Special Thought Leader Edition Summer 2023

BY LA TRIBUNE EDITORIAL TEAM

Throughout history, many women have emerged as beacons of inspiration, defying societal conventions and leaving an enduring legacy on the global stage.

The Los Angeles Tribune honors nine of these extraordinary women through a set of feature articles in the Summer Issue of its Special Thought Leader Edition.

As the feature articles delve deep into the lives, achievements, and legacies of these exceptional women, the Los Angeles Tribune aims to celebrate their achievements while also encouraging others to draw inspiration from their profound contributions to society. These stories also demonstrate the power of resilience, the triumph of compassion, and the limitless potential of the human spirit.

Each of these women, united by their unwavering spirit and transformative impact, embodies the potential within us all to effect change and shape a brighter future. Their narratives transcend borders, eras, and industries, serving as constant reminders that greatness knows no bounds.

Triumph Over Trials: Lessons On Resilience And Self-Belief

BY FORBES RILEY

For almost three decades, I was the queen of infomercials – those late-night television shows that sold products – and was privileged enough to gross a little over $2.5 billion. During that time, I also worked with some of the industry’s biggest producers, including the genius who created the “As Seen on TV” Logo.

After receiving so many blessings in my career, I am now focused on more than just selling products on television. Aside from shooting a new movie and coaching over 18,000 students, I recently launched a massive membership program that has grossed over six figures weekly.

My 20-year-old daughter, Makenna, leads this fresh venture as the company’s CEO, displaying honesty, integrity, and passion that outshines nearly everyone I’ve met. The bond between my daughter and I transcend our ages. I’m 63, and she’s 20 – and those years bridge a lifetime of knowledge. I’ve seen her blossom into a gifted orator, delivering messages from her heart with great eloquence. Together, we’ve developed a solid team that thrives on principles I’ve come to appreciate more and more as technology speeds along.

Access To Cash: The New Definition of Wealth - And It’s Not What You Think It Is

BY DAME DORIA (DC) CORDOVA, PHD (HON.)

Once you understand the power (and paramount availability) of ACCESS, your life will change for the better! I highly recommend Doria’s timeless work…” - Dr. John Gray, Mars/Venus Book Series.

I was young when I first started learning about finances. At that time, I was a very successful official court reporter in the legal systems of Los Angeles

From Breathless To Boundless: A Double Lung Transplant Stonemason’s Epic Fight From Dying To Living With

Purpose

BY MARK RODRIGUEZ

There’s no denying the power of resilience.

I’ve had my fair share of hardships with two double lung transplants and countless health challenges – yet here I am. Three and a half years after my first lung transplant, I was told I had two months to live. I died on the operating table after my second lung transplant, fell into a coma that lasted for nine days, went through four more surgeries, had a month-long stay in the hospital, after which I was unable to walk and became wheelchair-bound.

and Hawaii where financial experts surrounded my young counterparts and me. On top of that, we were taking testimony in cases where numerous specifics regarding money, business, and financial concerns were discussed. I call that initial phase of my professional life, those eight years spent in the legal system, as my “past life”.

Mark Victor Hansen Honored With Lifetime Achievement Award

BY LA TRIBUNE EDITORIAL TEAM

At the grand finale of The Los Angeles Tribune’s three-day Legacy Leadership Virtual Summit last June 18, 2023, the 137-year-old media brand bestowed the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award to Mark Victor Hansen, a man who has dedicated his life to empowering individuals and inspiring positive change on a global scale. The award ceremony was broadcasted virtually from The Los Angeles Tribune’s platform – a pioneer in virtual summits, tours, and events – and streamed

to virtual attendees in 23 countries.

This accolade recognized his lifelong work that has been focused on uplifting individuals and positively shaping the world. Hansen, a luminary in the self-help and personal development genre, is best known as the co-creator of the global bestseller “Chicken Soup for the Soul” series along with Jack Canfield. The iconic series has sold over half a

Despite all these, I was able to turn things around and do some tough work mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally to rebuild myself. I ran two 5k races six months after my second lung transplant, reignited my passion for stone masonry, and married the love of my life, Sandra. Now, I am speaking on different stages to inspire and empower others.

From these experiences, I have learned that tenacity isn’t about never falling but about picking yourself up, time after time. It’s all about the mindset. My recovery and the strength to push through came from a warrior mentality, and my faith and refusal to quit carried me through the most challenging times.

My story began in October of 2010 when my world turned upside down. As a thriving stonemason, I was diagnosed with silicosis, a lung disease that came from the very essence of my work – inhaling bits of silica from the rocks I cherished. The blow landed harder than any hammer I’ve ever struck my chisel with. I struggled for a year, and every breath became an ordeal. It felt like trying to breathe through a straw that was getting smaller and smaller. Then, on October 11, 2011, I found myself on a surgical table, with my lungs removed by a hammer and chisel.

BY LORI MCNEIL

Media use has significantly become more influential in today’s fast-paced and interconnected world through platforms offering unprecedented opportunities to shape narratives, share ideas, and leave lasting impact on society. And by leveraging the power of media, individuals and organizations can create a legacy that transcends time. Compared to the last decade, when most media opportunities have been limited to traditional media like TV, newspapers, and radio, there are virtually limitless platforms now from which media is accessible.

Mathew McConaughey, who seems to know just what to say when asked about legacy, wisely remarked, “Your purpose in life is to create something that outlasts you.” With these profound words in mind, it becomes clear that many individuals struggle to define their legacy, often resulting in a lack of action. Those that do take charge of their future find that they are not alone.

Recently, there has been a growing focus on exploring the art of utilizing media to construct a legacy that endures through the ages. This subject has garnered increased attention and discussion, reflecting its significance for the current generation and the ones to come. The profound impact of media in shaping narratives, disseminating ideas, and leaving a lasting imprint on society has propelled the exploration of how individuals and organizations can strategically leverage various media platforms. By harnessing the power of media, creating a legacy can transcend time, influencing and inspiring future generations to continue the legacy’s essence.

For example, people like Martin Luther King Jr and Nelson Mandella have used the media to help build their legacies.

Media represents a powerful and vibrant expressive platform to share one’s story. This ongoing dialogue about using media to construct a legacy underscores its relevance and serves as a call to action for individuals to recognize and seize its full potential. have taught many clients how to utilize media, and here are six considerations when using it to build your legacy:

Define Your Vision

Building a legacy through media begins with a clear and compelling vision.

Start by defining what you want your legacy to represent and the values you wish to impart, considering the impact you want

to have on your community, industry, or the world at large.

A well-defined vision will not only serve as a guiding principle to navigate the media landscape - it will also serve as the foundational piece in creating one. Without vision, you simply cannot see.

In my book “Legacy Unlocked”, share eight steps to creating a legacy, beginning with unpacking how to launch your vision.

One of my clients recently shared how creating her vision has resulted in her learning how to craft her brand and clarify her message, with her journey culminating with a book release this year.

Craft An Authentic Narrative Authenticity is key when building a legacy. People connect to stories that resonate with their own experiences and emotions, so you should craft a narrative that reflects your values, passions, and journey.

Get personal. We have all traveled difficult paths, taken complex journeys, and now have our own story to tell.

Create a list of stories that thread your purpose and passions, and share them willingly, because these shared stories draw us into each other’s lives, and that connection helps build our legacy.

As we begin to share others’ stories with ours, we invite people to join us. Stories authenticate who we are, and authenticity builds trust, fosters a genuine connection with your audience, and enables your legacy to stand the test of time.

Thus, effective storytelling is the heart of building a legacy through media. Embrace the power of multimedia to create a compelling and immersive experience for your audience, combining written content, visuals, videos, audio, and interactive elements to engage and captivate your viewers. Use these mediums strategically to convey your message and evoke emotions that leave a lasting impact.

Choose The Right Media Channels

The realm of media encompasses a diverse array of platforms, each with its unique characteristics and reach. Traditional forms of media, such as print, television, and radio, have long been influential in shaping public discourse and disseminating information. However, with the advent of digital technology, a new wave of media channels has emerged.  When embarking on the journey

to build a legacy through media, it is crucial to identify the channels that align most effectively with your target audience and the message you wish to convey. Understanding your audience demographics, preferences, and consumption habits can help you strategically select the appropriate platforms to maximize your impact.  For instance, if your target audience consists primarily of young adults, social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok might be ideal for engaging and connecting with them. On the other hand, if you aim to reach a more diverse and broad audience, traditional media outlets like newspapers or television may be worth considering.

Each media platform possesses its strengths and nuances to consider.

Print media allows for in-depth analysis and storytelling, offering a tangible and immersive experience, while television combines visual and auditory elements, capturing attention and enabling a broader reach. And radio, with its auditory nature, can create an intimate connection and reach listeners on the go.

Digitally, social media platforms provide instantaneous and interactive engagement, fostering community building and allowing real-time feedback. Podcasts offer a convenient and portable medium for long-form discussions and storytelling, catering to audiences who prefer audio content. Video streaming platforms offer visual storytelling opportunities, combining the power of audiovisual elements to captivate viewers. While tailoring your content to suit the medium, it is vital to maintain consistency in conveying your narrative. Stay true to your core message, but adapt your storytelling techniques, formats, and

delivery methods to suit the strengths and limitations of each platform.

By leveraging the strengths of different media channels while maintaining a cohesive narrative, you can effectively communicate your message and resonate with your audience across various platforms, ensuring the longevity and impact of your media-driven legacy.

Consistency And Frequency

Consistency and frequency are vital when using media to build a legacy, which is why it is important that you develop a content strategy that ensures regular, highquality output. Create a content calendar, establish a consistent publishing schedule, and maintain a solid online presence. Use software programs such as Hootsuite, Heropost, Kaviyo, and others to help you schedule and manage how engagements are delivered to save time. Would you rather spend a day preloading content for a month or stress daily over what content to post?

Maximizing resources allows you to engage with your audience regularly, respond to feedback, and cultivate a community around your content.

Consistency and frequency demonstrate your dedication and reinforce the message you seek to impart, while also helping you build your reputation and keep you relevant.

Collaborate And Leverage Networks

Collaboration can amplify the impact of your media efforts, so you should try to seek partnerships and collaborations with individuals, organizations, or influencers with similar values or goals. Much like finding out where your audience is hanging out, take it a step further by finding common ground and using that knowledge to grow your relationship with them. Ask them how you can support them, which starts by simply interacting on their platforms or asking them questions to flush out a concept more. These partnerships can expand your reach, bring fresh perspectives, and increase your credibility. Collaborative efforts also provide opportunities for crosspromotion and exposure to new audiences, helping to solidify your legacy.

Adapt And Evolve Media landscapes are ever-evolving, and adapting to emerging trends and technologies is crucial. You need to stay abreast of new platforms, formats, and tools that can enhance your media presence, As well as embrace innovation while staying true to your core narrative and vision.  Take AI, for example. It’s gaining traction and is quickly becoming the “go-to” tool for content creation, but at the end of the day, it is still just a tool. It doesn’t and shouldn’t replace what you do. Personally, will use AI to seek out different ways to convey what want to express. When used in this way, AI will help you develop your writing.

Conquering With KindnessHow To Pursue A Successful And Meaningful Life Serving Others While Discovering And Living Your Purpose To Be Your Best Self

BY BOGDAN MATUSZYNSKI

Having seen in person some of the worst things humanity has done and some of the most beautiful and unimaginable parts of the world, have navigated storms of uncertainty and near death. Yet, there exist two powerful, transformative, and positive forces that can serve as a beacon of hope - the power of kindness and servant leadership which are effective globally. This isn’t just a concept; it’s a lifestyle

I’ve embraced as the founder of iSERVE.

I’ve spent the last decade channeling this power, helping to open doors for people like you who read this type of thought leader newspaper edition.

Through education and globally meaningful experiences, you can begin setting off a kindness ripple effect, creating positive vibes that spread from your personal circle to other global communities. If you don’t believe me, let me show you how turned my own trauma and vulnerability into a positive force for good because taking care of ourselves and others is more crucial now than ever.

My journey, rich with international awards, including Rotary Peace Fellowships, International Conflict Resolution Leadership Experience, Fulbright Teaching Award, and opportunities to advise of international opportunities, stands testament to the impact have had through my work and helping others live these principles.

Raised in a multicultural, multilingual home and having worked or studied in over 44 countries, I’ve had my taste of the world. Now, I’m here to guide you on your own transformative journey.

My goal is to help you discover your untapped potential, develop essential diplomacy skills, and master the art of designing award-winning essays for scholarships, university admissions, and grants. Together, we can turn your dreams into reality to help add value to your life and the lives of others while you discover and live your meaningful purpose. Let’s conquer the world with kindness.

Life will throw us curveballs. We all will experience pain, adversity, and times that test our resilience. These circumstances and unexpected stress can either beat us down to surrender or inspire us to reassess our lives and values.

That’s what happened to me when a personal crisis plunged me into a whirlwind of grief. In that storm, witnessing unwavering kindness became my life-raft, with my wife Tiffany, my family, and my community offering unwavering support that allowed me to bounce back and get the help I needed.

This journey awakened me to the power of serving others and empathy’s role in transforming communities. This, along with my mentor Cheryl’s advice, sparked the development of iSERVE an initiative transforming lives, fostering self-empowerment, and inspiring global leadership. However, service is more than just an opportunity provider; it’s about instilling a lifestyle of servant leadership that values community contributions and using one’s resources for the greater good.

iSERVE is about creating ripples of change that reach far beyond the individual, extending into the wider society. We use education as a lever for

change, following Nelson Mandela’s call to action: “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.”

Our mission isn’t just to heal the individual but to equip them with the skills for conflict resolution, promote internal peace, and offer realistic hope through servant leadership. When you decide to “conquer with kindness,” you better yourself while also experiencing enhanced well-being and happiness.

Admittedly, this journey has its hurdles limited resources, living or working in conflict zones, and the task of achieving systemic change. However, it’s within these challenges that we can find our own growth and opportunities for innovation.

iSERVE’s work in global communities, like our capacity-building workshops in under-resourced areas, showcases the power of servant leadership to give back to others who will continue to give back. We’ve helped leaders worldwide secure scholarships, grants, and valuable training, spreading our impact globally - just ask Ly Chhay Loem from a fishing village in Cambodia, who was the first in her community to go to university as a woman and has now secured a prestigious scholarship to study in Australia through our support, creating a pathway for her to uplift herself and her community.

In a similar nature of conquering with kindness as a servant leader, we have looked at opportunities in the Cali-Baja region in collaboration with San Diego Coastal Rotary Club President, Fernanda Torres, to advocate for peace by working on community conservation projects,

By adapting and evolving with the media landscape, you can continue to engage and inspire new generations, extending the lifespan of your legacy. Moreover, evolving with the changing media landscape is like being consistent; it maintains your relevance.

Harnessing The Power Of Media To Build A Lasting Legacy Imagine If You Could Legally And Ethically Reduce Your Taxes By 30% Or More?

As you look to create and cultivate your legacy, remember that the influence of media cannot be underestimated because it possesses the extraordinary ability to mold perceptions, ignite transformative change, and forge enduring legacies.

Effectively harnessing the potential of various media channels, individuals and organizations can construct narratives that resonate authentically with their audiences, fostering connections that transcend temporal boundaries.

When you consistently engage your viewers, listeners, or readers, you can cultivate legacies that leave an indelible imprint on the world. Embrace the remarkable opportunity to share your story, connect with others, and leverage the transformative power of media to make an everlasting impact that transcends generations.

BY STERLING LOUVIERE

Sophisticated investors understand that proactively managing taxes is one of the most effective strategies for building wealth. Why?

Because taxes represent your most significant lifetime expense.

The way you manage your lifetime tax burdens will impact the rate at which you build wealth. Let’s say, for example, you want to move up your retirement date by five to ten years. You have three basic choices:

1. Increase your income.

2. Get better returns on your investments.

3. Cut your costs.

Every dollar you keep instead of paying

Uncle Sam is something you can put to work growing your wealth. Conversely, without proactive management, taxes erode your wealth and the legacy you pass on to the next generations. Following are some essential things to understand about taxes

Taxes Are A Form Of Social Engineering

The tax law is a form of social engineering designed to reward specific behaviors that benefit society. Saving for retirement, making long-term investments, creating jobs, building houses, and giving to worthy causes are all rewarded with reduced tax burdens. Thus,

you build wealth more effectively when you align your investing choices with the rewarded behaviors.

How The Tax Law And Jobs Act Impacts You

In 2017, a new tax code became law, and it is the most sweeping tax reform in over thirty years. This new tax law aims to strengthen the US economy by making us more competitive in a global market.

Prior to this, the old corporate tax rate of up to 35% was one of the highest in the world, and logic suggests that lowering the corporate tax rate could attract more business and investments here. This idea

has bipartisan support because in reality, tax breaks only for the wealthy would be politically untenable. So, for it to pass, the new tax law also included tax benefits for the employees of these corporations. Additionally, reducing corporate tax rates without reducing small business owners’ taxes would make passage of the new law difficult. How would the government make up the revenue lost through these tax cuts to these three groups? High-earning professionals like you will now shoulder a larger share of taxes. How? Many deductions you have used to lower your tax bill in the past have been tightened or eliminated, including personal exemptions, state and local taxes, mortgage interest, and many others. Some business owners ask, “How does the new tax law work?” But the better question is, “How can I make the tax law work for me? How can I harness the power of the corporate changes and put them to work for me?”

Getting Help From Your CPA You might be thinking, “I’ve got my taxes under control. work with a CPA who works with lots of doctors.”

You may be right, but the reality is that most CPAs are tax historians.

They summarize the calendar year’s financial activities and calculate the taxes you owe. Further, your CPA is only as good as their knowledge of tax law, which is complex.

Unfortunately, the unplanned capital gains taxes derailed his retirement dreams because he needed to structure the sale correctly.

How Do Tax Strategists Find Tax Savings?

Tax strategists have four essential tools to reduce your tax bills:

1. Code-based strategies

The new tax code brings wideranging changes, and at this moment, sharp minds are working hard to make the codes work in favor of their tax-paying clients. Your tax strategists can find ways of making the new tax code work for you.

For example, changing your corporate structure or shifting from a W2 employee to a 1099 independent consultant could make a significant difference.

Can your current CPA help you with code-based strategies? Maybe or maybe not.

If your CPA is a true tax strategist, they would have called you and said, “The new tax law is a huge opportunity for you. Let’s get together and consider some changes we can make to reduce your tax bill.”

If your CPA did NOT make this call to you, invite you to get a second opinion from a true tax strategist. There is too much money on the line, so please don’t leave tax savings on the table. Is reducing your taxes legally and ethically by going with the momentum of the tax code unpatriotic?

Will you be subject to increased scrutiny?

Will you increase your risk for an audit? Judge

About the author: Sterling Louviere is a

training students, engaging in conflict resolution through peace-building efforts with community partners and developing student leaders through Model United Nations programming. These individuals are now pivotal in making peace-building and kindness contagious, promoting the ideal of resolving conflicts in their respective communities, and utilizing their acquired knowledge and skills to promote positive opportunities and support to those in need.

We also held a scholarship and fellowship workshop, and iSERVE assisted a student in earning a Fulbright Fellowship. Additionally, we collaborated with the Founder of Pundutso Financial Education Trust and a Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumnus, Leslie Makwembere, along with the U.S. Embassy of Zimbabwe’s Education USA Team to help Zimbabwean students to unlock their hero’s journey storytelling skills so they can apply to international universities and fellowships.

iSERVE has also collaborated with AlphaGamma Founders Arthur and Eric Gopak to support initiatives around content marketing, education about how to get the most out of accessible opportunities, and sharing information about how to search the AlphaGamma Business portal for young professionals to get selected for some of the worldwide opportunities.

We’re not merely offering solutions, but encouraging people to tackle their challenges head-on, fostering resilience and hope through practical opportunities. In this regard, Servant Leadership

About the author:

Lori is an International Media, Marketing, and Branding Expert specializing in helping entrepreneurs and business leaders understand the power of developing one cohesive plan. She was selected as an official speaker for the Think & Grow Rich World Legacy Tour and was invited as a Featured Speaker for Turning Point 20/20, with 2.25 million people attending live.

Helping raise over three million dollars for literacy, Lori’s global work earned her the Lifetime Presidential Service Award. Most recently, she also received the Global Visionary Leader Award and Outstanding Leadership Recognition by the LA Tribune. She has authored / coauthored several books and works globally to support literacy, cancer research, young entrepreneurship, and military programs.

resonates strongly. It’s not just about empathy and humility; it’s about creating actionable outcomes that enrich lives, and we echo the need for those we train or assist to keep the cycle of serving going.

Some of my mentors showed me that understanding team well-being isn’t just about empathy and offering practical resources that nurture resiliency and wellness. This roadmap promotes healthier environments championing empathy, compassion, kindness, and opportunity awareness.

Remember, kindness isn’t passive; it’s about adding value. It’s about attentive listening, helping neighbors, and offering support, making every act a catalyst for significant positive change. As we ‘Conquer with Kindness,’ we inspire others to do the same, cultivating hope in our communities.

If you want to learn more about integrating kindness and servant leadership into your lives, check out the book, “Conquering with Kindness How to Pursue a Successful and Meaningful Life Serving Others while Discovering and Living Your Purpose to Be Your Best Self” that’s set to be released soon. Let’s continue our shared responsibility and privilege to serve others and conquer with kindness!

No matter your industry or role, it’s in serving others that we truly lead. It’s through kindness that we truly conquer.

It’s in transforming ourselves that we can actually begin to transform the world one person at a time. The journey is demanding, the challenges are many, but the rewards are fulfilling.

About the Author:

Bogdan Matuszynski, a firstgeneration Polish-Mexican-American, has used his experiences and skills to make education and opportunities more accessible to others globally, propelling his mission of service in his founding of iSERVE. In his role through iSERVE, Bogdan acts as a Scholarships & International Opportunities Advisor, teaching leaders diplomacy skills, international project development, and the art of designing award-winning essays for scholarships, fellowships, university admissions, and grants to help people access life-changing opportunities.

His commitment to service earned him prestigious international fellowships and grants, such as the Ambassador Charles Hostler Fellowship, the Hansen Summer Institute on Leadership and International Cooperation, the U.S. Department of State’s Fulbright Spain Teaching Grant, and the Rotary Peace Fellowship. He has also earned the RISE San Diego Urban Leadership Fellowship, the San Diego State University’s “Quest for the Best” Vice Presidential Student Service Award, and Congressional Recognition for his activity related to Model United Nations. Bogdan holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Security and Conflict Resolution, with minors in Islamic & Arabic Studies and Latin American Studies, and is set to complete a Master’s Degree in Defense & Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College. Additionally, he enjoys serving by volunteering at community events, helping social organizations as a brand ambassador, and has organized educational activities worldwide to use education as a tool to promote peace.

A tax strategist –who may be a CPA—can help you proactively make choices that could significantly reduce your tax bill. Basic and advanced tax strategies can help you significantly reduce your tax bill, but we have observed that most doctors must be aware that options exist.

Picture this: a surgeon reduced his 2018 tax bill by $940,000 by seeking a second opinion from a tax strategist who works with many doctors. Contrast that with the story of a surgeon who planned to fund his retirement by selling his stake in a surgical center.

Learned Hand said, “There is no patriotic duty to increase one’s taxes. Over and over again, the Courts have said that there is nothing sinister in so arranging affairs as to keep taxes as low as possible. Everyone does it, rich and poor alike and all do right, for nobody owes any public duty to pay more than the law demands.”

2.

Timing strategies

Each source of income can be assigned to one of three buckets:

• Taxable income - The more you make, the more you’re taxed

• Tax-deferred income When you put money in your retirement plan like your 401(k) or IRA, you enjoy a lower taxable income for that year; however, you will pay taxes when you withdraw the money at the tax rate in that year.

• Tax-free income - Specific sources of income are not taxed. For example, it makes sense that orphans and widows would not pay taxes on life insurance benefits after the breadwinner’s death.

Paying taxes later instead of paying now is generally a good idea. However, this strategy comes with the uncertainty. What will the future tax rates be? Most economists agree that the tax rate you will pay when you withdraw money from your retirement plan will almost certainly be higher than the historically low tax rate you pay today. Further, chances are good that your expenses in retirement will go up—not down. 3. Income-shifting strategies

You do not have to put all your income in one bucket. You can potentially create different business entities. This is an approach tax strategists call “cracking and packing.” Have you considered shifting income to people like your children in lower tax brackets?

4. Product-based strategies

Just as you have access to new diagnostic and therapeutic tools, many financial tools can also be used to lower your tax burdens, including Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOP), Cash Balance Plans (CBP), Charitable Remainder Unit Trusts (CRUT), captive insurance companies and many more. Finally, you can do well by doing good. You can structure your charitable donations to make your contributions go further, allow you to enjoy tax benefits during your life, and preserve your legacy after your death.

Figure 1: TAX SAVING FOR DOCTORS, Reducing your tax footprint to put more money in your pocket.

The Best Ways To Write Your Bio

Mark Victor Hansen Honored With Lifetime Achievement Award

MARK VICTOR HANSEN, FROM PAGE A1

billion copies worldwide, reaching readers in more than 40 languages and setting numerous records.

As a prominent author, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur, Mark Victor Hansen has spent decades inspiring individuals to unleash their potential and attain their dreams. He has been a beacon of hope, offering practical wisdom, tools, and strategies for success through his works.

Driven by his dedication to individual empowerment, he released more books on the topic, including “The One Minute Millionaire,” “Cracking the Millionaire Code,” and “Cash in a Flash,” which also reached bestseller status. His eloquent delivery and insightful teachings have earned him numerous awards and recognitions, including being named one of the top five outstanding speakers by Toastmasters International.

Hansen’s impact, however, is not limited to personal development.

He has proven himself as a global changemaker through his remarkable philanthropic efforts, with his foundation playing a pivotal role in promoting literacy and providing resources for schools in underserved communities.

He also spearheaded projects aimed at environmental conservation and promoting renewable energy, and his dedication to entrepreneurship as a means of uplifting communities serves as a testament to his far-reaching vision of a better world.

The Lifetime Achievement Award presented by The Los Angeles Tribune recognizes all these efforts and

highlights a career dedicated to service, empowerment, and global impact.

Hansen’s example shines brighter than ever in an increasingly interconnected world that relies on effective leadership.

Throughout his illustrious career, Hansen has embodied the principles of transformative leadership that the summit sought to promote. His unwavering dedication to empowering individuals, promoting literacy, and championing environmental sustainability reflects the ideals of the Legacy Leadership Summit and The Los Angeles Tribune itself.

As a testament to Hansen’s transformative impact, the ceremony featured a touching live testimonial from one of the millions of lives touched by Hansen’s work – the ‘Hopeologist’ Jammie Matheson.

After being diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer and initially given an 18% survival rate, Jammie first encountered

“Chicken Soup for the Soul for Cancer

Survivors” in her oncologist’s office. The hope and strength she drew from the stories in Hansen’s book empowered her throughout her treatments, and today, Jammie is not only an over 20-year cancer survivor but is also a ‘hopeologist,’ actively sharing the hope she drew from Hansen’s work with others around the globe.

This heartwarming surprise was orchestrated by Moe Rock, the CEO of The Los Angeles Tribune, and Ava V. Manuel, the newspaper’s Senior Editor. Bringing Jammie into the live broadcast to share her gratitude with Hansen, Moe Rock cites the inspiration for this surprise, stating, “We

want to make sure you get the chance to thank Mark because we’ve heard you say in the past that you literally credit Mark for being alive today.”

Connecting screens and hearts across the globe, Matheson addressed her hero: “Mark, I just want to thank you on my behalf, on my family’s behalf, on my communities’ behalf. You have inspired me to want to be better, to reach out to people because you reached out to me through your book. want to reach out to people all over the world and be a light for them, and you are the reason for that. And just want to thank you. Thank you so much”. A visibly moved Hansen expressed his deep appreciation for the honor and the touching tribute from Matheson. “Thank you! What a great reward got. Thank you, thank you, thank you!” Hansen replied as he clasped his hand to his heart.

Mark Victor Hansen’s Lifetime Achievement Award affirms his far-reaching influence and dedication to humanity. It is a testimony to the power of hope, personal growth, and transformative leadership in creating a positive global impact. His unwavering commitment to these values resonates throughout his extensive work, inspiring millions like Jammie and shaping the world for the better. While the virtual summit has ended, his legacy stands tall, inspiring future generations of leaders and serving as a testament to the power of hope and resilience.

As Mark Victor Hansen receives this well-deserved accolade, his life and work continue to demonstrate his belief in the power of individuals to effect significant change in their communities and the world. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire and guide the next generation of leaders, leaving a lasting impact for years.

The one thing that is constant is change. We have always heard that change is the law of the universe, and it is happening all around us. One change is in the outer world, such as situations, nature, people, and people’s behavior. All of them undergo changes.

Another change happens in our inner world. This includes changes in the way of thinking, speaking, working, behaving, and even eating and drinking. We generally change our way of living, and this change happens within us. Some changes can make us uncomfortable, while others are within our control. But regardless of the chance, once we understand what is happening, dealing with uncertainty becomes easy.

Whether a change is welcomed or perceived as a challenge depends on your age and whether you are looking for life or comfort. Young people are looking for life; they are not looking for comfort. They want to explore the world, and for them, change is exciting. On the other hand, change becomes difficult as you get older because you have created cocoons of comfort around you. You have created many safety zones, and any disturbance or change to those comfort and safety zones will be difficult

and uncomfortable. So, you’re not looking at life with zest; instead, you look at life as safety. The more security-oriented you are, the more disturbed you will be with every change in your life.

However, change is the essence of physical existence. This is why everything in existence is changing and nothing is constant. If you resist change, you’re resisting life. On the other hand, if you want an unchanging life, there’s one beautiful place where nothing changes that’s your grave. So the choice is either you go to your grave, or you get enlightened.

As long as you’re a part of the physical process of existence, there is nothing that is not changing. The big question now is how you can enjoy living in unprecedented times. With everything going on in the world, it’s easy to succumb to negative thinking, but negative thinking has never served anyone, and I’m sure it won’t serve you. So, in case you struggle to stay positive, here is a list of things you can do. Study the list thoroughly or pick a few of the items and practice them daily, but how you choose to use this tool is up to you. If you don’t need it today, keep it around for when it may be helpful:

• Acknowledge that your mental attitude is the only thing you have complete control over.

• Pay attention to the thoughts you’re thinking about throughout the day.

• Find out what you want most in life and go after it.

• Think of someone who inspires you.

• Say or do something every day to make someone else feel better.

• Do something good for others.

• Understand that what kills you isn’t defeat but your attitude towards it.

• Figure out what you love to do, and do it as a labor of love.

• Take inventory of every asset you possess.

• Don’t engage in self-pity.

• Don’t try to control other people.

• Give thanks for your blessings.

• Refuse to take anyone’s advice unless they give you a good reason to do so.

• Remember: power comes from refusing to accept circumstances you don’t like.

• Keep your body in shape.

• Trust that there are solutions to all problems.

• Rely on the positive examples of others.

• Align with people dedicated to success.

• Don’t talk poorly about other people.

Review this list regularly.

When you resist change, you must understand you’re resisting the very process of life. When you resist the fundamental process of life, you will invariably invite all kinds of suffering. It means if you’re living and want to be dead, you are asking for a lot of trouble, right? Frustrations and depression will be a natural process. You don’t want that. So, enjoy the change.

those goals, do what need to do that day to move the needle in my business and enable me to continue growing.

Overcoming Stagnation

And Cultivating Financial Goals

When we stagnate or feel stuck, it’s usually a sign of low motivation. It is a reminder to challenge ourselves or inject more energy into our present to feel motivated. If you don’t know where to start, consider setting financial goals because they can be a potent motivator. Keeping track of the income flowing into your business each week also helps you gauge your progress toward your monthly income goals. There might be instances where you need to change your strategies because choosing the right opportunities can place you in the proper position to expand your influence and generate the desired income. As with motivation, we also need to create and manage our energy. Movement and goal reviews can help prevent our energy from becoming stuck. And don’t worry, even if you are

• Have the courage to be yourself.

• Believe in the people you associate with. About the author:

After a failed business venture and declaring bankruptcy, Satish Verma used the principles outlined in “Think and Grow Rich” to start from scratch. Within six months, he got out of bankruptcy and built a multimillion-dollar business again. Realizing the impact “Think and Grow Rich” had on his personal and professional life, he undertook a mission to enrich the world through these principles. With permission from the Napoleon Hill Foundation, he opened up the Think and Grow Rich Institute. He is now the world’s foremost authority on “Think and Grow Rich,” endorsed by the Hill family and Napoleon Hill Foundation. Satish has also been inducted as a chancellor of Success University by Junior Achievement and featured in a Hollywood Movie called “THINK AND GROW RICH --- THE LEGACY.” The Napoleon Hill Foundation recently honored him with its prestigious Gold Medal for his entrepreneurial achievements. This medal is given every four years to one individual worldwide and is considered equivalent to the Nobel Prize in the personal development industry.

Raising a child with special needs is a journey filled with numerous challenges, often leading to a loss of personal identity as the focus shifts to caregiving. However, despite the full-time responsibilities of caring for their special needs child, many moms possess the qualities needed to create rewarding and successful businesses. In this article, we will explore the three characteristics of resilience that make exceptional entrepreneurs and leaders out of moms who are raising a special needs child. I will also share tips on how to turn these traits into a purpose-driven business that you love while raising your special needs child.

Adaptability, persistence, and empathy are three crucial traits commonly observed in mothers raising special needs children. These mothers frequently adapt to changing circumstances and unforeseen challenges, which are the same abilities needed for entrepreneurship and leadership.

Their tenacity and commitment to continue, even during demanding and challenging times, enable them to overcome obstacles and accomplish their goals. Moreover, their profound empathy fosters meaningful connections with others, ultimately contributing to their success in business.

and exhausted at the beginning of my entrepreneurial journey. My Mastermind group, a community of like-minded individuals, offered invaluable support, helping me achieve my dreams and goals as developed my business, often working from my son’s hospital room. On May 28, 2011, wrote my first personal vision statement. This statement clarified my personal and professional goals and aspirations and maintained my focus during challenging times. Seeing many of these dreams come to fruition over the years brings me great joy. Now, as a passionate advocate for mompreneurs, support mothers of special needs children who seek balance and well-being while launching a purpose-driven business they love. The power of vision and resilience can help these moms become thriving business leaders. We can build purposedriven businesses that we love while raising our special needs child by harnessing our adaptability, persistence, and empathy and following the tips provided. With time, effort, and a clear vision, we can achieve our goals and positively impact our community. As leaders, we are responsible for embracing the challenges that come our way and using our experiences to empower and uplift others, creating a brighter future for all.

busy, these practices don’t have to be timeconsuming. Personally, it takes me about two hours to journal, read, move, shower, and prepare for the day.

Setting Up For Success

And The Importance Of Mentorship “If learning is beneath you, then leadership is beyond you.” This sentence reflects the importance of continuous learning for growth, and the leaders with a growth mindset are the ones that tend to attract followers who aspire to become better versions of themselves.

To set yourself up for success, consider getting yourself a mentor or coach who can help out when you are struggling with clarity or having a hard time actualizing your goals. Aside from this, it is also important that you build for yourself a social circle of individuals that constantly challenge you to improve and grow.

My favorite aspect of coaching is helping others through their journey from feeling stuck to achieving success, which is as simple as cultivating clarity, maintaining conviction, and taking action. I find that helping entrepreneurs gain clarity and direction, allowing them to become financially independent and live life as they choose, is a rewarding experience.

Making The Right Choices For Growth

Everything starts with a choice – we can choose to be stagnant or opt to gain more access to knowledge, people, and the resources we need to grow. Every day presents us with a choice to either pursue our goals with a clear plan of action or let distractions and issues dictate our emotions and actions.

This is what makes high performers stand out: they excel in planning and determining their daily priorities. They stick to these priorities regardless of any distractions or challenges that come their way.

Whether you feel powerless or powerful in your business can depend on whether you have clarity on your direction and faith in your plan. Many entrepreneurs fall into the trap of spinning their wheels, believing they need to work harder to succeed, but the truth is that working smarter, not harder, is the key to success.

Inviting faith into your everyday business and moving forward with clarity and conviction can help guide your journey, so start taking action today and see how this shift in approach can transform your business. want to challenge you to consider what you do daily to set yourself up for success – are you making the right choices that will lead to your growth? Are you harnessing the power of consistency, clarity, and high-performance habits?

Remember, every day is an opportunity to make strides toward your goals. am excited to have shared these insights and look forward to continuing to serve and support entrepreneurs in their journeys to success.

Leadership is deeply intertwined with vision and resilience. As leaders, we must have a clear vision of where we want to go and what we want to achieve. This vision serves as a guiding light, helping us navigate challenges and stay focused on our goals. At the same time, resilience enables us to bounce back from setbacks, learn from our experiences, and maintain the determination to keep moving forward. By embracing these qualities, we can become effective leaders who inspire and empower others to reach their full potential.

Here are three tips on how to turn these characteristics of resilience into a purpose-driven business that you love:

1. Start with a clear vision: Develop a clear vision of what you want to achieve by setting specific goals and identifying your values and mission. Keeping your vision at the forefront of your mind helps you stay focused on your purpose and remain motivated through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

2. Build a supportive network: Utilize your existing support network to your advantage as you build your business. Seek advice from other moms, hire caregivers to support your child while you work, or partner with other businesses and organizations that share your values. Surrounding yourself with people who believe in your vision and are willing to help you achieve it can help you overcome obstacles and build a thriving business.

Moms of special needs children possess unique qualities that can translate into successful entrepreneurship and leadership. As we embrace these traits and implement the tips shared above, we can create thriving businesses that fulfill our personal and professional aspirations and inspire others who are facing similar challenges. When we harness the power of vision and resilience, we can overcome obstacles and lead purpose-driven lives, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and supportive society.

About the author: Colleen Biggs is a 22-year Business Strategist who empowers business leaders to expand their influence in order to attract clients and drive more profits. She has launched over 340 businesses, is a sought Keynote Speaker, the C.E.O. and founder of L.E.A.P., and author to five #1 International Best-Sellers, with the latest being “Step Into the Spotlight to Expand your Influence”.

She was also awarded the Top 10 Women Business Leaders of 2021 and The Most Inspirational Leaders in Business 2023.

3. Find your niche: Leverage your unique perspective and skills to identify a specific niche within your industry. Consider what sets you apart from other entrepreneurs and how you can address a specific need or fill a gap in the market. By honing in on your niche and staying true to your purpose, you can create a fulfilling and successful business.

I have personally experienced the power of vision and resilience. When my six-year-old son was diagnosed with chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction and autism, decided to stay by his side during his treatment and launch a new business from his hospital room.

As a single mother of a special needs child, recall feeling isolated, overwhelmed,

About the Author:

Michele A. Wilson is a multipassionate mompreneur, enlightened leader, business strategist, TV Host, columnist, best-selling author, and a seeker of untapped potential. As a single mom raising a special needs child and running multiple businesses for over three decades, many times from her son’s hospital room, Michele has successfully handled many challenges along the way. She has taken her 30 years of entrepreneurship experience and helped over 300 businesses and families start and protect their businesses during the past 13 years.

Today Michele is the Founder and CEO of Mompreneur Conversations™ Network & Show. She is dedicated to helping mothers who are raising special needs children redefine balance, reclaim their identity, and gain confidence while juggling their caregiving duties and starting a purposedriven business they love.

“There’s power in allowing yourself to be known and heard, in owning your unique story, in using your authentic voice.”

—Michelle Obama

“Be so good they can’t ignore you.”

—Steve Martin

From Breathless To Boundless: A Double Lung Transplant Stonemason’s Epic Fight From Dying To Living With Purpose

The same tools loved and used for my stonemasonry work were now part of my near-death experience and were being used to save my life. Oh, the irony.

Doctors expected me to remain in a coma for a week, but surprised them by waking up just a day and a half later. Then walked out of that hospital in 8 days, determined to live.

A few years later, had a bad fall that led to a pulmonary embolism – blood clot was supposed to die from would land me back at death’s doorstep. The team that carried out my first transplant delivered the devastating news: they could do no more for me, and I had just two months to live.

However, refused to believe it.

Unless had a direct call from God, wasn’t giving up the fight. My healthcare providers had quit, but to their surprise and disbelief, clung to life with unyielding resolve.

It paid off on January 23, 2016, when got the call for my second transplant. It felt like a miracle arriving just in time, as I was teetering on the edge of life. The surgery was intense. I died on the operating table, went into a nine-day coma, and endured month-long hospital stay with four additional surgeries.

Despite the difficult recovery, especially with my weight dropping to 120

lbs and being in a wheelchair before my lung transplant, set myself to run two 5k races within six months post-surgery.

After such an ordeal, it was hard to find my purpose. It was difficult to carry on because of my medical challenges and some poor decisions had made. My world seemed very dark, and felt lost.

Then, in August 2020, a conversation with a dear friend sparked something within me. He challenged me to return to my stonework, family, and life. I accepted the challenge, and against all odds, resumed stonework at 51 years old. Thank you, Rico.

worked hard – mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally – to rebuild myself. I became the “Lung Transplant Stonemason” and returned to the places and communities where had built my career and reputation. As a two-time double lung transplant recipient, know I’m the first in the world to accomplish this. And now, I use my journey as a platform to spread a message of resilience, faith, and perseverance.

I’ve learned that to persevere, you must be persistent. Life is a gift, and we should embrace each day, no matter its challenges. We’re all warriors deep down, each one capable of overcoming our

obstacles. It all comes down to finding our inner strength and tapping into it.

My journey and struggles all led me to a path where I get the opportunity to inspire people. I found my true purpose by shifting the focus from me to you. Indeed, there’s no feeling like what you get from serving others.

The power of faith and positivity are crucial in overcoming any challenge, and it’s a lesson I’ve learned firsthand. Our minds can either become our biggest allies or our worst enemies – the key is in silencing the negative and fostering the positive.

I’ve been acutely aware that my battle may inspire others in their health challenges, so my journey hasn’t just been about me. Living by example and refusing to quit has been as much for them as for me.

Growing up, I had the best role models. My Dad, a Hall of Fame Basketball Coach, never let me quit anything, instilling resilience in me. And my Momma taught me the value of unwavering faith.

You must face your fears and doubts because running away won’t solve anything. My advice? Starve your fears, your doubts. Don’t let them grow into monsters.

Humor and perspective have been my lifelines, like when I ran two 5K races just because was fed up hearing about

someone else’s accomplishments. It’s about finding light, even in the darkest of times.

You can talk all you want about courage, resilience, and determination, but what truly counts is the action behind those words. It’s in the doing, not just the saying.

I’ve learned the importance of selflove and resilience. Love yourself and your life so much that quitting isn’t an option. Let your self-worth and love for life be the motivators that keep you going. used to learn my lessons the hard way, but I’ve grown and adapted over the years. Now, strive to learn from my mistakes and turn them into stepping stones for growth, knowing that only healing leads to that growth. Believe in yourself. Eliminate selfsabotage. I’m living proof that you can accomplish anything with self-belief and a positive mindset. Your challenges and struggles can be your greatest testimonies.

truly believe that God can turn our mess into a message, our tests into our testimonies. God took my impossible and turned it into I’m possible. We’re all warriors at heart, and the choice to tap into that inner warrior or give up lies within us. choose to fight and persist every single day. Even during my worst days, found gratitude – it’s a lesson

The Benefit Of Losing Our Mind - For A Change!

hold dear. So, thank you, my beautiful Daughter Mari, for being my why, and to my two ANGELHEROES for saving me with the Gift of Life. Finally, live in the present, and even when life throws you curve balls, learn to hit them. Refrain from dwelling on what was or fretting about what will be. Each day is a gift, giving you a chance to live fully and make the most of it. It’s why they call it the present, after all.

“We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back.”

—Malala Yousafzai

A Movement Of Wholeness

BY NICOLE MIXDORF

supported in being their whole selves.

About the author: Mark is the only stonemason to practice Stonemasonry after two double lung transplants. Throughout his numerous health challenges, he reconnected with his power and strength, taking them to a new level spiritually, mentally, and emotionally. He loves life fully and knows the true meaning of BREATHE: Believe Relentlessly Every time you’re Attempting Tasks of Healing & Enlightenment.

managed independently from one another

by different teams and vendors that don’t communicate with one another, which pulls the culture in different directions.

On one hand, Health and Wellbeing programs strive to create a healthy culture that supports employees in feeling their best. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging programs aim to create a more open and inclusive culture where employees feel psychologically safe to show up as their whole selves. Leadership Training programs are designed to shift how leaders connect with and manage their teams, impacting the business’s culture.

And on the other hand, Behavioral

am passionate about creating a Movement of Wholeness, both in the corporate world and beyond, where we can inspire people to make sustainable balance in their lives so they can thrive as they heal physically, mentally, and emotionally. It’s time to ignite humanity under an umbrella of healing and wholeness, where we can unite as a community to share our stories and lift one another to become our best selves.

Releasing the pain from our past allows us to grow, evolve, and shine our inner light for others to follow. Life is beautiful, challenging, and tragic all at once, and we can simultaneously hold space for all of it as long as someone shows us the way.

periods of stress in my life, including my dad’s recurrence of cancer which happened three times, and then losing him and several other close family members in a short time. also experienced the painful physical, mental, and emotional toll of three miscarriages as my husband and started our family.

It has been said that to make a change, you must push hard, go against all odds, and get back up when you are down. That sounds all good, but what if there was an easier way to get to where we want to go?

We have a “conscious mind” we believe we use all the time during waking hours, but do you know how much of our mind we are consciously using? It is a meager 3%-5%.

Instead, it is the “unconscious mind” or “subconscious mind” that runs the show with 95%-99% control, and its primary function is to run our physical bodies. For example, you never think about breathing, do you? That’s the unconscious mind at work. It also stores our memories and senses, like the smell of food reminds you of your grandmother’s cooking – that’s the unconscious mind bringing up those associations to you.

It also is where we keep our sense of time. This is why we can go “back in time” in our memories and remember things from the past. Did you know the unconscious mind is “recording” everything that we experience?

With the use of hypnosis, NeuroLinguistic Programming (NLP), Time Line Therapy®, and other types of regression work, we can go “back in time” in our memories and remember things from the past, including things that we may have repressed.

This is also why we can get triggered suddenly by a sound, an image, or even a smell. These can all create a chain reaction of where we go at lightning speed into the memory and emotion of whatever is brought up at that moment to our awareness. Our emotions the good ones and those that are not so pleasant - are also stored in the unconscious mind, which is all fascinating when you come to think about it.

Whoever stops to wonder where these vital things were stored in our minds? surely didn’t when was younger.

So now that we are getting to understand this huge area of our lives that are truly running the “software” of our mind’s operating system, we can become eager about how to access it because the key to easily making lasting long-term CHANGE is to manage this “software” by talking directly to the unconscious mind. And if we are going to change this VIP software inside ourselves, we first need to figure out how to access it, then understand how to communicate with it. But do many folks know how to talk to that part of themselves that is running the show of everything in their lives? At most, we CAN talk to our bodies and prompt them to begin doing something at the physical level just by knowing how to talk to them properly. (Remember that part about our unconscious mind is in charge of our

physical bodies?)

No, do not mean proper grammar. It is just that our unconscious mind is like a 5-year-old: It responds with direct commands, and it cannot process a negative. This is why when you tell a 5-yearold child at the edge of a street don’t run in the street, guess what happens? Yes, they will do the opposite of what you tell them.

This is why everything must be framed in the positive, so tell the 5-year-old child instead to “Stay at the curb!”

Our unconscious mind also needs clear, direct orders to respond to.

If your 5-year-old nephew needs to pick up his LEGO pieces all over the floor, do you think he will respond when you ask in a sweet soft voice: “Johnny please pick up the LEGOs?”

I will put money down that Johnny will likely continue playing with these LEGOS and ignore you. This is not because he is an inconsiderate child; it’s because he is not “hearing” your plea to do something. The unconscious mind and a 5-year-old child respond best to a direct command, so you must tell Johnny, “Pick up your LEGOS now!” in a very firm voice.

To access and create change in our unconscious mind, we need to understand these two simple mechanics of how it functions. Now that we know all these interesting

Because of the extremely challenging times we have all been going through over the past several years, many people are struggling with their health and well-being now more than ever, individually and collectively. The pandemic turned all of our lives upside down, shifting the way that we live and work. Many people fell ill, lost loved ones, and struggled with financial insecurity. We have also faced political turmoil, financial crisis, racial and gender injustice, and senseless war, on top of the pressures we each experience through our circumstances and daily responsibilities.

Our bodies have been in an active ongoing state of stress response for several years, taking a huge toll on our mental and emotional well-being. A recent Deloitte report on Mental Health in the Workplace shows that one out of three C-Suite executives and employees constantly struggle with fatigue and poor mental health, with 70% of them seriously considering quitting for a job that better supports their well-being.

We are in a mental health crisis that can no longer be ignored. It’s time to disrupt the business-as-usual model of overworking our people, overlooking that their lives are so far out of balance that they are left feeling exhausted and disengaged, leading to burnout, illness, and record levels of turnover.

Businesses have a unique opportunity

to step up as leaders to support and retain their staff by cultivating a culture of wholeness. Employees need the tools and skill sets to regulate their nervous systems and heal their bodies physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and energetically to function and thrive. When we bring all areas of our lives into balance: our careers, finances, health, relationships, family, mindset, and fun – we can achieve a state of wholeness where we feel complete and at peace and able to show up as our whole selves to do our best work.

In my ten years of running Balance by Nature, an award-winning corporate wellbeing company that has worked with major national and global brands, have seen how many organizations need help to unify their people under a solid organizational culture. The pandemic intensified this through the shift into remote work, and now with the attempt at bringing employees back into the office, which has been met with resistance. This has left many executives and human resources teams wondering how to support mental health and increase engagement and a sense of belonging so they retain their #1 asset – their employees.

From a business perspective, several initiatives affect company culture, including Core Values, Health & well-being, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging, Learning & Development, Leadership Training, Employee Experience, and Behavioral Coaching. Each of these initiatives is often

Coaching provides employees with insights into how they and their colleagues are wired so they can improve their emotional intelligence, communication, and performance personally and collectively, which impacts the culture. Employee

Experience initiatives are designed to create a welcoming environment that fosters engagement, productivity, and performance. Learning and Development initiatives aim to upskill staff members so they can be more inspired and creative in their projects, driving new plans that impact the culture. Doesn’t it make more sense to unify and manage these initiatives together to facilitate a culture of wholeness?

At Balance by Nature, we are taking an integrative approach to culture development by bringing together a team of culture experts in the fields of Health & Wellbeing, Learning & Development, Diversity Equity Inclusion & Belonging, Behavioral Coaching, Employee Experience, and Leadership Training who collaborate under a strategic culture plan for the business which ensures that each of the initiatives is moving in the same direction for maximum impact.

This collaboration sparks greater creativity and the sharing of resources and insights, which allows for cross-content delivery and cross-promotion for impactful engagement. Through this, we move the needle forward to create environments where employees feel appreciated and

As a thought leader, have created Balance by Nature Wholeness program delivered via a mobile app that incorporates work-life balance, mindful leadership, personal development, fitness, nutrition, and holistic healing to provide people with the tools they need to live their best lives. Much of the motivational content is inspired by my own healing journey.

launched Balance by Nature 10 years ago after experiencing a debilitating illness brought on by the intense stress of my corporate career and my dad’s 7-year battle with cancer. The pressure hitting me from all sides caused me to develop bleeding ulcers, eventually impacting my ability to do my job and function. When took time off work to remove a significant source of stress from my life and focus on self-care, the most amazing thing happened my symptoms disappeared!

This was an awakening moment where realized that a ‘healthy lifestyle’ of fitness and nutrition wasn’t enough in the face of intense chronic stress. It was also then that got inspired to launch Balance by Nature because wanted to encourage people to create sustainable balance and heal. realized that busy professionals everywhere were buckling under the stress of their lives, affecting their health in many ways: migraines, digestive issues, anxiety, depression, insomnia, autoimmune conditions, and many others. The sad truth is that most of them didn’t even realize that stress was the underlying culprit that triggers these symptoms in their lives.

Throughout the past decade, I experienced additional flare-ups of bleeding ulcers that coincided with intense

I went through a lot of loss and grief while simultaneously being depleted by my health challenges as I worked to grow the business and raise two beautiful children, but never let those stop me from pursuing my purpose and fulfilling my dreams. My mindset allowed me to create the emotional resilience to hold space for all these experiences and keep my life balanced as I moved forward. The beautiful part is that got to teach others how to do the same thing in their lives. Our circumstances and challenges may differ, but the suffering is the same, and I inspired my clients to move forward through the storms of their lives to find their light and the beautiful rainbow waiting for them at the end of it. In 2019, my health condition hit a critical point where it wouldn’t respond to traditional medications or treatments. The doctors had nothing left to offer me, so I embarked on a remarkable journey to heal my body where I tried 14 different healing modalities, including nutrition, naturopathy, acupuncture, energy healing, light healing, medical intuition, Ayurvedic medicine, Chinese medicine, hyperbaric therapy, shamanic healing, Reiki healing, Sai Shakti healing, sound healing, and Reconnective healing.

After experiencing and receiving a true healing miracle from a Chinese Divine Healing Master that defied the laws of physics and what we can comprehend is possible in this life, it inspired me to start incorporating holistic healing modalities into Balance by Nature’s corporate wellbeing programming. My clients needed to be introduced to new ways of healing their bodies that transcend the Western symptom management system, and this is how we move beyond wellness and wellbeing into wholeness.

Balance by Nature’s Wholeness program is available as a Corporate Wellbeing and Learning & Development initiative, but we have also decided to open it up to the public so everyone can access its inspiring content via our mobile app. If

About the author:

Nicole Mixdorf is a #1 International Best Selling Author, Keynote Speaker, and the Chief Wellness Officer of Balance by Nature. She was awarded the Top 100 Healthcare Leader in the World 2020-2021, Most Influential Woman in Corporate Wellness Services USA 20202023, and a Top 10 Successful Business Leader Revamping the Future 2021. She is a prolific speaker, master teacher, and healer, delivering over 30 masterclasses on inspirational personal development topics. Nicole’s passion, wisdom, and enthusiasm draw her audiences in to uncover deep truths about themselves so they can live their best lives. Her unique brilliance lies in her ability to instantly put people at ease and uplift the energy of everyone around her. She is passionate about teaching busy professionals how to create balance in their lives so they can thrive. you are ready to find balance and heal from within, invite you to download our app and start on one of our self-development or healing journeys. You’ll be supported by a daily schedule of live-streamed holistic healing events (meditation, somatic healing, Reiki, EFT tapping, and more), and a library of on-demand fitness and nutrition classes. You’ll also join a community of peers where you can share stories and cheer each other on as you achieve your health, happiness, stress, and energy goals. Our physical and mental health is our true wealth, and it’s up to each of us to reclaim it and live our best lives. Let’s build a Movement of Wholeness together!

About the author:

Joy Willett has been described as a Beacon of Light uplifting others into their higher Purpose and Vision. As a boardcertified Trainer of NLP, Hypnosis, and Time Line Therapy® and a highly sought-after Intuitive Guide, she guides her clients and students to reconnect to their minds and hearts to break through barriers, unlock their mission, and rocket launch their loftiest accomplishments. The benefits of her intricate neuroscience knowledge of over 25 years provide clarity on how they can make the global impact they truly desire. As someone who has also experienced the tragedy of mental health illness in her family, Joy wants to lead a mission getting people to understand what is going on in their minds and hearts so they can control their lives on so many levels. Her most recently published book: “I Am Joy And So Are You…19 Authentic Ways To Uncover and Elevate Your Natural Happiness!” brings practical and inspirational insights to people. In Joy’s words, it is Time to Bring a New Paradigm to our world, where our children and grandchildren can live with eager anticipation of what is to come, knowing that they, too, have the power to bring these changes for the uplifting of humankind.

details, the next question is: what does that mean for the average person just minding his own business and walking down the proverbial street?

What if tell you that you could suddenly learn how to be in touch with that incredible part of yourself that is creating EVERYTHING in your world, whether you like what you are creating or not? What if you knew how to access and talk to, decipher, and make CHANGES in the software program of your unconscious mind quickly and with lasting benefits?

While connecting with this amazingly powerful part of ourselves is not only easy, once you understand the dynamics of how it works, it can be fabulously rewarding. If we can truly access and unlock the gifts of our subconscious consciously, we will be able to harness our unlimited and incredible power. We can use this power going forward to create a healthy lifestyle and live with greater ease in our health, create wealth easier, and experience happiness and true joy. When everything is all said and done, isn’t that truly what we are all looking for in our life and this world?

So maybe it IS time to “lose” your conscious mind more - and unleash your unconscious mind to take you where you want to go truly. There is no time like NOW to begin learning how!

Creating A Ripple Effect Of Positivity: Influencing The World Through Kindness And Optimism

BY RENEE DUTTON

In a world often overwhelmed by negativity and challenges, it is important that we acknowledge and embrace our extraordinary power to make positive impact. The transformational power of positivity is an incredible force that can permeate every aspect of our lives, fundamentally altering our perspective and shaping our experiences, relationships, health, work, and overall well-being. When we cultivate a positive mindset, we transform our lives and influence and uplift those around us. Our mindset then becomes a powerful tool to help us navigate through difficulties, overcome obstacles,

and create a ripple effect of positivity that can inspire and empower others. This will also open ourselves to a world of possibilities and opportunities that were previously hidden. In relationships, a positive attitude can work wonders in fostering deeper connections and nurturing healthier dynamics because it enables us to create an atmosphere of love and support. By influencing us to approach interactions with kindness, empathy, and a genuine desire to uplift others, positivity can dissolve conflicts, build trust, and strengthen the bonds that tie us together.

It allows us to see the best in others and to cultivate meaningful connections based on understanding and mutual respect.

When it comes to our health, the transformative effects of an optimistic mindset are astounding. Scientific studies have shown that positive thinking has been linked to lower stress levels, reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, enhanced immune function, and improved overall longevity. Through adopting a positive attitude, we can take charge of our health, making conscious choices that promote wellness and vitality.

I personally experienced the transformative power of positivity when lost my voice for nine months due to a surgery-related injury. Despite the unsuccessful attempts by top doctors and specialists to restore my voice, I refused to accept their opinions that would likely never speak again. Deciding to take matters into my own hands, I reinforced the strength and clarity of my voice through consistent daily affirmations and visualizations. intentionally surrounded myself with a supportive network of individuals and embraced holistic practices, firmly believing in the inherent capacity of my body to heal itself given the right conditions.

Over time, my voice gradually returned, defying all expectations. This experience taught me the profound influence our thoughts and beliefs have on physical well-being, exemplifying how positivity can shape our reality and help us overcome challenges.

Even scientific research supports the link between positive thinking and improved health outcomes. As we cultivate a positive mindset, we attract positive experiences, enhance problem-solving skills, and inspire others. One study by the University of Pennsylvania found that individuals with a positive mindset were more likely to experience lower levels of stress, improved physical health, and enhanced overall well-being. The research suggests that a positive attitude can boost the immune system, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote longevity.

Other studies have shown that an optimistic mindset can lead to increased resilience in adversity. Research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology demonstrated that individuals with an optimistic outlook were more adept at bouncing back from setbacks and were better equipped to overcome obstacles.

This resilience stems from the belief that challenges are temporary and can be overcome, fueling a proactive approach to problem-solving and a greater sense of personal efficacy.

These examples illustrate the incredible power of positivity to transform every aspect of our lives, enabling us to create a ripple effect of positive change that touches us and those around us.

The transformation begins within, as we consciously shift our thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes. With each step, we cultivate a brighter and more empowering reality, shaping a life infused with happiness, resilience, and boundless possibilities.

About the author:

Renee Dutton, known as The Positivity Maker, is an internationally acclaimed bestselling author and advocate for spreading the power of positivity. With a background in Broadcast Journalism and a deep passion for uplifting others, she uses her books, social media presence, and inspirational articles to empower individuals and help them unleash their true potential as they seek personal growth and self-improvement.

In her upcoming book, “The Sunshine

Effect: How To Light Up Your Life” releasing in the Fall, you’ll discover the science behind the power of positivity and how it enhances mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. You’ll explore practical techniques for cultivating a positive mindset, such as gratitude, positive self-talk, and visualization, and delve into how positivity propels you towards achieving goals, fostering meaningful relationships, and building resilience in the face of challenges.

Whether as leaders, influencers, or individuals, embodying kindness, optimism, and a can-do attitude becomes a beacon of hope, igniting inspiration and transforming the world around us. These qualities hold immense potential to significantly impact a broader scale, spreading positivity and fostering a more harmonious and optimistic world. By embracing and embodying these qualities, we become catalysts of change, uplifting others, shaping a better future, and creating a ripple effect of positivity that reverberates far beyond our immediate sphere of influence.

In my life, have witnessed significant shifts in my overall well-being, success, and relationships by adopting a positive mindset. For example, when faced with challenges, I reframe them as opportunities for growth and learning, which allows me to approach difficulties with a solutionoriented mindset. Doing so eventually results in creative problem-solving and a greater sense of accomplishment. Let us harness the power of positivity, nurture it through daily practices, and watch our lives unfold with newfound joy, purpose, and fulfillment. Remember, when we embrace positivity, we transform ourselves and have the potential to create a ripple effect of positivity that spreads far and wide, making the world a brighter place for all.

Cracking The Stress Code: Discovering The Essence Within

Stress has become the norm in our fast-paced society, and nearly everyone experiences it to some degree. According to The American Institute of Stress Statistics, over 70% of people experience stress that negatively affects their physical and mental health.

Stress is commonly viewed as something negative to be avoided at all costs, which aligns with the World Health Organization’s definition of stress as “a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation.” However, the WHO also recognizes stress as “a natural human response that prompts us to address challenges and threats in our lives.”

What if the stress was merely a messenger calling our attention to what needs to be rebalanced for a better future?

Les Brown often mentions: “What you tune in to, you turn into,” - so are you tuning to the negative aspects of stress?

If so, your only solution may seem to be avoiding stress altogether.

What if the stress was neither inherently good nor bad? What if it was simply a signal? How would you choose to interpret it and respond to this signal?

Personally, would want to understand what it is signaling and how it can benefit me, as value personal growth and learning.

So what is stress signaling? Stress is

based on our desires, expectations, and moral values. Challenges and obstacles only exist because we have desires, expectations, and moral values, so knowing these is essential to cracking the code to stress.

Let me provide an example. If you desire a productive workforce because you value effective work, you will see an ineffective workforce as an obstacle and be challenged by it. You may experience stress, as well as negative emotions and thoughts toward your staff.

On the other hand, another person who doesn’t share the same values or is less attached to their desires and values may view an unproductive task force as an opportunity for improvement. They may feel hopeful instead. This demonstrates how our attachment to desires, values, and expectations determines whether something becomes stressful in the negative sense of the word.

Therefore, wouldn’t the first step towards changing the impact of stress on us be to understand ourselves, including our desires, values, and expectations?

And wouldn’t the second step involve developing a mindset to effectively handle situations that contradict our desires, values, and expectations?

Knowing who you are and having strategies to rebalance yourself when

How To Cope With The Challenges And Uncertainties Of The Post-Pandemic World

myself felt overwhelmed when the pandemic hit, and it felt like the rug had been pulled out from under my life. Everything changed quickly, and suddenly, we found ourselves living in a strange new reality. Unable to follow my usual daily routine, turned to deep meditative practices to find a sense of calm in the chaos.

Meditation Meditation can be a form of prayer, a time to reflect on gratitude, or a time of awareness. It allows you to feel, and it does not have to be about clearing your mind, sitting in a specific posture, or chanting a specific mantra, because you can meditate

faced with situations that don’t align with your values and expectations are crucial to building muscle for adversity and living a prosperous life. If you are struggling to identify your desires, values, or expectations, here are some questions to help you get started:

1. What are you so quick to give to others?

When are you there for others? For example, if you answer: “I give my help” or “I am there in a difficult situation,” you can infer that you value giving support. Now ask yourself, do I value receiving support too? If the answer is yes, then you value support in general.

If the answer is no, then something else that you value interferes with valuing receiving support. For example, you might not value receiving support if you value independence. Can you determine your value system this way?

2. What activities do you enjoy and why?

For example, you might enjoy watching movies because of the emotions they evoke in you. This suggests that you value experiencing emotions.

Now that you have identified some of your desires, values, and expectations, let’s focus on building an inner ability to deal with situations that don’t align with them. There is a mindset shortcut for this, but it only works if you believe it.

The shortcut is to believe that everything coming your way will help you in the future. Can you reflect on your life and recognize that your experiences led to subsequent ones? Can you now see that everything, positive or negative, contributes to your future?

Based on this, do you believe everything coming your way can help you in the future? If your answer is yes, you can ask yourself a simple question:

“What can this bring me?” This question can be applied to any situation, whether it aligns with your desires, values, and expectations. By asking this question, you open yourself up to new possibilities and insights, allowing each experience to guide you toward your goals, refine your values, or even reveal that certain desires are no longer necessary.

When you understand yourself— your desires, values, and expectations— and cultivate a mindset that embraces the opposite of those desires, values, and expectations, you can build the inner resilience needed to navigate situations that challenge you. This process begins with self-awareness and extends to developing strategies for rebalancing yourself when faced with circumstances that don’t align with your values and expectations.

It is crucial to recognize that stress, in itself, is not inherently good or bad. It is our perception and interpretation of stress, based on what we desire, expect, and value, that shapes its impact on our lives. Stress can serve as a valuable messenger, guiding us toward areas that need attention and offering opportunities for personal growth and learning.

Ultimately, building resilience and living a prosperous life involves

figuratively "go inside," causing many people to become reflective.

acknowledging our desires, values, and expectations and being open to the lessons and growth that can arise from challenging situations. By adopting a mindset that views every experience as a potential stepping stone to our future, we empower ourselves to harness the power of stress and use it as a tool for personal transformation.

So, the next time stress manifests, pause and reflect on what it might be signaling. Approach it with curiosity and the belief that it can lead you closer to your core values. As you begin to understand yourself and learn to embrace the opportunities within stress, you can build the inner strength necessary to thrive in adversity and create a fulfilling and prosperous life.

About the author:

Dr. Yasmine Saad is a highly acclaimed NYC psychologist, two-time international best-selling author, and peak performance coach who has been recognized by Forbes alongside Tony Robbins for her exceptional impact on empowering leaders. Known as “The Wise Psychologist,” Dr. Saad has developed the transformative Inner Message Approach™, enabling individuals to decode their thoughts and emotions, break free from negative patterns, and embrace their true potential.

As the founder of Madison Park Psychological Services, Dr. Saad leads an acclaimed practice dedicated to providing tailored psychological services and assessments. She has trained a team of the top 5% of psychologists nationally, ensuring exceptional care for multicultural clients. With her expertise in decoding thoughts and emotions, Dr. Saad has been invited to speak on prestigious national and international stages, sharing insights with leaders in self-development, including Deepak Chopra, Les Brown, Dennis Waitley, Brian Tracy, Bob Proctor, and many others. Her profound impact and innovative approach have been featured in over 100 media outlets, including ABC, CBS, NBC, BBC, Fox, USA Today, New York Post, Newsweek, Huffington Post, and Forbes, solidifying her reputation as a leading authority in psychology and personal development.

—Steve Jobs (quoted by Oprah Winfrey)

Restore Your Personal Leadership Power In A Narcissistic Relationship

Google the word “narcissism”, and you will get many definitions, including those from the American Psychiatric Association and the National Institute of Health. These brief descriptions, however, printed with tiny text in 2D black and white, pale in comparison to the life-sized full-color 3D with surround sound version that many have to deal with in their lives on a regular basis.

Facing a narcissist is similar to being in the front lines of increasingly intense battles. A narcissist, who overtly rages over or covertly lures you to leave your sense of self-competence and confidence, would often manipulate you into believing their downgraded perception of you. In extreme cases, you are left as a shadow of yourself, no matter how hearty in mind, heart, and soul you tell yourself you are.

Now, every day with a narcissist is not this dramatic. But if you are with one, you wake up every day wondering whether it will be. am talking about unhealthy narcissism here the kind that negatively affects one’s functioning in society.

My sessions with them have shaped their healing and journey to create contented relationships with ease of expression. Recovery from narcissistic relationships is not like taking an antibiotic for five days. It’s ongoing, with greater success over time and with help from supportive loved ones and experts.

Having A Narcissist Partner

When you are romantically partnered with a narc, the start of your relationship may have been a whirlwind of near perfection, so you think it MUST be the real thing, meant to be. Later on, you may find yourself feeling lonelier than when your coupling began, and you would wish to return to your “early days” together to recapture those moments you’d felt so seen and understood.

In stark contrast, your partner now makes decisions that affect both of you without your input, devalues you, and “forgets” about promises they’ve made you that they’ve never fulfilled.

Narcissist At Work

for your children, or in your work, leading projects worth millions of dollars - and realize how much this shift alone can cost you.

What, Then, Can We Do About Narcissism?

Dr. Ramani provides the premise for our next steps: “If you’re never going to be enough [as per the narcissist], one thing you need to do is stop exhausting yourself to try to be so. Every human being in the world comes into this world more than enough and exits this world more than enough.”

Our first step toward nipping narcissism in the bud is to recognize it. The good news is that awareness about narcissism has been widening globally, accompanied by a growing vocabulary to address narcissistic mannerisms. By arming yourself with the language of narcissism, you can:

1. See whether you are dealing with a narcissistic person.

2. Effectively communicate your situation to those you subsequently go to for help.

in any way that feels comfortable to you.

My favorite meditative practice is to "shine" the light of my awareness within, basking in the warmth of my consciousness. This feel-good practice can be done in as little as five minutes, or you can bask in the light of your awareness for as long as you desire. Whether you prefer guided meditation journeys or to sit in the quiet practice of self-awareness, meditation done as a daily practice can be very centering.

Finding Purpose

The pandemic and lockdown revealed the need to literally and

For many, these inner reflections prompted a need for significant life changes, such as the "Great Resignation" that began then and continues until today - people wanted to find meaning in their lives; they weren't satisfied with their work environment, industry, or work-life balance. In mass numbers, they left their jobs in search of something more.

Finding purpose in my work became incredibly important after losing my home to a Northern California wildfire. worked for the government and, as such, was an official “emergency worker.” felt I had to show up at work even when my personal life was chaotic. Over time, realized I was not happy shuffling papers and doing “make work.”

When I felt was wasting my time at work, it seemed my responsibilities outside of work should take precedence.

If forced to be at work, would ensure my

time was purposeful, and updated all the employee safety manuals to be aligned with current rules and regulations. This work had a purpose, which was to bring our organization into full compliance with state regulations.

Choosing To Be In The Present Moment Life does not come with a road map, and when we are embroiled in circumstances, it is easy to get caught up in the worries and fears of the future.

However, choosing to be in the present moment can ease your worries.

This mindfulness practice focuses your attention on everything present at that moment, like the feel of the air touching your skin, the sounds around you, and the sense of your body in the chair. Once you become self-aware and present in the moment, you can ask yourself, is the thing you are worried about happening right now? Being mindful is a practice that eases anxiety and helps you appreciate the world around you.

One very effective practice to focus your attention on the present moment is through breathwork: concentrating on your breath and noticing the airflow as it enters and leaves your body brings selfawareness and presence. In addition, specific breathwork breathing patterns can be used to calm your nervous systems, such as 4-7-8 breathing (breathe in for the

count of four; hold for the count of seven, breathe out for the count of eight) or box breathing (breathe in for the count of four; hold for the count of four; breathe out for the count of four; hold for the count of four). When you focus on your breath, you are in the now-present moment.

Surrender To What Is

It's natural to want to have everything figured out and oversee your life, but there are limits to what you can control. Your resistance to the circumstances of your life is the fuel for your unhappiness. When you resist, you expend energy pushing against the events of your life. What if you accept your current circumstances and ask yourself, “What action steps can take to shift the energy?"

Instead of wasting your energy on resistance, you focus on positive action. When you let go of the need to control everything and trust that there is a plan for you, whether from God or the universe, you can let go and allow life to unfold as it's meant to.

It's easy to feel isolated and alone when practicing social distancing and staying at home. Yet we are all part of the same divine energy; through that understanding, we can find comfort in knowing we're not alone. During the pandemic, wrote a blog post called "We are all connected."

I wrote about the energy inside our cells and the electrons in our atoms orbiting the nucleus. Our bodies are made of cells; our cells are made of molecules, and our molecules are made of atoms. We are energetic beings, and energy knows no bounds. Embrace this concept and feel how unlimited you are. The practices and techniques offered here can help you cope with your mental health and the financial and political concerns that have surfaced during these challenging times. invite you to implement these practices into your daily life and see how they can positively impact your well-being. While you may not be able to control everything in life, you can choose how you respond to it.

Rebecca Zung, recognized as one of the top 1% of attorneys in the U.S and an expert negotiator with narcissists (“narcs”), synopsizes narcs more succinctly: “The narcissist devours people, consumes their output, and casts the empty, writhing shells aside.”

One thing Rebecca Zung and have in common is we not only help clients in narcissistic relationships in our unique ways, but we’ve also experienced toxic narcissism up close and personal. And while medical research has not yet revealed exactly what factors cause narcissism, we do know that narcissists cannot sustain a consistent positive self-image, so they overly rely on others to confirm their worth.

The Impact Of Narcissism

Cleveland Clinic cites expert quotes of up to a 5% prevalence of unhealthy narcissism, labeled as Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) among medical professionals. But when you factor in all the family, friends, and coworkers that those 5% relate with, the prevalence of people experiencing the effects of NPD climbs substantially.

A Narcissist At Home Confucius posited, “To put the world in order, we must first put the nation in order; to put the nation in order, we must first put the family in order...”

This is very challenging to achieve when a family is run by a narcissist. Not just stranger danger is etched into an innocent’s heart at an early age when one’s parents or siblings are narcissistic.

Many of my clients raised by narcissists have shared their experiences:

• How they were denied emotional expressions like anger or hurt over selfcentered parental treatment;

• How early in life they learned that parental love is conditional; and

• How they’d work overtime to please or appease their parents.

Whatever “misbehavioral” tools a narcissist decides to pull out from the toolbox at home can also be used in modified form to control people at the office, as the narc exploits others at work for personal gain.

Imagine how many adults in this country alone are still living through the effects of having been raised by or with narcissists. Now mentally double their potential magnitude: whether one experiences narcissism in the biological family, work family, or both, the results can be destructive.

When a narcissist wends their way into a leadership position at work, their acting without integrity creates communication breakdowns, trust issues, and many other problems.

In a research paper published in September 2021, Jennifer Chatman, the Paul J. Cortese Distinguished Professor of Management at UC Berkeley and the study’s lead author noted, “Narcissistic leaders affect the core elements of organizations and their impact on society….Companies organize because they can do something together that no individual can accomplish alone. When narcissistic leaders undermine collaboration, they, by definition, reduce the effectiveness of an organization.”

Physiological Effects Of Dealing

With A Narcissist Repeatedly being narcissistically manipulated is stressful. This puts us on edge, reducing our focus and concentration on problem-solving and decision-making.

When we’re more stressed, even simple decisions may seem complicated, and the quality of our decisions may suffer. And as we take more time to deliberate, we take longer to decide. At the end of the day, we’ve made fewer decisions, and the quality of those decisions can be compromised.

You can see how relating to a narcissist over time can considerably downshift your mindset, self-concept, and performance. Visualize yourself with your family, caring

3. Use available resources to develop a social support network and better understand your narcissist. These might include nonprofit organizations, spiritual centers, and support groups.

4. Find experienced narcissism professionals to help you more efficiently and effectively strategize and navigate toward your intended mental, emotional, and spiritual health goals. Forbes council member Erin Urban has said, “relationships established with more experienced professionals usually allow mentees access to additional knowledge depth. These types of partnerships can be transformational.”

Prada’s Narcissistic Relationship Story: A Story Of Possibility    Raised by narcissistic parents, Prada is a private client of mine. She started seeing me when she was in a covert narcissistic relationship with someone who continually shifted expectations, did not hold himself accountable for misdeeds, and did not express empathy for Prada. He demeaned her, first in private and then later occasionally among others. During our time working together, Prada realized he was different from how he originally advertised himself. Nor was she the failing partner, often letting him down as he’d painted Prada to be.

Prada grew to discern his manipulative ways as she discussed relationship scenarios with me. She started successfully predicting his behaviors and memorized his deeper motives, and learned fruitful ways to respond to his narcissistic acts to help preserve her peace of mind. She picked up new protocols to process her feelings for improved emotional hygiene, and most importantly, Prada awakened to her ever-present power of choice. Over our subsequent sessions, she gradually strengthened her mindset and resolve enough to leave him permanently.

Prada adopted new coping skills and healthier ways to handle her transition through my mentoring sessions with her.

She also took an irresistible offer for a much higher-paying corporate job, but her new boss turned out to be a raging narcissist as well. Since Prada is quite capable and compassionate, he pushed her harder than the others. In her second narcissistic relationship round, she was more empowered. Prada strategized to cover her financial needs and enrolled in further education with the ultimate plan of starting her own business. She is undaunted in doing what it takes to reach her vocational goal, has not rebounded romantically with anyone, and acknowledges her achievements with pride, knowing she’s worthy of getting whatever she wants in life for herself.

Reducing Narcissistic Influence

And Effect

If you ever find yourself partnered up personally or professionally with a narcissist, I’d love for you to surround yourself with healthy, trustworthy support, advocacy, and guidance, reclaim your power, and move successfully toward all of life’s blessings waiting for you!

Have any questions about narcissism arisen for you? Check out my website Https://yveruiz.com/yve for more resources that can help you in your journey. Confucius’ insight feels especially relevant today: “...to put the family in order, we must first cultivate our personal life; we must first set our hearts right.”

About the Author: Dr. Yve Ruiz earned her medical doctorate at UCLA School of Medicine, completing residencies in both family medicine and psychiatry. She is the creator of narcissism, leadership, and Ultimate Confidence Mastery programs, inspiring and motivating women to own their power for decades. In a program funded by the Jim Casey Initiative, Yve has mentored prior sex slaves from Honduras even while their traffickers were put on trial. This year at the renowned national Conscious Life Expo promoting a socially conscious and sustainable lifestyle in LA, Yve was invited to run their first-ever

workshop on the topic of narcissism, with standing room only, called Banishing Your Energy Vampires. She has guested on inspirational podcasts and other online shows, including Manny Lopez’ From Orphan to CEO, The Healing Heart Podcast, The Mentors Studio, ParentPumpRadio. com, Damian Bertrand’s Tuesday afternoon LATalkRadio.com show.

Most recently, Yve is a co-author in rising star LA Tribune CEO Moe Rock’s book “The Moral Compass: 28 Principles for Integrity-Driven Leadership.”

shared the stage with Les Brown, Dr. John DeMartini, Bernardo Moya, Michael Beckwith, Joe Vitale, Alison Larsen, Moe Rock, David Fagan, and many others. Angela has done everything from speaking to C-suite level entrepreneurs about emotional intelligence to creating engaging children’s videos. When she isn’t writing children’s stories, she can be found hiking in the beautiful wilderness of Taos, New Mexico.

Beginning your health and wellness journey can be daunting. With so many different ways to lose weight, build muscle, and develop healthy habits, it can be challenging to know where to start.

You might ask yourself, “What workouts should do?” or “What foods should eat?” And let’s face it, we all want quick results like those Instagram fitness models who promise a perfect physique in just four weeks. But the truth is, it doesn’t work that way. Great things take time, and building a solid foundation is crucial to achieving long-term success.

As John Heywood once said, “Rome wasn’t built in a day, but they were laying bricks every hour.” And that’s precisely what you must do - lay a brick on every aspect of your life that you want to change, then build that solid foundation. Fitness is more than just the bodily physique; it’s discipline, strength, confidence, and wholeness with your overall well-being. A healthy, nutritious lifestyle gives your body energy and strength and aids in achieving the mental and physical results you want.

This is why created the Fit Female Society a community of women empowerment that aims to enable women to live their best lives by helping them achieve their health and fitness goals.

work closely with our clients to develop personalized plans while considering their goals, lifestyle, and preferences.

Through coaching and support, the Fit Female Society helps women build confidence, improve their physical and mental health, and create lasting lifestyle changes. Whether you want to lose weight, build muscle, have more self-confidence, and develop healthy life habits, this is the women empowerment community for you! Here are five things to know when starting your health and wellness journey.

1. Know your desired goal, then come up with a plan. You can only reach that success if you know what you’re aiming for. A few examples of realistic goals: I want to lose 20lbs., I want to have a positive mindset, or want to cut out soda from my diet. You get the gist of it. Now, come up with a plan of action to get there.

2. Find a professional if you need help figuring out the goals yourself and need some extra guidance.

3. Get ready to be consistent at working towards your desired goals. It won’t be easy, but it’s possible if you want to make the change and become a better version of

yourself. Remember, in order to become different, you must do different things. You won’t become different or greater by doing the same old things you already do.

4. Have strong self-belief. Not everyone will be supportive of you, and that’s okay. Hang on to the people in your life that positively influence and support you, but your greatest fan and cheerleader should be yourself. Believe in yourself even if others don’t see your vision.

5. This is the big one: NEVER GIVE UP! Keep in mind that great things take time. Sometimes, we want to give up when we don’t get those results right away, but there will always be something to celebrate, and that’s YOUR PROGRESS. Focus on PROGRESS over perfection. Take it one day at a time, and eventually, you’ll achieve your goals.

May this article empower you to become your best self, be patient, and never give up. Follow the Fit Female Society on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for more helpful tips on fitness, nutrition, and wellness to help you with your lifelong journey of personal development.

About the author:

Valaery Rose Hernandez is a mother, educator, transformational life coach and entrepreneur who enjoys positively impacting the world around her through teachings of fitness, nutrition, wellness, empowerment and personal development, which ultimately inspires life long change in those who seek it.

“The only way to do great work is to love what you do.”

Trailblazing Women: Nine Icons, Pioneers, and Catalysts of Change

TRAILBLAZING WOMEN, FROM PAGE A1

PRINCESS DIANA

Breaking Boundaries, Inspiring Millions

Often dubbed the “People’s Princess,” Diana continues to be a source of inspiration nearly three decades after her untimely death. Known for her courage, compassion, and willingness to defy conventions, she became a world changer in her own right, redefining what it meant to be a member of the British royal family.

At 21 years old, her marriage to Prince Charles in 1981 made her an icon almost overnight. However, it was her ability to connect with ordinary people, her empathy, and her genuine kindness that made her a beloved figure worldwide.

Perhaps the most significant example of Diana’s impact is her work in destigmatizing HIV/AIDS. At a time when the world was gripped by fear and misunderstanding about the disease, she was photographed shaking hands with an HIV-positive man without gloves, challenging the prevailing beliefs about the illness. This simple compassion humanized those affected by the disease, encouraging dialogue, understanding, and support for those living with HIV/AIDS.

Princess Diana was also known for supporting countless charities and causes, using her platform to draw attention to issues often overlooked by mainstream media, such as the devastating effects of landmines. Her walk through an active minefield in Angola was a turning point in the global campaign against landmines, leading to an international treaty against their use.

Moreover, Princess Diana was celebrated for her unique approach to motherhood within the royal family. She broke tradition, insisting on being a hands-on parent to her two sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, which revolutionized royal parenting norms. Her life and work remind all women of their ability to inspire new thoughts, challenge norms, and bring about positive change.

Inspired by Princess Diana’s journey, every woman can recognize that they, too, have the power to blaze trails, create waves, and change the world in their own way.

Through her compassion and empathy for those in need, Princess Diana serves as a model for all women, and highlights how women can initiate positive change when they understand other people’s circumstances, regardless of their diverse experiences. She also fearlessly expressed herself, even when it meant challenging societal norms and going against established conventions, thus encouraging women to embrace their uniqueness and utilize their distinct perspectives to bring about transformative outcomes.

Additionally, Princess Diana’s dedication to humanitarian work shows that every woman can utilize her influence to bring attention to causes that hold significance. And her openness about her struggles, including her battles with mental health, set an important precedent for both public figures and ordinary individuals, inspiring women to embrace their vulnerabilities and reminding them that seeking help is acceptable and necessary.

JACQUELINE KENNEDY

A Legacy Of Elegance, Strength, And Cultural Transformation

Very few first ladies have captured the world’s imagination as Jacqueline “Jackie” Kennedy did. Known for her elegance, grace, and resilience, Jackie left an indelible mark on American culture and the perception of women’s roles in society.

Born in 1929, Jackie Kennedy was thrust into the global spotlight when her husband, John F. Kennedy, became the 35th President of the United States. However, she was far more than just a political spouse, using her position to bring about a cultural revolution that resonates until now.

Jackie’s most significant impact was her effort to preserve American cultural heritage. She believed in the importance of history and aesthetics, leading a restoration of the White House to represent the rich tapestry of American history. This initiative did not just restore antiques – it fostered a sense of national pride and cultural identity as well.

Internationally, Jackie Kennedy was instrumental in shaping America’s image abroad. Her linguistic abilities and cultural knowledge made her an effective ambassador for American diplomacy, and her state visits, such as to France and India, significantly improved relations with these nations. She demonstrated the importance of cultural diplomacy, proving that soft power could be just as influential as hard power in international relations.On top of all these, Jackie also faced personal tragedies, including her husband’s assassination, with unfathomable grace and dignity.

Today, Jackie’s legacy inspires and influences women worldwide, reminding us of the power of poise, determination, and cultural appreciation. One of her famous quotes, “I am a woman above everything else,” is proof of her steadfast devotion to her roles, inspiring women worldwide to give their all in every endeavor.

Jackie’s role as First Lady forever redefined the position, turning it into a platform for advocacy, diplomacy, and cultural transformation. At the same time, her dedication to preserving cultural heritage underscores the importance of understanding and appreciating one’s history, highlighting how this can be a powerful tool for change as it bridges divides and fosters unity.

As an international cultural ambassador, Jackie’s ability to leverage her cultural knowledge for diplomacy encourages women everywhere to learn about different cultures and use that knowledge to promote understanding, peace, and unity. Additionally, her ability to maintain composure under the most heart-wrenching circumstances resonated with millions and forever etched her name as a symbol of resilience and strength.

KIM KARDASHIAN

The Intriguing Balance Of Authenticity, Curation, And Leadership

“No country can ever truly flourish if it stifles the potential of its women and deprives itself of the contributions of half its citizens,” - Michelle Obama.

A prominent figure in popular culture, Kim Kardashian has captivated audiences and reshaped the modern definition of influence, empowering them to embrace their individuality, break boundaries, and redefine success on their terms. She exemplifies a new breed of leader: one who manages the delicate interplay between vulnerability and self-curation because she understands the power of genuine connection and resonating with others.

While society grapples with the complexities of leadership in an age where personal branding and authenticity intertwine, Kardashian serves as a unique role model. Her abstract allure sparks contemplation on the nature of fame and ignites a dialogue on effective leadership in a digital era.

For one, her quick navigation of the fine line between realism and the demands of maintaining her iconic status demonstrates the importance of effectively managing public perception while staying true to oneself. She adeptly balances the expectations of her audience, the evolving landscape of popular culture, and her growth as an individual, all while inspiring millions through her endeavors.

MICHELLE OBAMA

A Beacon Of Strength, Uniqueness, And World-Changing Impact

“No country can ever truly flourish if it stifles the potential of its women and deprives itself of the contributions of half its citizens,” - Michelle Obama.

From the South Side of Chicago to the hallowed halls of Harvard and the heart of American power in the White House, Michelle Obama has forged a life marked by resilience, achievement, and heartfelt service to others. She has risen as a beacon of courage, a testament to the strength of individuality, and an inspiring catalyst for change.

Raised in a working-class family, Michelle Obama’s journey to becoming the first African-American First Lady was not without challenges. However, she navigated her path with determination, graduating from Princeton University and Harvard Law School, thereby setting a powerful example for young women of color that success is not determined by one’s background but by ambition and hard work.

Once in the White House, Michelle Obama was far more than a traditional First Lady, tackling pressing societal issues and helping implement several impactful initiatives. Her “Let’s Move!” campaign aimed to solve the childhood obesity epidemic, while her “Reach Higher” initiative worked to inspire students to pursue higher education, and her “Let Girls Learn” program gave girls around the world a chance to receive an education.

Michelle Obama’s personal story also challenged society’s perceptions and beliefs. She spoke openly about her struggles balancing work, motherhood, and her role as First Lady, providing an authentic, relatable example to many working women. Her willingness to share these struggles and how she overcame them served to shatter glass ceilings and dismantle stigmas around women “having it all.”

As a wife, mother, career woman, philanthropist, and thought leader, Michelle Obama’s example provides an empowering roadmap for all women to make their unique mark on the world. She embodies the true spirit of a modern woman: a loving wife, caring mother, accomplished lawyer, and advocate for healthy living and education.

For one, Michelle showed the world that women can wear multiple hats, proving that not only is this possible, but that it is also deeply rewarding. Her journey emphasizes the power of education and hard work as well, showing women that they can strive to better themselves through learning and determination, regardless of their background.

Additionally, Michelle’s initiatives as First Lady underline each woman’s capacity to contribute to societal change, exemplifying the power of women to use their voices in raising awareness, creating change, and inspiring others in issues they are passionate about, whether through advocacy, policy, or direct action. Her candidness in sharing her struggles and triumphs also served as an example of the power of authenticity, encouraging women to embrace their unique journeys, ups and downs, and use their experiences to connect with, inspire, and empower others.

A testament to the power of resilience, balance, authenticity, and aspiration, Michelle continues to inspire women across the globe, reminding them that they, too, can inspire new thoughts, challenge norms, and enact change through their businesses, professional skills, or personal time and positively impact the world around them.

ROSIE THE RIVETER

A Symbol Of Resilience And Empowerment That Revolutionized The Role Of Women

When it comes to inspiring women who have shaped the world, one figure stands out – not for being a real person, but for the powerful symbolism that she stands for. She is Rosie the Riveter, an iconic figure that has become a beacon of strength, resilience, and empowerment for decades, representing the women who defied societal norms and revolutionized perceptions of gender roles.

Conceived during World War II, the character of Rosie the Riveter is portrayed as a strong, determined woman flexing her bicep while clad in a blue work shirt and a red polka-dot bandana. Her prototype was created in 1942 by a Pittsburgh artist named J. Howard Miller and was first featured in a poster by Westinghouse Electric Corporations with the headline “We Can Do It.”

This happened at a time when men were dispatched to the war front, and women were encouraged to fill their roles in factories, shipyards, and munitions plants. Rosie the Riveter served as a call to action and an appeal for women to step into roles traditionally held by men, thereby significantly changing the workforce landscape.

The impact of Rosie the Riveter transcends her historical context as she shattered the existing belief system about women’s capabilities and roles during that period. She showed that women were not merely supporting actors in the world’s affairs but were key contributors, as capable as men and integral to society.

Rosie’s influence sparked a monumental shift in women’s labor force participation. By the end of the war, almost 20 million women were working outside the home, which was a significant increase from pre-war figures. Many of these women occupied roles in sectors that were previously off-limits to them, paving the way for future generations and inspiring women to pursue a wider range of careers.

Although Rosie is not a real person, her story is a testament to the power of courage and determination. She serves as a reminder that women can break barriers and step into roles that society may not initially envision for them, encouraging them to venture into fields typically dominated by men.

The visual of a strong, working woman was a powerful counter-narrative to the traditional depictions of women, highlighting the significance of diverse and empowering representations in the media. Her impact demonstrates women’s critical role in society, reminding us that women are active participants and contributors, not just bystanders in global events. Even today, Rosie continues to empower and inspire, calling on every woman to roll up their sleeves, flex their muscles, and confidently say, “We Can Do It!”

JESSICA ALBA

An Inspirational Trailblazer In Hollywood And Business On And Off Screen

When people think about Jessica Alba, one of the things that immediately come to mind would be her beauty plus her Hollywood stint. Yet her influence extends far beyond the world of entertainment. A successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, and advocate for healthy living, she is a multifaceted woman who is constantly blazing trails and inspiring change.

Jessica began her acting career at a young age, gracing our screens with performances in television shows and movies that showcased her talent. But her role as an actress is just one facet of her identity. Concerned about the potentially harmful ingredients in baby products when she became a mother, she co-founded The Honest Company in 2012, a consumer goods brand committed to creating safe, eco-friendly, and affordable products.

Under her leadership, The Honest Company thrived despite being in a competitive environment, eventually becoming a multimillion-dollar business. But her business venture is about more than just profits, and is instead focused on making a real difference in people’s lives by offering alternatives to mainstream products laden with questionable chemicals. By doing so, Jessica has made waves in the industry, challenging norms, and setting new standards for product transparency and integrity.

Moreover, her commitment to giving back to the community is commendable. The Honest Company donates products, revenues, and labor to nonprofit organizations, underlining Jessica’s belief in corporate social responsibility. This dedication to philanthropy shows her understanding of the role businesses should play in bettering society, an approach that is slowly revolutionizing perceptions of what constitutes business success.

Jessica Alba’s career trajectory offers compelling proof of a woman’s ability to instigate change on multiple fronts. Her roles as an actress, entrepreneur, mother, and philanthropist demonstrate that women don’t have to be confined to a single role or career - they can actually excel in various areas and create lasting change. By embracing a similar multifaceted approach, every woman can harness her unique skills and passions to inspire new thoughts, challenge norms, and effect the change they want to see in society. Her journey exemplifies the power of identifying problems and taking action to solve them, reminding women to evaluate their surroundings critically, address areas that need improvement, and bravely drive change. Moreover, Jessica’s commitment to philanthropy is a powerful example of how women can give back to the community through their businesses, professional skills, or personal time and positively impact the world around them.

DOLLY PARTON

A Melody Of Empowerment And Transformation

Dolly Parton, the Queen of Country, is a celebrated singer-songwriter as well as a beacon of inspiration, blazing a trail for countless women in her decades-long career. Her journey, marked by determination, resilience, and an unwavering spirit, has reverberated far beyond the confines of music, leaving an indelible impact on society.

Starting from her humble beginnings in rural Tennessee as one of twelve children, Dolly Parton’s journey to stardom was paved with obstacles, but her relentless ambition and fierce independence propelled her to global fame. As she famously quoted, “I was not a rags-to-riches story. My family was rich in things that money can’t buy. You know, like love and kindness and understanding.”

Dolly’s influence transcends her musical achievements, as impressive as they are.

She is an unabashed advocate for women’s rights, embodying the essence of female empowerment. Songs like “9 to 5” tackle themes of gender inequality and female empowerment, becoming anthems for working women across the globe. By using her platform to address these issues, Parton has contributed to shifting perceptions and sparking conversations about gender norms.

Editor’s Note

Welcome, dear readers, to a groundbreaking edition of the Los Angeles Tribune’s Quarterly Special Thought Leader Edition highlighting women in leadership. In this special edition, we embark on a journey of discovery, inspiration, and celebration as we honor the extraordinary women who have rewritten the rules, shattered glass ceilings, and left an indelible mark on the world.

Since our inception in 1886, the Los Angeles Tribune has championed progressive voices, ignited important conversations, and pushed boundaries. Today, we take great pride in turning our spotlight towards the women who have fearlessly carved their paths, challenging norms, and changing the course of history.

From the cover article on the Nine Extraordinary Women to the pages that follow, you will discover the stories of women who dared to dream, challenged the status quo, and made a lasting impact.

Another remarkable aspect of Kardashian’s leadership is her ability to transform adversity into triumph, transforming setbacks into stepping stones as she fearlessly confronts challenges in a society that often imposes limitations and standards. This enabled her to build a successful business empire through sheer determination and entrepreneurial acumen, demonstrating that women can achieve remarkable success in any industry with vision, hard work, and determination.

Moreover, Kardashian has advocated for criminal justice reform, leveraging her influence to shed light on unjust cases and promote fairness within the legal system. Through her activism, she has demonstrated that being a leader goes beyond personal success—it involves using one’s platform to effect meaningful change and uplift marginalized voices.

Kim Kardashian’s unwavering belief in the power of individuality, resilience in the face of adversity, and commitment to social causes have redefined success and inspired women from all walks of life to embrace their unique paths. Through her influence and advocacy, she continues to inspire women to acknowledge their power, break through societal constraints, and shape a future where female empowerment knows no bounds.

LADY GAGA

Rewriting Narratives And Inspiring Change

Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, known professionally as Lady Gaga, emerged as a breath of fresh air in music, demolishing conventions with her unique style and genre-bending tunes. She turned pop on its head, introducing theatricality, performance art, and avant-garde fashion elements, shattering the boundaries between mainstream and the alternative.

By defying the cookie-cutter image of what a pop star “should” look like or how they “should” behave, she engendered a broad acceptance of diversity and individuality in popular culture. With anthems like “Born This Way,” she proclaimed the beauty of diversity, asserting that everyone, regardless of their identity or orientation, is born perfect. This message of acceptance and self-love reverberated globally, encouraging millions to embrace their truth with pride.

Lady Gaga has also become a beacon of hope for many marginalized communities, particularly the LGBTQ+ community. She opened up much-needed conversations about equality, discrimination, and acceptance worldwide through her work with the Born This Way Foundation.

The mental health stigma, a significant societal issue, has found a formidable adversary in Lady Gaga as well. Her courageous public discussions about her struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression have made the invisible visible, inviting society to acknowledge, understand, and act on mental health issues. While embodying the belief that vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength, Gaga catalyzed a global shift in how mental health is perceived by using her global platform to raise awareness and push for action.

The Gaga ethos is self-belief and resilience – recognizing that each person can question norms, challenge conventions, and redefine what is considered ‘acceptable’ or ‘normal.’ It is about harnessing the courage to share personal experiences, whether raw or painful, to illuminate the path for others grappling with similar struggles. As Lady Gaga’s story shows, one person’s voice can echo globally, empowering countless others and inciting significant societal shifts.

By embracing and expressing her individuality, she sends a clear message: it’s okay to be different and be you. This creates a ripple effect, inspiring others to follow suit, thereby establishing a culture where uniqueness is cherished rather than suppressed.

Lady Gaga’s compelling narrative is a testament to the power of authenticity, resilience, and compassion to effect meaningful change.

As an artist, an activist, and a global icon, her audacity to challenge norms and advocate for those marginalized and misunderstood showcases an act of courage that is inspiring.

Her passion for activism and philanthropy, seen through her contributions to various social causes and disaster relief efforts, underscores her belief in using her influence for the greater good. It demonstrates her vision of a world where empathy, understanding, and action supersede indifference and inaction.

Moreover, her commitment to education is awe-inspiring. The Imagination Library, an initiative by Parton in 1995, gifts free books to children from birth until they begin school. Through this initiative, Dolly has encouraged literacy and ignited the spark of imagination and learning in millions of children, serving as a testament to her belief in the transformative power of education.

As an entrepreneur, Dolly has broken barriers too. From her theme park, Dollywood, to her production company, she has shown that women can be successful entrepreneurs, challenging gender stereotypes and paving the way for future female leaders.

Dolly Parton has always been more than her music – she is a woman of influence, leaving her mark in entertainment, education, and philanthropy. Her legacy goes beyond her songs, touching the lives of millions and encouraging others to dare to dream big.

Her journey is a symphony of resilience, empowerment, and transformation, while her life proves that every woman, when armed with self-belief, authenticity, and a desire to effect change, can create an impact that resonates far and wide. Inspired by Dolly Parton’s story, every woman can recognize that they, too, have the power to blaze trails, inspire new thoughts, and change the world in their unique way.

“The most powerful weapon on earth is the human soul on fire.”

- Ferdinand Foch (quoted by Susan B. Anthony)

MARGARET THATCHER

Inspiring Change Through Iron Leadership

In a world that has been predominantly patriarchal, few figures have been as transformative and trailblazing as Margaret Thatcher. From her tenure as Britain’s first female prime minister to her profound influence on global politics, Thatcher’s legacy inspires and resonates with women worldwide.

A grocer’s daughter from Grantham, Thatcher climbed through the ranks of a maledominated Conservative party and became Prime Minister. Aside from proving that one’s background does not limit their potential, her journey also sends a clear message to women everywhere that there is no barrier too high or too strong that can’t be broken with the right determination and tenacity.

When she was elected as Britain’s Prime Minister in 1979, she broke a glass ceiling that had held firm for centuries, achieving this feat at a time when the idea of a woman in a high leadership role was still met with significant resistance. And as a woman in a sphere dominated by men, Thatcher did not conform to societal expectations of what a woman “should” be. Instead, she led with an iron fist, earning herself the moniker of the “Iron Lady.”

Thatcher’s leadership style and policies, colloquially known as Thatcherism, profoundly impacted British society, while her unwavering belief in free-market principles and individualism brought significant economic and societal changes.

Whether it was the privatization of state-owned industries or her stand against trade unions, she made decisions that were considered bold and revolutionary during her time.

Even when her policies were met with fierce opposition, she remained unyielding in pursuing what she believed was suitable for the nation. One example was her decisive move to reclaim the Falklands from the Argentine invasion during the Falklands War in 1982 despite opposition from various corners.

Thatcher’s legacy as a world leader illustrates the power of decisive action. From her strong stance during the Falklands War to handling the British economy, she demonstrated the ability to make tough decisions and stand by them, empowering every woman to take decisive action in order to effect positive change in the world.

woman.” - Margaret Thatcher

As we delve into the lives of some of the exceptional women peppered around the pages of this special edition, we invite you to reflect on their journeys and the lessons they impart. Their stories speak of perseverance in the face of adversity, the power of collaboration and compassion, and the unstoppable force of resilience.

In the depths of herstory lies a hidden treasure, an inheritance of feminine power waiting to be unearthed. It is a wealth passed down from the fierce trailblazers and audacious revolutionaries who dared to challenge the constraints of their time. We invite you to immerse yourself in the extraordinary stories, insights and teachings of the trailblazers who have contributed to this edition. Let their words ignite your own passions, fuel your aspirations, and embolden you to break free from the confines of convention.

Together, let us celebrate the indomitable female spirit and the power herstory holds to transform Join the conversation, share the articles, voice your thoughts, engage in the dialogue, and connect with The Los Angeles Tribune community.

On behalf of the Los Angeles Tribune Editorial Team and the visionary behind The Los Angeles Tribune, Moe Rock, whose dedication to women’s empowerment brought this special edition into fruition, we thank you for your support in expanding our cause to uplift, inspire and educate the world.

United, we are breaking barriers and applauding women as they take their stance in leadership. At The Los Angeles Tribune, we stand to create a world where equality knows no bounds, where dreams are nurtured, where women’s voices are amplified, where men’s contributions are honored, and together we fulfill our purpose to make our world a better place.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Ava V. Manuel

Senior Editor, The Los Angeles Tribune

Acknowledgements:

Olivia B. Soria

Lead Content Editor

Maybelle T. Dejasco

Creative Design Manager

Glen Paulo Balagtas

Digital Content Strategist

Rose

Parisa

Strategic Alliances

“If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a

“I’m tough, I’m ambitious, and I know exactly what I want. If that makes me a bitch, okay.”

- Madonna

“The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.”

- Alice Walker

“I am an example of what is possible when girls from the very beginning of their lives are loved and nurtured by people around them. I was surrounded by extraordinary women in my life who taught me about quiet strength and dignity.”

- Michelle Obama

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”

- Eleanor Roosevelt

“We must have perseverance and, above all, confidence in ourselves.”

- Marie Curie

“I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship.” - Louisa May Alcott

What Does Integrity Mean To Me? Mortgage Note

“Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” C.S. Lewis have noticed that integrity usually comes up in a conversation only when it’s being questioned, and it’s getting harder to believe that people always say what they mean and always mean what they say. This gets more complicated as the stakes get bigger because having integrity also gets harder to maintain. Most of us wake up in the morning, hoping to be better than we were the day before, but then life always throws us curveball.

Let me tell you my story.

At the beginning of my career in broadcasting, I was given the opportunity to host a radio show that was broadcast during the afternoon “drive time.” It was an incredible opportunity for me as a brandnew radio show host who needed to build up an audience, and this exciting offer became a test of my values and integrity. was an unknown host in the marketplace, and a lot of sponsorship dollars were riding on this decision. The temptation to accept the offer was strong.

It meant I’d instantly have access to a large audience and would attract more sponsors to the show, securing my time on the air.

However, it also meant that would be in the studio when my children got home from school, and would miss out on family dinners every night of the week.

At the time, all three of my children were still in elementary school, and my twin daughters were about to enter middle school. knew these were impressionable years for them, and the strength of our family depended on our family time together. wanted to be there for them when they got home from school, but I was being asked to put my career before my family, just like many other women in the workplace.

Despite my reservations, found myself considering the offer because it was the big break that had longed for in my career. Yet, my maternal instincts were fighting for my family. realized that accepting the offer would compromise my integrity as a mom and could damage my relationship with my children in the long run, knowing that if I accepted this offer, would send the wrong message to my family and even to my new audience, which could be seen as an endorsement didn’t want to support.

And so, made the difficult decision to turn down the offer. Instead of hosting a show in the afternoon drive time, accepted the mid-morning slot so that could drop off my children at school, head to the studio, and be back home by the time they finished their school day. It wasn’t an easy decision, but it was right for my family.

Because wanted to maintain my integrity and stand firm in my beliefs, I turned down their “drive time” offer and chose to be home with my family.

As it turned out, the heads of the studio came up with a compromise that served us all and offered me an opportunity that wasn’t expecting. had made the tough decision to walk away from the opportunity, and by turning them down, they were given the opportunity to act with integrity, too. They gave me the mid-morning spot and re-played it every afternoon for the next 15 months to give me the audience and sponsor support we needed to stay on the air. That bold move turned into a successful 10-year career in broadcasting for all of us. Eventually, moved into the afternoon drive time post hosting a Christian lifestyle show, talking to moms in the carpool lane. It was a beautiful turn of events where could be there for other moms once my

children were grown. Dr. Wendy Labat, known as The Financial Healer, had a similar experience. When she expanded her business to include insurance and financial services, she purchased the same products she sold to her clients. “To be honest, didn’t buy them from a personal financial planning perspective; wanted to truthfully say I believed in the products enough to sell them and that used them myself.”

A couple of years later, Wendy was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer, and her medical bills totaled almost $1.5 million which her health insurance paid off. Additionally, the other supplemental coverage she purchased provided her with multiple six-figure, taxfree financial boosts that allowed Wendy to focus on her recovery without worrying about money. “Thank God I practiced what I preached,” said Wendy. For both of us, standing in integrity initially felt like a tough pill to swallow. Yet, in the end, the valuable lessons we learned taught us the importance of staying true to our values and principles, even when faced with difficult choices.

Integrity is not just a buzzword or a nice-to-have quality but a fundamental principle that underlies all aspects of our lives. As an author and a public speaker, appreciate the power of integrity in both my personal and professional life.

It’s important for people to trust us, and so it means every day that we say what we mean, and we mean what we say. It is a fundamental principle that governs how we live, work, and interact with others.

Integrity has always helped me succeed in life. It’s a value I look for in others surround myself with.

About the author:

Angel Tuccy is an Award-Winning

Speaker, Radio Host, TV Producer, PR Media Specialist, and 15-time best-selling author.

Her top-selling book “Get Discovered” is a how-to example for creating media exposure in less than 90 days. She shares some of the best ideas she learned from hosting over

2,500 broadcasts and interviewing over

5,000 guests. Her unique approach to media is why her clients call her the Media Matchmaker.

During her 12 years in broadcasting, Angel was awarded “Most Influential Woman of The Year,” “Best Morning Talk Show,” and “Best Talk Show Team.” She’s been featured in multiple magazines, shared stages with top influencers, and hosted three daily talk shows. She and her husband live in Orlando, FL, within an hour of all three of their kids.

The Los Angeles Tribune Book Review Recommended Best Sellers

BY FRED MOSKOWITZ

Is it possible to benefit from investing in real estate without the stress and hassle of owning and managing properties?

I’d love to share a story with you about my friend Helen. She was a long-time landlord for many decades, and always knew her to be savvy investor in her 60s. When she came to me, she told me about one of her rental houses that had recently gotten trashed by the tenants who had recently moved out of the property.

Helen was not looking forward to renovating that property for the third time during her 30+ years long ownership of the house. She was starting to get tired of the life of a landlord, constantly dealing with the three T’s of property ownership –Tenants, Toilets, and Trash. “Life’s too short!” she exclaimed. Helen had reached out to me wanting to learn more about note investing and asked to discuss how it could help her. After several conversations and strategy sessions, Helen renovated the house one last time and then put the property up for sale.

HOW TO MEET YOURSELF: THE WORKBOOK FOR SELF-DISCOVERY by Dr. Nicole Lepera

THE MORAL COMPASS: 28 PRINCIPLES ON INTEGRITY-DEIVEN LEADERSHIP by Moe Rock

Growth, Development, And Scalability: The Transformative Power Of R&D Tax Incentives

Igniting

Excited at the opportunity to turn a new page in her investing journey, Helen took the proceeds from the sale and reinvested them into mortgage notes. After a couple of months, during our following conversation, we looked at her figures, and it turns out she had experienced excellent results. With the shift into mortgage note investing, she had effectively doubled her rate of return and the income from what she had previously been earning when she owned that property.

It reminded me of the powerful concept from Monopoly slowly buying those four greenhouses and trading up to a red hotel. In the end, Helen was extremely happy to receive her passive income each month.

their success and contribute to the larger economic landscape, creating a ripple effect of growth and prosperity. It is a testament to the power of American innovation and the government’s commitment to supporting small businesses.

long ago that they would rather own the debt on a property than be the direct owner.

In mortgage note investing, individual investors can purchase or invest in residential mortgage notes. That’s right, investing and owning notes is a strategy available to just about anyone; it’s not just for banks and institutions.

“Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” - President Barack Obama.

In today’s fast-paced and highly competitive business landscape, companies of all sizes face the perpetual challenge of driving growth, fostering development, and achieving scalability. This is why businesses must continuously seek innovative strategies that provide a distinct competitive edge to thrive in this dynamic environment.

One strategy that potentially revolutionizes industries is harnessing the power of Research and Development (R&D) tax credit incentives. Not only do these incentives fuel innovation, but they also deliver substantial financial benefits that can propel expansion, drive development, and optimize the bottom line. It is a policy that has quietly driven economic growth for the last 40 years, ever since President Reagan, 1981, utilized this method to keep jobs in America and promote “Made in America” products.

The transformative power of R&D tax incentives is not new, but it has been a hush-hush policy for far too long.

Today, however, the time has come to shine a spotlight on this powerful tool that propels innovation and empowers small business owners. It is a way for the government to invest in entrepreneurs and small business owners, weaponizing the economy to make the United States a significant player in the competitive global market.

When we think of innovation, we often think of groundbreaking inventions and scientific breakthroughs. But innovation extends beyond the realm of laboratory experiments. It encompasses the continuous improvement and development of products, processes, and services to stay ahead in the everevolving marketplace. It is about thinking creatively, taking risks, and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Innovation drives progress and economies forward.

By leveraging R&D tax incentives, businesses can unlock the full potential of innovation. These incentives encourage businesses to invest in research and development activities that fuel growth, drive technological advancements, and create a competitive advantage.

For example, a software company developing cutting-edge algorithms to enhance cybersecurity measures can claim R&D tax credits for the time and resources invested in this project.

Similarly, a manufacturing company innovating new machinery and processes to increase efficiency and reduce waste can leverage these incentives to support its R&D efforts.

When empowered to innovate, businesses become drivers of change, shaping industries and revolutionizing markets. These incentives thus catalyze a cycle of innovation, job creation, and economic growth.

To fully harness the power of R&D tax incentives, businesses, in collaboration with professionals specializing in R&D tax incentives, must conduct an R&D tax credit study that goes beyond the surfacelevel examination. It should dive deep into the core of your business, uncovering the qualifying activities and expenses that can unlock substantial financial benefits.

For instance, a biotechnology company researching new drug formulations may need to learn that the wages of scientists and researchers involved in these efforts can be eligible for R&D tax credits. Similarly, the costs of purchasing specialized laboratory equipment and supplies can also qualify. The study ensures that every opportunity to leverage R&D tax incentives is identified, maximizing the potential for growth and development.

As President Barack Obama once said, “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” By embracing R&D tax incentives, businesses position themselves as industry leaders. They drive

One of the fundamental aspects of R&D tax incentives is the documentation and substantiation of your claim. Proper documentation is crucial to establish eligibility and withstand potential scrutiny from tax authorities. An R&D tax credit study ensures that all required documentation is meticulously prepared and organized, meeting the stringent requirements of tax regulations. This includes maintaining project records, technical documentation, time tracking, and other relevant information supporting your claim. By having a well-documented study in place, businesses can confidently defend their eligibility and maximize the benefits of the R&D tax credit.

With the comprehensive knowledge and documentation provided by an R&D tax credit study, businesses can now work closely with their Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) to strategically integrate the credits into their tax planning and compliance processes. By collaborating with their CPA, businesses can accurately calculate and claim the credits, optimizing their overall tax strategy, reducing tax liability, and redirecting cash flow into the business. This collaborative approach enhances the bottom line and positions the business for sustainable growth, development, and scalability.

You must act now to take advantage of this tremendous growth opportunity and unleash the full potential of your business. Reach out to professionals specializing in R&D tax incentives and embark on an R&D tax credit study that complements the expertise of your CPA.

By conducting the study, you equip yourself with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to maximize the benefits of R&D tax credits. Embrace this opportunity to develop and scale your business while redirecting valuable resources into innovation and expansion.

gains. It lays a solid foundation for longterm growth and success. Through thoroughly examining your research and development activities, the study provides valuable insights into areas of innovation and competitive advantage within your business.

This knowledge can inform strategic decision-making, drive product development, and fuel process improvements. By leveraging the expertise gained from the study, companies position themselves as leaders in their industry, setting themselves apart from competitors and attracting new opportunities for growth and partnerships. Now is the time to take action. By seizing this opportunity, you maximize the financial benefits and position your business for a future of innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable success. President Obama once said, “We are the change we have been waiting for.”

It is time to be the change and propel your business to new heights of success.

Embrace this opportunity to unleash the transformative power of R&D tax incentives and become a driving force in the global economy.

We have all heard that it is important to be diversified when it comes to our investments. And as someone who has spent decades working deep in the trenches of the engineering and tech industries, often would see the same mistake being made by many professionals, time and time again.

People are investing in their employer’s 401K retirement plan, and they ‘diversify’ by splitting their contributions among the half dozen or so investment choices available in the plan. The result is a false sense of security because there is no diversification in this case.

The reality is that the investments are 100% invested in stock market products.

And when there is correction, and the stock market takes a tumble, these retirement accounts often take a major hit, and it will take decades to get back to even again. This scenario can be extremely risky for someone who is nearing retirement age.

Investing in mortgage notes can be an excellent strategy for diversification, and firmly believe that it deserves consideration by everyone as part of their investment portfolio. For the investor, mortgage notes are an asset that provides the benefits of downside risk protection along with cash flow and income generation.

What are mortgage notes? If you have ever purchased a piece of real estate, most likely you did so using financing from a bank or lending institution. The lender puts up a portion of the money used to purchase the property, and in exchange, the buyer signs over an interest in the property along with a promissory note to pay back the money at an agreed interest rate and term. The buyer then owns the property, and the lender owns a secured interest in the property along with a monthly payment stream consisting of interest plus loan principle.

When you invest in mortgage notes, you are effectively stepping into the shoes of the bank and becoming the lender. And the powerful shift that you experience is that you transition from being the one making the monthly payments to being the one receiving the monthly payments.

How can individual investors get started in mortgage note investing?

The first way is buying and building a portfolio of mortgage notes. This is an active form of note investing and is an excellent option for an investor who has time, and that wants to roll up their sleeves and become actively involved in operating a business.

The second way is investing passively in a mortgage note fund. A note fund can be a great option for busy individuals that do not have time to focus on the business of note investing themselves. Through note funds, they can invest their capital passively and leverage the fund managers’ expertise, skills, experience, and relationships, which is a perfect way to own an investment and “get paid while you wait”.

Can I invest in mortgage notes using my retirement accounts?

Yes, mortgage note investments can be purchased and held inside retirement accounts. Many investors find this to be a great strategy to leverage that old 401 K and IRA accounts from prior employers.

Top benefits of investing in mortgage notes

Investing in mortgage notes offers many benefits, and here are just a few of the reasons why I feel that this is such a powerful asset class:

•Passive income: Mortgage notes produce consistent and predictable streams of income.

•High rate of returns: Investing in mortgage notes can produce higher rates of returns than other traditional investments such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.

About the Author:

A professional in business and innovation, William Peetoom is a change agent and advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion, specializing in recovering entitled R&D tax incentives, supporting cost reduction, and maximizing profit. He continues to play a significant role in the rollout of the PATH ACT of 2015, which provides tax incentives for companies that focus on research and development for innovation. William Peetoom owns and operates Kaizen Group International, an authorized agent of Business Group Resources (BGR) and a channel marketing company that supports clients as an extension of its internal marketing department. Together with BGR, Kaizen Group International offers a range of services to small business owners, including the Affordacare Champ program,

For someone who wants to get involved in real estate to build wealth and wants to avoid taking on the responsibility or liability associated with owning and managing properties, mortgage note investing can be great option. Banks knew

•Security and protection of capital: Because they are assets backed by real estate, mortgage notes provide security and downside protection.

•Diversification: Mortgage note investing is a great way to diversify beyond traditional investments and can provide a hedge against downside risk in an investment portfolio

Residential mortgage notes exist on properties in every town and city nationwide, like the homes you and live in. This type of investment strategy allows you to invest in Main Street as an alternative to investing in Wall Street. If you want to learn more, check out the book “The Little Green Book Of Note Investing” or visit the website www.fredmoskowitz.com Disclaimer:

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Investing –Get involved in the real estate game without the need to own property or deal with tenant headaches

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