The Stiletto Talks Magazine Issue 2

August 2022

THE STILETTO TALKS MAGAZINE

ISSUE NO. 02

Travel Self Care Spotlights Education Beauty & More!

BLACK WOMEN EQUAL PAY DAY 2022 THE NEW FACES OF HR & TALENT ACQUISITION

GRATITUDE Paula Johnson Hutchinson

FROM

THE

CEO

A vision must have the opportunity to grow and thrive. The Stiletto Talks Magazine is a natural progression in our brand. We are proud to say that we have positively impacted hundred of women and looking to make that thousands. Our first issue was seen internationally!

The Stiletto Talks Magazine is committed to highlighting women of color who do the work in their communities . They are our sisters, mothers, wives, aunts, widows, cousins, and grandmothers, just to name a few. We all have gifts and they should be celebrated with the utmost respect and integrity. We see you Queens!

Peace & Love, Paula

The Stiletto Talks Magazine

CEO & Founder of The Stiletto Talks LLC

Editor’s Note Back to business means getting ourselves prepared. This issue is dedicated to workplace prep, beauty and self care to survive daily stress.

04

August is Black Women's Equal Pay Month and we have some new kids on the block.

They are in the recruiting rooms ensuring fair pay for women of color. Read about their journey in their articles!

We have a new beauty section! We will discuss all things beauty in two articles of this issue!

Home offices are here to stay! Get creative with spaces of any size and budget.

Creating Collaborative Safe Spaces for Women of Color

Paula Johnson Hutchinson Editor-in-Chief

More information: www.thestilettotalks.com/magazine

CONTENTS THE STILETTO TALKS MAGAZINE

O3 EDITOR'S NOTE Paula Hutchinson describes the future with the addition of beauty to the magazine.

12 EDUCATION Dr. Felicia Young, Ed. discusses quick steps for preparing to complete FAFSA.

18 VOTING Cynthia Young calls on everyone to understand the impact of voting and not voting for our communities.

35

GROW SOMET HING

19

CHARLSIE JACKSON, HR EXPERT

BLACK WOMEN EQUAL PAY DAY ADVERTISE WITH US We are looking for 10 businesses to advertise with us for the next issue. Contact us at contact@thestilettotalks.com.

19

ULTIMATE MOVE FOR POWERFUL LEGS

BEST FOOD FOR RUNNERS

Running requires you to be both strong and quick. Here are some leg exercises to build bigger quads, calves, glute and hamstrings.

For maintaining energy to repairing muscles runner and chef Isaac Mills shared some healthy diet plans on how to get that extra mile.

WWW.THESTILETTOTALKS.COM/MAGAZINE

AUGUST 2022|ISSUE 2

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THE STILETTO TALKS MAGAZINE

CONTRIBUTORS FOR 2022 Contributors Vary from Issue t o Issue. We are proud to provide diversity and variety with every issue we produce. Our guest contributors for this month include cynthia Young and charlsie jackson.

WWW.THESTILETTOTALKS.COM/MAGAZINE

New Book Alert !

November 4, 2022

New Book Alert !

A V A I LNovember A B L E A U G 4, U S2022 T 3, 2022 An Anthology Project from The Stiletto Talks LLC

or

www.thestilettotalks.com

Photo: Hutchinson & Porche' SOLA Food Co.

Charcuterie has boomed since the pandemic. It is a creative way to provide a variety of offerings at an

Chacuterie is Crafted Creativity HOW TO GET MORE OUT OF YOUR SEAFOOD

economical price point. It is not new but does provide opportunity to be creative. Boards now include the following:

Breakfast options Fruit Seafood Do not miss the opportunity to wow your guests with this timeless classic.

By Katherine Clarke Photography by Tom Manning

www.kitchen.com | 56

KIMCOLE A BOSS AT HER BRAND Kim Cole has been a braider since a child. She is a mother, salon owner and product owner. Additionally, she has a program that teaches young girls braiding skills. The classes are held multiple times a year.

Kim will be a featured writer providing for our magazine advice for all types of hair care services and wig care. We look forward to her sharing important information and we are proud to see the next generations of salon owners elevate the industry of beauty.

Kimberly Coleman, Owner of Boss Up Hair Studio Louisiana

SALON OWNER PRODUC T OWNER EDUCATOR BOSS

Vegan Tacos by Kimberly Spruill

Looking for a quick and easy, delicious vegan meal? Try one of my favorite recipes. These Raw Vegan Tacos are jam packed with flavor and a hint of spice! Meal prep them and enjoy for lunch or even a quick snack!

Raw Vegan Tacos Ingredients: 1 cup – 1 cup ½ pecan halves 1 cup white mushrooms 1 green bell pepper ¼ red onion ¼ mango 1 packet Siete Carnitas Seasoning Garlic & Herbs All Purpose Seasoning Garlic Powder 1 lime Liquid Smoke (Hickory) Mango Coconut & Pepper Dressing/ Marinade Butter Lettuce Instructions: 1. Add pecan halves, white mushrooms, bell pepper, red onionand Carnitas Seasoning to a food processor and pulse for 10 seconds or until desired consistency. Pulse for another 10 seconds or until desired “meaty” consistency.

2. Add Garlic & Herbs All Purpose Seasoning, garlic powder, ½ lime juice and liquid smoke to taste. Pulse for another 5 seconds.

3. Take 3-4 butter lettuce leaves and fill each with a spoonful of meat. Squeeze lime juice on top.

4. Top with diced mango and Mango Coconut & Pepper Dressing/ Marinade.

5. Optional: Add pico de gallo and vegan shredded cheese 6. Enjoy!

We

Relax...Relate...Meditate The Benefits of Meditation Between the pandemic, work, children and other relationships...we are tired. It can be difficult to stay focused if you stay busy. Meditation is a natural way to relive anxiety and stress. It practiced by multiple cultures and focuses on the total wellness of the body.

It is important that we are intentional about our wellness. If we do not, who will? Below are a few benefits: Reduces negative emotions Gaining new perspective on situations Increases patience and tolerance Lowers resting blood pressure Improve sleep quality We are all exposed to stress. It can seem unavoidable at times. What is also unavoidable is potential health challenges when stress goes unchecked.

Remember that being good to yourself is a must. Take the time you need to detox through meditation and learn to slow yourself down.

ISSUE 2| 2022

Grow Something

Plant Vibes More and more women are seeking the medicinal benefits and beau ty of plants in their space.

Plants and something t o a space and many have health benefits.

Everyone does not have a "green thumb" but plants are becoming a past time again. They are a way to provide a home with healing, life and personality. Nowadays, there are apps , groups, and experts ready to help you grow your best plants.

Before you begin your plant relationship, determine how much time you have to dedicate to them. there is maintaining process and often, knowing this on the forefront may help. Set timers or reminders to keep them watered. Like any relationship, you must get to know your plant's needs to get the best experience out of being a "plant mom." Happy growing fam!!

THE CROWN PHENOMENON

Loc'd Up Locs have a cultural significance that expands since the beginning of time. Through life experiences, many are dawning them in new territory...the workplace. With the increased inclusion measures and identification announcements, sisters are risking it all to wear their crowns in the regal style. As we now have a Supreme Court Justice

Locs are a spiritual and ancestral experience

with sisterlocs, please know that the choice of style in no way diminishes the intelligence, beauty and aura of women who choose the historical path. Instead, they are a Love,

Paula

pathway to learn about someone's journey, pride and joy of discovering beauty from within.

THE STILETTO TALKS MAGAZINE

06

Education Expert Felicia Young, Ed. CEO, Higher Minds of Education Early is better……

5 Tips to Kick off the New School Year for your High School Senior 1. Create a scholarship list with links and deadlines 2. Schedule a meeting with your child’s guidance counselor 3. Pick the Top 5 Colleges, Technical or Community College 4. Take the ACT. Register Early 5. Prepare to file the FAFSA. October 1 st I when you can complete your FAFSA Create a plan, ask questions, and stay encouraged. Doing these five steps will help your senior get and stay ahead! If you need help to get started, please do not hesitate to reach out to me at info@hmofed.com and visit my website www.hmofed.com.

BREATHE! BECAUSE ALL

WE

NEED

MINUTE

A TO

SLOW DOWN.

THE STILETTO TALKS FASHION

TREND FASHION

ISSUE 2

FASHION Black Fashion It is undeniable that black has long been a favorite in the

fashion world. Now, looking all black has become a chic and fashionable thing. In addition to providing a slimming effect and suitable for all skin tones, black also gives an elegant and cool impression. Another point that many forget is black fashion pieces are of ten interchangeable between the workplace and after-work activities.

FIND YOUR WAY TO DRESS

Play dress up.. Find out the type of look you want so that you may accessorize!

Textures.. Textures add layers of sophistication to looks. Animal patterns, sparkles and classic leathers can change the game.

Pop of color. Nothing adds and extra punch to black like a pop of color!

Consider doing so to recycle or add transitions to your wardrobe.

As many return back to work in person, they are struggling to find pieces buried beneath their work from home attire. Many have all the items they need ...right in the closet.

As we all head back to school and work, let's get into those closets and switch some looks up.

Shoes. We have been inside for two years. The feet may have flattened out some to fit your favorite flats. If so, you are gonna have to go old school and walk around the house with your shoes. Those that you have deemed too much for your feet, haul them to the resell shop for some cash or consider making a donation to your local women's shelter. Remember that type of donation is tax -deductible.

Coats and Jackets. It is hard to consider them in the summer heat but understanding how your jackets compliment your wardrobe is important. This may save you money from buying duplicate things you barely wear, depending on where you live. Plus it is a great way to recycle outfits or identify what you should be looking to add.

Accessories. Organize your accessories . Nobody likes to do it, but it saves time when you need to get cute quickly. Get broken pieces repaired or get a jewelry maker to reimagine them. If that's too much...D ECLUTTER! There is no point of holding on to something that serves no purpose.

Back to work means we want to see the new and improved you in person! It does not take much to look good but it takes work to make a statement.

Blow the dust off that wardrobe and turn the volume up on your work style.

THE STILETTO TALKS MAGAZINE

Paula Johnson Hutchins is the CEO & Founder of The Stiletto Talks. The Stiletto Talks Podcast & The Stiletto Talks Magazine. |www.thestilettotalks.com

WWW.THESTILETTOTALKS.COM/MAGAZINE

CATCH SOME VIBES IN THE

WINERY

Listen, nothing is as relaxing and music and wine.

Wine is a vibe all its own and is synonymous with relaxation. While not for everyone, wine even possess health qualities. If you're not sure about what works for you, check out your local wineries.

Wineries often offer taste testing. You have the opportunity to pay a fee and learn more about the range of wine selections. Additionally, you learn more about what to pair them with! Some prefer the sweetness of moscato, others prefer the crispness of a chardonnay, and others like the punch of a pinot.

Whatever your flavor, wineries are great for a ladies' day out! Grab the sisters and learn your vibe over the vibes of wine. Remember if you cannot handle alcohol well, consider being transported to your destination.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

NOMADIC

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THE STILETTO TALKS MAGAZINE

ISSUE 2

THE STILETTO TALKS PODCAST Increase Visibility Connect to a New Audience Bring Awareness to a Cause Expand Digital Footprint

We Want You!

Email your interest to contact@thestilettotalks.com

BLACK

THE

BALLOT

IN

2022

Cynthia Young As we embark on another important midterm election, it's no secret our democracy is under attack and it will take all of us working to do our part to turn things around. Voting is just one way we can do our part to keep our democracy alive. I know you may be thinking that voting hasn't been producing the results we want to see especially for people of color but I would challenge you to think about what happens when we don't show up to vote. Elections have consequences! The outcome of an election is based upon our participation or lack thereof.

The work I do through Ripe for Victory; the nonprofit I founded to increase civic engagement and build civic power in underserved and underrepresented communities has been interesting as we try to get folks involved. Our history with voting has not been a pleasant experience. Those who have gone before us and worked so hard for us to get the opportunity to vote, they went through a lot. Voter suppression back then and now; is real.

So when we talk about voter apathy and why folks seem to not be concerned about voting, we must take into consideration all the obstacles Black folks face when trying to vote. We are seeing voter suppression 2.0 across the country in 2022 and it's disheartening to see we're still going through this. But despite all we're seeing to suppress our vote, we can't give up. We can't afford to not be involved.

Again, elections have consequences and we must do our part and a little more. We must be having the conversations with those we're connected to. Our vote matter and our voice matter. Those who support suppressing our vote know very well how powerful we are when we show up to the polls which is why voter suppression efforts are happening in nearly every corner of the country. We can't sit on the sidelines and spectate. It will take each and every one of us getting involved in this process. It doesn't stop after we voter either, we must stay civically engaged and we must be paying attention. Our education system is still broken! People are still struggling financially! Our children are still experiencing poverty! Crime is still on the rise and the reason being is poverty. I believe we can dismantle these systems of injustice but it will take all of us doing the work. I believe in the Power we carry and I believe a change is coming.

Cynthia Young President & Founder Ripe for Victory www.ripeforvictory.org

The Stiletto Talks Magazine

After 59 Years: It’s Time to Close the Equal Pay Gap

By Charlsie Jackson You’ve done it! You applied to the job or promotion, interviewed and successfully secured an offer! There’s excitement for this next chapter in your career. Through the interview process you learned everything that’s important, right? What about the compensation? In today’s market, companies are becoming transparent with pay ranges; largely because states are holding companies accountable; making it a law. In Colorado, wage transparency, especially in job postings, is a requirement mandated

by Colorado's Equal Pay for Equal Work Act; passed in 2019 and made effective last January 2021. This is great for candidates in specific states implementing these policies, but what about everyone else? Especially women?

Today, there are too many women still not compensated equal to their male counterparts. “AAPI women are paid 75 cents for every dollar paid to their white male counterparts and Black women are only paid 58 cents for every dollar their white male colleagues make. Indigenous women, 50 cents, and for Latinx women it is 49 cents,” according to a report by the American Association of University Women. Efforts are being made to encourage laws that are strictly enforced, but until they are mandated, women and their allies must speak up.

Aside from interviewing or striving for a promotion, pay negotiation can be one of the most uncomfortable conversations to have. Often, people hesitate to negotiate their pay because they are worried their offer will be rescinded. As the saying goes, “closed mouths don’t get fed.” Companies are aware that pay negotiation is just as much of the hiring process as interviewing is and, in many cases, employers have flexibility to increase an offer; within reason. This is where research comes in.

These days, there are a plethora of resources to discover the average pay for a position within a company or within the industry of interest. Glassdoor.com is very popular since the information available is mostly provided by current and former employees- salaries, company reviews, interview experience, etc- companies cannot remove their bad reviews. Another great resource is Salary.com, which not only provides pay information with cost-of-living calculators, comparison tools, lists of benefits, and negotiation tips, it serves as a career site with job listings and advice for jobseekers. Additional sites that can be used are Indeed.com, PayScale.com, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Negotiating pay can be unnerving and uncomfortable, but you owe it to yourself to get paid your worth. You have been working hard to build your career, you deserve to be fairly compensated for the skillsets, education, and knowledge you possess. Gone are the days when women are willing to stay silent while not being equally paid for doing the same work as their male counterparts. "Since President Kennedy signed the Equal Pay Act in 1963, the gap between men and women's earnings has narrowed by less than a half-cent per year. At this rate, American women will have to wait until 2062 to bring home the same salary as their male counterparts." – Congresswoman Jackie Speier WWW.THESTILETTOTALKS.COM/MAGAZINE

SOCIALITES

THE STILETTO TALKS MAGAZINE

STILETTOS

en

BLANC

The CEO & Founder of The Stiletto Talks LLC , Paula Johnson-Hutchinson and attendees of Stilettos En Blanc. The event was held on July 30,2022 in Phoenix, AZ. For information on The Stiletto Talks events online and in person, connect with us at www.thestilettotalks.com

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FOR WOMEN OF COLOR

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