January 2025 - Women Thrive Magazine

January 2025

t

hrive WOMEN

volume 39

Redefining Wealth:

A Holistic Approach to Abundance for Women

ARE YOU READY TO WRITE YOUR PERSONAL BOOK IN 2025?

WOMEN THRIVE:

STORIES THAT SHAPE THE FUTURE FOR WOMEN

https://womenthrive.link/miami

BOOK LAUNCH EVENT FEATURING INSPIRING AUTHORS AND SPEAKERS OF WOMEN THRIVE COMMUNITY

EDITOR'S WELCOME NOTE

thrive WOMEN

MAGAZINE

Editor's Note

W

elcome to 2025 and the January edition of the Women Thrive Magazine. Can you feel the exitement of the year ahead of us?

When I was reflecting on the year we just closed I allowed myself to really celebrate my journey, the lessons and the growth I’ve experienced —what it means to feel truly abundant.

This edition of Women Thrive Magazine is here to inspire you to embrace the theme of Money Freedom and redefine what wealth & abundance truly means. For many of us, wealth often carries a narrow definition, tied solely to financial success. But what if we explored wealth in a broader sense—one that encompasses not just financial abundance but also emotional, spiritual, relational, and experiential richness?

“What if we explored wealth in a broader sense—one that encompasses not just financial abundance?”

Follow us on social media

This month, we dive deep into what it takes to build a freedom lifestyle, create generational wealth, and achieve true abundance.

Through empowering stories, practical advice, and thought-provoking perspectives, we’re here to show you that wealth is more than just a number in your bank account. It’s about designing a life that aligns with your deepest values, nurturing meaningful relationships, and cultivating a mindset that attracts prosperity in all its forms.

In this issue, you’ll discover: Strategies for building financial independence and creating a legacy of generational wealth.

Inspiring stories of women who have achieved holistic abundance by balancing financial goals with emotional and spiritual fulfillment.

Practical tips for developing habits and mindsets that empower you to step into your most abundant year yet.

As you read through this edition, I encourage you to reflect on your relationship with wealth and abundance. What does freedom mean to you? How can you create a life filled with purpose, connection, and prosperity?

With Love,

Raimonda

WomenThriveMedia WomenThriveMedia WomenThriveMedia

Credits

Raimonda Jankunaite / Founder & Editor-in-Chief Tina Kapp-Kailea / Senior Content Editor Lea Mislang / Content Designer

WOMEN THRIVE / 03

CONTENT

content ARTICLES P03 Editor's Welcome Note P04 Table of Contents P06 Speak Loud, Stand Proud: The Power of Being Unapologetically You on Stage P10 The True Meaning of Wealth and Abundance P11 Negotiating in Love: Successful Business Strategies to P13 Women Thrive Summit 2025 P14 Stories From Abundance Mindset Women P16 Women Thrive Advertising Opportunity P17 Money Freedom: Creating Wealth and Abundance on Your Terms P20 Redefining Wealth: A Holistic Approach to Abundance for Women P24 Practical Tips for a Gratitude Mindset From Someone Who Should be Dead P26 I'm a Writer. I Write P29 Women Thrive Co-Authorship P30 Grief, Tragedy, and the Power of Life’s Redefining Moments P33 The Power of Language - Speaking that Resonates with the Soul to Change your Life

ABUNDANCE MINDSET

PUBLIC SPEAKING

The Power of Being Unapologetically You on Stage / P6

“The cost of hiding is greater than the risk of being seen.”

FINANCIAL FREEDOM

The True Meaning of Wealth and Money Freedom: Creating Wealth and Abundance on Your Abundance / P9 Terms / P16 P35 P37 P38 P41 P43 P45 P46 P48 P50 P52 P53 P55

WEALTH

The Power Within: Woman Empowerment in Dani Rosenblad James Today's Society Stories From Abundance Women Thrive Podcast Mindset Women / P13 Beauty From Ashes Where Are You Blocking Your Abundance?

Find Your Voice: How to Overcome Trauma and Step Into Your Power Women Thrive Magazine’s Valentine's Day Special Just Put a Band-Aid Over Your Trauma - NOT! ABUNDANCE How Stress Is Sabotaging Your Relationships and How to Stop It Kate Mayor Black Woman: Keep Your Peace Throughout All Challenges Where Are You Blocking Women Thrive Book Series Your Abundance?

From Gut Instincts to Guts & Glory: Our Mission / P40 to Elevate Women’s Wellbeing with Microbiome Science Women Thrive Speakers Retreat

04 / WOMEN THRIVE

SUBSCRIBE TO

WOMEN THRIVE We hope you will enjoy reading the Women Thrive Magazine.

Every month, we bring you the latest issue of the magazine filled with inspirational stories, practical tips, and unique perspectives of our writers and contributors.

ONLY £9.99 WORLDWIDE SHIPPING

Subscribe to the Women Thrive Magazine in print and receive this beautiful publication in the mail every month filled with inspirational women’s stories and practical tips to help you rise and thrive in business and life.

Empowered Women, Empower Women

www.womenthrivemagazine.com WOMEN THRIVE / 05

PUBLIC SPEAKING

Speak Loud, Stand Proud: The Power of Being Unapologetically You on Stage

by Raimonda Jan

P

ublic speaking is often described as one of the most intimidating experiences a person can face.

But for women striving to make a bigger impact, it’s also one of the most powerful. There’s something transformative about standing in front of an audience and claiming space—not just physically, but emotionally, mentally, and authentically. To speak unapologetically is to embrace your truth, share your story, and connect with others on a deeply human level. It’s not just about what you say; it’s about who you are when you say it.

Why Authenticity Matters More Than Perfection In an era where we’re inundated with polished social media personas and carefully curated sound bites, audiences are craving authenticity. They don’t want to see a perfect performance; they want to feel a genuine connection. They want to see themselves in you—the imperfections, the vulnerability, the strength.

“When you drop the mask of perfection and speak from the heart, you invite your audience to do the same.“ 06 / WOMEN THRIVE

Authenticity on stage isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a must. Research consistently shows that audiences connect more with speakers who show vulnerability and humanity. Why? Because being authentic creates trust. It tells your audience that you’re not just there to deliver a message; you’re there to connect, to relate, and to inspire. When you drop the mask of perfection and speak from the heart, you invite your audience to do the same.

But being authentic isn’t always easy. It requires courage. It means letting go of the fear of judgment, of wanting to be liked by everyone, and instead focusing on being true to yourself. It’s about shifting from “What will they think of me?” to “How can I serve them by being myself?”

The Cost of Hiding For many women, the journey to unapologetic visibility starts with a battle against the societal conditioning that tells us to play small. From an early age, many of us are taught to minimize our voices, to avoid rocking the boat, and to prioritize likability over authenticity. We’re told to be polite, agreeable, and accommodating—traits that can stifle our ability to stand out and speak up.

When we carry these lessons into adulthood, the result is often a reluctance to fully show up. We may shy away from opportunities to speak publicly, fearing judgment or rejection. We may dilute our message, trying to appeal to everyone instead of boldly claiming our truth. Over time, this selfcensorship takes a toll—not just on our careers but on our sense of self-worth.

The cost of hiding is greater than the risk of being seen. When you hold back, you miss opportunities to share your message, connect with others, and make an impact. You deprive the world of your unique perspective, and you deprive yourself of the joy that comes from living fully and authentically.

Public Speaking as a Gateway to Impact There’s no denying the power of public speaking to amplify your message and influence. Whether you’re addressing a packed auditorium, a boardroom, or a virtual audience, speaking is one of the most direct ways to connect with others and inspire change.

For women, public speaking is especially important. It’s not just about sharing your ideas; it’s about claiming your right to be heard in spaces that have historically excluded or minimized women’s voices. When you step onto a stage, you’re not just representing yourself—you’re paving the way for other women to do the same.

The beauty of public speaking lies in its ability to foster connection. A great speech doesn’t just inform; it resonates. It makes people feel seen, understood, and inspired. And the most impactful speeches often come from those who are willing to be vulnerable, to share their stories, and to speak their truth unapologetically.

Overcoming the Fear of Judgment Fear of public speaking is common, but for many women, it’s compounded by the fear of judgment.

“What if I mess up?” “What if they don’t like me?”

“What if I’m not good enough?” These fears can feel paralyzing, but they don’t have to define your experience.

The key to overcoming the fear of judgment is to reframe your perspective. Instead of focusing on how you’ll be perceived, focus on how you can serve. What message do you want to share? What impact do you want to have? When you shift the spotlight from yourself to your audience, your fear starts to shrink.

It’s also helpful to remember that perfection is overrated. Mistakes don’t ruin a speech; they make you relatable. Audiences don’t expect you to be flawless; they expect you to be real. By embracing imperfection, you give yourself permission to show up fully and authentically.

“The cost of hiding is greater than the risk of being seen.”

WOMEN THRIVE / 07

PUBLIC SPEAKING

How to Speak Unapologetically Being unapologetic on stage doesn’t mean being loud for the sake of being heard. It means speaking with intention, authenticity, and conviction. Here are some steps to help you embrace your voice and make an impact: 1. Own Your Story Your story is your superpower. No one else has lived your experiences or sees the world exactly as you do. When you share your story, you create a connection that no amount of data or polished delivery can replicate. Own your journey—the highs, the lows, and everything in between—and trust that your story matters.

2. Know Your Why Authenticity starts with clarity. Why are you speaking? What message do you want to share?

When you’re rooted in your purpose, it’s easier to speak with conviction and confidence. Your “why” becomes your anchor, helping you stay true to yourself even in the face of doubt or criticism.

3. Embrace Vulnerability Vulnerability isn’t weakness; it’s strength. When you’re willing to share your struggles, fears, or failures, you invite your audience to connect with you on a deeper level. Vulnerability is what transforms a good speech into a powerful one.

4. Practice with Purpose Confidence doesn’t come from being perfect; it comes from being prepared. Practice your speech, but don’t memorize it word for word. Focus on the key points you want to convey and trust yourself to deliver them authentically.

5. Connect, Don’t Perform Public speaking isn’t about performing; it’s about connecting. Speak to your audience, not at them.

Make eye contact, share personal anecdotes, and invite interaction. When you focus on connection, your authenticity will shine through.

“Public speaking isn’t about performing; it’s about connecting.”

08 / WOMEN THRIVE

“The world doesn’t need another perfect performance—it needs you.“ The Ripple Effect of Authentic Visibility When you speak unapologetically, the impact goes far beyond the stage. You inspire others to do the same. You show your audience what’s possible when someone fully claims their voice and their space. And you create a ripple effect of authenticity, connection, and empowerment.

For women, this ripple effect is especially powerful. Every time a woman steps onto a stage and speaks her truth, she challenges the status quo. She disrupts the narrative that women should stay quiet, agreeable, or invisible. She creates a new standard for what leadership, visibility, and impact look like.

Speak Loud, Stand Proud Being unapologetically visible is about more than public speaking—it’s about how you show up in every area of your life. It’s about owning your story, embracing your voice, and refusing to let fear or judgment hold you back. Public speaking is just one gateway to this kind of authenticity, but it’s a powerful one.

So, the next time you’re given the opportunity to speak, take it. Stand tall, speak loud, and share your truth. Because the world doesn’t need another perfect performance—it needs you.

Unapologetically, authentically, and boldly you.

Ready to Claim Your Voice and Inspire Change?

Imagine the impact of bringing your voice to the stage and sharing your truth unapologetically. Join us for the “Women Thrive: Stories That Shape the Future” showcase and be part of a transformative experience that celebrates women’s voices, authenticity, and impact.

Raimonda Jan Raimonda Jankunaite is a visibility expert, speaking coach, and mentor, as well as the founder of Women Thrive Media. She is an international speaker and the lead author of the Women Thrive book series. Her mission is to empower women worldwide to step into their power, claim their spotlight, and speak their truth unapologetically. Raimonda specializes in helping women become confident speakers and influential thought leaders in their niche. Her latest signature program equips women with the tools and strategies to become visible, impactful, and unapologetic speakers, inspiring them to share their stories with confidence and purpose. www.raimondajankunaite.com

www.instagram.com/raimondajankunaite WOMEN THRIVE / 09

ABUNDANCE MINDSET

The True Meaning of Wealth and Abundance

by Dr. Shaurice E. Mullins

W

hen we hear the word wealth, it’s easy to let our minds drift toward bank accounts, luxury cars, or lavish vacations. Similarly, abundance often evokes images of overflowing riches or a life free of limits. But what if I told you that wealth and abundance are much more profound? What if their true meaning has less to do with “having it all” and more to do with feeling fulfilled, empowered, and aligned with your purpose?

Over the years, I’ve come to realize that wealth isn’t just about material gains, and abundance isn’t merely about quantity. They are states of mind, reflections of how we view ourselves and the world around us. Today, I want to share my journey of redefining wealth and abundance and invite you to consider how embracing this perspective can empower you to live a truly abundant life.

Wealth is About Values, Not Just Valuables Let’s start with wealth. Yes, financial security is important. It allows us to care for our families, pursue opportunities, and live with dignity. But real wealth isn’t just what’s in your wallet—it’s what’s in your heart, your mind, and your relationships.

When I think about the wealthiest moments in my life, they aren’t tied to paychecks or possessions.

Instead, they’re tied to connection. The laughter of a friend, the wisdom shared by a mentor, or the simple joy of watching a sunrise—these experiences are priceless. They remind me that wealth is about what we value.

I challenge you to ask yourself: What do I truly value? Is it time with loved ones? Personal growth?

The freedom to pursue your passions? When you align your life with your values, you unlock wealth that money simply can’t buy.

10 / WOMEN THRIVE

Abundance is a Mindset, Not a Measure Now, let’s talk about abundance. Our culture often equates abundance with excess—more stuff, more success, more recognition. But here’s the truth: abundance isn’t about how much you have; it’s about how much you appreciate it.

I used to believe that abundance meant working harder, striving for more, and chasing an evermoving target. But the more I achieved, the more restless I felt. It was only when I paused, took a breath, and looked around that I saw abundance everywhere.

Abundance is waking up and realizing you already have enough. It’s seeing opportunity instead of obstacles. It’s gratitude for the small moments— a smile from a stranger, the warmth of the sun (I love sunbathing), or the peace that comes from a quiet walk on the beach.

The beauty of abundance is that it’s not something you find; it’s something you create.

When you shift your mindset from scarcity (“I don’t have enough”) to abundance (“I already have so much”), you open the door to even more blessings.

“Abundance isn’t about how much you accumulate; it’s about how much you appreciate.“

Empowerment Through Redefining Success Redefining wealth and abundance is empowering.

Why? Because it shifts the focus from external validation to internal fulfillment.

For much of my life, I measured success by society’s standards—career milestones, material possessions, and achievements. While these things can be meaningful, I realized they weren’t the ultimate source of my joy. True success, I’ve learned, comes from living authentically, staying true to your purpose, and building a life that reflects your unique values.

Empowerment begins when you stop comparing yourself to others and start defining success on your own terms. Maybe for you, success means having the freedom to spend time with your children.

Maybe it’s using your gifts to serve your community.

Or maybe it’s simply waking up each day with a sense of peace and purpose.

When you define success for yourself, you free yourself from the endless race to “keep up”. You step into a life of abundance—one that’s rich in meaning and fulfillment.

3. Let Go of Scarcity Thinking Scarcity thinking says, “There’s not enough to go around.” Abundance thinking says, “There’s enough for everyone, including me.” Practice believing in the possibilities. Instead of dwelling on limitations, focus on opportunities.

4. Surround Yourself with Positive Energy The people you spend time with have a huge impact on your mindset. Surround yourself with those who uplift and inspire you. Seek out mentors, friends, and communities that encourage a spirit of abundance.

5. Celebrate Small Wins How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.~ Jeff Muir Abundance isn’t just about the big milestones— it’s about the journey. Take time to celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Each step forward is a sign of growth and abundance in action.

Practical Steps to Embrace Wealth and Abundance Talking about redefining wealth and abundance is inspiring, but how do we actually live this out? Here are a few steps that have helped me along the way: 1. Practice Gratitude Daily Gratitude is the gateway to abundance. When you focus on what you have instead of what you lack, you cultivate a mindset of appreciation. Every morning, take a few minutes to list three things you’re grateful for. It doesn’t have to be big— sometimes, it’s as simple as being thankful for a good cup of coffee or a kind word from a friend.

2. Align Your Goals with Your Values Ask yourself: Are the goals I’m pursuing aligned with what I truly value? Have you identified your top values? In my book, The Invincibility Code, I discuss human values, how important they are, and how you should align your goals with your values. If you have not identified your top values, it might be time to reassess. When your goals reflect your values, every step you take feels meaningful.

WOMEN THRIVE / 11

How Redefining Wealth and Abundance Changed My Life For me, redefining wealth and abundance has been transformational. I no longer measure my worth by external markers of success. Instead, I focus on living with gratitude, building meaningful relationships, and staying true to my purpose.

This shift has empowered me in ways I never imagined. I am happier, freer, and more connected to what truly matters. My life isn’t perfect (whose is?), but it feels abundant—because I’ve chosen to see it that way.

And here’s the best part: this mindset is available to all of us. You don’t need to wait for some future moment to feel wealthy or abundant. You can start right now, by appreciating the blessings already in your life.

Living a Life of Empowered Abundance Defining the true meaning of wealth and abundance is a deep personal journey. It’s about looking beyond the surface and asking, “What truly fulfills me?

What do I value? How can I create a life that reflects these truths?”

When you embrace wealth as values and abundance as gratitude, you step into a life of empowerment. You realize that you already have everything you need to start living abundantly. And as you align with this mindset, you’ll find that even more of the things you desire flow your way.

Let me leave you with this thought: Wealth isn’t just about what you have; it’s about who you are.

Abundance isn’t about how much you accumulate; it’s about how much you appreciate.

You are already wealthy. You are already abundant. Now it’s time to own it, live it, and empower yourself to share it with the world.

Are you ready to redefine what wealth and abundance mean for you? Let’s take that journey together.

Dr. Shaurice E. Mullins Dr. Shaurice Mullins, or Dr. M for short, is an international best-selling author, serial entrepreneur, business strategist, change integrator, and empowerment speaker. As a powerhouse in personal development and relentlessly striving toward the finish line in business, she has earned the homage of being called the ‘Blueprint of Invincibility’. She has dedicated her life to the uplifting of others. Her true passion is working with spiritual entrepreneurs and those on a spiritual awakening journey. https://www.instagram.com/shauricemullins/ www.shauricemullins.com

12 / WOMEN THRIVE

WOMEN THRIVE Summit

MARCH 17-21, 2025

RAIMONDA JAN

ABIGAIL REBECCA

AMY SANDERS

COACH CALI

MARCI HOPKINS

CASSANDRA LOVE LAMBERT

DANIELLE SEBASTIAN

BRENDA HUKEL

NATALIE BAIRD-KING

DEVIN SARNO

ELLA RIVKIN

HEATHER HANSON

KATHRYN TRAFF

KARMIN REEVES JENKINS

KATHY BALDWIN

CHARLIE GARNHAM

MICHELLE WATSON

HELENE SU

MONICA J PITEK FUGEDI

KAREN SARMENTO

KAREN STRAUSS

CAROLE LEIGH PODELL

CLODAGH MEIKLEJOHN

THERESA DELORENZO

DAISY LOPEZ

HALEY THOMAS

SAPHA PARDO HECKMAN

JABU MSOMI

MARSHA D. GILL

LAURA NGUYEN

DANETTE HAAG

DANI ROSENBLAD JAMES

GAIL TAGARRO

EMILY CLEGHORN

CAYLEN DHEVIAIN

KUBRA OZGUVENC

KATE MAYOR

LISA ANDREWS

MALI PHONPADITH

MARCY BIALESCHKI

SARU GUPTA

JENNIFER SCHWYTZER

NIKKI HILLHOUSE

REBECCA GOLDSBERRY

PIA AULT

RONJA HUEBSCHER

PAMELA PLICK

STACEY PAIGE

PHYLECIA KELLAR

MEKAYLA HINESWILLIAMS

TAMIKA MURRAY

ALISON HEWITT

GIRISHA ANDREA STEIGLER

ANDREA BYERS

ANNUAL WOMEN EMPOWERMENT EVENT FEATURING 50+ INTERNATIONAL SPEAKERS MARCH 17-21, 2025

www.womenthrivesummit.com

FREE LIVE VIRTUAL EVENT

WEALTH

Stories From Abundance Mindset Women

by Dani Rosenblad James

Abundance Mindset Women - Into the Mind of Dani y mind swirls when I think of an abundance mindset as a woman. At first, I thought it was something physical to buy items and to use to live. But it was when I started going on my own healing journey that I realized wealth isn’t something as such for me. Wealth or abundance is living life, it’s being healthy and being able to do that hike you’ve dreamt of. Or it’s having the time to share with your kids. I’m abundant in my life and what I can do. It’s abundance mindset women that make the world filled with more positivity instead of a lack. Now, something important for me is that I didn’t let my traumatic brain injury 10 years ago stop me from living an abundant life.

M

Wealth and Abundance Intertwined- Jabu Growing up in the Valley of Thousand Hills, a village nestled in the West of Durban in South Africa, my understanding of wealth and abundance was described by families whose male figures owned many cows and hectares of vegetable farms. This was clearly not the case with my woman-headed home, as my grandmother worked tirelessly to ensure that we had a shelter over our head and something to eat everyday.

My understanding of wealth evolved as I grew older and started to travel and experience the lifestyle in the cities and townships where success and wealth was defined by the type of vehicle you drove, the size of your house and the price of your outfit. I was quite amused by this and I worked very hard to achieve this “status”.

“Mom, are we rich”? I recall my daughter asking me one day. This question was a shocker and an eye opener, we were very far from wealth and abundance, we were just conforming to societal standards, another lesson learned.

As I continued to navigate life and its challenges, I later discovered that wealth and abundance came from within, it is the unceasing and unconditional love received from my grandmother, it is the precious moment of finding my purpose in 2016 and it is the self-love and peace that shines through my eyes as I continue to shape the world, helping others succeed and thrive into abundance mindset women!

14 / WOMEN THRIVE

Freedom and the Abundance Mindset - Pia For me, freedom equals wealth and abundance.

To be able to grow up in a safe society with abundant rights and to freely express myself through play, speech, art, and social interactions with other humans who hold and share judgment-free, democratic mindsets.

This to me is wealth and abundance. Freedom is a privilege.

Now, at 61, being an abundance mindset woman means less monetary possessions and more knowledge. It means the ability to give back. Sharing wealth and good fortune with those less fortunate. To keep fighting for the women who aren’t so fortunate to be able to grow up - or thrive - in free societies. To speak up for others who have no voice; who have been silenced by others.

Having a choice is freedom, having a choice is power. The power to choose where you want to live and work. My choice of surroundings is nature; oceans, lakes, forests, and fields.

The Limitless Abundance Calls - Michelle Watson Embracing a wealth and abundance mindset for women is crucial for us as I believe it not only empowers but also cultivates financial independence, self-worth, and resilience. Contrary to popular belief, mindset goes beyond mere monetary gains; it involves a belief in limitless opportunities, prosperity, and success. Therefore, adopting a mindset of wealth and abundance as women eradicates limitations and allows us to embrace our worth, and gives us the confidence to pursue our goals.

Over the years, instilling a wealth and abundance mindset has helped me to remain encouraged and see possibilities where others would have seen obstacles that could have caused me to miss out on opportunities and not live out my fullest potential. Ultimately, fostering a wealth and abundance mindset paves the way for one to manifest their dreams and make a positive impact on the world around them.

Abundance in Seasons with Ronja When I wake up in the morning knowing the day truly belongs to me, that’s when I feel abundance: being able to decide what my day looks like and pursuing work that fulfills me.

Watching the colors change and seasons go by not through a window but in front of and with me, feet planted firmly on the ground, soaking it all in.

I’m consciously creating an abundant life for myself that allows me to be fully present for all of life’s surprises again. I carve out time to make new memories, say ‘no’ to things that don’t serve me, and work towards having enough money so that it doesn’t make the decisions for me anymore. To me, seeing abundance in freedom of time and location is what it means to have an abundance mindset as a woman.

Infinite Power into Abundance- Girisha Andrea In my childhood, wealth was something which was unreachable. It was available for others but even with hard work, I was not worthy of it. But there was always a question inside, ‘who decided that I was not good enough for wealth?’ I remember I was always dreaming. By now I know these dreams gave me strength and persistence not to give up on my dreams.

I have learnt from my inner journey that I can lead my own life and create my wealth no matter what I have seen in my childhood, no matter what people tell me. These were their limitations and I am able to connect with my infinite power to create my own dream life which puts me into an abundance mindset as a woman. Wealth also means to me having trust in my inner guidance which cannot be rewritten with the logical mind.

Dani Rosenblad James The Trailblazers: we are six nonconformists from three continents united by an abundant mindset and a shared passion for transformation. With expertise spanning confidence, emotional awareness, purpose, healing, growth and excellence, we combine our unique perspectives to help others thrive and inspire meaningful change through collaboration and connection. https://misfitwanders.com

https://www.instagram.com/dani_rosenbladjames/

WOMEN THRIVE / 15

ADVERTISE IN THE Women Thrive Magazine Benefits

Visibility is key to growing a successful business and brand. By placing an advert in our magazine you will;

Increase your exposure Enhance your credibility Reach a wider audience Generate leads and sales Showcase your services

thrive WOMEN

MAGAZINE

Contact us now to discuss advertising opportunities for your business contact@womenthrivemedia.com

16 / WOMEN THRIVE

FINANCIAL FREEDOM

Money Freedom: Creating Wealth and Abundance on Your Terms

by Ella Rivkin

WOMEN THRIVE / 17

"Financial freedom isn’t just a dream—it’s a choice."

The Turning Point: Investing in Myself I took a leap of faith. With little money and a lot of fear, I started investing in myself—mentors, programs, and systems that promised to help me turn things around. I was skeptical and scared, wondering, ‘Will this actually work? Can I afford to take this risk?’ But deep down, I knew it was my only option.

The first investment opened my eyes. I learned something that changed my life: wealthy people don’t work harder—they work smarter. They follow systems, make strategic decisions, and surround themselves with the right people. Slowly but surely, I began to build momentum.

I

remember this day like it was yesterday. It was a cold December night, late on a Thursday. I sat at my desk in my shiny new office, with its sleek glass walls and polished floors—the office I had always dreamed of. But as I stared at my computer screen, after paying all my bills, I watched my bank account dip into the negative. I was exhausted, overwhelmed, and stuck. The excitement of building my business had been overshadowed by financial stress.

For 17 years, I’d worked tirelessly to grow my business. I’d missed precious moments with my daughters as they grew up. My health was deteriorating, and my relationships were strained to the breaking point. And yet, despite all my hard work, there was never enough money left at the end of the month. The very business I had built to create freedom for my family had become a trap.

That night, I realized something had to change.

I couldn’t keep doing it all alone. I needed a better way.

“Abundance is about living with intention, creating joy, and having the freedom to do the things that truly matter to you.”

18 / WOMEN THRIVE

Why Money Freedom Matters for Women As women, we often prioritize everyone else before ourselves—our families, our careers, and our communities. But financial freedom is about more than just money. It’s about having choices. It’s about creating the life you want and leaving a legacy for the next generation.

Too often, women find themselves stuck in a cycle of financial struggle, either because they don’t know where to start or because they’ve been told that money is complicated. But here’s the truth: achieving financial freedom doesn’t require a finance degree or a million-dollar inheritance. It starts with simple steps and the decision to take control of your life.

What Abundance Really Means One of the biggest lessons I learned on my journey is that true abundance isn’t about working endlessly to make money just to pay the bills. Abundance is about living with intention, creating joy, and having the freedom to do the things that truly matter to you.

I also discovered the importance of shifting from “doing” to “being”. For years, I thought that the more I worked, the more I would achieve. But abundance doesn’t come from hustling 24/7. It comes from aligning your actions with your values and focusing on what makes you feel fulfilled.

Abundance is waking up in the morning knowing you have the freedom to spend your time as you choose. It’s about building wealth that works for you so you can prioritize your family, your health, and your passions—not just your obligations.

FINANCIAL FREEDOM

5 Steps to Create Wealth and Abundance Creating wealth and abundance isn’t about luck—it’s about making intentional choices and taking consistent action. Here are five steps that can help you transform your financial future: 1. Shift Your Relationship with Money Our beliefs about money often come from childhood.

Maybe you grew up hearing, “We can’t afford that,” or “Money is the root of all evil”. These beliefs can create a mindset of scarcity that holds you back from building wealth.

Action Step: Identify one belief about money that’s holding you back.

Replace it with a positive affirmation, like: “Money is a tool to create freedom and opportunities.”

Write this affirmation down and repeat it daily.

By shifting your mindset, you’ll start to see money not as a source of stress but as a tool for empowerment.

2. Start with Clarity You can’t achieve financial freedom if you don’t know what it looks like for you. The first step is to define your goals and get clear on what you truly want.

Action Step: Calculate your monthly and annual expenses to determine your Financial Freedom Number.

-Example: If your monthly expenses are $6,000, your annual expenses are $72,000. Add a cushion for savings and unexpected costs to get your target.

Ask yourself: -What kind of lifestyle do I want?

-What does success look like for me?

This clarity will give you a roadmap to follow.

3. Build Your Wealth System Wealth isn’t created by accident—it’s built with intention.

Start by creating systems that help you save, invest, and grow your money automatically.

Action Step: Automate your savings and investments. Set up automatic transfers to a savings account or retirement fund.

Explore opportunities to create passive income, such as: -Investing in real estate.

-Buying dividend-paying stocks.

-Launching a digital product or online course.

The key is to make wealth-building a habit, not an afterthought.

4. Surround Yourself with the Right People You don’t have to do it all alone. Wealthy people succeed because they have a team—mentors, advisors, and partners who support their goals.

Action Step: Find a mentor or coach who can guide you.

Connect with like-minded individuals through networking events, mastermind groups, or online communities.

The right support system can provide the knowledge, motivation, and accountability you need to stay on track.

5. Take Action, No Matter How Small The biggest obstacle to creating wealth is inaction.

Waiting for the “perfect” time or opportunity will only keep you stuck.

Action Step: Take one step today, whether it’s setting up a savings account, learning about investments, or reaching out to a mentor.

Every small step adds up over time. The important thing is to start.

Lessons from My Journey Looking back, I realize that the key to financial freedom isn’t just about earning more money—it’s about creating systems that allow you to keep and grow what you earn.

It’s about mindset, strategy, and taking consistent action.

Here are the lessons I’ve learned: 1. Wealth is created with clarity and intention.

2. Working harder isn’t the answer—working smarter is.

3. Surrounding yourself with the right people can change everything.

4. Abundance comes when you focus on “being” rather than always “doing”.

5. The first step is always the hardest, but it’s also the most important.

Closing: It’s All In Your Hands Financial freedom isn’t just a dream—it’s a choice. It’s about deciding that you’re ready to take control of your money, your time, and your life.

If I can do it, so can you. No matter where you are right now, you have the power to create wealth and abundance. It starts with one decision, one action, and one step forward.

Remember: It’s All In Your Hands.

Let’s build a life of freedom and abundance together.

Ella Rivkin

Ella Rivkin is a Financial Freedom expert and founder of ERPS Group, dedicated to empowering business owners and individuals worldwide to achieve their Personal, Professional, and Financial goals. Guided by the principle It’s All In Your Hands™, she helps clients create lasting success and a positive ripple effect in their lives and businesses. www.instagram.com/ellarivkin http://www.ellarivkin.com 30 / WOMEN THRIVE

WOMEN THRIVE / 19

REDEFINING WEALTH

Redefining Wealth: A Holistic Approach to Abundance for Women

W

ealth. For many, the word conjures images of bank accounts, investments, and material success.

And while financial stability is undoubtedly a critical component, it’s far from the full picture.

True wealth is multidimensional. It encompasses not just money but emotional well-being, spiritual alignment, relational depth, and the richness of lived experiences.

For women, understanding and embracing this broader definition of wealth is key to unlocking freedom, fulfillment, and generational impact.

Yet, despite its transformative potential, many women struggle to claim abundance in all aspects of their lives. Conditioned by societal norms, internalized doubts, and a narrow view of success, women often deny themselves the opportunity to build and enjoy holistic wealth.

In 2025, it’s time for a new paradigm—one that empowers women to see wealth not as a singular goal but as a life philosophy so we can live a life that lights us up, gives us freedom and allows us to soar.

20 / WOMEN THRIVE

Why Women Struggle to Claim Abundance Despite the strides women have made in leadership, entrepreneurship, and financial empowerment— cultural and internal barriers still persist. These obstacles often stem from deeply ingrained beliefs that tell women to play small, prioritize others, or feel guilty about wanting more. The reasons are as layered as they are limiting: 1. Societal Expectations Women are often praised for being selfless caregivers, sacrificing their desires for the good of their families or communities. Pursuing wealth— whether financial, relational, or experiential—can feel selfish or even shameful when viewed through this lens.

2. Fear of Judgment Ambitious women are frequently labeled “too much”—too aggressive, too greedy, or too driven.

This fear of judgment can discourage women from pursuing their full potential, forcing them to settle for less.

3. The Scarcity Mindset Conditioned to see success as a finite resource, many women fall into the trap of believing there’s “not enough” to go around. This mindset fosters unnecessary competition and reinforces the belief that wanting more somehow comes at someone else’s expense.

4. Internalized Self-Doubt Decades of societal conditioning leave many women questioning their worthiness. They wonder, “Do I really deserve abundance?” or “Can I really have it all?”

These barriers keep women stuck, disconnected from their dreams, and trapped in a cycle of scarcity.

But abundance is not something to be earned or justified—it is something to be embraced. And the first step to doing so is redefining what wealth truly means.

What Does True Wealth Look Like?

True wealth is about more than a dollar figure. It’s about creating freedom and fulfillment across every dimension of life. Here’s how women can approach wealth holistically: 1. Financial Wealth: The Foundation of Freedom Financial security is a cornerstone of abundance. It provides the freedom to make choices, pursue dreams, and weather life’s challenges with confidence. For women, financial wealth is also a tool of empowerment—it’s about taking control of your future and building opportunities for the next generation.

Practical steps: Develop a financial literacy plan, including budgeting, saving, and investing.

Create multiple income streams to reduce reliance on a single source.

Establish long-term financial goals, such as building generational wealth or funding passion projects.

“Abundance is not something to be earned or justified —it is something to be embraced.”

WOMEN THRIVE / 21

REDEFINING WEALTH

2. Emotional Wealth: Resilience and Joy Emotional wealth is the ability to navigate life with confidence, self-worth, and resilience. It means cultivating joy, practicing self-care, and creating space for personal growth.

Practical steps: Set boundaries that protect your time and energy.

Practice mindfulness techniques like journaling or meditation to manage stress.

Surround yourself with relationships that uplift and inspire you.

3. Spiritual Wealth: Living with Purpose Spiritual wealth is about alignment—connecting with your purpose, your passions, and the bigger picture. It’s about creating a life that feels meaningful and authentic.

Practical steps: Reflect on your core values and align your goals with them.

Dedicate time to activities that feed your soul, whether it’s volunteering, creating art, or spending time in nature.

Explore practices like gratitude journaling to cultivate a deeper sense of fulfillment.

4. Relational Wealth: The Strength of Connection Wealth is not built in isolation. Relational wealth comes from nurturing meaningful connections with others, from family and friends to colleagues and mentors. These relationships provide support, collaboration, and inspiration.

Practical steps: Invest in relationships that energize and support you.

Let go of toxic dynamics that drain your emotional bandwidth.

Seek out communities of like-minded women to grow, network, and thrive together.

5. Experiential Wealth: A Life Well-Lived Experiential wealth is about cherishing the journey— embracing opportunities, creating memories, and living fully in the present. It’s about saying yes to the moments that bring joy, meaning, and growth.

Practical steps: Prioritize experiences over material possessions.

Pursue adventures that challenge and excite you, whether it’s traveling, learning new skills, or trying a creative endeavor.

Slow down to savor the beauty of everyday moments.

22 / WOMEN THRIVE

Breaking Free from the Old Paradigm To fully embrace holistic wealth, women must challenge old paradigms that keep them playing small. Here’s how: 1. Reclaim Your Worth You are inherently deserving of abundance—in every form. Let go of the belief that wealth needs to be “earned” or justified. Practice affirmations that reinforce your worthiness, such as, “I am worthy of wealth in all areas of my life.”

2. Adopt a Growth Mindset Abundance requires action. Whether it’s learning new skills, setting audacious goals, or stepping out of your comfort zone, growth is essential for building wealth. View challenges as opportunities to expand your potential.

3. Celebrate Collaboration, Not Competition The scarcity mindset is a myth. When women collaborate, they amplify each other’s success.

Join communities where women support one another, share resources, and celebrate achievements.

4. Dream Bigger Redefining wealth means letting go of limits.

Whether it’s creating generational wealth, building a legacy, or simply living a richer life, dream unapologetically big. Write down your goals and take consistent steps to make them a reality.

The Ripple Effect of Abundance When women embrace holistic wealth, the impact is exponential. Financial empowerment creates opportunities for future generations.

Emotional and spiritual wealth ripple into healthier relationships and stronger communities.

Relational and experiential wealth inspire others to live fully and authentically.

By redefining wealth, women are not only transforming their own lives but also setting a new standard for success—one that is multidimensional, inclusive, and aligned with their values. Together, women can create a ripple effect of abundance that changes the narrative for future generations.

Your Call to Action: Start Building Your Wealth Today This year, let’s commit to creating wealth in every area of life. Let’s challenge outdated paradigms and embrace the freedom, fulfillment, and abundance we deserve.

The time for women to build holistic wealth is now. It’s not just about financial gain—it’s about living fully, thriving boldly, and leaving a legacy of empowerment for those who come next.

WOMEN THRIVE / 23

GRATITUDE

Practical Tips for a Gratitude Mindset From Someone Who Should be Dead

by Emmilia O'Sullivan

L

ife has a way of throwing us into storms we never anticipated. As a 30-somethingyear-old who has dealt with her fair share of medical diagnoses, I’ve weathered plenty of them. Survival hasn’t always been easy, but I’m a living, breathing testament to the power of having a gratitude mindset for getting through to the calmer waters on the other side.

You could say my childhood was complicated. Diagnosed with kidney disease not long after I was born, my days were a cycle of hospital stays, surgeries, and recoveries. By the age of two, I’d already lost one kidney.

During my teens, my remaining kidney began to fail. In my early twenties, my health took a nosedive, and the day inevitably arrived – it was time for a transplant.

My incredible dad stepped up as my donor.

The surgery was a huge success and the kidney began to work instantly. I cannot begin to describe the feeling of relief that flooded me, and despite all of the post-op medications, bloodwork and follow-ups, everything was looking up – I survived.

Ten months after my kidney transplant, I decided to hit the gym. Everything was going well until I developed a pain in my knee that got progressively worse, leaving me in agony. After multiple emergency room visits, appointments and scans with no answers and no relief, it was my original kidney specialist who sent me for an MRI, which finally led to a diagnosis.

24 / WOMEN THRIVE

The Stormiest Seas Were Still to Come At the age of 22, I was diagnosed with Stage 3 Large Diffuse B Cell Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, which thankfully responded well to treatment and went into remission. However, over the next 10 years, I was diagnosed with an incredibly rare cancer called Epstein Barr Virus Smooth Muscle Tumours, underwent surgeries to remove a tumour near my pituitary gland and along my spinal cord, and endured severe sepsis, which led to being put under an induced coma and a cardiac arrest!

I’ll pause here because I think I know what you’re thinking, “How is this girl not F'N dead?” There have been so many times in my life when I probably should have been F'N dead—times when it would have been easy to let a diagnosis get the better of me.

At some point, I realised that even though life had taken so much from me, I still had things to hold onto —people who loved me and moments of peace. I started saying to myself, “I could have F’N died!” It became a reminder to stay grateful, even in my darkest days, because I was still here to say those words.

It didn’t make the pain vanish, but focusing on the things I did have made each day feel a little more manageable. I was recognising the small wins—the supportive words from my family, the resilience I’d built, and the simple fact that I was alive.

After all of the challenges I’ve been through, I learned to celebrate life as the victory it is. Sure, there were plenty of difficult days, but being alive to see my family, experience love, and keep moving forward is a gift I never take for granted. I made it through my storm, and now I get to enjoy the beauty that follows.

The Power of a Gratitude Mindset Gratitude is a tool, and it transformed my mindset.

When I focused on what I had rather than what I’d lost, I found more energy to keep pushing forward.

Research shows that gratitude can lower stress, and I felt this firsthand. It gave me the ability to see my life as a journey rather than a series of battles.

This mindset helped me see past my circumstances.

Each day, I was reminded that my life wasn’t just pain and hospitals—it was also strength, resilience, and the love of those around me. I saw my life as a gift, and that shift made all the difference.

If you’re just getting started on your gratitude mindset journey, start small and make incremental changes. My book, I Should Be FN Dead! , , is filled with practical strategies, hard-won wisdom, and a healthy dose of humour to help you navigate life's challenges and come out the other side not just alive but truly thriving.

Celebrating Life After the Storm Today, I can look back and see all I survived with gratitude. Surviving isn’t about escaping the hard stuff; it’s about making it through to the other side and holding onto life’s simple joys.

Tips for a Daily Gratitude Practice Keep a Gratitude Journal Every day, write down something you’re grateful for, whether it’s a phone call from a loved one or just a moment to rest.

Express Gratitude More Often My husband Aaron, my family and my entire support system mean everything to me, and I remind them every chance I get.

Stay in the Present Make an effort to pause throughout the day to take stock of what’s happening in that very moment you can be grateful for.

Reframe your Thoughts to Look for the Positive On tough days, I try to shift my focus to something positive, like I F’N survived.

“ Surviving isn’t about escaping the hard stuff; it’s about making it through to the other side and holding onto life’s simple joys”

Emmilia O'Sullivan

Emmilia O'Sullivan is a renowned author, motivational speaker, and podcaster whose life story is a testament to the human spirit's indomitable resilience.

Battling a myriad of health challenges, including kidney failure, cancer, and countless surgeries, Emmilia has defied the odds and emerged as a beacon of hope for those facing adversity. https://emmiliaosullivan.com/ www.instagram.com/emmiliaosullivan/ WOMEN THRIVE / 25

PASSION

"I'm a Writer.

I Write"

by Marcy Bialeschki

26 / WOMEN THRIVE

I

was a small-town girl with big dreams.

I always wanted to be a successful, published author, and by the time I got serious about catching that dream, I was 57 years old.

Honestly, I knew I could do it. Up until that point, I had never truly invested in myself. And by that, I mean emotionally, financially, and actively taking my dream out of the chasing stage and going all in with an investment in my biggest asset - me. But deep down, I was a writer, and all I wanted to do was write. So, I did.

Pursuing My Dream Once I set my sights on that treasured end goal and made writing that book my number one priority, there was no stopping me. I pounded the keys tirelessly day and night the entire summer of 2023, and the end result was a darn good romancesuspense novel. Thanks to a last-minute decision to change the ending, my stand-alone novel instantly became a duology in the making, and I had more work to do. And because I couldn’t leave wellenough alone, my one great novel ended up being a four-book series. I’m a writer. I write.

Reality Hits When I began writing the first book, Deception & Consequences , I was sorely misguided when it came to my expectations following its completion.

I really thought my work was finished when the writing was done.

What? Do you mean there’s more? Oh, okay.

It gets published, but that’s not me. Someone else does that. I’m done, right?

I hate to admit it, but these naïve thoughts were running through my mind at that time. I was truly bewildered that I just authored a great book and that wasn’t enough. Again, I’m a writer. I write.

Please don’t overwork me!

Some people might be thinking what I used to think, that writing and being an author is not a business. I was wrong, and so they are. Books are an exploding market, and everything about them is big business. According to the article 23 Gripping Book Industry Statistics [2023]: How Many Books Were Published in 2022 - Zippia, romance is the most popular genre in the US with over 332 million print copies sold in 2022. In all, the book industry raked in 28.1 billion in revenue in the same year. Is there competition? Yes! But is the market ripe for what I bring to the table? Absolutely!

WOMEN THRIVE / 27

PASSION

But still, all of the details are exhausting. Oh, how wonderful it would be if writers only had to write.

But just like everyone else who’s hustling out there, doing what you’re great at is just the tip of the iceberg. We all have to do so much more to ensure our success. In that respect, I’m no different than any other entrepreneur who’s struggling to shine like a diamond and catch people’s eye. It’s not luck or chance. It’s doing the work and then hopefully reaping the reward.

Beyond the Fun Part As I had painfully overlooked at the onset of my journey, writing was the fun part, but beyond that is a whole different world. What I once treasured as an outlet for my creative soul became a monster when I went about monetizing my love child. But what good is a great book if no one reads it? What good is that phenomenal love story if no one experiences it? I needed validation for my efforts, which meant working beyond the fun part.

According to Most Books Do Not Sell Only A Dozen Copies a book that sells 1,000 copies hits the industry standard. Really? I couldn’t help but dream bigger. I now had to work harder to get my book under people’s eyes. No one is safe from the looming duties and extras that a business needs to get going, keep going, and thrive. Like everyone else in business, beyond the part I love, I must tackle social media; make decisions surrounding branding; find photographers and videographers; make decisions about advertising; promote myself by writing articles; make money by setting up vendor sales; lure podcasters and influencers by scouring the internet; create and maintain a website; develop an email following and social media followings; stick to a budget--- I could go on, and on, and on, but you get the point. Like everyone else in business, my days are filled with tasks unrelated to what I do best - write.

In Summary I was definitely naïve thinking I would just draft the great American novel, sell millions of copies, and rake in the cash. The story goes more like this: write the novel, work your tail off promoting it in a flooded market, have a little success, pivot your approach, write some more novels, and do it all over again. But that’s all okay with me because I’m a writer. I love to write, and now I understand everything else my passion entails.

I’m living proof that it’s never too late to catch your dream. Just make sure you know what you’re getting, or at least be willing to roll up your sleeves and do some more work when you thought you were finished.

Yes, I’m a writer. I write. Even though I now know I have to do more to ensure my success, I’ll do it because I love it. I caught my dream. You can, too.

“I’m living proof that it’s never too late to catch your dream. Just make sure you know what you’re getting, or at least be willing to roll up your sleeves and do some more work when you thought you were finished.”

Marcy Bialeschki Marcy Bialeschki is an award-winning, No. 1 bestselling author, and entrepreneur. A retired English and speech teacher as well as a school counselor, Marcy worked in education for 36 years before becoming a full-time author. Marcy has published numerous online articles, and a four-book romance suspense series titled The Vengeance Series. She is also the founder of Tastefully Sexy by MarcyB, an online business that coincides with her world of fiction. http://www.marcyb.net marcybialeschki/ www.facebook.com/marcybialeschki/ 28 / WOMEN THRIVE

AUTHORSHIP

Ready to Share Your Story in 2025?

Join a powerful co-authorship opportunity with Women Thrive Media!

Aspire to become an author? This is your chance to publish your story alongside inspiring women. Our expert team will guide you from planning and writing to marketing and launching your book.

Collaborate, connect, and become a global best-selling author. Let us help turn your story into a lasting legacy.

Why Co-Author Your Book with Women Thrive Media?

We have an experienced and professional team of all bookpublishing skills who will support your entire authorship journey.

Co-authoring is more than writing a chapter—it’s about building relationships with a community of women who share your passion for storytelling and personal growth.

Together, you’ll celebrate milestones and amplify each other’s success.

Our proven strategies position our books to achieve global recognition, including best-seller rankings. Joining us means your name will be associated with a powerful, impactful project that reaches readers across the world.

Ready to share your story? Join our coauthorship program and create something powerful with like-minded women. Let’s inspire together!

Apply now and start your co-authorship journey with us!

https://womenthrivesummit.com/become/author/ WOMEN THRIVE / 29

RESILIENCE

Grief, Tragedy, and the Power of Life’s Redefining Moments

by Bethel Stevens

30 / WOMEN THRIVE

F

or most of us, there will come a moment that changes everything—a redefining event so profound it shakes the very foundation of our beliefs. It might be a loss, a tragedy, or some other unexpected disruption that forces us to confront life’s toughest truths.

These moments have the power to dismantle everything we thought we understood about ourselves and the world around us. And while we can’t control the pain that finds us, we can control what we do with it. We can let it paralyze us, or we can choose to let it transform us into something greater than we ever imagined.

My moment came when I lost my husband, becoming a widow at just 33 years old. In an instant, my life as I knew it was gone. The loss was devastating, and the grief that followed felt insurmountable. For a long time, I simply existed—a shadow of who I once was, going through the motions of daily life. The weight of my pain wasn’t something that could be fixed with well-meaning platitudes, comforting clichés, or positive thinking. The depth of the loss demanded something deeper: a full reckoning with the questions that tragedy had brought to the surface.

Tragedy has a way of forcing us to ask the hard questions.

Why did this happen? Who am I now? How do I move forward? These are the questions I wrestled with in the darkest moments of my grief. And while they were uncomfortable to confront, I’ve learned that these very questions hold the keys to deeper meaning and a reimagined purpose. Spoiler alert! I still don’t have answers to all my questions. It’s not about finding easy answers; it’s about sitting with the questions long enough to let them transform you.

“We can’t control the pain that finds us, we can control what we do with it. “

New Book Launching this January

WOMEN THRIVE / 31

RESILIENCE WELLNESS Transformation requires breaking down before you can rebuild.

We’re often told to bend and not break, to simply withstand life’s storms. But sometimes resilience isn’t enough. Sometimes, life doesn’t just bend—it shatters. And in those moments, when all feels lost, there’s an opportunity to rebuild, not into who we were, but into something new. It’s like a cracked vase that, instead of being patched together, is reimagined into a work of art—a mosaic that tells a story of resilience, reinvention, and beauty born from brokenness.

There is always hope—you just have to dig for it.

Whether it’s faith, family, or a newfound purpose, these moments of complete devastation still give us an invitation to dig deep and uncover new perspective. There’s a quote I once heard that resonates deeply: “In questioning the meaning of loss, we often uncover the meaning of life.” When you discover your “why,” the “how” becomes clearer.

I write about my own journey in my book, Not a Cinderella Story. In it, I share the beautiful story of unconditional love and write authentically about my struggle with unimaginable grief. Without pretense I write candidly about the difficult moments and triggers they never tell you about. In a world where grief is uncomfortable to discuss, I am open and vulnerable because I know I am not alone in that experience.

So, if you find yourself standing in the wreckage of a life you no longer recognize, know that transformation is possible. The journey isn’t easy, and grief doesn’t disappear, but it does evolve.

Let that hope guide you as you uncover the beauty on the other side of brokenness.

Do you want a front-row seat to the book launch process? Join the facebook group.

“Grief doesn’t disappear, but it does evolve.“

Available on Amazon

Bethel Stevens

Bethel Stevens is the author of the book ’Not a Cinderella story’ - A powerful story of love, loss and perseverance when life goes off script. She is an author, speaker and mental health advocate who shares her personal journey through loss and grief as a young widow, aiming to inspire others to reimagine their dreams and live with hope, purpose and resilience. With a keen interest in neuroscience, she integrates insights from bereavement science to illuminate the cognitive aspects of the grieving process. A first-generation Ethiopian-American, she resides in Washington, D.C., with her beloved pug, Prince. You can purchase Bethel’s book on her website (a portion of proceeds will be donated to Pheo-Para Alliance to support cancer research). @bethel_stevens 32 / WOMEN THRIVE

reimaginedjourneys.com

LANGUAGE

The Power of Language Speaking that Resonates with the Soul to Change your Life

by Gwenda Smith

T

here are many tools and practices you can use to change your health, wealth and even to find the love of your life. The most powerful practice that I have found is to know the language of the soul. You see every word we speak carries a frequency and vibration. And when we use words that align with the wisdom of the soul our life can change exponentially and fast.

Emotions are the best example to begin to look at the language of the soul. We all experience the feeling of anger in our life. But have you ever had an angry outburst and noticed afterwards that you have a headache or perhaps you have no appetite?

Anger is a helpful emotion when we know how to express it in a way that leaves us free of any emotional residual energy. Often in the wave of anger we vent out aloud. Some would say this is a way to heal, I however have found this can create more issues in the gut than what is helpful.

How many times have you heard someone repeat a story about an episode or experience in their life and the way they express it is as if it is happening at that moment? Most of us have done this at some point in our life.

What we do not realise is the language we use and how powerful the language is that we speak.

The most common phrase I hear people say is “I don't want” followed by “I keep saying I don’t want, and I keep getting more of what I don't want.”

The reason that we get more of what we say we “don't want” is that words such as don't, can’t, won’t are not recognised by the soul. Instead, they are heard and cancelled out. So, “I don't want” becomes “I want”.

When we want to create any change in our lives and be guided by the wisdom of the soul it is vital to be careful with the worlds we use. So that our language is aligned with the higher consciousness of our Divine self.

"The language of the soul is powerful and shifts our level of consciousness in a moment."

WOMEN THRIVE / 33

"To speak with a higher awareness means that we speak with intention and purpose."

Speaking with the power words of the soul means using words that are whole words. Words that have prefixes such as re, un, im, mis and dis are not power words and are not aligned with the soul.

When we use these words we close out the guidance of the soul and the Higher realms of consciousness. One could look at what Louise Hay found along her path of healing and brought to the world in her book You Can Heal Your Life.

Speaking with a higher awareness means speaking with intention and purpose. Earlier I mentioned the emotion of anger, a human emotion that serves us to an extent but imagine if instead of letting the anger become an eruption we paused, took a step back and observed what we are feeling before reacting.

As we pause, we focus on some gentle deep slow breaths, using the count of 4 as we inhale, pause for 4, and exhale for 4, in doing this we calm the central nervous system and digestive organs.

Now we can set an intention and decide on a purpose of how we go forward from the situation or experience that has arisen.

The language of the soul is powerful and shifts our level of consciousness in a moment. It is our most powerful tool for healing and creating the life that we came to experience.

The language of the soul is our key to healing. I wonder if you’ve heard the famous saying of the Greek Physician Hippocrates, “Let Food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.”

We can think the same of words. To know the power of language through conscious conversation, we can heal our lives on many levels. And become the master designers of our lives.

Here are some examples for you to begin using the power of language. It is a helpful practice to make a daily note of the shift in energy, focus and clarity that you find in each day as you embody this way of speaking.

I am moving through this with ease.

I am willing to change.

I am a conscious creator of my life.

I am bold and courageous.

My body is strong, healthy and well.

Today I meet the people who are of my highest good.

Here are some practical steps to lift your heart, clear your mind and begin to be the master of your life.

1. Practice the art of self-compassion and forgiveness.

2. Sit in silence for at least 5 minutes every day.

3. Practice the art of the pause throughout your day, with your own thoughts.

4. Create simple affirmations for yourself such as, “My heart guides me in all that I say today.”

5. Choose your conversations with intention and care.

6. Pay attention to the feelings in your body when you speak.

7. Close each day with love and appreciation for all that has been brought to you. This way you will not carry over limitations and obstacles into the new day.

Gwenda Smith With over 30 years of experience, Gwenda is an Integrative Wellness & Spiritual Healing Mentor. She’s a compelling speaker who blends spiritual wisdom and practical techniques to help you achieve lasting wellness. Her methods empower individuals to unlock their potential, creating vibrant, fulfilling lives grounded in spiritual connection. https://www.healwithgwenda.com.com https://www.healwithgwenda.com/blog

34 / WOMEN THRIVE

LEADERSHIP

The Power Within: Woman Empowerment in Today's Society

by Dr. Coylette James

T

hose of you who know me know that being a Lioness is part of my very essence. I often find myself in situations where that part of me will arise battle-ready to take on her prey. But there are also times when I know I have to expose the softer side of me for the task at hand. This I believe is part of our superpower as women in this season. Knowing and understanding our fierceness and coupling that with our femininity.

In a world fraught with challenges, we as women have emerged as pillars of strength, resilience, and influence. We have endured trials that sought to break us—moments where innocence was taken, voices were silenced, and value was dismissed. Yet, here we stand, not as victims of circumstance but as victors who have risen to take our rightful place in society. Women today are global leaders, influencers, super moms, fierce wives, and we have established our seat at the table of authority with grace and tenacity.

Throughout history, women have faced systems and individuals that have sought to diminish our worth. There are indeed some narcissistic men in power who fail to revere the value we bring to the world. Yet, it is crucial to recognize that for every man who attempts to dim our light, there are twice as many who honor, appreciate, and stand alongside us. These men—partners, colleagues, and friends—see our value and celebrate our contributions, walking with us in unity rather than opposition. This is not the time to walk in bitterness nor feel we are in competition. A wise woman builds their house while a foolish one tears it down. (Proverbs 14:1)

WOMEN THRIVE / 35

Our journey has not been without hardship. Many of us have endured personal trials, sacrificing and persevering through unspeakable pain to protect our families, build our careers, and establish our dreams.

Despite the obstacles, we have achieved greatness, proving time and time again that our strength is unyielding. We have in spite of all odds risen to embody the Greatness bestowed upon us at creation as Daughters of the King of Kings.

But as we stand in positions of influence and authority, it is essential that we navigate this season with wisdom and purpose. This is not the time to wield our power in anger or as a weapon to dominate.

Instead, we must rise as intelligent voices of reason amidst the chaos of our world. We are called to embody the strength and ferocity of the lioness— fearless and protective—but without losing the beauty of our femininity. Our grace, compassion, and ability to bring balance are not weaknesses but strengths that the world desperately needs.

We are not in competition with our male counterparts; we are their counterparts. In a world spiraling through turbulent times, our role is not to overpower but to bring balance, harmony, and reason.

Together, we have the opportunity to reshape society for the better, complementing each other’s strengths and moving forward as a united front.

This season demands that we as women stand up for ourselves and for the generations to come. We are not merely survivors of past injustices but architects of a brighter, more inclusive future. As women, we have the power to influence, to lead, and to inspire. We have the strength to roar like lionesses, to nurture with compassion, and to stand with dignity. Let us never allow anyone to dim our light. Instead, we must shine brighter, illuminating the path for others to follow.

Our empowerment is not just about us—it’s about creating a legacy. A legacy of strength, resilience, and balance in a world that needs it now more than ever.

We are absolutely Unstoppable Lionesses, however, we must keep our focus.

Coylette’s memoir, ‘Snapshots of my life’ is out now on Amazon

Kingdoms are rarely without enemies. There are always those who would try to subdue and conquer.

As women, we must rule our Kingdoms with wisdom and tenacity. We can not afford to get entangled with the day-to-day banter of some to distract us. We have been given a powerful gift in our insight of what is really going on around us. Some call it intuition, others mother-wit or a spirit of discernment. However you embrace it, it is another weapon in your arsenal for your superpowers. Do not take it lightly, instead, use it wisely.

Empowerment in this season looks different from that of our mothers and grandmothers. They fought to open the doors and opportunities that we now have, but in situations of war, every great General is known for their strategic moves. Our ancestors devised their strategies to get us here, it is now time we devise ours to move forward. Unity is absolutely key! This is not a time for economic stature or race or country of citizenship to separate us. We must band together in our womanhood and move strategically on a global level to ensure our daughters and sisters and even mothers are free to embrace who they are as women.

This is a call to you, my sister, to rise up and be the INCREDIBLE-REMARKABLE-FIERCE-LIONESS you were created to be! The time is NOW to EMPOWER! Remember, AN EMPOWERED WOMAN EMPOWERS THE WORLD! Together, we rise. Together, we lead. Together, we change the world.

“We are called to embody the strength and ferocity of the lioness—fearless and protective—but without losing the beauty of our femininity.”

Dr. Coylette James

Dr. Coylette James is an author, ordained Elder, and visionary leader dedicated to empowering individuals to fulfill their Kingdom purpose.

Founder of Lioness Warrior Kingdom INC and creator of FaithBiz Blueprint, she inspires transformation globally through books, speaking engagements, and her TV show Unstoppable Lionesses.

www.lionesswarriorkingdom.com

36 / WOMEN THRIVE

PODCAST

Season 4

WOMEN THRIVE SEASON 4

Women Thrive Podcast - Season 4 is on Fire!

The Women Thrive Podcast Season 4 is making headways in the podcasting world! With the new lineup of inspiring guests featuring powerful real, raw and vulnerable conversations we have climbed our way up the charts to land in the Top 5% of Global Podcasts according to Listen Notes website. We are grateful to our listeners and those who take the time to leave us reviews. You help us make a difference!

Celebrating Being Ranked Top 5% Podcast Globally

Want to Be a Guest On The Women Thrive Podcast?

Would you like to be interviewed by our hosts Abigail Pugh and Raimonda Jan? This is your chance to get featured and share your voice with a global audience of female entrepreneurs and women who love personal development.

Appearing on the Women Thrive Podcast offers you the chance to expand your visibility and reach an audience of over 600k. *Production fees may apply

https://womenthrive.club/podcast

11 / WOMEN THRIVE WOMEN THRIVE / 37

MINDSET

Beauty From Ashes

by Danette Haag

I

n 2021, when I won the prestigious title of Mrs. Colorado – it challenged everything the world had ever told me about beauty. I am the first severely scarred woman to win a competitive state beauty pageant title. My story began 40 years earlier when, as a young girl, I survived a house explosion, leaving 70% of my body covered in disfiguring scars. In an instant, my life was changed forever. And I felt trapped inside a body that the world – and I – couldn’t accept.

It took decades of fighting an internal war before I could see myself in a new light.

The battles between my own self-doubt, the rejection from others, and my deep desire to feel beautiful again were in constant conflict.

The stares, whispers, and judgment were never-ending, delivering blow after blow to my barely growing self-esteem. But my harshest critic was myself, offering the most lethal punches to my inner psyche. Every glance in the mirror reminded me of that fateful night and the beauty I had lost. Yet deep down, a part of me knew my story wasn’t over.

Learning to silence the inner critic and embrace the inner cheerleader is a struggle we all face. Alan Cohen brilliantly said, “If you gave your inner genius as much credence as your inner critic, you would be light years ahead of where you now stand.” No one else could do that for me, just as no one else can make that choice for you.

“Beauty isn’t about perfection; it’s about courage, resilience, and the light we CHOOSE to shine to the world.”

38 / WOMEN THRIVE

Spiritual growth became my anchor, helping me slowly realize that my scars were a symbol of where I had been, but I didn’t have to let them dictate where I was heading. A pivotal experience in my 20s welcomed an altered view of myself, and that divine moment took place in an ordinary bathroom mirror.

For so long, I had avoided my reflection.

But at this moment, I knew it was time to face it. I examined every tight, red anomaly covering my features. I bravely introduced myself to each scar so I could eventually accept them for what they were: a permanent yet powerful part of me.

Determined to look even deeper than the mirror typically allows, I gazed into my spirit to find a new way to define myself and uncover beauty deep within.

My growing success also came from my ability to flip my inner script. I created and embraced the idea that life’s too short not to love yourself while you’re working on yourself. Once I started paying attention to the constant stream of thoughts running through my mind, I realized how often my inner critic reared her ugly head. After all, I am responsible for rewriting those negative thoughts into something empowering.

For example, I’ve been stared at every day for the last 43 years. I used to interpret those stares negatively, convincing myself I was gross, ugly, and weird. After decades, I found a better way. I now choose to see my scars as God’s Masterpiece of Art. When you encounter unique artwork, you must stop and stare at it, right? My scars carry that same power, an opportunity for God to teach someone while they admire His handiwork. And I go about my day, not letting the experience steal my joy.

This creative flipping of my script has elevated my life and brought peace in moments that once crushed me. People’s reactions to my scars haven’t changed; what’s changed is how I interpret them. Where in your life do you need a God’s Masterpiece of Art kind of thinking?

Taking charge of my mindset opened the door to a better life path. Causing a onceshattered childhood dream to resurface: a calling to be in a state beauty pageant. At first, I pushed the vulnerable idea away until one powerful notion changed everything. I saw myself on a stage among countless gorgeous women but didn’t see myself as ‘the scarred lady’ in the middle. Looking around, I saw their life scars too. At that moment, I remembered that we all carry scars of some kind, and I knew I belonged on that stage of beauty.

I proudly showed the world my scars and their beauty. It took me three years to win that coveted crown; I had much to learn about this pageant sport. Winning the Mrs. Colorado title in 2021 wasn’t just my victory. It challenged conventional beauty standards and proved that true beauty is found in resilience, strength, and grace. It was a victory for all.

As a soul-strengthening mindset coach and inspirational speaker, I’ve had the privilege of helping others discover beauty beneath their life scars, too. In my memoir, Beauty From the Ashes: Transforming Wounds into Wisdom; Scars into Stars, I share the details of my story, not just for

myself, but to light the way for others. In it, I offer the reader the comfort of knowing that life’s pain and struggle can be what brings us all together to find healing from any circumstance.

I am living proof that beauty isn’t about perfection; it’s about courage, resilience, and the light we CHOOSE to shine to the world. Isaiah 61:3 reads, “To bestow upon them a crown of beauty instead of ashes.” I hope you always find beauty, no matter what ashes life may deliver.

Danette Haag Danette Haag is an inspiring woman whose life is a testament to resilience, faith, and courage. Her expertise in rising above any life scar is rooted in her own powerful story of surviving a severe burn injury as a child. She is the first severely scarred woman to win a state beauty pageant as Mrs. Colorado 2021. www.BeautyFromAshesSpeaker.com

beautyfromashes_2021

Beauty From Ashes WOMEN THRIVE / 39

GET FEATURED

Get Featured in Women Thrive Magazine Women Thrive Magazine Contributor Opportunities For Every Woman To Be Empowered To Use Her Voice and Share Her Story with The World Do you have a story to share with the world? Are you passionate about empowering women through your unique point of view, life experiences, insights, and expertise?

At Women Thrive Magazine, we invite contributors from diverse backgrounds and experiences in life and business. We now have opportunities for women to contribute their knowledge and expertise on our platform and be spotlighted to our audience. We welcome you to join us as a Contributor or Expert Writer and be part of our collective mission to inspire women to THRIVE all around the world.

Women Thrive Magazine Contributor Opportunities For Every Woman To Be Empowered To Use Her Voice and Share Her Story with The World. Why Become an Exclusive Contributor on our Platform?

By becoming a contributor, you position yourself as a thought leader, reaching a diverse and engaged audience eager to learn from your experiences.

Your stories have the potential to inspire and empower others on their journey.

Share the lessons you’ve learned, the challenges you’ve overcome, and the victories you’ve celebrated to uplift the Women Thrive community.

Women Thrive Magazine is read by women across the globe. Joining as a contributor means your insights resonate internationally, making a positive impact on women from various backgrounds and cultures.

Whether you’re an established expert or a rising star in your field, Women Thrive Magazine provides a platform to showcase your expertise. Share valuable advice, industry insights, and actionable tips to enhance the lives of our readers.

Upcoming Monthly Themes February 2025: The Power of Vulnerability: Strength in Authenticity March 2025: Her-Story in the Making: Women Redefining Legacies April 2025: The Visibility Secrets: Keys to more visibility and powerful marketing strategies 40 / WOMEN THRIVE

SUBMIT YOUR ARTICLE NOW Email: editor@womenthrivemagazine.com Please review our submission guidelines below:

womenthrivemagazine.com/article-submission-guidelines

ABUNDANCE

by Kate Mayor

R

eceiving money should in theory be a simple transaction. Effort in = money out, right?

In reality, it is much more complicated than that. It’s amazing how often we might think that we are open to receiving an abundance of money, but our belief system is telling the universe something very different. What this means is that we energetically block the money that we want to receive.

Our beliefs around money are picked up through childhood from our parents mainly, but also from our interactions with everyone around us. Unless we had an easy flow of money, parents who were not worried about money and never told us there wasn’t enough, no money judgement, a balance of friends who didn’t worry about money or feel more important or better than others because of it and others around us happy and supportive of us making and enjoying money (all in all a pretty unrealistic scenario), then we will likely have picked up some negative beliefs along the way.

Much of my life has been lived in money struggle.

I would always get just about enough. I would have enough to cover the bills and I would have to save and worry about covering costs if I went on holiday or did something out of the ordinary. It wasn’t until I started working to release some of my negative beliefs that I realised I believed (due to childhood) that if I earned lots of money, the people around me would treat me badly. My belief system centred all around me giving to everyone else and making everyone else happy before I could think about looking after myself. Accordingly, the brief times when I had some money in my life, I had spent it on others: treating my family to trips, dinners and being overly generous.

“We energetically block the money that we want to receive.”

WOMEN THRIVE / 41

As I worked to release the memories, beliefs and emotions, I was able to steady the amount of money that I earned, and in time, money started to flow into my life. I hadn’t worked more hours or done anything differently. All I had done was open up the energetic flow, to enable me to feel safe to receive. As I did this, money came to me from many different sources.

As a starting point to establish the money beliefs that might be holding you back, work through the following exercises: 1. Complete the sentence: Money is ……. Maybe you might use words like dangerous or uncertain or ‘not for me’ which tells you a lot about your associations with money. Maybe you believe that you have to work long and crazy hours to receive it.

2. What is the level of money which would feel safe for you to receive in one year? 50,000? 100,000?

150,000? 500 000?... When you reach the point of your glass ceiling around money, sit with that feeling for a bit. Why do you draw the line there?

What would change if you earnt more than that?

Who wouldn’t like it? How do you fear you might change 3. Consider how much time you spend worrying about money. What we focus on becomes bigger, so as we focus on how little we have, we are ensuring that the situation won’t change. Each time you spend money, instead of thinking about how little you have, say ‘this money I am spending will come back to me two fold’ and send it out with love. It’s amazing the freeing shift this small change makes with your energy around money.

I created an app called The Healing Place, which helps entrepreneurs to get past their money and success blocks by using powerful tools including quantum healing.

When we shift the energy holding our old memories and belief systems in place, we open ourselves up to all the potential that money has to offer: money becomes a source of good, and a way to improve our lives and others.

“Each time you spend money, instead of thinking about how little you have, say ‘this money I am spending will come back to me two fold’ and send it out with love.”

Kate Mayor Kate Mayor is a Quantum Transformational Psychotherapist dedicated to helping entrepreneurs overcome the effects of past events now holding them back, so they can step into their full potential. Drawing from her own transformative healing journey, Kate employs an intuitive approach and a range of powerful techniques, beyond traditional therapy, including Quantum Healing, Hypnosis, EFT, and cognitive Behavioural Therapy to facilitate profound personal growth. http://www.ankyrahealing.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-mayor-825b06178/ 42 / WOMEN THRIVE

CONFIDENCE

Find Your Voice: How to Overcome Trauma and Step Into Your Power

by Emily Cleghorn

I

n a world that often rewards silence, finding and owning your voice can feel revolutionary. But doing so isn’t just about speaking louder—it’s about honoring your truth and standing firm in your worth.

When you own your voice, you reclaim your power.

Many of us grow up believing it’s our job to keep the peace, to manage the emotions of those around us. We learn to stay quiet, avoid conflict, and shrink ourselves to make others comfortable. But this belief keeps us trapped in cycles of codependency, where our value is tied to others’ opinions and reactions.

The truth is simple but life-changing: you are not responsible for how others feel—you are responsible for how you feel. This distinction is the foundation of self-empowerment.

Why Your Voice Matters I know the fear of speaking up all too well. For years, I avoided expressing my needs and desires, afraid of causing conflict or upsetting someone. But staying silent didn’t protect me; it only kept me stuck. Over time, I realized that my silence wasn’t just holding me back—it was hurting me.

When you find your voice, you break free from the invisible chains that keep you small. You begin to live authentically, making decisions that align with your values instead of others’ expectations.

Owning your voice is the key to owning your life.

How to Reclaim Your Voice 1. Stop Seeking Permission One of the biggest barriers to speaking up is the belief that we need others’ approval. But the truth is, you don’t need permission to prioritize yourself. Your needs and desires are valid—period.

2. Let Go of the Fear of Discomfort Speaking your truth will sometimes make others uncomfortable, and that’s okay. Discomfort is a part of growth, for you and those around you.

Your job is not to avoid discomfort but to honor your truth.

“The truth is simple but life-changing: you are not responsible for how others feel—you are responsible for how you feel.”

WOMEN THRIVE / 43

WEALTH

3. Practice Healthy Communication Finding your voice doesn’t mean being confrontational. It means learning to communicate assertively and compassionately. Use “I” statements to express your feelings without assigning blame. For example: • •

Instead of: “You always ignore me.”

Try: “I feel hurt when I’m not heard.”

This shifts the focus to your experience, making it easier for others to listen and engage in meaningful dialogue.

4. Embrace Boundaries Boundaries are essential to maintaining your peace and protecting your energy. When you set boundaries, you teach others how to treat you. Remember: saying “no” is a complete sentence. You don’t need to explain or justify your limits.

Finding Freedom in Authenticity Owning your voice is about more than speaking up— it’s about living authentically. It’s about choosing yourself, even when it’s hard. When you stop prioritizing others’ comfort over your truth, you create space for a life that feels aligned and fulfilling.

If I had let fear of judgment hold me back, I wouldn’t be where I am today. My decision to share my story and help others heal was born from finding my voice and choosing to use it unapologetically.

You have a voice. You have a story worth telling and a life worth living on your terms. Start today.

Speak up. Set boundaries. Choose yourself. Because when you own your voice, you own your freedom.

“Owning your voice is about more than speaking up—it’s about living authentically. It’s about choosing yourself, even when it’s hard. “ Emily Cleghorn Emily Cleghorn, Trigger Recovery Coach for Mamas. I empower trauma-surviving mamas to reclaim their inner strength by guiding them through emotional triggers and helping them create the peaceful, loving mamahood they’ve always dreamed of. mamahoodaftertrauma.ca/home

emily.cleghorn.coach

44 / WOMEN THRIVE

FEBRUARY EDITION This Valentine’s Day dare to be your own Valentine or why not gift your biz bestie and sweet Valentine’s surprise with a Women Thrive Magazine annual subscription. It’s a gift full of inspiration, empowerment, and knowledge that can be cherished all year long!

Scan the QR code or Visit the Link!

www.womenthrivemagazine.com

WOMEN THRIVE / 45

HEALING

Just Put a Bandaid Over Your Trauma - NOT!

I

by Phylecia Kellar

want to start this topic focusing on the fact that everyone has their own struggles, and trauma. There is such a stigma surrounding talking about it, but the truth is, if we don’t heal and understand our own trauma, it can follow us our entire lives.

To start this conversation, it would make sense to know what my specific trauma had to do with. I was diagnosed with Bipolar in 2010. A week-long delusional manic episode landed me in a cop car and subsequently the hospital where I was diagnosed.

The reason I’m telling you this is that after diagnosis, I suffered from clinical depression, I lost my sense of self, my entire identity was gone… I felt like I didn’t know how to be ‘me’ anymore.

That my whole life and personality was a lie, and I was just a shadow of myself.

I relate what happened after my diagnosis to my own story of trauma, and that’s what we’re here to talk about. This story isn’t just about being diagnosed with a mental illness, it’s about the trauma that followed.

I think this is a subject so many people are scared to touch on because of the stigma that comes with mental health and related trauma.

Trauma can be so many things to so many people.This could be about abuse, toxic relationships, events that have occurred, mental illness diagnoses, loss… there’s a plethora of things that can happen in one's life to derail it.

What I want to focus on here are a couple of points.

What is your current bottleneck or trauma that you need to heal from?

Who do you want to be in your life - who do you want to show up as?

What is the first thing you must do to get over the current hurdle?

This again, is SO different for many people.

46 / WOMEN THRIVE

“You are not here to compare yourself to others, you compare yourself to YOU.”

In any kind of trauma or state we’re in, healing and stability always comes first. The thing that helped me the most, was understanding that it is about progress, not perfection, and that healing and making a comeback is a process. You didn’t get here overnight, and you’re not going to come back overnight. The thing that happened to me when I was diagnosed bipolar was the loss of self.

I lost who I was before. I thought my entire life and persona was a lie because I had just been manic my whole life.

What do you do when you think your life is a lie?

When you can’t move or communicate the same way, it’s a lot bigger than that even. It’s not knowing how to be you. The first step is stability and healing - what does that look like?

First things first: Support system - who you have around you and in your corner MATTERS Doctors - therapy, coaches, mentors, psychiatrists and actually implementing what they say, and making the appointments a priority.

Medications/Holistic Approaches - getting on medications, vitamins, helping your body heal and your mind, not ONLY trying to heal your brain with pills MATTER. What are you putting in your body, what extracurricular activities are we doing that could be hurting our wellbeing?

Being honest with yourself first, that’s what counts.

You are not here to compare yourself to others, you compare yourself to YOU. The next thing to focus on is: Pride - Self Worth - Independence The thing that helped me most after the above, was how do I find pride and self worth in myself again?

I got a puppy, and I had PRIDE in her, she was mine and I was hers, this brought back a sense of self.

I had something to focus on, I had her to be proud of which made me proud of me.

Independence helps a ton here because if we live our lives dependent on others, the government, our moms, our partners etc… This can bring down your sense of worth so focusing here is a must.

The next thing is Gratitude and MINDSET!!

I can roll my eyes at the word ‘mindset’ everyday because it’s said far too often, but it is a true belief system.

How we perceive the world matters. What we say matters. What we focus on, we create more of. If we focus on chaos and negativity and believe the world is awful, that’s all we’re going to find. The universe WILL answer.

If you focus on how to see the beauty everyday, your brain will appreciate and find the beauty in your days!

It’s as simple as saying - I believe in a glass half full kind of mindset. That’s it.

Once you have these foundations in place, the world begins to open UP. I cannot tell you how miserable I was in the beginning. I blamed the world for my problems, I was jealous of all of my friends because nothing had happened to them, why me? Why do I feel terrible, why do I have to take meds to be okay?

This isn’t FAIR! Have you ever felt that way? I get it.

But let me let you in on a secret that’s not so secret life isn’t fair.

If we live in a cup of soup of pity, self doubt, blame, guilt, we will be miserable forever. The most successful people in the world see the world differently. When I understood that this was just my cross to bear, that this was the card I was dealt, and it's up to no one but me to get better. I took ownership and responsibility of my life for the first time ever. The world opened.

What if we could ask ourselves this question every time - “How do I make this experience better?”

Who could I go help?

Who can I make this about instead of me?

You see, distraction, keeping busy, and helping others is the solution so many times.

But sometimes, if we need to heal from something, we need to lean into that healing journey.

I ask you this - come into your days looking for gratitude and beauty, then ask yourself, what is my BEST next step to mental health freedom?

Let’s go find YOUR magic.

“If we need to heal from something, we need to lean into that healing journey.”

Phylecia Kellar

Phylecia Kellar is an author, speaker, sales professional, creator of the Ballin And Bipolar podcast, and inspiring Bipolar Success Coach for others who face mental health diagnoses. After her first manic episode in 2009 ended her life as she had always known it, Phylecia embarked on a multi-year journey to rediscover herself, build a new belief system, create stability, embrace her diagnosis, and create a life of happiness, gratitude, magic, and giving. https://www.instagram.com/phylecia_ballinandbipolar01/ https://www.ballinandbipolar.com/free-gift WOMEN THRIVE / 47

RELATIONSHIPS

S

tress is on the rise, with nearly half of Americans reporting frequent feelings of stress, according to recent Gallup data.

While life’s challenges are unavoidable, how we respond to them shapes our well-being. Research from Harvard’s 80-year study on happiness reveals a profound insight: the quality of our relationships is the single most significant factor in determining the quality of our lives. This underscores the need to understand how stress can seep into and impact our most cherished connections, and, more importantly, what we can do about it.

When stress takes over, we often find ourselves saying or doing things we later regret.

Even when we know the right thing to do during conflict, our bodies can seem to have a mind of their own. Why does this happen?

Stress activates our sympathetic nervous system, throwing us into fight-or-flight mode.

This state causes physiological flooding: our heart rate rises, breathing quickens, and our ability to process information decreases. According to the Gottman Institute, when we experience emotional flooding, we need at least 20 minutes to regulate before we can re-engage effectively. Without this regulation, communication breaks down, and conflicts escalate. Telling someone, or ourselves, to “calm down” rarely works, as our bodies are too activated to respond logically.

48 / WOMEN THRIVE

“The quality of our relationships is the single most significant factor in determining the quality of our lives.”

So how do we regain control and communicate effectively? By incorporating practices that help us regulate our nervous system and reduce stress.

These tools can help you shift from reaction to connection: Tools for Regulation 1. Breathwork One of my favorite techniques for immediate regulation, especially when experiencing anxiety, is the double sharp inhale followed by a slow, extended exhale. This practice engages the parasympathetic nervous system, signaling to the body that it’s safe to relax. Another effective method is the 4-4 breath: inhale slowly through the nose for four seconds and exhale slowly for four seconds. This practice helps stabilize and balance the nervous system, grounding you in moments of overwhelm.

“Mindfulness isn’t about perfection; it’s about presence.”

2. Mindfulness Mindfulness isn’t about perfection; it’s about presence. A simple practice I love is asking myself, “Am I doing this now?” For example, when in the shower, notice the sensation of the water, the sound of the spray, and the warmth on your skin.

The moment we bring our awareness to the present, we reduce stress and gain clarity.

3. Movement Stress often gets stored in the body, and movement is one of the most effective ways to release it. Dancing is a wonderful way to combine joy, creativity, and stress relief. Another highly effective practice is shaking. Animals naturally shake off stress after a tense situation to release muscular tension and burn excess adrenaline.

Mimicking this tremor mechanism can help calm your nervous system and reset it to a neutral state.

The Benefits of Regulation When we use these tools, whether reactively or proactively, we allow ourselves to experience reality with a clear lens. We can then make decisions and communicate from a place of safety and connection rather than fear or defensiveness.

For example, in conflict, a regulated state enables us to truly listen to the other person, and express ourselves in a constructive way. At work, it can help us navigate high-pressure situations with thoughtfulness and clarity. Regulation doesn’t just transform our interactions with others; it also enhances our relationship with ourselves, creating a sense of inner peace and balance.

Stress doesn’t have to sabotage your relationships. By learning to regulate your nervous system, you can transform not only your connections with others but also the way you experience the world. Start today with these tools and build the foundation for healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

4. Progressive Muscle Relaxation This technique is incredibly effective for releasing tension and calming the nervous system. Starting at your feet, tense each muscle group for a few seconds, then relax, slowly working your way up to your head. This practice helps you identify where you’re holding stress and actively let it go.

These are just a few of the simple yet practical tools I share in my latest free eBook, 11 Essential Tools to Regulate Your Nervous System.

Tannaz Hosseinpour Tannaz Hosseinpour is a relationship coach, breathwork guide, and therapist in training who integrates science-backed tools and somatic practices to help individuals and couples cultivate healthier, more secure relationships. Through her podcast Minutes on Growth and upcoming book Shifting Reality, she empowers people to break unhealthy patterns and build fulfilling connections with themselves and others.

WOMEN THRIVE / 49

DIVERSITY

Black Woman: Keep Your Peace Throughout All Challenges

by Niobis Queiro

A

s an Afro-Cuban American citizen born in Cuba, and having immigrated to the US at age four, I have a unique perspective on identity and resilience. America is my beloved home, yet I often find myself fitting into no single group.

The Black Americans remind me that I am Latina and not Afro-American, while the Cubans in America try to distance themselves from their Black and Indian roots, making me feel unwelcome at their party. However, I embrace my diverse identity and relate to all aspects of how a person sees me when I enter a room. I love my mocha skin, curves, and hazel eyes. As a successful entrepreneur who started from zero to thriving, I understand the journey from being broke to upper-middle class, each level offering its own lens and perspective.

Most importantly, I identify as both Black and Hispanic.

The last few weeks have been a roller coaster of amazement and discovery about the core of our nation. I’ve found myself engrossed on social media, captivated by the election aftermath and its mixed responses. The spectrum of emotions—excitement, disappointment, and outright outrage—has been fascinating but also deeply concerning. The anger, the meltdowns, the division, and the racist attacks have highlighted a critical moment for reflection. It’s time to call upon adults to help guide not only themselves but also their children through this challenging period.

We’ve witnessed unacceptable language and behavior from both adults and children. Young and millennial men shouting “Your Body, My Choice,” emails to African American children telling them to “report to plantations for slave duty,” Black women being verbally attacked for their overwhelming support of Kamala Harris, and white males pulling guns on Latino children for wanting to play with white children are just a few examples of the marginalizing behavior being displayed.

50 / WOMEN THRIVE

“Black women, we are the pillars of strength and resilience”

What I’ve come to understand is that maturity doesn’t always come with age. Many individuals are emotionally stuck due to unresolved childhood trauma, operating from a place of “arrested development” and ignorance. These emotional stagnations and voids can fuel reactions that hinder peace and progress.

Black women invested themselves mind, body, and spirit in this election. They are the most educated demographic group in America, yet they face the greatest wage disparity, earning only 54 cents for every dollar paid to whites. They have given all they can to be recognized as mere humans. Their hopes and dreams have been shocked but not destroyed. Currently, they are in protective mode and seeking healing, trying to decipher who they are meant to be in their lives.

Emotional Energy and Its Impact on Your Inner Self When we’re upset or in conflict, our emotional brain (the limbic system) kicks into high gear. This “fight, flight, or freeze” response, while natural, often keeps us locked in cycles of stress and negativity. There are key reasons why emotions linger: 1. Unresolved Trauma: Past experiences can leave emotional scars that resurface during stressful times.

2. Lack of Support: Without a strong support network, it’s challenging to process and move past negative emotions.

3. Continuous Exposure: Constant exposure to stressors, such as social media and news, can keep us in a heightened state of anxiety.

How to Protect Your Heart, Mind, and Peace 1. Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices can help calm the mind and reduce the impact of stress on the brain.

2. Building a Support Network: Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you.

3. Setting Boundaries: Learn to say no to unnecessary stressors and prioritize self-care.

4. Continuous Learning: Embrace opportunities for growth and knowledge to boost selfesteem and confidence.

5. Positive Thinking: Practice gratitude and optimism to rewire your brain for positivity.

Final Thoughts: Black women, we are the pillars of strength and resilience. By understanding the neuroscience behind stress and employing strategies to maintain our peace, we can navigate life’s challenges with grace and poise. Remember, maintaining your peace is not a luxury; it is a necessity for your wellbeing and success. Expectation determines outcomes so embrace your identity, support one another, and continue to strive for excellence.

Remember what Camus said: “Sometimes carrying on, just carrying on is a superhuman achievement.”

As you try to center your life, remember to extend kindness, compassion and grace to yourself.

“Maintaining your peace is not a luxury; it is a necessity for your well-being and success”

Niobis Queiro

Niobis (Nio) Queiro is the founder of The Queiro Group offering Organizational Transformation, AI Management and Implementation, M&A, Advisory Services and Leadership Development Services. Nio is an award-winning author of Joy Notes – Balancing the Trauma with Triumph. Nio’s development and implementation of digital, AI and hyper-automation strategic transformational models was awarded one of the Modern Healthcare Top 25 Innovators of 2021. https://www.linkedin.com/in/nio-queiro/ WOMEN THRIVE / 51

WOMEN THRIVE BOOK

WOMEN THRIVE

BOOK SERIES

#1 BE

ST S

ELLIN G B O

OK

Love reading books? Grab Women Thrive series volume 1-3 featuring inspiring true stories of women overcoming adversities. These non-fiction books feature inspiring women who have overcome life’s struggles and found purpose in their pain. The book series will up-lift you, motivate you and show you that you are never alone in life’s struggles.

https://womenthrivesummit.com/about/book/

WELLNESS

From Gut Instincts to Guts & Glory:

Our Mission to Elevate Women’s Wellbeing with Microbiome Science

by Berit Sund

A

chance encounter with Raimonda on a flight to Valencia introduced me to Women Thrive and its inspiring community of women. Motivated by the stories of entrepreneurship, resilience and encouragement, I felt compelled to share the journey of Guts & Glory Health, which I launched with my twin sister. A story of discovering how gut health and our microbiome really is at the heart of wellbeing.

Our story begins in March 2020, when the world suddenly paused. Like many, I was grappling with the stress and uncertainty of the pandemic. Along with my twin, I was also facing a frustrating health challenge: persistent skin flare-ups, where we both felt we had tried “everything”.

Having spent thousands on skincare over the years, which despite promises, failed to heal our acne and rosacea, we decided, “Let’s get to the root cause, once and for all.” Because, with the world in lock-down, what we did have was plenty of time! So, we got to work …

Discovering the Power of Our Microbiome As a medical microbiologist with a passion for health and skincare, I turned to science to understand what was really going on with my skin. I got up every morning at 5 (having read the 5am Club!) and studied research papers before my day job started – and bombarded my twin with the results.

What we ‘discovered’ astonished us: the community of trillions of microbes living in and on our bodies, called the microbiome, is vital to our wellbeing. It’s fair to say we were both hooked!

The Gut-Brain Connection: A Personal Turning Point However, the pivotal moment came during a family crisis where my niece was taken seriously ill. In a race against time, we again turned to science and our own research for treatments.

And again, the microbiome came up as key – for both mental and physical wellbeing.

Professor TG Dinan (University College Cork, Ireland) opened our eyes to the fascinating connection between the gut and brain. Our gut is home to trillions of microbes that are constantly communicating with our brain. This dialogue in turn, affects mood, anxiety, depression, and even sleep.

Looking back, this was another ‘chance encounter’ that proved a turning point for us.

No wonder phrases like 'gut feeling' or 'butterflies in your stomach' feel so spot on. It’s not just a metaphor to say we “feel” emotions in our gut—science proves it.

“Start small, be patient, and let those small changes compound over time.”

WOMEN THRIVE / 53

Realizing we could shape this gut-brain communication through diet, lifestyle, and probiotics, my twin and I embarked on a personal experiment. We started small: Avoiding ultra-processed foods Incorporating fermented foods like kefir, live yogurt and kombucha Taking a targeted probiotic The results were gradual but profound. Slowly but surely, our energy levels improved, and our skin started to clear up. I even slept better. These small changes felt manageable but added up to big results.

Small Steps, Big Gains It’s important to stress that gut health is not a ‘magic pill’. We didn’t see results overnight, and that’s the message we share with our Guts & Glory Health audience: “Start small, be patient, and let those small changes compound over time. Because like the Chinese proverb says: A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

5 Steps to Gut Healthy Wellbeing 1. First, do no harm Eliminate, or reduce, ultra-processed foods 2. Put colour on your plate Add different vegetables, fruits, and berries 3. Try fermented foods Try live yogurt, kefir, kombucha, or sauerkraut 4. Focus on fibre Eat more whole grains, beans, and vegetables 5. Swap one habit Replace that sugary snack with a handful of nuts and some fruit

Turning Passion into Purpose Together, my twin sister and I channelled our personal experiences into Guts & Glory Health, a blog designed to empower women to take charge of their physical and mental wellbeing through the microbiome. And we’ve had great support from our daughter and niece along the way – who is now well on the way to recovery!

Of course, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. From learning about technical SEO to connecting with people in a crowded online space, we’ve relied on what we do best: blending science with accessible, actionable advice.

We’ve also embraced collaboration. Just as the microbiome thrives on diversity, so does a successful business. We’re bringing in people with complementary skills—such as technical support—to help us expand our reach.

Join Us on Our Gut Health Journey The beauty of gut health is in its ripple effects.

Improving your gut microbiome doesn’t just benefit digestion; it can lead to better skin, mood, energy, and sleep. The science is there, but what matters most is turning that knowledge into action.

If our story resonates with you, you’ll know that change starts with that single step. Whether it’s swapping soda for water, experimenting with fermented foods, or just being kinder to yourself.

Either way, your microbiome will thank you.

While I don’t get up at 5am anymore (it’s exhausting!) I know I will be going on about microbiome wellness until my final day.

Through Guts & Glory Health and communities like Women Thrive, we’re reminded that progress isn’t about perfection; it’s taking one step at a time, together.

These tiny improvements accumulate into meaningful changes over time. So, no need to follow every step all at once.

“Just get started and cheer yourself along on the way!”

“Progress isn’t about perfection; it’s taking one step at a time, together.“ Berit Sund Berit Sund is a Medical Microbiologist who’s worked in healthcare education for >20 years, I’m passionate about translating complex science into clear, actionable insights that make a difference in people’s lives. ‘Discovering’ the power of our microbiome – the ~100 trillion microbes that live in and on our body – has been a turning point, personally and professionally! https://www.gutsandgloryhealth.com/gut-health-blog/ 54 / WOMEN THRIVE

PERSONAL BRAND AND THOUGHT LEADERSHIP RETREAT FOR SPEAKERS January 30-31st 2025 in Miami Florida

Two powerful days masterminding in Miami, surrounded by other inspiring and successful women.

This exclusive mastermind retreat is your opportunity to refine your vision, sharpen your strategies, and create tangible outcomes that align with your next-level ambitions.

Time to step into your power and take your personal brand and business goals to a new level of influence and success.

Gain clarity on your 2025 goals and create a strategic plan to achieve them.

Refine your personal brand for bigger opportunities and global recognition.

Master your message to captivate audiences and command respect.

Plan for global stages to amplify your visibility and legacy.

Join a network of like-minded powerhouse women who challenge and support each other’s growth.

The world needs to know how incredible you are - it is your time to step into your spotlight and claim your crown of authority.

Time to stop being the best-kept secret and build a personal brand and thought leadership that makes you proud standing in the spotlight and representing who you truly are.

https://empower.womeninbusiness.club/miami-mastermind/ 26 / WOMEN THRIVE

thrive WOMEN

LIVE TV

WOMEN THRIVE

TV

STREAMING LIVE DAILY

Tune in to our for our live streaming TV shows on women empowerment, business, personal growth, and more! Catch us on Facebook and YouTube throughout October. Streaming live on weekdays from 1 pm GMT / 8 am EST and 6 pm GMT / 1 pm EST.

Women Thrive Media

@womenthrivemedia