January 2017

Austin Woman MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2017

“Figure out who you are, then do it on purpose.” —Dolly Parton

MAZDA NAMED

2017 Best Car Brand www.usnews.com - Nov. 15, 2016. 2017 Best Vehicle Brand Awards. The awards recognize the brands whose vehicles perform the best on an overall basis within four major categories of the U.S. News vehicle rankings: Cars, SUVs, Trucks and Luxury.

Mazda Ranked Most Fuel-efficient Automaker by the EPA for the Fourth Year in a Row. MAZDA’S 2015 FLEET OFFERS THE HIGHEST ADJUSTED MPG. Based on the EPA’s Light-Duty Automotive Technology, Carbon Dioxide Emissions, and Fuel Economy Trends: 1975 - 2015 report on MY 2015 vehicles.

rogerbeasleymazda.com CENTRAL • SOUTH • GEORGETOWN • KILLEEN

866-779-8409

Locally owned & operated since 1972 | Mon - Sat 8:30AM - 8:00PM

16-

W h y R o g e r B e a s l e y M a z d a?

What it’s really about is how we conduct business and take care of our customers.

Since we’re not like the typical traditional dealership we can confidently say we do things better. Having opened in 1972, Roger Beasley Mazda has 4 locations operating in harmony with the same straight- forward transparent process, shared inventory for more selection and customer service always the priority. There’s a reason the Austin area is one of the largest Mazda markets in the country.

Customer benefits include: 3-Day new and used vehicle return policy † If you don’t love it, you can bring it back.

Price peace of mind Kelley Blue Book® and TrueCar® pricing provided so you’ll know you’re getting a great deal.

Free loaner car With scheduled service and warranty work.

Convenient delivery We’ll bring your new Mazda to you.

PROUDLY SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY

†Return vehicle and receive full purchase price credit valid towards any in stock vehicle of equal or greater value - One exchange per customer - Maximum mileage limit of 200 miles or 72 hours, whichever comes first.

direct connect to

Italy through

copenhagen

departures daily Come experience Italy at Copenhagen. We have assembled a wonderful collection of some of the best designs from Italy’s finest manufacturers. All these products display a sense of purpose and pride through intelligent design and caring craftsmanship. Selective use of practical materials and thoughtful engineering result in products that meet high quality standards while maintaining exceptional value. Come see why Italy has long been regarded as the center of today’s modern design world. Visit Copenhagen for an Italian design experience you won’t soon forget. You will be inspired.

stunning is an understatement.

Andros leather sofa by Nicoline Design Studio, Italy. Classic details combine with contemporary styling to produce a stunning sofa that is undeniably sophisticated. The Andros sofa series imparts a style that is rooted in the past while reinforcing today’s clean design trends. From stock as shown on opposite page or custom order from a significant collection of leather or fabric. Direct import by Copenhagen. Come experience our new Nicoline collection at any location.

Austin

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(just east of The Domain and Burnet Road)

San Antonio

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(Just north of 1604 in The Vineyard next to Whole Foods)

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BREAST RECONSTRUCTION is a journey best navigated

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Breast reconstruction specialist Dr. Christine Fisher provides plastic surgery from a woman’s perspective. Her artistry, skill and experience includes the full spectrum of breast reconstruction options, including DIEP Flap (living tissue) reconstruction, implant-based reconstruction, and ‘hidden scar’ techniques resulting in no scars on the front of the breast. She also offers the correction of problems with breast implants.

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AUSTIN GASTRO IS MAKING THE FIGHT

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50

On the cover

the right woman for the job By april cumming

58

feature

PAPER TRAIL

Photo by Andrew Chan.

By Lindsay Stafford Mader

Contents

Photo courtesy of Travaasa Hana Maui.

january

37 on the scene

GOURMET

24 SAVE THE DATE

64 R ECIPE REVEAL Meal Planning 68 FOOD NEWS Citizen Eatery

Five Must-dos for January

savvy women 26 count us in Women in Numbers 28 B OTTOM LINE Your Financial Future 30 F rom The desk of Jan Goss-Gibson 32 GIVE BACK Girl Scouts of Central Texas 34 PROFILE Susan Combs

MUST LIST 37 Discover Find Your Om 40 LITTLE LUXURIES Rose Gold 42 r oundup The Age of Empowerment

style + HOME 44 THE LOOK Work Wardrobe 46 stock up Nail Polish Power 48 ENTERTAINING Party Swap

14 | Austin Woman | january 2017

wellness 70 W AITING ROOM Meditation 74 E AT THIS, NOT THAT Greek Yogurt 76 H ER ROUTINE SoulCycle’s Lauren Bruker

POINT OF VIEW 78 mem

o from JB Binge-worthy 80 i am austin woman Gabriella Arva

on the cover Photo by Andrew Chan, chaninator.com Styled by Ashley Hargrove, dtkaustin.com Hair and makeup by Rochelle Rae, raecosmetics.com White linen trench, $99, available at ilycouture.com. Gold cuff, $38, available at baublebar.com. Fairchild Baldwin leather-and-gold chain necklace, $450, available at Nordstrom, 2901 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., 512.691.3500, nordstrom.com. Pants and top, model’s own.

ESCAPE

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Our expertise goes far beyond the world of flowers, and we now offer our clients the “full package” for their big day.

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ESTABLISHED IN 1998

WWW.TOCMEDICALSPA.COM (512) 533-7317 • 3705 Medical Parkway, Suite 130, Austin, Texas 78705

Volume 15, issue 5 Co-Founder and Publisher Melinda Maine Garvey vice president and Co-Publisher Christopher Garvey associate publisher Cynthia Guajardo Shafer

thanks for coming to our first semi-annual event for moms & babies focusing on health, wellness, self-care & community

EDITORIAL Editor Emily C. Laskowski associate Editor April Cumming copy editor Chantal Rice contributing writers

Gabriella Arva, Sarah E. Ashlock, Jill Case, JB Hager, Kelly Lindner, Lindsay Stafford Mader, Kat Sampson, Gretchen M. Sanders, Shelley Seale, Darcy Sprague, Morgan Stephanian

ART CREATIVE Director Niki Jones ART DIRECTOR Stef Atkinson ART assistant Megan Bedford CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS

Rudy Arocha, Patricia Brown, Andrew Chan, Leah Dunham, Kevin Garner, Ashley Hargrove, Ashley Kreigel, Dustin Meyer, Rochelle Rae, Annie Ray, Bill Records, Marie Saba, Morgan Stephanian , Johnny Stevens, Chris Torres, Reese Vondershmidt, Megan Weaver, Jessica Wetterer, Molly Winters

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Katie Paschall

operations and marketing Director of marketing and engagement

Lisa Muñoz OFFICE MANAGER

Victoria Castle

Interns Sydney Denton, Kat Sampson, Darcy Sprague

Emeritae Co-Founder Samantha Stevens Editors

Deborah Hamilton-Lynne, Mary Anne Connolly, Elizabeth Eckstein

Austin Woman is a free monthly publication of AW Media Inc., and is available at more than 1,250 locations throughout Austin and in Lakeway, Cedar Park, Round Rock and Pflugerville. All rights reserved.

For submission requirements, visit awmediainc.com/contribute.

No part of the magazine may be reprinted or duplicated without permission.

Visit us online at austinwomanmagazine.com.

Email us at info@awmediainc.com.

512.328.2421 • 3921 Steck Ave., Suite A111, Austin, TX 78759

skin screenings | Tru-Skin Dermatology • breastfeeding support & nursing lounge | The Mama Mantra yoga | Tribe • beauty, braids & buns | AllDolledUpATX | mini manis & chair massages Naava Salon & Spa • mommy & me professional photos | The Blackbird Flies

From the Editor

After college, a good fountain Coke became my daily accomplice to tackling life. If I wanted to energize myself for the day ahead, blow off steam after a stressful meeting, recharge my batteries during lunch, cure a hangover, relax and watch a movie or simply enjoy some time to myself, I could always count on a Coke to temper or enhance those emotions with reliable accuracy.

Some of my favorite local jaunts supplied me faithfully with this pick-me-up preference through the years, and I have to thank them here for their loyal service: the Hill-Bert’s Burgers that used to be on West 35th Street, the Texas Honey Ham Company on Bee Cave Road, the Taco Shack on North Lamar Boulevard and the no-longer-there Players near the University of Texas campus. At times, the staffs at these establishments saw me on a daily basis for nothing more than a to-go cup full of my favorite bubbly beverage.

However, several years ago, I made a resolution to dramatically reduce my intake to one Coke per day. I can feel your eyes widening. Yes, my enjoyable habit had spiraled into a drinking extravagance of two or three fountain Cokes a day.

Join the conversation @AustinWoman #BossLady #TheEmpowermentIssue

18 | Austin Woman | january 2017

And please don’t even ask me what that converts to in canned Cokes. Now I have maybe one a week, and thankfully, most of the time I don’t feel like I need a Coke, which is liberating.

This high-fructose-corn-syrup-laden vice registers menially on the scale of suffering in our world, to be sure. I share it with you, though, because my reliance on it, no matter how ridiculous, did, in fact, hinder my existence. My day-to-day experiences were, at one point, contingent upon finding a soft drink first.

Dependencies—if not thirst-related like mine, perhaps they’re financial, physical or technological—erect limitations around us. They make us feel like we can’t do something without that other thing. I thought slurping a caffeinated cup of soda pop would put the pep back in my step after a bad day, but it turns out the power was mine all along.

It’s not things that empower us; it’s choices. By grabbing a Coke, I had already chosen to change my day, so really, what did I need it for?

You and I empower ourselves and others not when we need something, but when we decide we want something. What women want women will get.

In the meantime, here’s a pro tip for any Austinite trying to curb her Coca-Cola cravings: Try Topo Chico. It helps, I promise.

Sincerely,

EMILY C. LASKOWSKI Editor

Photo by Dustin Meyer.

I

used to have a Coke problem, a Coca-Cola problem, that is. Fountain Coke, for better or for worse, has long been one of my favorite things. Nothing beats the crisp, cool, carbonated refreshment poured over a glass half full of ice and gulped down through the restrained suction of a thin straw.

I AM A TEXAS MBA “From Dallas to Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and Austin, my Texas MBA has been my guide. The relationships, knowledge, and skills I gained while at McCombs have been the most important factors in my career development, and have helped me make every move with confidence.”

EMILY REAGAN Vice President, Lifecycle Marketing, Bazaarvoice Chair-Elect, McCombs MBA Alumni Advisory Board Texas Hill Country explorer Breakfast taco enthusiast MBA 1999

TexasMBA.info

EXPAND YOUR NETWORK

Photo by Korey Howell.

Evening & Executive Programs

contributors This month, we asked our contributors: What will your personal mantra be in 2017?

a u st iN sym p h oN y o r c hest ra

ANDREW CHAN

COVER Photographer, “the right woman for the job,” page 50

Andrew Chan is a freelance editorial and fashion photographer based in Austin. He is a native Texan and graduated from the University of Texas. He works out of the Whitebox Studio located in East Austin. When not out grubbing the city’s finest barbecue offerings, he can be seen around town with Milton and Kermit, his Boston terriers.

“My life motto for 2017 is: Do what you’re afraid to do.”

Lindsay Stafford Mader

Writer, “Paper Trail,” Page 58

Lindsay Stafford Mader is an Austin freelance writer and editor who, despite growing up bored in a small town, now wholeheartedly believes there is no such thing as an uninteresting person or story, especially in Texas.

your perfect

“I’ve never had a personal mantra but it’s enticing. If I were to have a theme for 2017, I like the idea of channeling the words ‘fear is not an option’ because I want to focus on just doing it without dwelling on the potential outcomes.”

Date Night

starts here

ANNIE RAY

photographer, “Paper Trail,” Page 58

upcomiNg eveNt: “Symphonic FollieS” Fun, lighthearted “classical” music January 13 & 14, 8:00 p.m.

Long Center’s dell Hall

Since 2005, Annie Ray has focused on bringing out the “real stuff” in everything she shoots.

Her relationship with every subject will make 1,000 words say so much more.

“My personal mantra for the new year is that all things are possible!

2017 is going to be a great year.”

Co n Cert S po n So r S Download the app:

Morgan Stephanian

Connect:

Writer, Stylist, “Party Swap,” Page 48

“CarnivaL of tHe aniMaLS” (verSeS by peter SCHiCkeLe)

æ

tickets/info S e aS on S po nS o rS

Download the app:

Connect:

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Connect:

Download the app:

Connect:

Download the app:

Connect:

(512) 476-6064 or austinsymphony.org

M e dia S po n So r S

Download the app:

Connect:

Download the app:

Connect:

All artists, programs, and dates subject to change.

Morgan Stephanian is an Austin native who has a passion for all things modern and creative. Morgan enjoys helping clients find their style and make their homes and events unique. She works with clients in many areas, including event planning, home staging and interior design.

“I want to be intentional in the things I say yes to and not feel guilty about the nos, in order to give myself permission to do the things I’ve chosen well.”

Connect with us!

Can’t get enough of this issue?

Check us out at austinwomanmagazine.com.

➥ More glam. Nina Berenato of @ninaberenatojewelry, formerly Psyche Jewelry—Austin’s first and only jewelry store residing in an Airstream trailer—launches a campaign designed to “make women all over the world feel powerful, beautiful and capable of anything.”

➥ More arm candy. Deemed “The Accessories Queen” by her friends

and named Austin’s Rising Fashion Star at 2014 Austin Fashion Week, Kelly Wynne Ferguson just opened a new brick-and-mortar location of @shopkellywynne at Domain Northside.

➥ More workouts. You’ll find more than just your groove at these new-to-

➥ More spring weddings. Raquel Greer Gordian of Greer Image Consulting passes along her educated fashion prowess on dos and don’ts for spring wedding attire, whether your invite says black tie only or black tie optional.

Don’t miss

Win This!

Austin Classical Guitar Jan. 14, 6 to 11 p.m.

AISD Performing Arts Center, 1500 Barbara Jordan Blvd. austinclassicalguitar.org/tickets/international_series

Get your relationship with 2017 started off on the right foot with a three-month H-Circle membership at Hiatus Spa + Retreat, the Texas spa that invented the spa membership.

The membership grants the giveaway winner one essential service each month for three months, a package valued at $330, with selections ranging from the Signature Massage, the One & Only Mani-Pedi and the Tailor-made Facial, just to name a few.

TWIB Luncheon Jan. 20, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Austin Country Club, 4408 Long Champ Drive texaswomeninbusiness.org

Hiatus Spa Giveaway

I Am Empowered Woman Launch Party Jan. 26, 6:30 to 9 p.m.

WeWork Domain, 11801 Domain Blvd. iamempoweredwomanlaunchparty.eventbrite.com

To enter, keep an eye on our Instagram account @AustinWoman for the giveaway announcement in January. A winner will be chosen and notified at the end of the month.

Follow us

@austinwoman

22 | Austin Woman | january 2017

like us

Femme Film Fridays Jan. 27, 7 to 9:40 p.m.

Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum 1800 Congress Ave. thestoryoftexas.com For Women For Life Jan. 28, 9 to 11 a.m.

Baylor Scott & White Medical Center, 300 University Blvd. baylorscottandwhite.com/fwfl

facebook.com/austinwoman

FOLLOW us

@ austinwoman

Nina Berenato Jewelry photo by Reese Vondershmidt. Raquel Greer Gordian photo by Megan Weaver. Hiatus Spa photo by Molly Winters.

town fitness studios. Whether you’re used to running marathons or just watching them on TV, these creative class offerings are sure to—what are the kids saying these days?—keep you on fleek.

FEMME FILM FRIDAYS

OVERHEARD Visit onthedotwoman.com to listen to your daily dose of inspiration.

v

“

Today, take five minutes for yourself.

As author and self-help coach Debbie Ford says, ‘Remember, all the answers you need are inside of you. You only have to become quiet enough to hear them.’

“

”

One morning while in the shower contemplating how she was burned out on competing with and comparing herself to other women, a blast of inspiration hit Joanna Waterfall. In that moment, when she slowed down and actually listened to her thoughts, she realized she wanted to create a place where creative gals could learn from and praise one another. And that was the impetus for The Yellow Conference, an annual gathering for entrepreneurial-minded women who seek to use their creativity for good.

“

”

If you’re on the verge of opening

your own small business but feeling fearful, write today’s number down: 54 percent. That’s the amount

of female small-business owners who anticipate a revenue increase within the next year.

”

The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie 35 mm Screening & Conversation Jay Presson Allen and Maggie Smith shine in this Femme Film Fridays, one of a series highlighting the cinematic works of women.

January 27, 2017 6PM Reception + Cash Bar 7PM Screening w/Special Guests Caroline Karlen

Donna Kornhaber

Production and Costume Designer

Asst. Prof. of English at The University of Texas

On The Dot is a daily audible newsletter that features the most empowering stories of women in business.

Support for the Bullock Museum’s exhibitions and education programs provided by the Texas State History Museum Foundation.

n the scene

save the date

save the date

The January agenda from our favorite local insiders.

Taste of Black Austin “Food has the power to encapsulate culture, community and social context, and growing up in a city like Austin, where communities of color are less visible, it’s an opportunity to connect. I invite you to join the Austin Black Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Urban Roots farm, for its first Taste of Black Austin. Let’s explore history, heritage, healthy eating and hopefully good hot sauce together!”

Jan. 31, 6 p.m., Peached Social House, 6500 N. Lamar Blvd. tasteofblackaustin.com | Tickets start at $65.

Virginia Cumberbatch @vacumberbatch

The Nelson-Crier Estate Auction & More “I love mixing old and new furnishings. Austin Auctions always has great antiques and midcentury modern furniture. There’s always a treasure to be found in this auction house with monthly events.”

Jan. 14 and 15, 10 a.m., Austin Auction Gallery, 8414 Anderson Mill Road austinauction.com | Admission is free.

Katie Kime @katie_kime

Zoolander Pub Run “The Zoolander Pub Run combines so many aspects of what I love about Austin. It’s creative, fun, you can count it as your workout for the day and it’s just a good time. Think you can win a costume contest? Sport your best Zoolander get-up.”

Jan. 24, 6 p.m., Paramount Theatre, 713 Congress Ave. tickets.austintheatre.org/single/eventDetail.aspx?p=2065 | Tickets start at $10.

Kristy Owen @365thingsaustin

Austin Gorilla Run “When I was little, I went through a stage where I really wanted to be a primate biologist.

Perhaps this is why I am going to don a full gorilla suit and run a 5K. If you love animals and you want to embrace the epitome of making a workout fun, join me at the Austin Gorilla Run!” Jan. 28, 9 a.m., Camp Mabry Parade Field, 2200 W. 35th St. austingorillarun.com | Registration fees start at $40 for adults and $15 for kids 12 and younger.

Adriene Mishler @yogawithadriene

Third Thursdays at Domain Northside’s Rock Rose “Rock Rose at Domain Northside is the new—and my favorite—hot spot in town. Plus, every third Thursday of the month, you get amazing deals. I love the extended happy hour at Thai-Kun, the $5 local beer and cheeseburger spring roll at General Tso’Boy, the $1 off beer and half off wine at Apanas Coffee & Beer, and the free $10 upgrades at Viva Day Spa.” Jan. 19, 6 p.m., Rock Rose domainnorthside.com/rock-rose | Admission is free.

Jane Ko @atasteofkoko

24 | Austin Woman | january 2017

Taste of Black Austin photo courtesy of Portrait Equality. Baccarat candelabras photo courtesy of Austin Auction Gallery. Austin Gorilla Run photo by Chris Torres. Domain Northside photo courtesy of Carmack Concepts.

Virginia Cumberbatch photo by Rudy Arocha. Katie Kime photo courtesy of Anna D. Kristy Owen photo courtesy of Kristy Owen. Adriene Mischler photo courtesy of Yoga with Adriene. Jane Ko photo courtesy of Inked Fingers Photography.

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avvy Women

count us in

women in numbers

Facts and figures on females from throughout the world.

By darcy sprague, illustrations by jessica wetterer

91 Percent Positive A 2015 poll conducted by lifestyle and fashion website Refinery 29 found a few shocking insights about women and their drive to make—and achieve—their New Year’s resolutions. The poll surveyed a pool of 1,000 women, and revealed the top resolutions women make each year involve, in order, health, weight and money. Although only an abysmal 5 percent of the women participating in the poll reported they had never broken a resolution, out of the 45 percent of women who said they had made resolutions, a whopping 91 percent were positive they had set achievable goals for themselves. Overall, 90 percent of the women surveyed agreed there are more effective techniques, outside of setting New Year’s resolutions, to achieving a goal.

38 Women of Color The 2016 election was a bumpy ride for women in politics.

However, studies show having a woman run for president didn’t largely affect the percentage of women elected to Congress, which has hovered at about 20 percent throughout the past couple election cycles. The major win in 2016 came for equal representation, with 38 women of color elected to serve starting Jan. 3. Thirty-five democrats and three republican congresswomen have broken their own glass ceiling. Among them, Catherine Cortez Masto, a democrat from Nevada, is the first Latina elected to the U.S. Senate, and Kamala Harris, a democrat from California, is the first IndianAmerican to serve in the U.S. Senate. Additionally, Delaware elected Lisa Blunt Rochester to become the state’s first AfricanAmerican congresswoman.

29 Nominations

$1.6 Trillion 26.4 Million in Revenue Yogis If you’re toying with the idea of cashing in on your million-dollar idea, you’re in good company. According to research consultancy firm Womenable, there are currently more than 11.3 million women-owned businesses in the United States. In 2016, these companies employed nearly 9 million people and generated more than $1.6 trillion in revenue. Between 2007 and 2016, the number of womenowned firms increased by 45 percent, compared with a 9 percent increase among all businesses. This means the number of women-owned businesses has grown five times faster than the national average.

During the course of her career as an actress, Meryl Streep has received 30 Golden Globe nominations, which includes a nomination this year, and won eight times. At this year’s 74th annual Golden Globes ceremony Jan. 7, Streep will receive the Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award, given annually to “a talented individual for outstanding contributions to the world of entertainment.”

This will be the 63rd time the award will be presented and the 14th time the award has been bestowed on a woman. Other notable female recipients of the award include Judy Garland in 1962, Lucille Ball in 1979, Elizabeth Taylor in 1985, Shirley MacLaine in 1998 and Jodie Foster in 2013.

26 | Austin Woman | january 2017

Jump on the shavasana bandwagon and kick-start 2017 with an intention to be mindful. In 2015, an estimated 26.4 million women practiced yoga, up from 20.4 million men and women who practiced yoga in 2012. According to a recent study conducted

by Yoga Journal and Yoga Alliance, it is estimated that women account for threequarters of people sweating it out in the studio. The practice of yoga is widely believed to help decrease anxiety and depression, promote healthy body image and improve cognitive function. With more than 30 registered studios and 340 registered teachers, Austin ranks fifth on Yoga Journal’s list of Top 10 Yoga Towns.

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How not to derail your financial future.

By Shelley Seale Angela Koch joined the Austin-based U.S. Money Reserve in 2003 and was promoted to chief executive officer in 2015. She has positioned U.S. Money Reserve, one of the world’s largest private distributors of gold, silver and platinum products, as a precious-metals leader. Koch was previously an executive at Harrell Gourmet and part of the strategic-businessdevelopment team at KLATencor. Given her financial bona fides, Austin Woman asked Koch to share her unique insight into how economic turmoil on both a national and international scale can influence your personal finances and your family’s financial future.

On the first of the month, deposit this exact amount into your checking account. Put additional income you earn throughout the month into your savings account. This is referred as “zero-sum” budgeting.

AW: Are there specific types of products, services or advice that you would recommend all women have or understand as the basics?

AK: Women need to have a financial plan for retirement, whether a traditional 401(k), other employer retirement plan or a self-directed IRA. These offer greater flexibility.

Especially if it includes precious metals, this can help you diversify away from traditional assets and stay in command of your retirement.

Never make any major financial moves without consulting the right expert, someone with a proven record of success in the area you are interested in.

Austin Woman: How can women best protect their finances, savings and investments from unexpected risks like a volatile election, stockmarket crash, terrorist attacks, etc.?

AW: How do you set up a reliable budget when you’re self-employed or have an unpredictable income?

“Live within your means, not someone else’s.”

Name: Angela Koch, chief executive officer, U.S. Money Reserve Areas of expertise: Business planning, strategy, mergers, acquisitions and operations Her advice: “Too many women rely on other people when it comes to finances. Don’t assume you’ll always have that safety net. Take charge of your finances and educate yourself. The more you know, the less likely you are to fall prey to the whims of the economy and the better prepared you’ll be for the future.”

AK: Start by mapping out the bare minimum you need in order to cover your essential expenses like rent or mortgage, groceries and utility bills.

Then estimate your nonessential spending like eating out, entertainment and clothes. This will give you a good idea of how much you need to make each month to avoid relying on credit or dipping into savings.

28 | Austin Woman | january 2017

AK: I would encourage you to reach out for help. There are many resources to help you reframe the way you think about money, spending and budgeting, and make a plan for lowering your debt. Before you can begin taking on any of the risks associated with investing, even an investment that’s lowrisk like government bonds, you must get yourself out of debt.

Smart money habits take time to build, and bad money habits take time to break. Your best financial future is a debt-free future.

AW: What can women do in the next 12 months to aggressively increase their savings?

AK: Really look at how you’re spending your time and money.

Could you take freelance projects outside your regular job? And what about nonessential expenses: Can you cut any? Even if you aren’t able to increase your earnings, you can noticeably increase your savings by cutting discretionary spending. In a time span of 12 months, spending less and earning more is the quickest way to bolster your savings account.

Photo by Johnny Stevens.

Angela Koch: Live within your means, not someone else’s. First, save, save and save some more. Without an adequate amount of savings (generally six to eight months of expenses) to deal with life’s unexpected emergencies, you could find yourself relying on credit and sinking into debt.

Second, don’t put all of your eggs in one basket. Uncertainty is a daily reality, but diversification through a wellrounded portfolio of stocks, bonds, real estate and precious metals can help you reduce your exposure to risk. Third, double check your insurance coverage, including health, homeowner, auto, mortgage and life insurance.

AW: How would you respond to those who say, “My debt is overwhelming. How do I begin creating a better financial future for myself ?”

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FROM THE DESK OF

Jan Goss-Gibson

The CEO and founder of Civility Consulting shares her secrets for conversing with conviction.

By KELLY LINDNEr, photo by kevin garner

Her Notes: Icebreakers Austin Woman asked Jan GossGibson to provide some go-to one-liners for when you don’t know anyone in the room.

“You don’t want to get it too personal,” she says. “I know people say, ‘Well, what do you do for a living?’

But you don’t know what they’re going through at work or home.”

Here, Goss-Gibson gives us options for breaking the ice: 1. H ello, I’m (Name).

“You always begin with ‘Hello,’ not ‘Hi,’ not ‘Hey.’ Professionals say ‘Hello.’ It’s your duty to introduce yourself. You don’t wait for the other person.”

2. Thank you for inviting me/having this party/hosting this event.

“Gratitude is always the right thing to do. Find the host and tell them, ‘Thank you.’ ” 3. It’s so warm/cold/beautiful outside.

“The weather is a safe thing to talk about. It gives us common ground.”

4. Do you have any fun plans for the week/weekend/holiday/month?

“Keep it positive.”

5. I love that . I really admire your .

“Be free with genuine compliments.”

6. How are you connected to the host?

“Be others-oriented.”

HER ADVICE: CONFIDENCE

Jan Goss-Gibson with Be the Westie “She inspires me. She keeps me grounded.

I think animals at work are a good thing.”

30 | Austin Woman | january 2017

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GIVE BACK

One Cookie Crumble at a Time

The Girl Scouts ring in their centennial season.

by Darcy Sprague

Girls nationwide are breaking gender barriers and becoming our next generation of leaders, in both the community and in their career pursuits, much of which would not be possible without funding from cookie sales.

Sylvia Acevedo, the interim CEO of Girl Scouts of America, is proud of the impact the organization has.

“I know how powerful the Girl Scout experience can be because I lived it firsthand,” Acevedo says. “I was so fortunate to participate in my first handson science experiments thanks to Girl Scouts, and went on to become a rocket scientist as a result of earning my first science and cooking badges. I learned that you have to read the directions, get the ingredients and chemicals in the right mix and the heat source right in both cooking and science. It gave me the confidence to pursue science and math at a time when a lot of girls were not studying or engaging in these fields.”

Acevedo adds, “From modern offerings like activities in STEM, coding and financial-literacy programs, we strive to provide today’s Girl Scouts with the tools and experiences they will need to be leaders in their own lives and in our world.”

The Lady Cans robotics team, one of two national Girl Scouts robotics teams, is based in Austin. The team provides an opportunity for young women from Austin-area troops to compete in local and national robotics competitions while learning how to build, program and design robots.

“I was never interested in more traditional scout activities like crafting and camping, but the Lady Cans helped me realize that Girl Scouts isn’t just about collecting patches. It’s about individual growth and impact on the community,” Girl Scouts like this Central Texas troop says Juleea Sanchez, a high-school member will start selling cookies Jan. 18. junior from Troop 3993.

According to Girl Scouts of Central Texas, while STEM careers are growing rapidly—accounting for 20 percent of “I was so fortunate to participate all U.S. jobs—women hold less than 20 percent of bachelor’s degrees in my first hands-on science earned in engineering, computer science and physics. experiments thanks to Girl Scouts, It’s important for girls to get involved and went on to become a rocket in STEM activities, Sanchez says.

“Being on a robotics team is hectic,” scientist as a result of earning my she adds. “It means countless hours of first science and cooking badges.” work and long nights fixing broken robots ­—Sylvia Acevedo, interim CEO of Girl Scouts of America and code. But at the end of the day, it also means a sense of accomplishment. This is an experience every girl should have.”

Founded in 1912, the Girl Scouts organization has grown from the original troop of 18 girls to 1.9 million young women throughout the nation, 17,000 of whom make up various troops in Texas.

“At the core of what we do is give girls the opportunity to explore and grow and learn,” says Taji Senior, a public relations executive for Girl Scouts of Central Texas. “We are a safe space for girls to have fun and build positive, sustainable relationships while at the same time learning to give back to their communities and the world around them.”

The original cookie, the shortbread cookie, is still available. Everyone’s favorite, Thin Mints, first became available in 1950 and are the most popular cookie sold to date.

“I love to sell cookies,” says Marie Young, 12, a member of Troop 1587 and the Austinbased Lady Cans robotic team.

“I can meet new people, share my story, travel and give back to the community. We have been able to give back through our businesses and not because we asked our parents for money.”

While Girl Scout principles have remained consistent throughout the years, the curriculum and opportunities offered to troop members are constantly evolving.

“We’ve expanded the Girl Scout experience to include curriculum and programming that is relevant to today’s girl and her interests,” Senior says.

“Locally, our girls participate in a wide range of outdoor programs, which includes backpacking in Colorado, hiking, ziplining, high-ropes courses, bouldering, canoeing, camping and everything in between.”

32 | Austin Woman | january 2017

Photo courtesy of GSCTX.

For the past 100 years, Girl Scout troops throughout the country have sold boxes of cookies, from Thin Mints to Samoas, the sales of which allow and enable young girls to participate in life-changing opportunities.

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profile

The Woman Who Dared

Former Texas Comptroller Susan Combs enters a new, empowering stage in her life.

By Sarah E. Ashlock

Susan Combs has led many lives. She’s held her own in the courtroom, the Capitol and even a cattle ranch. Now, with a new book and nonprofit, she’s entering an empowering chapter of her life. But she’s always been the same woman, one who lives her life by what her father taught her: Your word is your bond.

“

We, whoever we are, wherever we are, we don’t know what we can do until somebody either kicks us in the teeth or puts up a barrier.

Photo by Bill Records.

”

34 | Austin Woman | january 2017

After she earned her bachelor’s degree in religion and French of Public Accounts for seven years. (As of press time, it was reported from Vassar College, she headed to New York City to work at what that Susan Combs was being considered for the cabinet post of many would consider a good job at a big federal agency. During this secretary of the Agriculture Department in President-elect Donald time, 27-year-old Combs had a pivotal moment that caused her to Trump’s administration.) change directions. She describes in her book, Texas Tenacity, viewing Combs considers agriculture to be more of a man’s world than an episode of the 1970s television show Maude, in which the main politics. (There are no bathrooms out on the cattle ranch!) However, character doesn’t turn out to be as successful as she and everyone there are obstacles for women in politics. If a woman has children, thought she’d be. participating in local politics is no problem because she lives and “My parents had really saved and sacrificed to send me off a long works in the same city or town. But for a woman in state or national way, and it’s not cheap. And I was doing things that I could not, in a politics, she faces a tough decision. For instance, a woman living in sense, justify their existence. I didn’t Amarillo and participating at the state see a meaning for my life to do it,” level spends several days or weeks at a Combs says. “I felt like I was turning time commuting to and working in Austin.

Wisdom From the Woman into Maude.”

“Look at the U.S. Congress. If you live The very next day, Combs made a in California and have children under the Who Dared, Susan Combs call to find out when the next LSAT age of 15, [you have] to fly all the way to exam would be administered. It was Washington [and] not see them, unless you “Write down what you think you want to in two weeks. Combs called her “math move, in which [case,] the constituents do. … Shrink it down, distill it down. You wiz” brother and studied over the back home think you’ve packed up and can’t ramble. It has to become core.” phone. She passed. abandoned them,” Combs says. “Men and Combs returned to her home women are interested in the same issues, “Everybody’s story has high points and state to begin law school at the but it’s the tugging of the heart strings. low points. You come through the fog at University of Texas, and would later Can I pack up and leave? Those tradeoffs the end.” fight long and hard in the courtroom and choices still fall heavily on women.” prosecuting child-abuse cases.

While Combs was fortunate enough “Cultivate friends who will be a safe After four years, she went back to to live in Austin, it’s that kind of harbor. Find people who you know will her roots. Her father owned a cattle understanding and empathy that makes help you and you will help them.” ranch in the Big Bend area of Texas, her newest venture a no-brainer. and Combs sat in a one-room office, “The last two years have been really “As the tide rises, so do all ships. If all helping with the ranching business for different and really exciting,” she says. women start rising, then all of these ships the next seven years, continuing after Combs had another Maude moment rise, then we’re all doing better and then her father passed. in 2015, following the election of Austin’s we can be better models. If you don’t see One of the biggest honors of first-ever female-majority council, when something, you can’t model it.”

Combs’ life happened next. She was she heard the Austin city manager’s office asked to be on the board of the Texas had conducted a training session for and Southwestern Cattle Raisers staff on how to work with women. (The Association. blunder earned national media attention, Texas Tenacity: A “I was the only active woman including one Time article titled Austin Call for Women to rancher on the board,” she says, noting Held Sexist Training on How to Deal With Direct Their Destiny that this put her foot in the door Women, Outraged Leaders Say.)

by Susan Combs of politics, as she often submitted “It woke me up again,” she says. “I’m $15.95 testimony to the Texas Legislature going to spend my time really working on on a variety of issues concerning this because it’s ridiculous for anybody to Shop local: Availranchers and land. “I had not been to think women ask too many questions and able in Austin Jan. the Capitol. I didn’t know where you don’t like numbers.” went, where you parked, how you got Combs’ action plan was two-fold: 10, at BookPeople, in the door. I knew nothing.”

Write a memoir to encourage women 603 N. Lamar Blvd., In May 1991, a Republican seat to follow their purpose, and create a 512.472.5050, opened in the Texas House of nonprofit for women. The nonprofit, bookpeople.com Representatives for a district The Anywhere Woman Project, serves representing Travis County. Combs as the parent organization for another ran against four men. platform called Herdacity, which Combs “It was not a piece of cake,” says describes as a place “where women dare Combs, who, after the primary, a runoff election, a recount and a to be the person they want.” lawsuit, won by “about two votes,” she says.

The Herdacity platform and mobile app will provide 20-something Despite the excruciating hoops she jumped through to get into the women a place to learn from 60-something women, and vice versa. political sphere, Combs trusted the journey.

Women can choose from a variety of “campfire discussions,” and will “You may not know where you’re going. Your parents may not know be able to anonymously pose queries or comments, as well as support where you’re going, and you may not know where your children are and advise one another without judgment. going,” she says. “In some sense, it’s all open and exciting and free.”

“Not one of these things [that I accomplished] were thought out 20 Following three years in the Texas House, Combs’ expertise led years in advance, 10 years or five years,” Combs says. “We, whoever her to be the first woman to serve as commissioner of the Texas we are, wherever we are, we don’t know what we can do until Department of Agriculture and, until 2015, as Texas Comptroller somebody either kicks us in the teeth or puts up a barrier.” austinwomanmagazine.com | 35

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Photo de San Miguel de Allende.

Photo courtesy courtesyof ofConsejo TravaasaTurístico Hana Maui.

MUST LIST Find Your Om

As the ancient practice of meditation continues to gain modern-day

interest, we scope out two resorts—one a splurge and one a steal— centered on self-discovery and reflection.

by Kat Sampson

Take a deep breath, hold onto your inhale and count to three. Now audibly let all your thoughts—and breath—go.

Congratulations, you’ve just, in a very small way, practiced the art of meditation. The truth is, you don’t have to travel farther than home to reap the benefits of being mindful.

While the practice of meditation and inner reflection can take on a variety of forms and be practiced in two-minute spurts or two-week stretches, the purpose and intention boil down to simply resting the mind.

According to the Pew Research Center, an estimated 52 percent of American adults are expected to practice some form of meditation in 2017. That stat comes two years after a report published by the American Medical Association cited meditation as an effective form of alternative medicine in treating anxiety and depression. So, whether you’re thoroughly convinced or seriously skeptical, we compare two luxurious resorts for those looking to dip their toes into the reflection pond. austinwomanmagazine.com | 37

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discover

The splurge: Travaasa Experiential Resort Hana, Maui, Hawaii Cash or credit: Rates start at $1,600 for a four-day retreat travaasa.com

r The Experience The quest for relaxation lies at the heart of a Travaasa experience.

During mediation sessions, you’ll be guided to practice “acceptance, letting go, non-striving and suspension of the judgmental mind.”

Attention to breath and visualization are key components of the practice. If you don’t reach nirvana during class, you’ll most likely find it midway through a sugar-cane body scrub at the spa.

r Selling Points

r What to Bring 3 A swimsuit to complement your lei 3 SPF 50 sunscreen 3 Your die-hard adventure buddy

r What Not to Bring 7 That lengthy Proust novel you’ve been trying to read for months 7 A tourist’s guide to Hawaii (You won’t need it here.)

With its surreal Jurassic Park-like backdrop, the resort emphasizes connecting visitors to nature through excursions such as snorkeling off Hamoa Beach, Kapueokahi Beach or Hana Bay; Hawaiian bamboo fishing and throw-net fishing or taking a glide tour around Haleakala, the world’s largest dormant volcano.

Dining here is a divine experience in its own right. The Preserve Kitchen + Bar allows visitors to sip their morning coffee overlooking Hana Bay and Ka’uiki Hill. Hawaii boasts a local cuisine firmly rooted in tropical fruits, vegetables and seafood, and the resort menu reflects that focus. Expect fish-centric dishes and more colorful plates than those you’d find stateside. If you have a free morning or evening during your stay, make sure to take a smoothie-making class or pull up a barstool at the Art of the Cocktail class and finally learn what exactly goes into a mai tai.

r Mock-up Itinerary 9 a.m.: Unfettered, you awake without even setting an alarm 9:30 a.m.: Whip up an energizing breakfast during a smoothie-making class Noon: Partake in an hour-long, guided-meditation session 1:30 p.m.: Tune everything out during a deep-tissue massage 3 p.m.: Invigorated, take a trail ride on horseback 5 p.m.: Learn how to make a martini from the resort’s inhouse mixologist 6:30 p.m.: Head off-resort to take part in a traditional pigroast celebration 8 p.m.: Watch the sun set over the ocean during a walk on the pristine white-sand beach Photos courtesy of Travaasa Hana Maui.

9:30 p.m.: Tuck yourself into bed

38 | Austin Woman | january 2017

The steal: Rolling Meadows Retreat Brooks, Maine Cash or credit: Rates start at $650 for a four-day retreat rollingmeadowsretreat.com

r The Experience

r What to Bring

Meditation at Rolling Meadows is all about the pursuit of the natural state. Surrounded by a naturally stunning landscape, the retreat center is the perfect place for contemplation. An in-house teacher leads you through guided-mediation sessions heavily rooted in Vipassana—an ancient technique that means “to see things as they really are”—at least three times a day. Outside of these sessions, the majority of your time at the retreat is spent in reflective silence.

3 The most comfortable clothes you own 3 Shoes appropriate for long, contemplative walks 3 A friend going through a tough time

r Selling Points The periods of unstructured time allow visitors to explore the property’s natural environs. Rolling hills covered in undulating, wooded patches of emerald green serve as an idyllic foundation for long, peaceful walks. Be sure to mosey over to the spring-fed, crystalclear pond just a short jaunt from the epicenter of the retreat. Once you’re done hiking for the day, kick off your shoes and sweat out your grievances in the wood-fired sauna.

If you’re like most Austinites, in that you harbor a healthy barbecue addiction, you’re in for a detox here. Only vegetarian dishes grace the menu, and the retreat prides itself on cultivating a true farm-totable dining experience, a feature that shines through in late spring and summer, when the property’s garden is plentiful. Although you’ll dine at the same time as other visitors, most interactions will occur in silence to preserve what the retreat calls “social silence.” This time is seen as imperative to promoting self-inquiry and awareness.

r What Not to Bring 7 Work assignments from home 7 An iPad or iPod (Remember, silence is key here.)

r Mock-up Itinerary 7:30 a.m.: Rise early to catch the sunrise and practice quiet meditation 8:30 a.m.: Relish a simple breakfast of eggs and toast 9:30 a.m.: Hike rather intrepidly through the woods 10:45 a.m.: Take a refreshing dip in the spring-fed pond 12:45 p.m.: Sample a quick lunch 1:30 p.m.: Retire to your room for a nap 4 p.m.: Stretch it out during a yin yoga class 6 p.m.: Feast in silence on farm-fresh fare with other visitors 7:30 p.m.: Partake in the evening guided-meditation session 8:30 p.m.: Detox in the sauna

Photo by Patricia Brown.

9:30 p.m.: Slip into a deeper form of mediation, also known as REM sleep

austinwomanmagazine.com | 39

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LITTLE LUXURIES

Coming Up Roses

The season’s must-have hue goes viral.

by Kat Sampson, photo by andrew chan Ten years ago, rose-gold-colored anything would have sent people crawling back to the 1970s. That’s not so much the case today, as jewelry trendsetters from Cartier to Kendra Scott have helped turn rose gold into the color of the decade. Dell is answering the call and staying on top of the trend with the release of its latest XPS 13 laptop. Weighing in at about 2.7 pounds, it’s been coined the world’s smallest 13-inch laptop. With rose quartz named the 2016 Pantone Color of the Year, and this laptop’s competitive price point, turning heads in the conference room is just as possible as it is at your neighborhood coffee shop.

Inset photo courtesy of Dell.

Dell XPS 13 in rose gold $849.99 dell.com

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The Age of Empowerment

Snackbox PR Founder Jenna Oltersdorf sheds light on five favorable ways to feel empowered in 2017.

“T Ask for Help “A couple of years ago, I realized I needed outside help if I wanted to grow my firm. My business coach, Stephanie Chung, holds me accountable, gives me great advice and keeps me motivated. She is my cheer section, my mentor and my sounding board, and with her guidance, Snackbox has grown substantially.” stephaniechung.com

here is nothing more gratifying than giving a woman who is just starting out in her career your time and knowledge,” says Jenna Oltersdorf, CEO of publicrelations and graphic-design firm Snackbox PR, which turned 10 last September. “I regularly work to empower people looking to break into PR on how to interview, work fashion and media relations.

It’s so gratifying to watch their careers shoot off to notable agencies and news outlets. I’m so proud of all of them!”

Austin Woman persuaded Oltersdorf, who founded her Austin-based PR company before the age of 30, to share her best advice and tools of the trade for empowering herself and, notably, other women too. — Emily C. Laskowski

Read the News “As busy as I am, it’s easy to get micro-focused and lose sight of the bigger picture, especially of what’s current in the world. I find Flipboard to be an indispensable platform to help me keep current, from the latest fashions to what’s going on in Europe.” flipboard.com

Stand Tall “My mother taught me to run in heels when I was 7. Yes, they’re bad for your knees and sometimes uncomfortable, but when I’m striding into a new-

“I use the Slack app to keep me connected to my team.

It allows our team members in various cities throughout the country to stay connected, mentor and empower one another.” slack.com

42 | Austin Woman | january 2017

business meeting, they make me feel like Wonder Woman marching into battle. One of my favorites in my collection is a pair of boots

by Italian luxury brand Kallisté.” kalliste.it 6.

Utilize Technology “I love gadgets, the shinier, the better.

The iPhone 7 Plus is the perfect size for me to conduct business on the go.” apple.com

Photo courtesy of Elissa R Photography.

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S

tyle

the look

WORK IT

Polish your professional wardrobe with these three looks.

PHOTOs BY RUDY AROCHa Lunches and coffees and business meetings, oh my! While considering how to curate a professional wardrobe for the year ahead, Austin Woman asked Wendi Koletar, owner of local boutique Kick Pleat, to lend a helping hand. Her opinion: Accessorize these modern power suits with your own brand of confidence and you’ll be ready to pencil a productive 2017 into your portfolio. — Emily C. Laskowski

“This outfit can almost work anywhere: fashion, law firm, the Capitol, real estate. The light jacket gives the outfit layers and it's great for our weather.”

“A powerful woman is confident and put together in her way. She chooses items that she loves and isn’t trying to dress for other people. She has integrity and authenticity in the way she acts, dresses and carries herself.”

Apiece Apart olive jacket, $350; Samuji cream shirt, $310; Samuji pants, $400; Mari Giudicelli lizard shoes, $557; Rachel Comey handbag, $449, available at Kick Pleat, 624 N. Lamar Blvd., 512.445.4500, kickpleat.com.

44 | Austin Woman | january 2017

Photo by Dagny Piasecki.

— Wendi Koletar, owner, Kick Pleat

“This is a classic look that never goes out of style. The shirt and pant look great together but can also go with so many things in your wardrobe. The Jil Sander slides are very sharp.”

“The dress is a great basic because it can also be used as a jacket. The outfit is a power outfit but also [has] interest. When the weather isn’t cold, you can wear the dress by itself and roll up the sleeves.”

Jil Sander striped shirt, $571; Samuji black pants, $540; Jil Sander slides, $558; Want Les Essentiels handbag, $495, available at Kick Pleat, 624 N. Lamar Blvd., 512.445.4500, kickpleat.com.

Jil Sander black dress, $1,284; Studio Nicholson camel turtleneck, $483; Martiniano shoes, $548; Want Les Essentiels bag, $595, available at Kick Pleat, 624 N. Lamar Blvd., 512.445.4500, kickpleat.com.

austinwomanmagazine.com | 45

S

tyle

stock up

NAIL IT

Empower yourself one brushstroke at a time with these boldly titled shades.

PHOTO BY RUDY AROCHA

MISS INDEPENDENT

commander in chic

SHE WOLF

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Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure, $6.59, available at Target stores, target.com

Deborah Lippmann nail polish, $18, deborahlippmann.com

Queen of Beauty

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China Glaze nail lacquer, $7.50, available at Ulta Beauty stores, ulta.com

OPI nail lacquer, $10, available at Ulta Beauty stores, ulta.com

Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy Longwear nail enamel, $4.99, available at Target stores, target.com

JANUARY 2017 46 | Austin Woman | january

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H

ome

ENTERTAINing

Party Swap

Celebrate the new year with a closet-cleaning breakfast bazaar.

Written and styled by Morgan Stephanian, photos by Ashley Kreigel

The best way to ring in the new year, I find, is with a meaningful morning filled with friends, good food and a few new things you love. Every year, I host or attend a home-décor-and-clothing swap at which friends gather together and bring a couple of things from their homes or closets that they love but are no longer using. Everyone eats, shops and leaves ready—and joyfully so, I might add—to take on the new year.

The Swap Set up five to seven areas in your space where guests will place items once they arrive. Use chalkboards or craft paper to make signs that read, “home décor,” “dresses,” “pants,” “shirts,” “accessories” and “active wear.” Once your guests have categorized their items, invite them to fuel up on coffee, catch up on holiday stories and enjoy the simple, easy brunch until the designated start time when everyone can shop. Donate anything and everything not claimed at the end.

Simplified: If you can’t find an inexpensive clothing rack nearby, hang clothes on available hooks throughout your house.

Next level: Provide bags for guests to take their new treasures home in.

The Flow Set up a food station and a drinks station in different locations to keep guests moving about and to avoid a line forming in either area. The casual setup will encourage your friends to walk around, chitchat and check out the goodies being added to the loot. In this day and age, labeling each food and drink item so guests aren’t left wondering what is gluten-free or what contains nuts will save you from answering repeated questions about the menu.

Simplified: Make the food-and-drinks stations self-service.

Next level: Designate a friend to help with greeting guests and, depending on the size of your gathering, directing traffic.

48 | Austin Woman | january 2017

Kale Breakfast Casserole INGREDIENTS 1 One can reduced-fat Pillsbury Crescent Rolls 1 30-ounce bag frozen hash brown potatoes 1 8 eggs, whisked 1 1 cup finely shredded cheddar or Asiago cheese 1 2 cups chopped kale without stalks 1 1/2 cup milk 1 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1 1 teaspoon salt 1 1 teaspoon pepper 1 Cilantro and lime for garnish DIRECTIONS 1. P reheat the oven to 350 degrees and lightly grease a 9-by13-inch casserole dish.

2. Spread croissants across the bottom of the dish like a crust.

3. In a large bowl, mix the remaining ingredients and pour them into the dish over the crust.

4. B ake for 35 to 45 minutes until cooked through, browned on top and the kale sticking up is slightly crunchy.

4. G arnish with a fresh bunch of cilantro with stems and a lime wedge.

The Décor Choose two or three colors, patterns or textures to inspire your decorating theme. For example, my go-to decoration inspiration comes from the things I already have lots of at home: chalkboards, glass jars and gold accents.

Simplified: Buy disposable plates, bowls, napkins and cutlery to make cleanup a breeze.

Next level: Use the theme to help pull together the party with coordinating invitations, signs, paper goods and flowers.

THE MENU

The Resolutions

Freshly brewed coffee

Greek yogurt parfait bar with fresh fruit and cinnamon granola

This year, I’m thinking about the need, more than ever, to incorporate etiquette into our modern-day existence. For me, entertaining is where I most want to utilize some reminders and revised rules. These are the three entertaining-etiquette resolutions I’m committed to following in 2017:

Sausage wrap rolls

3 Respond to invitations with a prompt RSVP.

Simplified: Pop Sister Schubert’s Frozen Sausage Wrap Rolls in the oven and offer store-bought yogurt and granola.

3 Intentionally connect guests to each other based on common interests or known experiences to make everyone feel comfortable.

Mimosas Breakfast casserole

Next level: Make this kale breakfast casserole, my favorite for morning parties and, with kale in the name, one that will make your resolution-conscious guests feel happier about their health.

3F ollow up parties with a text or, even better, a handwritten note thanking the host.

austinwomanmagazine.com | 49

The Right Woman for the Job As Dell’s chief customer officer, Karen Quintos is the only woman with a seat at Dell’s executive leadership team table.

She’s worn many hats in the 16 and a half years she’s been working at the Round Rock, Texas-headquartered tech giant, so it’s no surprise she knows a thing or two about the issues facing both the company and the tech industry, everything from employee productivity and innovation to diversity and equality in the workplace. Four months after the company acquired EMC Corp.—a $58.1 billion deal and the largest technology merger in history—Quintos sat down to discuss her new position, how she got to where she is today and the power of treating people like you want to be treated.

By April Cumming Photos By Andrew Chan Styled by ashley hargrove hair and makeup by rochelle rae

50 | Austin Woman | JANUARY 2017

51

There used to be an island, Karen Quintos is quick to point out as she surveys the now-seamless water of Lake Austin from her stately balcony perched high in the hills. She could be a queen.

Steam rises in wispy puffs from her coffee mug as she tells the story of her home’s original owners. They were a couple, she says.

No kids, just two people new to town and in search of their forever home who fled—surprisingly disenchanted—just a couple years after giving Austin a go.

The air is crisp and cool, the sunlight impenetrable through the occluding cloud cover. Everything in view is cast in varying hues of blue. As swiftly as the hesitant drizzle turns into thick droplets of rain, Quintos retreats inside, first to light the fireplace in the living room, second to tuck her svelte frame into the cozy comfort of a couch cushion.

She’s lived in this house, 18 miles west of Dell’s headquarters in Round Rock, as the crow flies, for the past five-plus years.

As chief customer officer at Dell, it isn’t often Quintos finds a moment to sit down and soak it all in. It’s been four months since she started her new role, four months since Dell sealed the deal on an 11-months-in-the-making merger with Massachusetts-based EMC Corp. The acquisition—the largest technology merger in history— cost a jaw-dropping, record-breaking sum of $58.1 billion and made Dell the largest privately controlled tech company in the world. With the merger, the tech empire, which currently employs about 140,000 people globally and about 13,000 in Central Texas, according to the Austin Business Journal, also took on a new name: Dell Technologies.

File > Open New Blank Document “[Michael] realized that what had made us great in the past was not what is going to make us great in the future,” Quintos says of her boss, Michael Dell, and his reasoning behind the merger.

Declining sales of PCs throughout the tech industry, matched with a global trend of moving storage toward the cloud, the merger, which is expected to help Dell grow its commercial business, is “absolutely the right strategy,” according to Quintos.

“There is no question in my mind,” she says. “Look at what IBM is doing, where they’re selling off their hardware business and getting out of the server business. You look at HP splitting. Michael is betting on end-to-end. He’s betting that scale is going to win and he’s absolutely right.”

If anyone is qualified enough to know whether a company’s CEO is calling the right shots, it’s Quintos. For the past six and a half years, she’s reported directly to Michael Dell, serving as the company’s chief marketing officer, a pivotal role spent meticulously molding the public’s perception of the company.

Enter > Return “You think about seven or eight years ago,” Quintos says, reflecting, “and you’d ask somebody, ‘What do you think of when you think of Dell?’ and they’d say, ‘They’re like this consumer PC company.’

Now, dial the clock ahead seven or eight years: technology changes, Michael taking the company private, all of the acquisitions that we’ve done. Now you ask people about Dell, and they go, ‘Wow, they’re this company that’s really transformed themselves. They’re not just a PC company. They’re an enterprise.’ ” It’s imperative to mention that, in Quintos’ 16-and-a-half-year tenure with the company, she’s spent the past six and a half years and counting as the only woman—one of 15 members—to have a position on Dell’s executive leadership team. Being the only woman at the table doesn’t faze her, though. It’s nothing new. Her resume is padded with promotions that put her in one management position after the next, a fact she humbly attributes to the foresight of those around her.

52 | Austin Woman | JANUARY 2017

Karen Quintos’ Definition of

Empowerment: “Having the drive, heart and resiliency to make the changes you want to see in the world.”

“I’ve had the opportunity to work directly for people that I feel saw something in me that I didn’t necessarily see in myself,” Quintos says. “I had people—you realize it over the years—that were just great advocates and champions for me. They believed in me and they were willing to take a chance.”

Command Y > Show Full History Raised in Pen Argyl, Pa., a small town with a population hovering somewhere around 3,000 people, Quintos says she used to jokingly tell her parents she felt like the entire town knew what she was going to have for breakfast before she actually ate breakfast. As one of four kids with an older sister and two younger brothers, she says life growing up was nothing short of awesome.

“I mean, you couldn’t ask for anything better,” she says.

Needless to say, the campus population at Penn State, where Quintos later graduated with a degree in supply chain management, came as quite a shock.

As fate would have it, Quintos met her husband, Tony, the summer between her junior and senior year. She was interning at Merck. He was there as a full-time employee.

“The very first day I started, [our boss] said to Tony, ‘Keep your hands off the summer intern,’ ” Quintos recalls, smiling. “A week later, Tony and I were going on our first date to Windows on the World [the New York City restaurant that was located on the 107th floor of the World Trade Center], and it built from there.”

Quintos finished her senior year at Penn State, started working on her master’s degree at New York University, went back to work at Merck full time and married Tony a year later. She was 21 years old. It was an exciting time to work for the pharmaceutical company, Quintos notes. It was launching new over-the-counter products like Pepcid and Prilosec that are now commonplace on pharmacy shelves.

By the age of 25, she became the youngest executive to ever be promoted at Merck.

“I worked for a great leader at that time who decided to retire and he said, ‘I think you should take over my job,’ ” Quintos explains. “I remember going to him when we were transitioning and, because everybody else was older than me and they had been there so much longer, I said, ‘They’re going to quit when they hear that I’m taking over. What should I do? Give me some advice.’

He said, ‘Just treat people the way you want to be treated. If you remember that, everything else will just fall in place.’ He was right.

Nobody quit.

“The best advice that I ever got around that [transition] actually came from my husband early on when we were married. He said to me, ‘You’re one of the most capable and smart individuals that I have ever met. Would you please start believing in yourself and start to put yourself into the bigger kind of role?’ I said, ‘You know what? You’re right.’ ”

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This page: A.L.C. gold fit-and-flare dress, $595; Gas Bijoux gold bangle, $195; Seraphine Design stone lariat collar necklace, $398, available at Nordstrom, 2901 S. Capital Of Texas Hwy., 512.691.3500, nordstrom.com. Senso opal lace-up heels, $240, available at revolve.com.

Karen Quintos’ Tips for Achieving Work-Life Harmony “It really does take a village to raise children and keep all of this in some proportion of harmony. I like to think about it more as work-life harmony because there are many days where it’s not balanced. It’s not easy. I don’t always get it right. There are times where you do this oh-crap moment where you realize that your department’s holiday party just got scheduled right on top of a band concert.”

SHE really believeS in: A strong support culture “There’s no way I could do my job today if it hadn’t been for my husband, Tony, my family, friends, my team. And, frankly, Michael [Dell] is a huge proponent. There have been many times where I’ve said, ‘I can’t go to dinner tonight because I need to go to a sports banquet,’ or something like that, and he’s like, ‘Go.’ ” Prioritization. Prioritize, prioritize, prioritize “I’m a huge believer that you have to do that looking out 12 months. My son will graduate from Texas A&M this May, and my daughter will graduate from Vandergrift High School this June. I’ve already told the team, ‘Don’t plan on anything in the month of May for me to go anywhere.’ ”

austinwomanmagazine.com | 53

Tab > Next Page

working directly with Kevin Rollins, Michael and the executive team around how we were going to help our customers rebuild their infrastructure, rebuild Nasdaq, and the impact on Wall Street, the Pentagon and Washington. That was pretty remarkable. I saw what the full support of what a company like Dell could do. It was a great moment in my career.”

After 9/11, Quintos moved back into a customer role, holding an array of positions, from running Dell’s customer support centers to taking on tech support and marketing roles.

“I’m at my best when I’m in front of sales and in front of our customers,” she says.

When Michael Dell asked her to step into the CMO role six and a half years ago, Quintos says she only asked one question: Why me?

She remembers, “He said, ‘Because you are the most customercentric executive that we have.’ ”

She worked at Merck for about 12 years in myriad positions, from director of supply chain to director of new products planning.

When she was promoted to director of packaging, the company gave her the opportunity to move back to a small town, this time to Wilson, N.C., to run one of the packaging facilities.

“I think there were a number of people that were kind of surprised on day one when I showed up. It was, for the most part, all men and then it was me,” Quintos says of her first day on the job. Being a woman working in the manufacturing industry never raised a red flag, though. “Once you’re in the door and once you’ve garnered employee confidence, [it becomes] a point of respect, a point of interest, a point of admiration.”

Running the manufacturing plant was probably one of the hardest jobs she ever had, Quintos says. > “I tell people all the time that, sometime in your career, you need

to get large people-management experience where you have to stand in front of packaging associates who are working three shifts, Sometime after the sea of job-title changes and before Forbes named her one of the most influential CMOs in the world, Quintos engineers that frankly could care less about where you got your and her husband adopted their third child, Elle, now 12 and in MBA and how smart you are. They care that you’re going to treat junior high school, from Guatemala. them right and you’re going to pay them fairly and you’re going to While the challenge to maintain a balance between family life advocate on their behalf,” she says. and work responsibilities is not lost on In the two years Quintos managed Quintos, she’s quick to diffuse any pats on the packaging facility in North “I told the person that the back. Instead, she says, her attention Carolina, her husband took a job at is focused on targeting educated women Citibank and started splitting his called me, ‘It’s a great whose children are older and who now want time between Florida and New York. company, but I’m not to get back into the workforce.

The couple welcomed their first “People say to me, ‘You’re the role model.’ child, Alex, now 21 and a senior at moving my family to I am not the role model,” Quintos says. “The Texas A&M University. She decided Texas.’ They said, ‘Austin role model is the single mom who is divorced something had to give. It was too or her husband has left her, who is trying to hard to raise a young child when is different. Bring Tony.’ raise a family. That, to me, is the role model. living in different cities. So, she And here we are 16 and a “My kids tell me all the time that I’m followed her husband to Citibank, a much better mom because I work. I where she spent the next three half years later.” think companies really have a huge role years working as vice president of in enabling an on-and-off ramp. We really customer operations. It was an eyeneed to figure out how do we tap into that opening experience, Quintos says, when six months into her role, population of highly educated women that are now 30 or 40 years Citibank merged with Travelers. old? How do we create programs where they can come back in and “It was the culture. The differences were unbelievable. It was they can work? If they’ve been out of the workforce for 15 or 20 like oil and water. It was a very tough time for me professionally,” years, it’s probably going to be hard to come back to the same level. she says.

They’re going to have to give up some things.”

When Quintos went on maternity leave with her second child, One way Dell is making things easier for women to re-enter the Carmella, now a senior at Vandegrift High School, she decided she workforce is through its Legacy of Good 2020 plan. Part of Quintos’ wouldn’t be returning to Citi. new role is to make sure the plan’s benchmarks are being met.

One of the goals is to enable 50 percent of Dell employees to work > remotely by 2020.

“People love that benefit, especially the millennials,” says Trisa That’s when she got a call from Dell.

Thompson, chief responsibility officer at Dell and a member on “I told the person that called me, ‘It’s a great company, but I’m Quintos’ team. “People want to work where they want to work and not moving my family to Texas.’ They said, ‘Austin is different. when they want to work.”

Bring Tony.’ And here we are 16 and a half years later,” she says.

Thompson, herself, has been with the company for 18 years.

“It’s the longest place that I’ve worked in my career, and I was “We care a lot more about the quality of work than we do about thinking about that the other day. It’s crazy, right? where you’re doing it,” she says.

“I still remember, to this day, my pager going off, and my assistant Nearly 75 percent of Dell’s workforce in Austin works one or two saying, ‘You need to come up here.’ I was in a staff meeting. ‘You need to come upstairs. There is a major crisis that is happening, and days remotely, Quintos says.

“When you think about that,” she says, “I mean, I’ve been at they are shutting down flights all around the world.’ ” dinner parties here in Austin where I’ve had women come up to me It was the morning of Sept. 11, 2001. Quintos had just been who have said to me, ‘I was just hired back at Dell after not working promoted to vice president of Dell’s supply chain organization and was approaching her year-and-a-half anniversary mark with for 10 or 15 years and I’m working from home. It enables me to drop my kids off in the morning and pick them up in the afternoon. I love the company. this flexible work arrangement that you do.’ [The ability to work “You talk about putting a test on the world’s fastest supply chain,” remote] has been a huge retention. It has been a huge reason that Quintos says, “all of our components and all of our parts. My boss people will come to Dell.” at the time was stuck in Brazil, so I was the most senior person

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54 | Austin Woman | JANUARY 2017

In the Words of Michael Dell, Karen Quintos is…

“One of the most dedicated people I know. Karen is smart, analytical, results-oriented and tenacious, a very powerful combination. And she doesn’t quit, no matter what. She’s a great one to have on our team, and Dell is a better company for her leadership.”

Karen Quintos’ Five Qualities That Define a Leader 1. Incredible passion for winning

2. Strategic vision 3. Courage 4. Humility 5. The ability to manage people austinwomanmagazine.com | 55

Rapid Fire Q&A With Karen Quintos

Healthy habit: “I’m a runner. I’ve been doing it since I was 17 or 18 years old. It’s more fast walking and running than it is straight running, but my very best days are when I can come into the office after a 3-mile run.”

Resolution for the new year: “To do more to help the local Austin community. I’m blown away at the amount of homelessness happening here in the local Austin community, especially given the affluence of the city and how fast it is growing. I want to get more involved in the direct impact, more than just how do you donate to an organization.”

Her husband’s New Year’s resolution for her: “He would say it should be to slow down, tell the kids I love them more often and don’t talk to the kids like they’re in a Dell operating review.”

Go-to apps: “I’m a big Spotify junkie. I’m a big reader, so also Twitter and LinkedIn. Twitter is a great place for me to get short sound bites from people whose opinion I respect, and LinkedIn has done a brilliant job in targeting the professional audience. It’s a place where you can engage in meaningful dialogue.”

Favorite quote: “You spend the first 40 years of your life trying to be successful and the next 40 years of your life trying to be significant.”

Previous page: All clothes and jewelry, model’s own.

This page: Blank NYC burgundy suede jacket, $188; Cupcakes & Cashmere floral top, $90, available at Nordstrom, 2901 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., 512.691.3500, nordstrom.com; jewelry, model’s own.

56 | Austin Woman | JANUARY 2017

Tools > Track Changes It’s been four months since Quintos transitioned from the role of chief marketing officer to the role of chief customer officer. In addition to developing new, high-value incentive programs for some of Dell’s largest global accounts, from hospitals to schools to government organizations, Quintos is also responsible for spearheading Dell’s entrepreneur program, as well as the diversity and inclusion team, both areas of personal interest she has championed for years.

“When Michael and I first started talking about the chief customer officer role,” Quintos says, “it was largely around [the idea] that our customer relationships, at the end of the day, will be the ultimate differentiator for Dell.”

Explaining her new role, Quintos says she thinks of it as a blend of the left and right brain.

“You’ve got to be great at branding,” she says. “You’ve got to be great at messaging. But you’ve also got to be great at data, analytics and process. And I think that’s where the whole world of big data, personalization and one on one is going. In the chief customer officer role, [I have] the ability to bring my marketing, customerfacing and operational experiences together.”

In 2002, Quintos, along with Thompson, founded one of Dell’s largest employee resource groups, Women In Search of Excellence (WISE), which was dedicated toward women. Now called WoMen In Action, the group claims a presence in more than 40 countries, and acts as an internal meeting place open to women and men in which Dell employees can discuss workplace challenges and opportunities.

In return, the goal is that Dell is made more aware of ways to help nurture and develop talent. IT is Not Just for Geeks is a product of the program. Launched out of Dell’s WISE (now called WoMen In Action) branch in Ireland, the initiative is aimed at getting more women interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) careers, a topic of high interest to Quintos and likeminded tech leaders looking to ramp up diversity efforts and change the maledominated landscape of their industry. (According to the National Science Foundation, white and Asian males make up 84 percent of working professionals in the science and engineering fields.) “[Our Irish organization] said, ‘We need to change the dialogue because technology isn’t about just computer programming anymore. There’s so many more opportunities in technology.’ So, they developed a program and took it into the local school district.

They’ve now done this program for thousands of girls in middle and high school,” Quintos says.

The program is a catalyst to change and to the kind of encouraging, female-driven growth Quintos wants to see more of in the STEM and entrepreneur fields.

Last spring, in a partnership with economic data-forecasting and analytics firm IHS Economics, Dell released a report recognizing the top 50 future-ready cities in the world. The report evaluated each city’s human capital, infrastructure and commerce capabilities. Austin ranked seventh on the global list, a position that, according to Quintos, would severely falter were the number of female entrepreneurs factored in.

Find > Purpose + Passion “I think the challenge in Austin now is how do we do for women entrepreneurs what we’ve done for entrepreneurs? Women have got these great business ideas. I see it all the time,” Quintos says, adding the two biggest gaps she sees are a lack of female entrepreneur role models and access to capital. “In my role at Dell, one of the things I can at least do is help to enable them and create capabilities, investments, networks and programs like we’ve done through Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network.

“The thing that I’m probably the most proud of is the work that we have done around women, diversity and entrepreneurship, really helping to build the soul of Dell. I really believe that people work for companies because they have a soul. I really believe that customers do business with the company because they have a soul.

They believe in something bigger than just the products and the technology. That’s where legacies are left.

“People don’t say great things about people when they leave a company because they rolled out a great product. They say [great things] because they’ve left their thumbprint on either a team or a culture or an aspect of the company’s soul.”

Thompson admires the refreshing attitude and attention Quintos brings to the table.

“She is a very passionate, engaged leader. She really cares about women in business and women in technology. Just like different people with different experiences and backgrounds, we all bring different perspectives and value. Being a woman, Karen has that different perspective,” Thompson says. “It’s good to have an advocate up there at the top. She provides a role model for women coming up through the pipeline.”

File > Save There’s a popular saying in the tech industry: “You can’t be what you can’t see.” It’s an aspirational quote, one intended to motivate more women to not only knock at opportunity’s door, but to go ahead and knock the door down. Quintos, a humble yet strong, collected yet fierce tour de force, serves as that pillar of resonation so many women in the workplace need. Because where women see her, they can also see themselves.

So, Quintos carries on, attending an entrepreneur’s conference in Turkey one month and meeting with manufacturers in Bentonville, Ark., the next. She does it all because she knows there will come a day when, just like the island lying in wait beneath the surface of Lake Austin, she too will be remembered for how much she changed the landscape. She too will leave a legacy.

Karen Quintos’ Business Advice for Budding Entrepreneurs Don’t be afraid to reach out to your role models “There are so many that are willing to help and provide guidance and advice.”

Invest in a strong business and financial plan “I see so many entrepreneurs—not just women, but also men— who have a great idea and a great product, but they don’t really know the market they’re trying to serve. What’s the market?

What’s the need? How does your product or service fit into it?”

Have the courage to take a deep breath, jump in and do it “I have so many great ideas for businesses. [My daughter] Carmella and I talk about it all the time. One of the biggest regrets I have, when I sit with all these Dell women entrepreneurs at events, is [I think], ‘I should have done it.’ ”

austinwomanmagazine.com | 57

58 | Austin Woman | JANUARY november 2017 2016

paper trail Erin Condren brings her paper-planning empire to Austin.

By Lindsay Stafford Mader | Photos by Annie Ray

Selling $40 million a year in paper planners and stationery is the most obvious characteristic that sets Erin Condren’s eponymous company apart from Austin’s proliferation of online startups. A dedication to being largely manufactured in the United States is another. Most of what makes Condren’s company different, though, is its purpose. While many modern companies sell products to do things faster and easier, Condren is in the business of encouraging her customers to slow down enough to embrace the experience. A visual reminder of this ethos can be found at the California-based company’s new 120,000-square-foot Austin outpost. Inside the massive production facility, where employees print and assemble hundreds of daily orders to be shipped throughout the world, hangs a huge, white banner emblazoned with colorful dots and letters that spell “enjoy.”

“The community is using the LifePlanner for more than just scheduling every day; they’re celebrating every day,” says Condren (who also serves as the company’s Chief Style Officer) of her brand’s signature product. “It’s helping them be more successful and more organized and happier. I just want them to enjoy the process.”

Erin Condren offers a variety of products, from notebooks and journals to desk pads and even pajamas. But the LifePlanner Stylized Organizer, which Condren herself envisioned a decade ago, has been and remains what the company is known for. It sold 1,000 planners the first year they were offered and has since sold more than a million. Unlike most planners, the LifePlanner is fully customizable, down to the cover, layout and colors. While Condren attributes the planner’s popularity to this aspect, she also realizes there’s something more at play.

59

Calm Before the Storm:

Erin Condren’s Morning Routine

“I love to wake up to the sun rising and almost always rise just minutes before my alarm sounds at 6 a.m. In my family of four, the day is always actionpacked, so our mornings together are very precious to me. I have the coffee timed to brew before I’m awake, as it is a must to start the morning with a cup of joe. I typically skim through emails before jumping in the shower. While my husband is cooking, I can answer important emails and prepare notes or to-do lists for the day. The four of us eat together and talk through the daily calendar of events so we are all on the same page—literally! We couldn’t function without our Erin Condren Oh, What a Week! Schedule Pad. On my days to drive the carpool, I drop my kids off at school before heading into the office, which is only 15 minutes away. I’m so grateful to not have a long commute that is typical in Los Angeles.”

Daily Screenplay:

How Erin Condren Stays Organized “I am an absolute planner. Am I completely organized? No. I used to be a perfectionist, and that’s not fun. So, I’ve let a lot go. But I think because I’ve planned out a lot, I can be super spontaneous. I started writing my own daily ‘screenplay,’ and it’s incredible how much more I can accomplish when I follow the ‘script.’ I use my LifePlanner to log appointments and to-do lists, and then I typically have a chronological list on a notepad (or on a snap-in dashboard in my planner) broken into ‘before work’ and ‘after work’ sections that keeps me on track. Sometimes the list looks overwhelming, but it is so gratifying to cross off each task and start over with a new plan for the next day.”

60 | Austin Woman | JANUARY 2017

“it

was an interesting test to see if my stuff could sell not personalized,” she says. “We did a 30-store test with Staples less than two years ago, and now it’s in approximately 700 stores. So, it’s working.”

Surprising many who are strangers to the #PlannerAddict trend, which has almost 1.8 million Instagram posts, the LifePlanner claims a devoted cult following. YouTube has almost 120,000 videos of the product and the internet is rife with reviews from countless bloggers, many of whom set aside time each day to adorn the planner’s inside pages with colorful highlights, stickers, drawings and photos. While most praise the customization, they speak more enthusiastically about how the planner and its accessories allow the user to make planning—and life, in general—more fun.

Take Devin Elmenhorst, for example. This Mustang, Okla., mom and solutions consultant for Dell uses the LifePlanner to take notes during meetings, to keep track of her sons’ activities and to record memories.

“It’s not like any other planner,” Elmenhorst says. “I know that there is an iCalendar, but I like to write. I think it’s a creative outlet for a lot of people.”

to

understand the business’ success, one must take a look at the creative and determined trajectory of its founder. Condren started in the apparel industry in a swimwear showroom that she describes as beautiful and sexy.

“I was just bored to death,” she says. “I wanted to know how it was made. So, when I didn’t have appointments, I’d go to the factory and watch the patterns being made, the fabric being purchased, and I loved that.”

Condren eventually moved into the private-label industry, designing and manufacturing domestically for big brands like Nike and Adidas, and then teamed up with her brother on an original line of pants. They obtained orders from all Nordstrom stores, but when 9/11 happened, the economy became unstable and all their orders were canceled. Condren had recently become a mother, so she decided to prioritize her newborn preemie twins. Though fulfilling, this new job didn’t exactly satisfy her professionally or creatively, and her growing family was in need of a double income.

“I had been working 14-hour days in a factory all my working life, and suddenly, I’m home with babies that are napping every two hours. I was pulling my hair out!” Condren says.

“As much as the doctors say, ‘When the babies nap, you nap,’ I was like, ‘Uhhh, no. I’m going to get on my computer and start creating.’ But I was always mindful of profitability. It wasn’t a hobby; it was a necessity.”

austinwomanmagazine.com | 61

ing on the design, creative and marketing Condren created her own birth anaspects of the business, Marco takes on nouncements for the twins and then strategic planning, such as the decisions started turning her sketches and doodles to open a second production facility and into cards. Every night after she put her to land it in Austin. Condren says while kids to bed, she’d brew a pot of coffee the business-friendly nature of Texas and and feed her ink jet photo printer sheet Austin was a big part of the move, Marco’s after sheet of the thickest paper stock the choice came down to Austin’s charm. machine could pull. When her husband “He loved Austin,” she says. “He loved got home at about midnight from the it for his family. He loved it for his kids.” restaurant he had just opened, he’d load Marco, who recently relocated from the boxes of paper into her car and then California, notes that Austin’s more Condren would take the paper to get cut. central location would improve distri“We were so exhausted,” she recalls. bution throughout the country, and he “We always laugh about those early years. also echoes Condren’s sentiment for the I don’t know how I did it. It was a lot of state’s capital. hard work around the clock.”

“We felt that Austin was the city for Many of the friends and family who the Erin Condren brand,” he says. “It’s received Condren’s cards asked her an exciting city that’s full to make their holiday We always laugh of life, growing and findcards and birth ing its way and in a very announcements, as about those early similar situation [that] well as stationery and years. I don’t know parallels our company stickers. Recipients of those customers’ how I did it. It was in regards to how we’re growing and all the excards saw Condren’s a lot of hard work citement and challenges email address on the that come with it.” back, and the demand around the clock.

The facility, located spread. It wasn’t long in North Austin, now accommodates until she launched a website, in 2005, more than 150 employees, including a which increased her reach. About this customer-service team, as well as the time, when her ink jet printers were manufacturing team that prints and overflowing into her garage, Condren met assembles a majority of Erin Condren her future business partner, Al Marco, a products. Though being largely made in leader in the fine-arts printing industry, the U.S.A. increases retail prices (Lifewho gave her the sage advice to hire a Planners start at $55.), Condren says she full-time employee and publicist, even if is passionate that the company makes it meant taking out a home-equity line of what it can at home. credit. Just a few months after sending As the brand continues to expand and the first round of media kits, The Ellen evolve (Its first brick-and-mortar store DeGeneres Show invited Condren to be will open in early 2017 at Domain Northpart of the program’s 12 Days of Giveside.), a certain aspect of its founder’s aways, which Condren describes as “an life will likely remain constant: loyal fans’ unbelievable opportunity that forever interest in Condren herself. Last Novemchanged my business.” ber, at the Texas Conference for Women The next year, Condren and Marco in Austin, dozens of fans stopped by Fine Arts forged a partnership, and the Erin Condren booth throughout Condren moved her design studio and the day to meet and take selfies with production operation into Marco’s Condren, who smiled big behind the digital-printing facility in El Segundo, smartphone and took time to chat.

Calif., to be followed by a larger facility Elmenhorst, the mom from Oklahoma, in Hawthorne, Calif. In the coming years, posted her photo with Condren to the company would be covered by mainInstragram with the caption: “She is stream media outlets, such as the Rachael inspirational, empowering, motivational Ray Show, Family Circle magazine and and so sweet, with a great heart!” That the Today Show, and its business would so many women see her as a role model, double each year.

Condren says, has been the most unex“[Working with Erin] has been an pected experience of her career journey. amazing journey with many twists and “I don’t see myself as a celebrity,” she turns, filled with so many wonderful says. “But being among the shoppers experiences, good and challenging, but who truly get joy from the products and always positive,” Marco says. “She has hearing about how it’s changed their ambition and focus to be the best she can lives makes everything worth it. It’s the be, as well as a true passion for her prodconnection with the women. We are all in ucts, people and her community.” this together.”

While Condren has continued focus-

“

Financial Finesse:

Erin Condren’s Tips for Budgeting and Smart Entrepreneurship 1. “Embrace fiscal responsibility.

People say, ‘You’re so lucky. Did you know the business was going to explode?’ I don’t credit anything to luck. Timing is something, hard work is a lot and understanding that every penny counts. So, I was always very conservative with inventory, as I saw others get buried by it.”

2. “Educate yourself. Understand profit margins, what a cost sheet looks like, what costs of goods sold are and what price you need to sell something at.”

3. “Take risks occasionally. It was stressful using a credit card for some of my early business purchases, but when we launched the website, it was incredible how it spread. And when I bought more printers for my home operation, everything became more streamlined and the collection started to expand.”

4. “Partner smart. Al Marco, my business partner, really hammered in the fiscal responsibility as well. He said, ‘If this brand is going to make it, we’re going to do it slow and we’re going to do it right.’

I’m grateful to have Al and a finance team that has a long-term vision that keeps the company healthy and debt-free.”

62 | Austin Woman | JANUARY 2017

”

erin condren’ s top five must-have products Acrylic tray with liner. “I love to change out the tray liners with each holiday and season and use for entertaining in our home.”

Compliment cards. “You never know when someone needs a pick-me-up, words of encouragement or a reason to smile. I love putting these in my kids’ backpacks as surprises, leaving them behind at restaurants or scattering them around the office.”

LifePlanner Stylized Organizer.

“A must to keep my busy life organized and on track.”

Personalized stationery. “I try as much as possible to always send a hand-written thank you card or a thinking-of-you or get-well-soon message.”

Carryall clutch. “The only way I can zip around and move at the speed I like and keep everything contained and in order.” austinwomanmagazine.com | 63

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OURMET

recipe reveal

The Art of the Meal

It doesn’t take a masterpiece, just a bit of master planning.

It’s not often this magazine promotes the lowering of one’s standards in order to achieve success, but we’re about to make an exception. Meal planning, according to local cookbook author and Chef Marie Saba, should make life less stressful, and part of that, in fact, means not being the perfect standard bearer.

Recently, Saba wrote of meal planning on her blog, Cocina Marie, “There are just so many benefits, less trips to the

grocery store, lower grocery bills, less wasted food, less stress during the day about what the heck we’re going to eat for dinner and, the greatest benefit of all, more home-cooked meals!”

Saba adapted some of her best tips and a couple of her easiest, simplest recipes from her blog especially for Austin Woman readers. Here’s to kicking off your meal-planning resolutions with less stress and—dare we say it—lower standards. —Emily C. Laskowski

t

Prep on Sunday “Find two to three things you can do on Sunday to prepare for the week. I try to whip up whatever sauces I’ll need for the week, like my lemon-dill sauce.”

Easy Lemon-Dill Sauce Makes 3/4 cup

“This sauce tastes great on salmon, pork or chicken, and can be used as a dipping sauce for veggies or as a salad dressing. It keeps well for one week, so make it ahead on Sunday.”

64 | Austin Woman | january 2017

Photos by Marie Saba.

Mix 1/2 cup wholemilk Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill into a bowl and stir well. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

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recipe reveal

Marinated Broccoli Salad Serves 6

Steam and let cool completely three large broccoli florets, stalks removed. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar, and salt and pepper to taste.

In a large bowl, combine broccoli with 12 cherry tomatoes, 15 pitted Kalamata olives, 1 cucumber, peeled and sliced, five button mushrooms, sliced, and the olive oil mixture.

“Marinate for 10 minutes and serve at room temperature. The longer it marinates, the better, so make it ahead.”

t

Take Shortcuts “There’s just no reason to make everything from scratch these days.

Buy a few things already prepared, like broccoli florets. My other favorite shortcut is a grocery shopping service, like Instacart. While this seemed indulgent at first, the $6 delivery charge plus a tip is totally worth it. I put my order in on Sunday morning and two hours later, the groceries arrive on my porch. It saves so much time and hassle, and best of all, my grocery bills have actually decreased because I’m only buying what I really need.”

t

LOWER YOUR STANDARDS “Does anything ever go as planned? Not in my life. Pretty much every day is some combination of crazy, surprising, frustrating, fulfilling, exhausting and exhilarating. And all of that chaos applies to meals and meal planning. So, give yourself a break.”

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food news

Herbivore Heaven

Co-owner Aimee Moyer unveils vegan and vegetarian dreamland at Citizen Eatery, Burnet Road’s latest dining haunt.

by Darcy Sprague With a vast array of rich, indulgent holiday meals in our rearview mirror, taking a turn for eating cleaner in the new year couldn’t be easier in our farm-to-table, food-focused town. A notable new addition to the roster is Citizen Eatery, a vegan and vegetarian restaurant featuring made-fromscratch specialties that opened its doors in early November in North Central Austin.

wine selection and a number of curated cocktails. Pro tip: Try the Lavender Underground and Paloma 56.

The interior space, personally designed by the Moyers, features unique, eclectic and sustainable design elements, from reclaimed church pews and old cafe tables to the reuse of plywood flanking the expansive bar. For those looking to avoid the remorseful, post-meal food coma, this newcomer offers a warm, inviting spot from which to indulge guilt-free.

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Photo courtesy of Citizen Eatery.

The restaurant, which emphasizes locally sourced, organic fare, is a longtime dream of owners and husband-wife duo Aimee and Michael Moyer.

The handcrafted menu includes mouthwatering main dishes such as The Nest, two poached eggs atop a mound of crispy fried veggie noodles, and the Citizen Burger, a woodsmoked meatless patty served with vegan avocado ranch. Side plate specialties include salivating offerings like cauliflower mac and cheese, smoked sweet-potato mash and organic veggie noodles dusted with parsley salt.

“We felt our community needed more choices for locally sourced, vegetarian and plant-based dining,” Michael Moyer says.

“Creativity in meat-free cooking has come a long way, and we think guests will enjoy our unique approach.”

Citizen Eatery also offers a full bar, including a number of local beers on tap, a mostly organic

Parsnip waffle & BBQ

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WAITING ROOM

New Year Nirvana

Healthy and happy in 2017? Just tell us where, when and how.

by Jill Case

Foreman, Cathy Bonner, Leslie Strickler, and Joene Grissom founded Meditation Bar when they realized how much meditation had changed their own lives.

“We weren’t your typical longtime yogis,” Foreman notes. “We’re big believers that if we can do this, anyone can. Our partner, Cathy Bonner, a longtime Austin executive, has used meditation as a way to be the boss of her brain, and so can you.”

In recent years, researchers have conducted several scientifically valid studies that have looked at how the practice of meditation not only affects the brain, but also how it may help with certain medical conditions. The results show mediation is effective, has no negative side effects and can be practiced in one of its many forms by everyone.

On its Meditation: In Depth page, the National Institutes of Health’s National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health states that studies show meditation can be helpful for those with several health conditions, including high blood pressure, chronic pain, irritable bowel syndrome and ulcerative colitis, anxiety and depression, insomnia and stress-induced inflammation. It has also proved effective in smoking-cessation programs.

“Scientists have discovered that the brain can actually change when you practice meditation,” Foreman says. “We once thought that the brain you were born with was what you got, and now we know that you can literally change your mind through meditation. We’ve seen this demonstrated through science. The brain actually reshapes itself. Scientists have used brain-imaging techniques, and they discovered changes in a few different areas of the brain.”

For example, one study found increased gray matter and changes in the area of the brain that processes the senses, showing enhanced sense during meditation.

“If you think about a time in your life when you were truly happy, you were probably fully engaged in the moment, so if you continue practicing that mindful behavior, you would become happier over time and discover what genuinely brings you joy,” Foreman says.

In addition, Foreman adds that increased gray matter in areas of the brain that focus on memory “can make you more creative, better at making decisions at home and at work, and make you a better executive.”

Pro tip: Take a chance on the Shift Happens Package from Meditation Bar (meditationbar.com) because then you’ll be ready when “shift” hits the fan.

All prices listed are for

Meditation Bar co-founders Lauren Foreman, nonmember IV Cathy drips. Bonner, Leslie Strickler and Joene Grissom

70 | Austin Woman | january 2017

Four Tips From Meditation Bar’s Lauren Foreman on Finding Time to Meditate 1. “Find a good teacher or studio near you. Meditation is a form of exercise.

It’s exercise for the mind, and like any muscle, the more you flex it, the better you will become at it. Having a teacher or studio will help you remain committed to the practice and also make it more pleasurable for you.”

2. “Bring mindfulness experts into your workplace. Meditation will make you and your team more productive and empathetic. If you don’t feel that you have time for meditation outside of work, bring it into work instead.”

3. “Take at least two to five minutes each day. Everyone has a few minutes, whether it’s right before you go inside your home at night or right before a meeting. Focus on the breath. This naturally slows down the heart rate and also allows you to practice body awareness and note where you are feeling tension, and then try to relax that area.”

4. “Listen to meditation apps or meditative music. Do it at home, when you wake up or at lunchtime.”

Photo courtesy of Meditation Bar.

Centuries ago, Aristotle said, “Be still and know.” Thanks to the growing popularity of meditation and mindfulness practices, we are finally beginning to take his advice.

According to Lauren Foreman, one of the founding partners of Austin’s Meditation Bar, “The science is what spawned this mindfulness movement that is happening right now.”

GET ENOUGH SLEEP. GET YOUR FRUITS AND VEGGIES.

GET IN TO SEE YOUR OBGYN. Your obgyn wants what’s best for you. If you have gone longer than 12 months without seeing a physician, call us. Our caring and experienced team is here to help safeguard your health and stand beside you through all of life’s ages and stages.

Dr. Rebecca Teng • Dr. Brenda Chao • Dr. Beth Thai

East Round Rock 301 Seton Parkway, Suite 407 Round Rock, TX 78681

512-931-1656 • obgynroundrock.com

DO YOU KNOW YOUR

TSH?

HORMONES AND ENDOCRINOLOGY

Endocrinology is the science of hormones, which affect every cell and every function in your body. The glands secreting these hormones form your endocrine system, a tightly interconnected system with thousands of feedback loops. It is far more complex than any supercomputer today. Hormones control everything in your body from birth to death. Without hormones, your body cannot function. Examples of hormones: estrogen, testosterone, insulin and hormones like thyroid, cortisol, adrenal and pituitary.

WHAT ARE ENDOCRINE DISEASES?

They are diseases caused by a malfunction of one or more endocrine glands in your body. Examples: thyroid, osteoporosis, metabolic syndrome and obesity, hirsutism, menopause, low testosterone in males, andropause and impotence, polycystic ovaries, irregular or lack of menstrual periods, high and low calcium, and diabetes.

WHAT FACTORS AFFECT YOUR ENDOCRINE SYSTEM?

hypothyroidism. Thyroid ailments include Graves’ and Hashimoto disease, goiter, thyroid nodules and thyroid cancer. Thyroid problems require lifelong attention. Each person has a different genetic set point for TSH, the thyroid stimulation hormone.

WHAT IS OSTEOPOROSIS?

Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break. Osteoporosis affects one in two women and one in four men over the age of 50 and is generally missed. Bone fracture is considered to be the heart attack of the bone and can have major consequences on your quality of life, from reduced mobility to potential loss of mobility altogether. A bone density test is the only way to test for osteoporosis. We perform such testing and provide consultation on bone metabolism and osteoporosis treatment.

HORMONE MYTHS DEBUNKED The facts about some hormone myths:

“Seek your optimal health, your ideal yet achievable health, and increase the quality of your life.”

Aging, other diseases, stress, environmental and genetic factors do influence your endocrine system. Aging changes how hormones are produced and absorbed by your body. Genetic factors and other diseases can do the same. Stress triggers a cascade of hormones that affect your heart, kidneys and other organs. Recent research identified endocrine disrupting chemicals in our environment.

WHY SEE AN ENDOCRINOLOGIST?

Hormone treatments must be followed by a hormone specialist (endocrinologist) the same way heart disease is followed by a heart specialist (cardiologist). An endocrinologist has years of special training in diagnosing and treating your hormone imbalances.

Endocrine diseases are often missed, since symptoms are often subtle and easy to brush aside. An endocrinologist starts out with a thorough physical evaluation looking for these telltale sings, then follows up with a battery of blood and other lab tests. Often, additional highly specialized tests are involved to identify the root cause of your hormonal imbalance.

WHAT IS THYROID DISEASE?

Since hormones rule your body, have your hormonal balance assessed by an endocrinologist to optimize your health.

Dr. Simone Scumpia of Austin Thyroid & Endocrinology outlines everything you need to know about hormones and their effect on the body.

Thyroid disease affects 30 million Americans, yet half of them do not know they have it. It is called the “silent disease.” One in eight women will develop a thyroid disorder in their life; women are five to eight times more likely than men to develop hyperthyroidism or

3 Bioidentical hormones are not human identical and may cause complications.

3 Fountain of youth hormones (otherwise known as human growth hormones) can cause serious side effects when used for anti-aging.

3 hCG diets (HCG) by themselves do not cause weight loss, but can cause irregular periods for women and breast enlargement for men.

3 Hormone treatment of fatigue, depression or anti-aging should be avoided due to many side effects it can cause.

3 Adrenal fatigue is not a real disease, but adrenal failure is a life threatening disease.

WHAT IS OPTIMAL HEALTH AND BIOLOGICAL AGE?

Medicine addresses disease treatment and prevention. Optimal health and biological age deal with your health before disease prevention or treatment. We focus on optimal health, the ideal yet achievable health of your body as you reach middle age and beyond. Our specialized equipment allows us to measure and evaluate your biological age, a measure of how well or poorly your body is functioning relative to your actual calendar age.

Biological age is a composite of several “ages” such as brain age, bone age, heart age and vessel age. Optimal health focuses on your wellness before disease can be identified; it is a step before disease prevention and does improve the quality of your life.

AUSTIN THYROID & ENDOCRINOLOGY

2200 PARK BEND DRIVE BUILDING 3 SUITE 300 AUSTIN, TX 78758

(behind North Austin Medical Center) MON-FRI, 7 AM TO 4 PM 512.467.2727 | austinthyroid.com

Dr. Simone Scumpia treats all thyroid and endocrine (hormonal) ailments with emphasis on optimal health and biological age.

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Eat This, Not That

It’s All Greek to Me

Reaching for a dollop of Daisy? Consider this instead.

Eat this: plain Greek yogurt Not that: sour cream Says who: Millie Wilson, corporate registered dietitian, My Fit Foods Why: “All in all, Greek yogurt has a higher nutritional value than sour cream. While sour cream does have some nutritional benefits, substituting Greek yogurt can nourish your body in a way that traditional sour cream cannot. Always look for ingredients that can provide added benefits to your body. Making swaps like this one is great for overall health and longevity.”

“Greek yogurt is a little more tangy than sour cream, but since the texture and flavor are both very similar, you can use Greek yogurt in almost any recipe that calls for sour cream.”

Benefits of This:

Drawbacks of That:

3“ Greek yogurt is very high in protein,

7 “ The calories in sour cream

especially compared to sour cream.

One cup of Greek yogurt contains about 20 grams of protein, while sour cream only contains 8 grams. Having that added protein can help keep you fuller for longer, and in the long run, [it] is more beneficial in keeping your body functioning.”

3“ Greek yogurt contains probiotics that

aid in digestion and help maintain good gut health. While sour cream is cultured, very few sour creams actually contain live strains of probiotics.”

3“ Greek yogurt is higher in calcium than

sour cream. While both are a good source of calcium, one cup of Greek yogurt has about 25 percent the daily value of calcium, while one cup of sour cream contains about 16 percent.”

can add up quickly when using it in a recipe or just when topping your favorite dish. For example, 1 cup of sour cream is around 480 calories, while 1 cup of whole-milk Greek yogurt is around 190 calories.”

7 “ Sour cream is very high

in fat compared to Greek yogurt. One cup of sour cream is about 40 grams of fat, while 1 cup of wholemilk Greek yogurt is around 9 grams of fat.”

Make the Swap: u“ Creamy salad dressings and dips often contain sour cream to give it that thick, creamy texture. That

u“ Several chicken-salad recipes call for both mayonnaise and sour cream. Try swapping out the sour

cream for Greek yogurt to add a delicious, tangy flavor while still keeping that creamy texture of chicken salad that is so popular.”

u“ One of the best ways to use this swap is to simply use a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of sour

cream on top of your taco, taco soup or taco salad. A lot of times, Mexican food really needs that tart flavor and brightness of sour cream to round the dish out. Plain Greek yogurt offers that same tartness and has that same creamy texture that is so satisfying.”

74 | Austin Woman | january 2017

Photo by Leah Dunham.

is also the reason why dressings and dips can be so high in calories. Dressings and dips typically contain many bold flavors, so making the switch to Greek yogurt will hardly affect the flavor at all.”

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HER ROUTINE

Roll for Your Soul

Here’s how SoulCycle instructor Lauren Bruker stays in shape.

BY Gretchen M. Sanders When SoulCycle landed in Austin last September, Lauren Bruker barely had time to unpack her bags before she earned the reputation as the preferred instructor among the indoor-cycling chain’s new local groupies. The 30-year-old dance major, who has been teaching fitness for 10 years, moved to Texas a few months ago to help open SoulCycle’s first Austin location, at The Domain.

The pedal-powered workout, with its noisy nightclub feel in a windowless, candlelit studio, is one of the hottest spin classes on the market and has somewhat of a cult following nationwide.

Austin Woman asked Bruker how she stays fit and healthy when she brakes—pun intended—from one of her popular spin sessions.

The A.M.

The Workout

“I cuddle with my animals first thing every morning. When my alarm goes off, I pull my dog close to me for about two minutes. Then I go downstairs and play with my cat.

My animals ground me with their unconditional love. After that, but before my fiancé wakes up, I make coffee and check the news. I treasure the early morning when I have the house to myself.”

“I like yoga and Pilates when I’m not doing SoulCycle, but my newfound love is running. I just signed up for my first half marathon, so I go for 3-mile runs during the week and a 7-mile run on the weekends. I love the freedom of running outside, straight from my front door without having to track class time or make a playlist.”

The Motivation “I get so much pleasure from working out. I can answer emails, run errands, go grocery shopping and do everything better after some exercise. It makes me feel sexy and good in my body, and then I feel great in the clothes I wear. I think it really affects how I present myself. I believe if you take a little time for yourself every day, then you will be more patient, perform better at your job, have more followthrough and more fun!”

The Diet

“I make an effort to have three sitdown meals a day. It keeps me from constant snacking. I love to cook, so I make oatmeal for breakfast and then I try for balanced eating the rest of the day. If I have a salad for lunch, then pizza for dinner is totally OK. I like Larabars, toast and Justin’s chocolate hazelnut butter for snacks.

Hydration is key, so I keep a water bottle on me always. Oh, I have a big sweet tooth, and I can’t wait to try Amy’s Ice Creams!”

The Mindset

“I go for balance with food and exercise. If I workout hard, I rest hard. I also believe people should sweat once a day, in the yard, in a SoulCycle class or wherever. It just feels good to sweat. On rest days, a little something is better than nothing. Do a one-minute plank, a pushup or walk to dinner. The important thing is to move a little bit every day. It doesn’t have to be a workout; just move.”

The P.M. “I fall asleep watching reruns of Friends, Sex and the City or The Office. I’ve seen them a thousand times. It’s a mindless, guilty pleasure that gets me ready for bed.”

The Gear

“I wear SoulCycle shoes and gear when I’m at work. Away from work, I like fitness clothing that has a fashion component. It’s just more fun. My Outdoor Voices leggings paired with my favorite rock-’n’-roll T-shirt and Nike running shoes have become my go-to workout attire. I also love Adidas clothes and anything that has a cool, retro feel.”

Her local loves

barbecue n

8

Barton Springs n hours n

8

food truck n Austin City Limits n

8

coffee n Whole Foods n

8

n neighborhood trail n Tex-Mex 8 n Deep Eddy n miles 8 n brick-and-mortar location n South By Southwest 8 n juice n Central Market 8

rescue n

n purebred

mountain bike n

n road bike 8

8

cabernet n Torchy’s Tacos n

8

Alamo Drafthouse n MoPac n

76 | Austin Woman | january 2017

n South

n chardonnay n Taco Deli 8 n Congress Avenue bats n I-35 8

Photos Chris LeBlanc.

Photosby courtesy of SoulCycle.

8 8

North n Town Lake n

Her playlist 1. RoboCop by Kanye West 2. Superpower by Beyoncé 3. The Greatest by Sia 4. Closer by JMR 5. Objectum Sexuality by Big Boi 6. Clique by Kanye West, Jay Z and Big Sean 7. Sweet Life by Frank Ocean 8. Gooey by Glass Animals 9. Better Love by Foxes 10. Same Old Blues by Phantogram 11. Holy Key by DJ Khaled 12. How Deep is Your Love by Calvin Harris 13. Dancing on My Own by Robyn

austinwomanmagazine.com | 77

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memo from JB

BINGE-WORTHY

I’m freaking out and geeking out about my latest TV adventure.

By JB Hager enough to be a mediocre track athlete. I certainly didn’t have the Welcome to the year 1999. I’ll explain. means to fit in with my attire, as clothes became a big deal going into The term “binge-watch” gets thrown around a lot the superficial 1980s. and can mean a lot of things. It typically means you are The upside was I found that making people laugh watching an older series when and where was a great way to gain acceptance. Little did they you want and at the pace you want. When The upside was I know I was cracking jokes out of complete fear and I really get into a show, saying that I bingeawkwardness, nor did I know that this would be the found that making watch it is an understatement. It can be like foundation for my 25-year radio and writing career. I a drug to me. I find myself staying up all people laugh was guess I’m lucky. night because I have to know what happens The beauty of Freaks and Geeks is that it gives a great way to next and I think, “Ah, what’s another 50 you a glimpse into the struggles of every kid. Quite gain acceptance. minutes?” Next thing you know, it’s 5 a.m., often, those who were the nastiest at school had real and my wife is getting up and looking at problems at home, which helps you better understand and empathize, even with the bully. The show has a powerful way of me as if I had a needle hanging from my arm all night. making you look at everyone around you differently, a skill I wish I Therefore, I have avoided taking on a new series for had in high school, so much that the show makes me want a do-over. several years.

My most notable binge shenanigans were with Friday Night Lights and Lost. They were all I could think about for days upon days.

Those are very notable shows that gained huge audiences. Last week, I fell in love with and can’t stop thinking about a TV show from 1999 that no one saw (at least not that year): Freaks and Geeks.

I despise when people type or say “OMG,” but OMG! I can’t get over this show. The show is based on a brother and sister navigating high school in the year 1980. The older sister is a brilliant “mathlete” who is curious about the freaks, the misfit stoners. She feels like maybe there’s more to life and she’s missing out. The younger brother is in no man’s land socially but, because of his scrawny size and interests, finds himself aligned with the geeks, the Dungeons-and-Dragon-playing nonathletes.

The show absolutely epitomizes what life was like in 1980, so much so that I found it to be an emotional rollercoaster to watch.

The music, the attire, the bullying was all spot-on. It’s a little close to home for me personally because that was the year I moved and went to three different schools in seventh grade. With each move, I was projected into another group of kids set in their cliques. As the new kid just trying to fit in somewhere, it was brutal. I wasn’t smart enough for any sort of honors group. I was just gangly and lanky 78 | Austin Woman | january 2017

So much talent was involved in that show, it’s mind-boggling. It launched great careers for directors Paul Feig (Bridesmaids) and Judd Apatow (Knocked Up, Trainwreck), in addition to well-known actors James Franco, Seth Rogen and Jason Segel.

The show only aired one season, from 1999 to 2000, and was canceled after only 12 of the 18 episodes aired. What was wrong with American taste at that time? Showing that there is hope for us all, it did appear on Time magazine’s 100 Greatest Shows of All Time. It ranked 21st on TV Guide’s Top Cult Shows Ever, its 60 Greatest Dramas of All Time and was No. 1 on its list of 60 Best Shows That Got Cut Short.

The funny thing about those outcasts from 1980 is that the freaks probably went on to really creative careers, and the stigma surrounding weed has been single-handedly changed by Willie Nelson, not to mention it’s now legal in many states. The geeks have gotten the final laugh by ruling the tech world and becoming millionaires.

My next binge-watch is to restart the 18 episodes of Freaks and Geeks with my 15-year-old daughter. Maybe the brilliant characters in the show will resonate and she’ll see everyone around her through a new lens. Maybe she will self-reflect on the show and realize that everyone feels awkward at some point. It’s not you; it’s just high school.

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oint of view

I Am Austin Woman

Doors

and I love trekking When I moved to an ultimate limit to Austin, I was of our strength and one in a million: endurance. It helps woman, wife us relax, release the and daughter, steam. It clears our significant other minds and contribof my loved one. utes focus. Mother In 2012, my life Nature is our go-to seemed to be rufriend. In May 2012, ined. I worked as we went to the neara private French est mountains and, teacher in a small after three days of European city. hiking, we found our Life was full of philosopher’s stone. countless passive July 30, 2012, I voices, if clauses, landed in Austin. endless gramMy first impressions matical and styare indelible: counlistic corrections. try music and barIt was a rat race. I becue smell at the saw my students’ airport and my husfaces like green Arva and her husband, Miklos Lorant band’s faint smile cabbages at a under hot summergrocery store. night lights.

After four years “We are at home, honey!” he said. of marriage, my husband and I had no July 30, 2012, I landed in Austin.

While driving through the city, I remembered children. All our efforts were unsuccessful. A couple of infertility treatments, a My first impressions are indelible: my grandmother’s words: When a door closes another opens. What is waiting for me behind failed IVF, a miscarriage marked our way. country music and barbecue that door?

There were many painful experiences and, smell at the airport and my My new home is a unique, vibrant and multiat the same time, important moments in cultural community. During these years, I’ve had our relationship. What does not kill you husband’s faint smile under several lovely friends, stunningly beautiful travels makes you stronger. What does not kill hot summer-night lights. nationwide and unforgettable experiences. I am a you makes you a fighter. And so, I became lucky person, having in my life great Austin woma first-class fighter, the characteristic I en. My first ESL teacher, Kathy, has a brilliant, most needed because my husband’s family patient personality. So many English words echo did not like me. in my head in her voice. My Bible class soul mate, Ginger, made They have never accepted me as the person I am: an intelligent, me understand and accept myself as an older (and wiser) wife. She pretty woman sharing her life with their son. They blamed me unburdened me by listening and gingerly guiding me on the rough for not having grandchildren. And that was not my only sin: I road of regaining my self-respect. am older than my husband.

In the last four years, my husband and I tried again and again to I felt I dug myself into holes with no light at the end of the tunnel. start a family. We had another failed IVF and another miscarriage.

What could help? I decided it would be a new lifestyle and place to The heartbeat sound of our lost baby stays with us forever. I closed live. At the very last minute, my husband made a momentous decithat door. sion to leave his job and move on. He obtained three opportunities: What do I have behind a newly opening one?

Brno, Czech Republic; Budapest, Hungary; or Austin. My husband

Austin Woman features a reader-submitted essay every month in the I Am Austin Woman column.

To be considered for March’s I Am Austin Woman, email a 500-word submission on a topic of your choice by Feb. 1 to submissions@awmediainc.com with the subject line “I Am Austin Woman.”

80 | Austin Woman | january 2017

Photo courtesy of Miklos Lorant.

Digging deeper and deeper, Gabriella Arva describes finding herself in a darkened hole. Fortunately, when she climbed out, what awaited her was the magic of Austin.

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Austin Woman MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2017

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