, etc.), life happens and it’s not always pretty. Nevertheless, what I am talking about are all of the things that we can control, which is way more than you think. The times we settle for less both personally and professionally. All of the times and ways that we allow others to devalue our very being.

It’s time to own your DASH. To go for the things that are important to you, the dreams you have, and the gifts you’ve been given. It’s okay to take care of you, and to just go for it.

I’m writing my eulogy every day, and so are you. We can decide, and yes control, what will be said about us when we’re gone. So, honey, I’m working my DASH off! What will YOUR dash say about you?

Smooches!

You like the T-Shirt?

You’re going to LOVE the Conference!!

COMING SOON