January 2019

AUSTIN WOMAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2019

“A woman’s health is her capital.” —Harriet Beecher Stowe

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44

ON THE COVER

SOUL SISTER

BY RACHEL RASCOE

52

FEATURE

GREEN SPACE

BY NICHOLAS BARANCYK

Photo by Rudy Arocha.

Badgley Mischka Collection strapless column gown, $595; Mignonne Gavigan Madeline beaded statement earrings, $225, available at Neiman Marcus, 3400 Palm Way, neimanmarcus.com; boots, model’s own.

CONTENTS

Photo courtesy of Kara Pendl.

JANUARY

40 SAVVY WOMEN

DISCOVER

18 C OUNT US IN Women in Numbers 20 GIVE BACK It’s Time Texas 22 F ROM THE DESK OF Knockout’s Diane Borejsza

36 ADVENTURE GIRL

and Melissa LeBaron

24 S TART THE CONVO

Postpartum Depression

ATX WOMEN TO WATCH 26 L ILL GENTRY 27 CARLY PILAR 28 M IA PARTON 29 GINA KISS, NICOLE VIATOR, FERNANDA VEZINA, STEPHANIE EMORY, MICHELLE FLORANDER, STACY BOUWMAN

30 G AYLE LACOUR AND JANAE LACOUR DUNN 31 CANDIS WHITE 32 B ARBARA L. STROUD AND SARAH K. BRANDON 33 DR. TIFFANY STANLEY 34 LISA TRAUGOTT

Full Throttle

STYLE + HOME 38 S PLURGE OR STEAL Tasty Freeze 40 SEE HER WORK Karacotta’s Kara Pendl 42 A T HOME WITH Jen Pinkston

GOURMET 58 R ECIPE REVEAL

Guild’s Curried Granola

WELLNESS 62 W AITING ROOM Infrared-sauna Benefits 66 STAFF PICKS Workout Secrets 68 H ER ROUTINE

Curler Pat Popovich

POINT OF VIEW 70 ON THE MONEY

Keeping Your Financial

Resolutions

72 I AM AUSTIN WOMAN 8 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

Joy Stoddard

ON THE COVER

Photo by Rudy Arocha, rudyarocha.com Hair and makeup by Laura Martinez, bylauramartinez.com Shot on location at Miraval Austin, 13500 FM 2769, miravalaustin.com.

Milly Lauren metallic silk chiffon tie-hem top, $295; AG Adriano Goldschmied velvet ankle skinny pants, $198, available at Neiman Marcus, 3400 Palm Way, neimanmarcus.com; Cos wide-collar wool coat, $350, available at Cos, 11601 Century Oaks Terrace, cosstores.com; boots, model’s own.

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VOLUME 17, ISSUE 5 CO-FOUNDER Melinda Maine Garvey CEO Kip Garvey PUBLISHER Cynthia Guajardo Shafer

EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR Chantal Rice ASSISTANT EDITOR Courtney Runn CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kasee Bailey, Nicholas Barancyk, Jenny Hoff, Niki Jones, Danielle Ortiz, Rachel Rascoe, Chantal Rice, Courtney Runn, Gretchen M. Sanders, Joy Stoddard, Shelby Woods

ART CREATIVE DIRECTOR Niki Jones CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS

Rudy Arocha, Madilyn Biscoe, Alex Bradshaw, Ashley Hargrove, Katie Jameson, Laura Martinez, Taylor Prinsen, Annie Ray, Courtney Runn, Sofia Salazar, Gretchen M. Sanders, Carrin Welch, Jessica Wetterer, Claire Zinnecker

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Ashley Goolsby MARKETING AND EVENTS MANAGER

Madilyn Biscoe OPERATIONS MANAGER

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SALES ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Lindsey Granberry, Monika Kelley, Christine Moore

INTERNS Emily Benson, Evangelos Fuge, Meagan Leahy, Raylyn Nicole, Danielle Ortiz, Chika Otuata, Shelby Woods

The Woman’s Way Business Awards are Austin’s only business awards for woman-owned and -led businesses. Awards are awarded in 10 categories and award recipients span numerous industries and are chosen by a selection committee of successful local female business and community leaders.

EMERITAE CO-FOUNDER Samantha Stevens EDITORS

Mary Anne Connolly, April Cumming, Elizabeth Eckstein, Deborah Hamilton-Lynne, Emily C. Laskowski

Austin Woman is a free monthly publication of AW Media Inc., and is available at more than 1,000 locations throughout Austin and in Lakeway, Cedar Park, Round Rock and Pflugerville. All rights reserved.

For submission requirements, visit atxwoman.com/contribute.

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

Visit us online at atxwoman.com.

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FROM THE ASSISTANT EDITOR Publication of Austin Woman would not be possible without the support of our monthly advertisers and sponsors, who believe in the impact we are making in the Austin community. The following businesses have stepped up their support of our efforts beyond traditional advertising and we are proud to recognize them as our partners. The team at Austin Woman is grateful for these businesses that have shown their commitment to the advancement of women in Austin and hopes you, as readers, recognize their efforts and support these businesses and all our regular advertisers.

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Publisher DIAMOND-LEVEL PARTNERS

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W

hile I’m not one for making lots of New Year’s resolutions, I have been trying to exercise more consistently before work.

So far, that’s meant lots of early alarms, too many snooze buttons and a couple early morning runs in the cold. On one 35-degree-morning run, I was almost back home, feeling so proud of my newly found motivation, when I tripped on a crack in the sidewalk and landed flat on my face. I had scraped elbows, bruised knees, the works.

Thankfully, there were no witnesses and I made it home with my dignity mostly intact. After throwing myself a pity party, I’ve managed to wake up for a few more runs and am happy to report I’ve been injury-free since.

This month’s issue is all about health and wellness. It can be intimidating to open a magazine and see pages of women who seemingly already have it all together. While we always hope you finish each issue inspired, we also always want to introduce you to real Austin women, scraped knees and all.

We chose Lizzie Aguirre to be our January cover woman because she represents so many of the qualities we love about Austin women: She is passionate, entrepreneurial, determined and committed to her health. While she might be able to twist her body more than the average Austinite, we love that her story is all about taking that next step and caring for your emotional, mental and physical health.

Instead of walking away discouraged about your own resolutions, we hope this month’s issue encourages you to simply take the next step in your wellness journey. Whether that’s taking a yoga class with our cover woman, walking with friends around Lady Bird Lake or sweating it out at CYL Sauna Studio, we want to make that next step easy for you. Share your New Year’s resolutions and health goals with us. We’ll hold you accountable!

Here’s to fewer embarrassing falls in 2019.

LAW OFFICE OF JANET MCCULLAR

COURTNEY RUNN

Join the conversation @AustinWoman #TheHealthandFitnessIssue

12 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

Photo by Madilyn Biscoe.

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CONTRIBUTORS This month, we asked our contributors: In a busy modern world, how do you make wellness a priority in your life?

Variation

RUDY AROCHA

COVER STORY PHOTOGRAPHER, “SOUL SISTER,” PAGE 44

VOyA g E

ChArleS IveS

Photographer Rudy Arocha is a native Texan who moved to Austin to pursue his education in fine arts as a sculptor. He later rediscovered his passion for photography when his grandfather gave him a camera as a gift. Rudy graduated from the Art Institute of Austin and specializes in portrait photography. When not photographing, Rudy enjoys music, the outdoors and spending time with his wife, Maggie.

“I prioritize wellness by getting monthly massages and mani-pedis with my wife. They’re so relaxing!”

KASEE BAILEY

WRITER, “BEYOND BABY BLUES,” PAGE 24

AnTonín Dvo rák ^

CéSAr FrAnCk

Kasee Bailey is an East Coastbred Austin transplant and freelance writer. Life after a journalism degree has found her covering everything from the work of enterprising entrepreneurs for business publications, the lives of illustrious celebs for metropolitan magazines, the ins and outs of innovation for tech sites and hole-in-the-wall eateries for food magazines.

“In order to give my best to my children and my work, I have to make sure to take time to unplug, recharge and recalibrate. It’s critical that I pay attention to my body, and when I start to recognize those blah feelings, I engage in practices that recharge and heal me, like journaling, exercise, religious worship or my never-fail go-to fix: a nap and a trip to Target.”

ASHLEY HARGROVE

STYLIST AND MODEL, “TASTY FREEZE,” PAGE 38

BenjAmIn BrITTen

Friday & Saturday, January11 & 12 Leon Fleisher, piano n Peter Bay, conductor n Long Center’s Dell Hall Concert at 8:00 p.m. n Concert Conversations with Bob Buckalew at 7:10 p.m.

The Austin Symphony will begin 2019 with an evening of music from around the world.

Still want more? How about enjoying activities like playing on stringed instruments provided by our friends at Violins Etc., texting with ASO staff and musicians using #aso108, Concert Conversations with Bob Buckalew, and capturing a memory in front of our new photo wall?

C O nC E rt S P O nS O rS

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ME D i A SP On S O r S

All artists, programs, and dates subject to change.

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(512) 476-6064 or austinsymphony.org

DTK Austin Styling Owner Ashley Hargrove is a renowned wardrobe stylist and model who specializes in styling commercial and print advertising. She has recently worked with People, ESPN, Holiday Inn and many others. Follow her journey on Instagram @dtkaustin.

“I completely disconnect from my phone and computer, get out of the house and spend quality time with my husband and my dog, Steven.”

JENNY HOFF

WRITER, “KEEPING YOUR FINANCIAL RESOLUTIONS,” PAGE 70

Jenny Hoff is a certified financial educator, life strategist and former managing editor with Bankrate, where she hosted a financial podcast with notable guests such as Tony Robbins and David Bach.

Before a five-year stint in Europe, where she obtained her Master of Business Administration degree and worked for Germany’s public international broadcast-news station, Deutsche Welle, she was a reporter and anchor for KXAN-TV in Austin.

Her work has also been featured on CNN and NBC, in Forbes and on money.com. Additionally, she has a holistic-life-coaching business, hofflifehealth.com.

“I treat wellness like brushing my teeth: It’s nonnegotiable and needs to happen daily. A healthy body, mind and soul are crucial to a vibrant and fulfilling life.

Life is too busy to not take care of myself.”

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CONNECT WITH US! IN CASE YOU MISSED IT… Check us out at atxwoman.com.

➥ Interior Designer Claire Zinnecker. Former Austin Woman cover woman

Claire Zinnecker shares her interior-design expertise, offering five key tips for how to best curate a personalized gallery wall that will enhance the style and individuality of any home.

➥ Heels & Horsepower. Austin car lovers are gearing up to welcome the city’s

➥ Community First Village. One Austin woman shares her story about feeling called to leave the comforts of her Westlake, Texas, home to commune with Austin’s formerly homeless at Community First Village, and how, in the process, she discovered a sense of solidarity, companionship and a whole new meaning of what home is.

➥ Meer Bras. Local company Meer Bras has redesigned this essential yet

often vexing female garment by fashioning a line of bras that fit well and are stylish and supportive. Meer Bras are so comfortable, you’ll never want to take them off!

WIN THIS!

INFRARED-SAUNA PACKAGE FROM CYL SAUNA STUDIO Did you indulge a little too much during the holidays? Are you fully dedicated to your health-focused New Year’s resolutions? We’ve got the perfect gift to help you get back on the path to health and wellness in the new year. CYL Sauna Studio in South Austin, Central Texas’ only pod-based infrared-sauna studio, will gift one lucky Austin Woman reader with three 30-minute sweat sessions (a $135 value) at this luxury sweat house. Garner the benefits of infrared-sauna technology, including weight loss and stress reduction, while relaxing in your personal sauna pod and sweating out what ails you. (Read more about CYL and the health benefits of infrared-sauna use in our Waiting Room story on Page 62.) To enter to win, follow us on Instagram @austinwoman and stay on the lookout for the giveaway announcement in mid-January. A winner will be chosen and notified by the end of the month.

DON’T

MISS Austin Woman Woman’s Way Business Awards Applications Open Jan. 15 atxevent.com Austin Woman Launch Party March 6, 6 to 8 p.m.

UT Health, 1601A Trinity St. Health Transformation Building, first-floor lobby atxparties.com Fourth-annual Austin Woman Woman’s Way Business Awards May 9, 5:30 to 9 p.m.

JW Marriott, 110 E. Second St. atxevent.com

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FOLLOW US

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Claire Zinnecker photo by Claire Zinnecker. Community First Village photo by Courtney Runn. Meer Bras photo courtesy of Meer Bras. Win This photo courtesy of CYL Sauna Studio.

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COUNT US IN

WOMEN IN NUMBERS

An ounce of prevention: What women need to know to get a clean bill of health.

BY SHELBY WOODS, ILLUSTRATIONS BY JESSICA WETTERER

18.5 to 24.9 When it comes to measuring that ever-stubborn body fat, there’s one crucial number to consider: body mass index.

Based on an individual’s weight and height, BMI is regularly used as a screening tool to determine whether a person is at risk for particular health problems, with a higher BMI number indicating more body fat and more risk. According to the American Cancer Society, a healthy BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9. For instance, a 5-foot4-inch tall woman should weigh between 110 and 140 pounds, indicating a BMI of between 19 and 24, to be considered to have a healthy weight.

65 Percent

$46.3 Billion

Many women cite intimidation as a reason for avoiding the gym. In fact, as many as 65 percent of U.S. women say they don’t go to the gym, often because of fears of being judged.

According to Fitness Magazine, of the 35 percent of women who do attend some sort of gym, only half use weight machines and 1/3 lift free weights. Though exercises involving aerobics are an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, resistance training contributes to reducing the risk of diabetes, heart disease and arthritis. Lifting weights also helps reduce fat by increasing lean body mass.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is often broken down as 20 percent exercise and 80 percent diet. Balancing weekly exercise with whole foods is a key part of losing weight, which may be why some experts claim as many as 50 percent of women are on a diet at any given time.

In fact, according to livestrong.com, “Americans spend more money in dieting, dieting products and weight-loss surgery than any other people in the world.” The enticement of a quick fix to excess fat could be why a 2004 survey, the most recent year it was conducted, found Americans spent $46.3 billion on weight-loss products.

2.7 Percent According to a study from the Mayo Clinic, only 2.7 percent of Americans live a healthy lifestyle. The study notes four key components of healthy people: not smoking, a nutritious diet, at least 150 minutes of exercise a week and a low body-fat percentage (less than 20 percent for men and less than 30 percent for women).

10 Superfoods According to Health magazine, there are 10 specific superfoods that can provide women with major health benefits, including boosting energy, building bone mass, fighting disease and busting fat. Superfoods women should consume regularly include wild Alaskan salmon, oats, wild blueberries, avocados, red beans, Greek yogurt and nutrient-packed broccoli. But it’s not all about lean protein, fruits and vegetables. Health also recommends women nosh on 1/4 ounce of dark chocolate a day to lower blood pressure, sharpen thinking and hydrate skin.

18 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

Dear Self: I’m proud of who you were, who you are now, and who you will become.

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IT’S TIME TEXAS

Austinite Amy McGeady is committed to building a healthier state, one Texan at a time.

STORY AND PHOTO BY COURTNEY RUNN

“We really believe that Texas is best when Texans are healthy,” McGeady says.

And McGeady is quick to point out that a healthy lifestyle will look different for everyone. The goal, she says, is to find what workouts and healthy practices are enjoyable and sustainable for you, whether that means walking your dog every day or committing to fitness classes.

Headquartered in Austin, It’s Time Texas recently celebrated its fourth In its few years, It’s Time Texas has already made significant headway, anniversary and offers free tools and programs throughout the state to with more than 550 communities and 3,500 schools and organizations combat these growing statistics. Its staff is on a lofty mission to ensure all involved throughout the state. Among its many free programs and tools Texans have access to the essentials required to live healthy lifestyles and are initiatives specifically designed for teachers and employers, an app to feel empowered to make healthy choices. find healthy activities based on location and access For many of the staff, this goal is personal. Chief to health coaches in Spanish and English. The “We really believe that Strategy Officer Amy McGeady knew she wanted nonprofit also hosts events, including its annual to change her health narrative after losing her Texas is best when health summit in partnership with the University mom and grandma to cancer. of Texas, which most recently featured the U.S. Texans are healthy.”

“I became really passionate about being the first surgeon general as a keynote speaker. Annual woman in my family to make it through my 40s community-focused events, including its Comwithout ever having cancer,” she says. “It really lit up something in me munity Challenge, which launches in early January, take place statewide about being proactive about my health and wanting to have opportunities throughout the year. to live a healthy life.”

“Health is not just about me being healthy as a person,” McGeady says.

In pursuit of a more purpose-driven, health-focused lifestyle, McGeady “But it’s about my community being healthy.” left a decade-long career in consulting to join It’s Time Texas and, despite Through its comprehensive programs, local partnerships and strategic losing the flexibility consulting offers, the nonprofit’s company culture targeting, It’s Time Texas is fighting for a healthier state, one Texan and has encouraged her to consistently workout and prioritize her health. one community at a time.

Texas is experiencing a health crisis. According to nonprofit It’s Time Texas, the number of overweight or obese kids in the U.S. has tripled, two-thirds of American adults are overweight or obese, and chronic diseases contribute to nearly two-thirds of all deaths in Texas.

JOIN THE COMMUNITY CHALLENGE Every year, It’s Time Texas hosts its Community Challenge, a free statewide competition to encourage Texans to kick off the year by setting healthy habits. With the support of Mayor Steve Adler, Austin won the past two years in the metro-city category. Here’s all you need to know about joining the challenge so we can keep Austin’s winning streak going.

When: Jan. 7 through March 3 How to register: Sign up for free anytime during the challenge at ittcommunitychallenge.com to start logging your activities and receiving points.

How to get points: • Register on the website, 500 points • Track your physical activity, 100 points • Track your weight weekly, 100 points • Take a healthy selfie, 200 points • Watch the living-healthier video lesson online, 200 points • Host a community event, 250 points How to get your community involved: It’s Time Texas Chief Strategy Officer Amy McGeady encourages office staffs to compete together to make it more fun and hold each other accountable. If you’re a K-12 teacher or parent of a K-12 student, you can choose to also register for the School District Challenge so every time you earn points as part of the Community Challenge, your school district also gets points.

20 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

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FROM THE DESK OF

KNOCKOUT YOUR FITNESS ROUTINE IN THE NEW YEAR

The duo behind Austin kickboxing studio Knockout shares their tips for creating a workout routine and sticking to it.

BY DANIELLE ORTIZ

Diane Borejsza and Melissa LeBaron, co-founders of Austin boxing studio Knockout, believe fitness should be fun. Prior to opening their studio in 2017, Borejsza and LeBaron worked in corporate sales together. It was then they started a daily routine of going to the gym at lunchtime to de-stress. As they bonded through fitness, they decided they wanted to fulfill their entrepreneurial spirit by opening their very own studio.

In 2014, Borejsza and LeBaron started conceptualizing what type of studio to open. They knew the Austin market is saturated with fitness clubs, but when they took a kickboxing class, they were blown away by the uniqueness of the sport.

Kickboxing offers a full-body workout, but Borejsza says she and LeBaron noticed that at most studios, they were either sparring against men or were in a sweaty gym environment with no ambience. That’s when the concept of Knockout was born.

With 4,000 people taking classes at Knockout last year, Borejsza and LeBaron love seeing the response their studio has gotten. Besides the success of Knockout, they love empowering people. They stress fitness is about so much more than simply obtaining good looks, so they’ve been adamant about making Knockout a place for community.

During the month of January, many women are eager to add working out regularly to their lives as part of their New Year’s resolutions. Even though they believe exercise should be a priority every day, Borejsza and LeBaron see many people disregarding their new routines. With New Year’s resolutions in full swing, we asked Borejsza and LeBaron how to plan a workout routine and actually stick to it.

FIND YOUR WORKOUT MATCH.

“If you’re an extrovert, then group fitness classes like kickboxing or spinning with music and fun lighting will probably be your thing. If you like to workout solo, then putting on your headphones and drowning out the crowd at the gym or on a trail run may suit you well,” LeBaron says. “If you’re both a groupworkout and solo-workout person, then fluctuating between the two environments will help you stay engaged and enjoying your workouts. [You’ve got to] just keep branching out and find something that

works for you because if you went to spinning and you didn’t like it, it doesn’t mean the workout is over for you. Once it becomes fun, most likely, it will become a habit.”

KEEP IT REAL.

“Don’t do any deprivation diets or strenuous workouts that feel more like punishment,” LeBaron says.

“These just don’t work and will have you discouraged and disappointed.

Fitness should be about loving your body, not punishing it. So, reward it with fun workouts and healthy meals that will keep you wanting more of that lifestyle.”

ACCOUNTABILITY IS KEY.

“The biggest thing where I see people give up and fail is when they don’t have accountability,” Borejsza says. “So, make a schedule and stick to it. Plan and book your workouts in advance. Half the battle is just showing up. Once you are there, you are ready to go. Another way to stay accountable is to workout with a friend. It is a lot of fun to sweat it out beside your buddy. Plus, your friend will be counting on you to show up. If you can stay dedicated and determined, once you see those results, you’ll crave more.”

BE PREPARED.

“I always keep running shoes, a yoga mat, boxing gloves and extra socks in my trunk. This way, I have no excuse to not workout on my way home from work or errands,” Borejsza says. “Maybe [if ] you’re not feeling motivated but your friend wants to check out a class, you can make it.”

“There are so many amazing workouts and sports to try in this booming city. People usually have one fitness class they attend regularly and then branch out from time to time to switch it up,” Borejsza says.

“If you choose to workout solo, try searching for new music that motivates you to workout harder.”

22 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

Photo by Alex Bradshaw.

MIX IT UP.

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There are three types of application: classic, volume and hybrid. Classic lashes include one extension to natural eyelashes. Volume lashes include a fan of fine lashes (not clusters) that are handmade during the application.

They include three to six very fine lash extensions per fan that are applied to your individual natural lashes. Hybrid lashes are a mixture of both classic and volume. The appeal of hybrid lashes is you get some fluffiness from the volume without the extended fill time of a full-volume fill, which takes longer. Follow us on Instagram or Facebook to see photos of the different applications.

The result: confidence! You’ve been educated on the process. You’ve sought out the best in the industry. You save time on your morning routine. You look more awake and refreshed. You will get compliments. You’ll have greatlooking eyes all the time. In some cases, you can wear them for as long as 10 years without damage and have them still look awesome!

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Online booking is available on the website or app.

WE DO THE WORK AND YOU JUST LOOK FABULOUS AND ENJOY YOUR NEW LOOK.

Teresa Robertson Owner, Lash Salon and Boutique Master Lash Artist Permanent Makeup Boutique Buyer

S

AVVY WOMEN

START THE CONVO

BEYOND BABY BLUES

Austin women are working to end the stigma of postpartum depression.

Common and serious: This is how the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identifies postpartum depression, a highly undiagnosed and untreated illness and mood disorder that affects about one in nine women in the U.S. And it’s a doozy. While varying in intensity and appearance, for many women, postpartum-depression symptoms manifest themselves as feelings of guilt, anxiety, loss of pleasure, fear, irritability and destructive thoughts, as well as in physical warning signs, like loss or dramatic increase of Jasmin Steiner appetite, inability to sleep and difficulty concentrating. And what’s worse: Only 15 percent of women with PPD receive professional treatment.

For Jasmin Steiner, an Austin wife, mom of twins, lifestyle coach through her The Jas Effect business and self-love advocate, her experience with postpartum depression was a dramatic wake-up call.

“I call it kind of an awakening, due to how much it has changed me and opened my Christina McGee eyes to the realistic aspects of life in general,” Steiner says.

Steiner was burdened by the responsibilities of motherhood, running two businesses and caring for herself postpartum, all while plagued by crippling anxiety and depression. What followed after her period of darkness was a process of self-discovery, along with physical and emotional healing, all of which inspired her to connect with herself and help others.

“The fear wasn’t the reality at that moment,” Steiner says. “I started to figure out that there was a bigger purpose to this, and I just need to learn how to be more self-aware, more compassionate, treating myself with self-care and love.”

Self-care, despite its frequent use in the modern conversation, is not selfish, Steiner insists.

“Self-care is taking the time to refuel yourself in order for you to be the best for other people,” Steiner says. “It’s about caring for yourself to the point where you can give back even more. If I don’t take the time to recharge my batteries, working on things that feel good to my soul, I can’t give my kids 100 percent.”

For Steiner, self-care involves meditation, prayer and exercise— but it looks different for everyone, she’s clear to note. But what unifies women, including those suffering with PPD, is the need for affirmation and self-acceptance.

“We tend to judge ourselves too much because we compare,” Steiner says. “When they say comparison is the thief of joy, it really is the thief of joy. Don’t focus on trying to compare yourself to another woman. Find out individually what makes you beautiful and affirm

24 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

that. My goal is to spread that to as many women as possible. It’s OK not to be the cookie-cutter perfect woman. It’s OK to be how you are.

You are enough.”

Postpartum depression is a total-body condition, encompassing not only myriad emotional hurdles for women, but a host of physical challenges too, with symptoms that are often equally overlooked and stigmatized.

Christina McGee, a physical therapist and coordinator of clinical education at Sullivan Physical Therapy, sees this other side of postpartum depression in her work, including the physical fallout that often accompanies the delivery and postpartum periods.

“Pregnancy and delivery are massive changes to the body, and I don’t think it’s acknowledged what a big change that is,” McGee says.

“There’s not even really great education for women on how to take care of themselves afterward, and they’re just left in this void of feeling bad, not really knowing who to turn to.”

The stigma associated with postpartum changes and the resulting isolation, McGee says, often lead to and perpetuate the mental and emotional strains of postpartum depression.

“Postpartum is a phase of life where people tend to get really isolated,” McGee says. “And if on top of that you have additional reasons to be isolated, you’re perpetuating that likelihood for depression. Also, it’s likely to lead to depression if you feel like you’re the only one dealing with something, or you just start to dislike your body because you don’t understand it and [it] feels like a helpless situation. All of those are factors that can lead to mood disorders.”

Both the physical and emotional realities of a postpartum phase need to be acknowledged, McGee says, giving women access to education and resources that can help them navigate the challenges of these difficult periods.

“I try to speak to as many people as I can, just to make them aware that these are things that can happen, and if you’re experiencing them, to speak up,” McGee says. “Find someone who values what you’re saying and is willing to help you get help and be validated. Because pelvic topics, in general, are ones that involve a lot of psychological and social fallout, we very often collaborate with mental-health [professionals].

We refer constantly and always try to work in collaboration with other providers. The more there is just talk about these things that happen commonly, not normally, and there are resources, as long as people knew that, I think it would work very differently.”

HOW TO GET HELP • I f you’re experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression, take comfort in knowing they can be treated. Speak up and get help.

•T alk candidly and openly to your health-care provider and family, friends and others you trust.

•E xplore the CDC’s comprehensive list of resources at cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/depression/resources.htm or those available on the Postpartum Support International website at postpartum.net/locations/texas.

•C all reputable local or national organizations for help.

Check out the call list on the Pregnancy and Postpartum Health Alliance of Texas website at pphatx.org/urgent-help.

• Join a support group, such as Mamas for Mamas Austin.

Get more info at facebook.com/mamasformamasaustin.

Jasmin Steiner photo courtesy of Jasmin Steiner. Christina McGee photo by Sofia Salazar.

BY KASEE BAILEY

ATX

WOMEN to WATCH Our pages are full of stories of Austin’s most engaging, empowering and successful women, and this section is specially designed to provide you access to even more incredible role models and success stories.

Be part of this amazing tribe and share your story with thousands of women.

Contact us at sales@awmediainc.com or call 512.328.2421 for more information.

PHOTOS BY TAYLOR PRINSEN

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LILL GENTRY

F O U N D E R A N D C E O O F L I L P O C K E T S , T H E S L I M P O C K E T B E LT

S

ince she is practical and inventive, it’s only natural Lill Gentry would create something both functional and fashionable like Lil Pockets (worn here), a slim stretch belt with hidden pockets for your phone, credit cards, cash, etc. After traveling the U.S., getting feedback from women, she designed the first three styles: Hide & Chic for nightlife and parties, Hide & Sleek for travel and exercise, and Hide & Keep for walking and everyday wear. Named in honor of her mother, Lillian O’Neall, The Chula is a lightweight baby blanket Gentry created for the stroller and car seat that includes a loved one’s picture printed on it. Fan-Chic is her online store for Longhorn fans looking for burnt-orange fashions. As a “funtrepreneur,” she both entertains and informs on the entrepreneur’s journey in a way that’s “a lil’ more fun.” She gives back by leading the Austin Inventors and Entrepreneurs Association Meetup. lilpockets.com

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C A R LY P I L A R

FOUNDER OF AUSTIN SKIN PLUS

A

ustin Skin Plus is changing the way acne is treated, offering a holistic approach that has a 98 percent success rate without the use of harsh prescription drugs. Carly Pilar founded Austin Skin Plus in 2014 with a mission to address complicated skin-care issues at their root causes. Today, she has a trained team of acne specialists to provide clients with transformative treatments, actionable education and specially formulated products that make it easy to maintain clear, radiant skin. To Pilar and her team, surface issues are just the beginning. At Austin Skin Plus, they take a dive into clients’ biology and behavior to devise the best approach for each individual’s unique skin-care needs, including providing easy-to-follow instructions customized for effective home regimens. With a culture of inclusion, acceptance and empowerment, the women of Austin Skin Plus are dedicated to helping others feel confident in putting their best face forward. austinskinplus.com

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M I A PA R T O N

O W N E R O F A E PA R M I A E N G I N E E R I N G

O

wner of Aeparmia Engineering, Mia Parton moved to the United States with her family at the age of 16. Her first job was as cashier at McDonald’s. She worked her way through college and obtained her civil-engineering degree. After spending more than a decade in the engineering and construction industries, the entrepreneurial engineer founded her company in 2017. Aeparmia Engineering is a fast-growing engineering firm that specializes in utilities coordination, design and permitting. Parton’s goal with the company is to lead in designing the next generation’s infrastructure of smart cities. Parton was recently recognized by the Tory Burch Foundation, was awarded the 2018 Rising Star Award by the Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce and was selected to speak at the South By Southwest conference in 2018.

Additionally, Parton founded Queer Women in Leadership, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering queer women leaders, and was recently appointed commissioner of the City of Austin Water and Wastewater Commission. Through volunteering, Parton continues to advocate for STEM programs, women’s empowerment and for equal economic opportunities. aeparmia.com

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GINA KISS, NICOLE VIATOR, FERNANDA VEZINA, STEPHANIE EMORY, MICHELLE FLORANDER, STACY BOUWMAN EDWA R D J O NES, R EG I O N 26 0

E

dward Jones is a different kind of investment firm that develops personal relationships with clients and families.

Associates meet with you individually to learn what is important to you so they can develop a strategy to help you achieve your long-term financial goals. Their success is measured in helping you meet your financial goals. They are proud to serve Austin, with more than 50 branch offices citywide. Edward Jones was ranked No. 4 on the 2018 Best Workplaces for Women—highest in the financial-services industry—by Great Place to Work and Fortune magazine. Learn more about working for Edward Jones at careers.edwardjones.com. Edward Jones received the highest score among employee advisors in the J.D. Power 2007, 2008, 2010, 2012 through 2015 and 2017 and 2018 Financial Advisor Satisfaction Studies of investors’ satisfaction with their financial investment firm. Visit jdpower.com/awards for more information. edwardjones.com

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G AY LE L AC O U R A N D JA N A E L AC O U R D U N N O W N E R S O F CYC L E B A R C E D A R PA R K

G

ayle Lacour and Janae Lacour Dunn are sisters with a passion for fitness. This passion stems from their father, who frequently ran in marathons and still works out at the age of 83. The Lacour sisters grew up in a family that placed high importance on healthy living and exercise. They decided to take this background and passion into business by opening the first indoor premium cycle studio in Cedar Park, Texas, CycleBar Cedar Park. As mothers, they want to offer an inclusive style-boutique fitness studio that welcomes all body shapes, genders, fitness levels and ages. Each ride at CycleBar is filed with amazing music and rider-specific performance data in the state-of-the-art CycleTheater. CycleBar also delivers concierge-level service and an exhilarating experience that goes beyond a great cardio workout. Rock the ride each and every time at CycleBar Cedar Park. cedarpark.cyclebar.com

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WOMAN to WATCH

CANDIS WHITE

HAIRST YLIST AND OWNER OF CROWNED WITH BE AUT Y

Photo by Monika Kelley.

C

andis White’s obsession with styling hair began at a young age. Formally educated and trained in New York City, she attended class during the week and worked as an assistant in a salon each weekend. When the opportunity arose one year later, she moved to Kuwait, where she and her mother opened the first hair salon that also offered tanning services. After spending 10 years in the Middle East, White returned to the United States, bringing with her the knowledge and experiences of working with various cultures. In 2015, she moved to Austin, where she worked at a local salon, learning from her peers and continuing her education. White became the owner of Crowned With Beauty in 2017 and is fully committed to serving her guests with excellence. Her true passion is creating beautiful new looks for her clients because she believes every person should invest in his or her hair, the crown they never take off.

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WOMEN to WATCH

BARBARA L . STROUD AND SARAH K. BRANDON L AW Y ERS

entral Texas lawyer Sarah K. Brandon practices family law in Hays, Travis and Blanco counties. More importantly, she has a passion for empowering others and strengthening the community where she lives and works. She is the president of the Hays County Bar Association, course director for the Hays County Bench Bar Conference, and co-director and founding member of the Dripping Springs Community Bar Association. Brandon organized the dating-violence mock trial for Dripping Springs High School, which is now in its seventh year. It helps educate young adults about the warning signs and consequences of dating-related violence. Brandon received the 2017 Young Hearts Matter Advocate of the Year award from the Texas Council on Family Violence. Brandon was honored when Barbara L. Stroud, lawyer and mediator, joined Brandon’s firm as an of-counsel lawyer. Stroud practices family law in Hays and Travis counties and mediates family-law and special-education cases. Stroud has volunteered as a coach for the student lawyers in the dating-violence mock trial for the past six years. Stroud has served on the Dripping Springs Independent School District school board since 2008 and served as the board president from 2013 to 2016. The principal office is located in Austin.

sarahbrandon.com

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Photo by Courtney Runn.

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D R . T I F FA N Y S TA N L E Y

PSYCH OT H ER A PIST A N D S E X T H ER A PIST

D

r. Tiffany Stanley is a Texas-board-approved licensed psychotherapist and supervisor, nationally and internationally certified and registered psychotherapist, eye-movement-desensitization-and-reprocessing-trained counselor, American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists-certified sex therapist, American Board of Sexology diplomate and holds a doctorate in clinical sexology. She has been in private practice for more than 14 years, specializing in helping adult women, men and couples overcome challenges related to desire and intimacy, sexual functioning and sexual pain, as well as infertility. She also specializes in general psychotherapy for concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress management and self-esteem issues. She is dedicated to revitalizing the relationships, hearts and minds of her clients, who describe her as encouraging, knowledgeable and helpful. In addition to her private practice, Stanley is a researcher and public speaker on the topics of sexual dysfunctions, intimacy after cancer and the use of her highly acclaimed sensory-focused guided-imagery treatment program for individuals with sexual concerns. tiffanystanleytherapy.com

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LISA TRAUGOT T PERSONAL TRAINER

I

n 2012, Lisa Traugott, personal trainer and creator of the She’s Losing It Method, was sitting in her car outside her daughter’s preschool, sobbing. “Of course I was crying. My life was a mess,” she laughs. Borderline obese and frustrated, she decided to enter a bodybuilding competition.

She’s not crying now! She lost 50 pounds and turned her knowledge into the SLI Method, which incorporates three components: belly (nutrition), body (targeted exercises) and brain (motivation).

Her memoir, She’s Losing It!, led her to being cast on John Cena’s reality-TV show, American Grit.

She has won bikini competitions locally and internationally, and her transformation story has been featured in Muscle & Fitness Hers and on Good Day Austin and Great Day Houston. Now a trainer herself, she delivers results to her clients, who have lost weight, toned up and won their own bikini trophies. “If I can transform my life through fitness,” she says, “imagine what you can do.” sheslosingit.com

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Sponsored Content

EIGHT WINTER DRIVING TIPS YOU SHOULD ACTUALLY PAY ATTENTION TO

BY CHELSEA BANCROFT

I will be the first to admit that before working for a dealership, I never winterized my car. It’s Texas. How bad can it really get, right? While we don’t have to worry about physically digging vehicles out of snow, there are some very real winter driving tips even we Texans should pay attention to in order to stay safe this winter.

Be more aware of road conditions.

Be careful when warming up your vehicle.

Most news outlets will have major-road condition updates on their websites, but one of the best ways to stay informed is through the Texas Department of Transportation’s drivetexas.org website and the TXDOT Austin Twitter account.

(It’s also great for traffic and accident updates anytime of year.) Be informed before you hit the road.

Never leave the keys in your car while waiting for it to warm up. It’s not fun to sit and wait in the cold, but it would be even worse to have your car stolen because you left the keys in the vehicle with it running. Most importantly, never warm up your car in a closed garage. Doing this traps carbon monoxide in your home and can be deadly.

Prepare your vehicle for winter.

Luckily, in Austin, we don’t have to do anything drastic like change out our normal tires for snow tires to prepare our vehicles for winter. But there are several things you should check when heading into colder months: tire pressure and tread life, battery strength, antifreeze and windshieldwiper fluid levels, filters, etc.

Crank up those seat warmers.

There is no special safety reason to do this, but it keeps your buns nice and warm. If you don’t have this feature in your car, check out websites like amazon.com that sell heated seat cushions for about $30 that plug right into the cigarette lighter. You’re welcome!

I hope these tips keep you safe and warm on the roads all winter long. Please don’t hesitate to reach out should you have any questions.

Slow down and keep a greater distance.

Yes, there’s the running joke that the moment one drop of rain falls, every car in Austin slows down, but it might not be such a bad idea. It takes nearly twice as long to brake on slippery roads, so slow down and increase the distance between your car and the car in front of you when driving in wet, wintery conditions, and never use cruise control.

Photo courtesy of Linnea Kay Photography.

Know when to steer versus brake.

In winter conditions, knowing when to brake or steer to avoid a crash can make a big difference in the outcome. In slick conditions, AAA Texas recommends steering away (when safely possible) instead of braking to avoid a crash when traveling at speeds faster than 25 mph. If the road is slick, braking abruptly can actually cause you to have less control of your vehicle.

Keep your car’s gas tank at least half full.

We don’t have to worry about major freezes often, but it’s a good idea to keep your car’s gas tank at least half full during colder months to prevent the gas line from freezing up.

Update your car emergency kit.

You should always keep an emergency kit in your car. During winter months, it’s smart to add these items to it too: ice scraper, matches, blanket/jacket, water bottles, snacks.

Chelsea Bancroft is the strategic-partnerships and social-media manager at Roger Beasley Mazda and a blogger at onechelofanadventure.com.

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ISCOVER

ADVENTURE GIRL

FULL THROTTLE

You can cross ‘race-car driving’ off your bucket list at one local racetrack.

BY NIKI JONES, PHOTO BY CARRIN WELCH

I’m sitting in a bucket seat that feels like it is 3 inches above the ground. My hands, while not quite sweaty, have a death grip on the steering wheel in front of me and are fixed on the positions of 10 and 2. My left foot is planted firmly on a metal footrest, while my right foot hovers above the gas pedal. I am in a Ferrari 488 GTB, about to take off. And when I lower my foot, take off is exactly what I do.

I’m at Harris Hill Raceway in San Marcos, Texas, to experience Longhorn Racing Academy’s Supercar Driving Experience and I’m psyched.

SMOOTHNESS, TRACTION, VISION The day starts off in the classroom, where Longhorn Racing chief instructor Jeff Sanders affably breaks down the anatomy of a turn, how to corner and the dynamics of a car. Armed with this knowledge, the handful of students and I are ready to head outside and put the pedal to the metal.

My first undertaking on this sunny, breezy day is to take two “recon” laps as a passenger to get familiar with the lay of the land and to see and feel the turns in order to get the most out of my driving time. Even as we are traveling at a “medium” speed, these laps are exhilarating—sort of the ramp up for what is to come.

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CURVES AHEAD Harris Hill is a 1.8-mile curvy, hilly track with 11 bracing hairpin turns. The beautiful setting is as if a racetrack were dropped in the middle of a rural expanse, with trees and ponds dotting the landscape. From the two-story back porch of the main building, spectators can see every turn on the entire track. Unlike other racetracks of its size, Harris Hill doesn’t have any barriers or fencing on the edges of the speedway, just rolling, grassy fields all around, which helps allay any fears I may have about crashing into a wall.

Harris Hill possesses an inclusive friends-and-family vibe, and Longhorn Racing Academy’s friendly and accessible approach to car racing fits right in.

WARM IT UP The first car I drive on the track is a stunning electric-blue Porsche Cayman GTS, just one of LRA’s ever-changing

and always impressive fleet, which WILD HORSES includes Lamborghinis and even a After a short rest and some hydration, I’m ready to step it up Mercedes-AMG GT R. I’m in the driver’s a bit and get into the quintessential supercar: a brand-new Helmet-headed, I get in the driver’s Ferrari 488 GTB in rosso corsa (“racing red,” of course). seat of a Ferrari— seat, adjust it for comfort (There’s no No big deal; it’s only got 660 horsepower and a top speed need to adjust mirrors since I won’t and there’s no of 205 mph. be using any.) and check to make sure This time, my instructor is Jeff, who, with a laid-back and speed limit!

I can hear my instructor, Steve Metz, confident demeanor, gives me move-by-move guidance on who’s sitting in the passenger seat, how to handle this amazing beast. As I conquer each turn, through my communication device. my confidence builds and I feel like I’m out of my body. I’m “Ready to go?” Steve asks. in the driver’s seat of a Ferrari—and there’s no speed limit!

Oh, yes, I am! I cautiously press the accelerator As I approach the end of my last lap, my heart is racing, my stomach muscles and we’re off. feel like I’ve done 100 crunches and I am full of adrenaline. I don’t think the From the very first second, Steve coaches me with day can get any more exciting, but I’m wrong. calm, matter-of-fact running commentary and instructions: “Accelerate to that cone,” “Brake now, hard,” HOLDING ON “Stay far right.” Some of it feels counterintuitive, and How fast can a car on Harris Hill Raceway really go? I’m about to find out. it’s a challenging mental exercise to push past what my My driver is a 15-year-old racing phenom (and genuinely lovely and polite instincts are telling me I think I should do and listen to human being) named Danny Soufi. Helmet still on my head, I buckle into the someone who actually knows what I should do. passenger seat next to Danny in a just-delivered-from-Germany Porsche 911 The third and final time Steve and I hit the straightGT3 and proceed to take the most thrilling car ride of my life. The windows away in the Cayman, I’m feeling good. I accelerate as are open, the wind is blowing, the engine is screaming and I’m holding on for hard as I can up the hill, the G-forces pinning me to dear life, giggling uncontrollably as we race around the track. the seat until I crest at the top, where Turn 4 begins, brake at the appropriate cone, turn the wheel hard, The day at Longhorn Racing Academy has a little bit of everything: education, press down on the gas pedal…and drift! Whoa. Luckily, instruction, adrenaline and a super fun hang with new friends, so I am sad to I am able to correct accurately instead of careening off see it end, but I’m already planning my next visit. And next time, I’m driving the track and into the field, and I keep on keepin’ on. the Lamborghini!

ATXWOMAN.COM | 37

S

TYLE

SPLURGE OR STEAL

TASTY FREEZE

Beat the chill in a cozy look done two ways.

PHOTOS BY ANNIE RAY

STYLED AND MODELED BY ASHLEY HARGROVE

SPLURGE Vince shaggy teddy-bear coat, $695 Rag & Bone Hudson T-shirt, $155 Baldwin The Karlie skinny jeans, $225 Sigerson Morrison Isla farro boots, $450 Chanel jumbo caviar handbag, $6,200 Moncler cable-knit beanie with fox-fur pom, $450 cable-knit cashmere socks, $65 Saint Laurent sunglasses, $395 Coat available at Vince, 11600 Century Oaks Terrace, vince.com.

T-shirt, beanie, sunglasses and socks available at Nordstrom, 3111 Palm Way, nordstrom.com.

Jeans available at Baldwin, 11621 Rock Rose Ave., baldwin.co.

Boots available at zappos.com.

Handbag available at chanel.com.

$8,635

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STEAL BB Dakota Fur Mix-A-Lot Wubby teddy coat, $138 Make + Model white T-shirt, $25 Levi’s 710 super-skinny jeans, $39 Lucky Brand Ilianna cedar boots, $168 Solarfun classic quilted shoulder bag, $26 knit beanie with faux-fur pompom, $19 Treasure & Bond boot socks, $12 BP square sunglasses, $14 T-shirt, beanie, sunglasses and socks available at Nordstrom, 3111 Palm Way, nordstrom.com.

Boots available at zappos.com.

Coat, jeans and handbag available at amazon.com.

$441

ATXWOMAN.COM | 39

H

OME

SEE HER WORK

CALL OF THE WILD

Ceramics artist Kara Pendl finds inspiration in the natural world.

BY CHANTAL RICE

“I find [ceramics] fascinating because it holds so much memory, history and legacy, as it is naturally of the earth and soil, which we will all go back to at some point. To be able to take that organic material in my hands and make beautiful objects that are not just admired but used intimately in daily life as both a decoration and functionally is a true joy.” – Kara Pendl

For more information about Pendl and Karacotta Ceramics, visit karacotta.com.

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Photos courtesy of Kara Pendl.

Artist Kara Pendl, who creates exquisite yet entirely functional art-meets-life wares through her Karacotta Ceramics business, may have become captivated by ceramics in a high-school art class decades ago, making what she calls a “soul connection” with the medium, but her inspiration stems from something much greater: the world around her. Having grown up encouraged to explore the woods, adventure in nature and form affinities for organic materials, Pendl has always been driven artistically by Mother Nature, which is evident in each of her gorgeous hand-thrown ceramics pieces.

But Pendl does not create art just for art’s sake; she espouses her creations’ usefulness nearly as much as she does their beauty, beginning each project by asking how a product or tool could improve daily life. From lovely and delicate jewelry dishes and bowls graced with color palettes influenced by the wild to elegant tumblers rimmed in 22-karat gold and perfectly sized whiskey and mezcal copitas, Pendl’s work is at once posh and practical.

A big believer that the best way to predict your future is to create it, Pendl spent much thoughtful time developing her ceramics hobby into a thriving business, a move she admits was terrifying but worth it.

She seems to have found inspiration in a particular Kurt Vonnegut quote displayed on her Karacotta website: “To practice any art, no matter how well or badly, is a way to make your soul grow. So do it.”

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Photo courtesy of Aino Photograpy.

H

OME

AT HOME WITH

JEN PINKSTON

The native Austinite, celebrity stylist and blogger takes us inside her kitchen.

BY COURTNEY RUNN

After growing up in Austin and attending the University of Texas, Jen Pinkston moved to Los Angeles for a decade, where she worked as a celebrity stylist. Two years ago, she moved back to Austin with her husband and two daughters, and she now runs her lifestyle blog, The Effortless Chic, and the creative studio she cofounded, Ladybird Studio.

“Stop wondering if it’s the right piece and the most on-trend piece and focus on finding pieces that make you supremely giddy, then complete the room from there.”

– Jen Pinkston q “The Fireclay glazed-brick backsplash might be my favorite design element in our whole house. The handmade details are so special and the stacked design gives me major midcentury vibes.” q “I really love [the cookbook] Dinner: Changing the Game

by Melissa Clark.” q Tea kettle: Le Creuset

q Appliances: Bertazzoni q Toaster: Smeg q Paint color: Behr Mountain Pine

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Photos by Katie Jameson.

q Barstools: West Elm

“People here are very supportive of one another. I think I found a freedom here to dig into life in a really authentic way. …

I’m really inspired here by all of the smallbusiness owners. I think it’s easy to take it for granted if Austin is all you’ve known, but when you live in another city for a while, you realize that it’s not the norm.”

– Jen Pinkston ATXWOMAN.COM | 43

44 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY DECEMBER2019 2018

Soul Sister At her own festivals and retreats, community-building yoga instructor Lizzie Aguirre breaks down barriers through music, movement and manifestation.

BY RACHEL RASCOE | PHOTOS BY RUDY AROCHA HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LAURA MARTINEZ | STYLED BY NIKI JONES SHOT ON LOCATION AT MIRAVAL AUSTIN When local teacher Lizzie Aguirre first posted images of her unconventional yoga event, SoulFull, she was a bit worried people might get scared away. Photos captured students holding hands, locking eyes, feeling each other’s breath and sharing hugs.

Despite her concerns, the next class sold out. Since SoulFull’s launch in April, the Austin educator’s niche empire has expanded into workshops, international retreats and a yogaand-music festival, Luna Nativa.

“People want connection,” Aguirre says with a magnetic, easygoing earnestness. “People want to have a reason to express themselves. It’s super beautiful to see, so I’m sticking with it. I’m going to be honest about what the event is, and the people will come who want the therapy, the medicine.”

All proceeds from SoulFull, now a nearly bimonthly event series, benefit local nonprofits. Breaking the workout-oriented

structure of a studio class, the 90-minute event includes atypical flows, vendors and accompanying live music.

The interactive class opens with 20 minutes of guided partner meditation. During that time, participants make the promise: “I see you. I hear you. I feel you.” It’s a defining mantra of Aguirre’s work.

“It’s very emotionally empowering, and it really breaks down a lot of walls for people,” the 23-year-old teacher says.

“Sometimes we’ll scream at the top of our lungs if we’re holding something in. Then it’s just constant laughter for like five minutes afterwards.”

Past SoulFull classes benefited the Austin Parks Foundation, Flatwater Foundation and the Stop Abuse for Everyone Alliance, or SAFE Alliance. Aguirre’s vibrant roster of events has included collaborations with major brands like Bumble and Lululemon.

ATXWOMAN.COM | 45

Body and Soul

Houston-raised Aguirre discovered yoga at a low point during her senior year of high school. Having stopped taking dance lessons a few years prior, the former ballerina faced a mix of anxiety and depression. When a friend’s mom suggested yoga, the practice snapped into place as a healing, physically connected outlet for the struggling student.

“I was super messed up as a teenager,” Aguirre says. “[Yoga] really felt like a great place for me to go and take care of myself. I think that’s why I love it so much, because it’s creating a movement and it’s choreography.”

After relocating to Austin for college, Aguirre underwent her foundational 500-hour training at Wanderlust Yoga. She has since continued her studies in Los Angeles to achieve more than 1,000 hours of yoga expertise.

The native Texan was just 18 when she began teaching.

Starting out as a receptionist at Wanderlust, the teenager worked her way up through a variety of small studios to eventually instruct classes throughout the week at Black Swan Yoga, Practice Yoga Austin and Wanderlust.

“I always tell young teachers, ‘If someone doesn’t like your class, it’s fine because there’s going to be one person who does,’ ” she says. “ ‘Even if it’s the tiniest thing that you did, something will stick with them and change their week. That’s what matters, so keep going for it.’ ” Aguirre was deeply influenced by established local instructor Gioconda Parker, who serves as her mentor.

Parker’s teachings, which Aguirre describes as quirky, communal and “not vanilla,” inspired the philosophy of SoulFull.

“It’s not commercial or rehearsed,” Aguirre explains.

“That’s what is different about my classes, the vulnerability.

It’s a safe space to giggle and have fun. It’s very, very much an embodying experience.”

46 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

Never Missing a Beat

The creative instructor’s planning for her weekly studio classes starts with the music. Her affirming selections might include soaring symphonies for moments of difficulty and the spacey rhythms of deep house music to settle down. Aguirre is specially trained in the physical effects of a song’s beats per minutes on the body. When the soundtrack has lyrics, they have to be meaningful.

She recounts a client brought to tears because of the supportive verse “You know I got you” at a past SoulFull event.

“If a song doesn’t move me, it’s not in there,” the yogi says.

“I enjoy curating the music perfectly for the sequence. It peaks with highs and lows, and it creates space when I need to create space. It’s a huge part of my studio classes.”

Alongside ballet, Aguirre studied opera, classical piano and theater during her musical adolescence. Today, she sometimes winds down her classes with a live song.

Aguirre’s renditions of breezy pop tunes by the Beatles may float overhead as students lie flat on their backs in savasana pose.

During high school, along with musical performances with Houston’s Theatre Under the Stars, Aguirre wrote and recorded a few original songs.

On YouTube, Aguirre’s soulful cover of Rihanna’s “Stay” boasts more than 11,000 views.

In the video, captured in her bedroom in 2013, she charmingly encourages viewers to vote for her in the high-school talent show.

Aguirre considers early musical exploration a defining step on her path toward the free, open expression that now defines her yoga practice.

“I was writing about breakups and things I was dealing with back then,” Aguirre says. “It was very hard to put it out there, but I think that sharing music has helped me be better and more vulnerable as a teacher. Every time I teach, I sit down like, ‘Guys, I’m going through all this right now. I want you to learn things that I’ve learned, and I’ll learn from you.’ ” Although a musical career is currently on the back burner for Aguirre, she keeps it on her bucket list. In the meantime, she helps manage her brother’s emerging Houston-based rhythmand-blues project, SpaceGodApollo.

LIZZIE AGUIRRE’S 45-MINUTE SOULFULL FLOW PLAYLIST

Kindred Spirits

“This is a 45-minute playlist with a few of my top songs of 2018. From beginning to end, each song takes you on a journey to empowerment and bliss. Get on your mat, close your eyes, jam this on loud and see what inspires your movement from the inside out!” – Lizzie Aguirre

Aguirre is a firm believer in the power of manifestation. In fact, she’s taught workshops about it.

At the beginning of 2018, the community builder wrote down her goal of starting a yogaand-music festival sometime in the next 10 years (as well as her goal to land herself on the cover of a magazine). She later met her current partner, Noah De St. Croix Kessler, who works in the music industry and performs as Swayló.

Through their combined expertise, Aguirre’s long-term goal became an imminent reality.

October marked the first-ever Luna Nativa, a 12-hour immersive event held at Brazos Hall in downtown Austin.

“I think music is just as healing as a yoga practice can be,” Aguirre says. “To combine the two in a way that syncs up and is not overpowering or less than totally magnifies the experience.”

Kessler booked the musical acts, including Ecuadorian artist Nicola Cruz, among other electronically influenced acts. Aguirre assembled a “yoga playground” of visiting teachers, educational wellness workshops and local vendors. The sold-out yoga smorgasbord hosted more than 650 participants, ending in a dance party.

“The feeling during was so amazing, like, I was crying after I taught,” Aguirre says. “Just seeing how many people were there with smiling faces meeting each other, it’s what I aim to create on a whole different level. Rather than just a workout, it’s a cleansing and a healing place.”

During the past year, Aguirre further expanded her SoulFull experience into her own custom yoga retreats. Alongside yoga, the smallgroup adventures include live music, art, local cuisine and exciting activities like surfing.

On visits to Tulum and Oaxaca, Mexico, Aguirre and her students crowded into a sweat lodge for a traditional temazcal ceremony. She references her family’s Mexican and Apache heritage as inspiration for the group dives into local culture.

“By the time we were done, it was like [we were] best friends for the rest of our lives,” Aguirre asserts. “That experience is very empowering and shows you how much resilience you really have. You step out like, ‘Yeah, I can do anything.’ ”

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“Everything Was Beautiful and Nothing Hurt” by Hallucinogenius “Delicate ballads and inspiring symphonies help me get connected to my physical and emotional body when first stepping onto my mat. This song helps me connect, ground and find my intention.”

“Aqua Blue Honda” by TylerXCordy “I’m from Houston, so hip-hop and rap music are in my blood. I love to incorporate soft rap in my classes to encourage creativity, individuality and the freedom for self-expression.”

“See Myself” by Oscar Oscar “This song gives me confidence. When I listen to the groovy melody, I feel most myself and free.”

“Anemone” by Slenderbodies “I love breathing in movement to the rhythm of this song. It’s fluid, airy and allows for space to connect with your physical and emotional body during the peak of a flow.”

“Rainy Days” by Sol Rising “When a flow starts to pick up pace and we begin to move [as] one breath, one movement, Sol Rising has the soundtrack to empower. I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to teach with him live in Austin.”

“Tonic Water (Snocker Cot Remix)” by Moglii “This is my jam! I rock this one out and really get moving to this song.”

“Polarity Waves” by Sublab “Sublab’s intention is to create music that takes you to another world, makes you think, feel and forget!”

“Interlude” by Anaesthesia “Who doesn’t love a solid two-minute trap beat?”

“Fruits” by Beshken “I work best in challenging physical situations when I have a song that feels motivating and encouraging. Beshken combines his jazz background with dance music, and it is so unique.”

“Kuwait” by Mazde “During a flow, this song would come on when the peak of the physical and mental challenge is moving the room. This song’s power can shake a room!”

“Horizon” by Garth Stevenson “After a powerful flow, I like to leave room and space for introspection and reflection. This song helps me feel like it’s OK to feel, that I’m OK exactly the way that I am. It feels like a loving embrace. The healing work of the practice comes to light here.”

“Orange Ocean (Loscil Remix)” by Kodomo “This song needs no caption: the best savasana song, a portal to a new state, a transformational journey within the self.”

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ATXWOMAN.COM | 47

“I was on a journey to become a better wife, mother and woman for myself—and I took the audience along for the ride.”

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48 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

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Striking a Balance

It has only been a year since Aguirre paused her studies in graphic design at St. Edward’s University to pursue a yoga career full time. She struggled with her family’s disapproval of leaving college but says they now support her completely.

“I think when you put all your energy into one thing that you’re passionate about, it goes,” Aguirre says. “It flows.

Of course, there’s hard times or lows, but if your heart is in something, it comes. It works.”

What was meant to be a semester off has since grown into a following of more than 40,000 yoga enthusiasts on Aguirre’s Instagram account. Her striking photos and videos are accompanied by long-form, confessional captions. Aguirre calls it her diary and writes earnestly about love, body positivity and the origin stories behind her yoga events.

In all her output, the entrepreneur strives to avoid strict, often intimidating yogi stereotypes, like only eating vegan food or never consuming alcohol. She’ll candidly share with students when she had a bit too much to drink the night before. One of her captions encourages followers to: “Eat your cupcake. Eat your ice cream. Eat your cupcake and your ice cream—together—for breakfast? Who cares!!!!! Live!”

“With everything, I just try to encourage balance,” Aguirre says. “No judgment for anything. It needs to feel like something that is allwelcoming and all-loving.

Let’s celebrate ourselves so that we can grow into the things we want to be.”

Aguirre admits it took time to gain the confidence and skills to market herself as a yoga teacher. She initially avoided social media, considering it a distraction from her practice.

A California-based mentor explained it to Aguirre as just another outlet for connection and reaching new students.

Now the up-and-comer calls branding one of her favorite topics. A sense of playfulness, positivity and unhindered honesty permeate her events and writings.

“Creating my brand was such a hard thing at first because I didn’t know who I was at all,” she says. “Through my work, I started feeling more like, OK, I get myself. When I believed in myself and what I was doing, I was able to create a brand.”

Amid the expanding world of Instagram influencers, Aguirre currently rejects all paid partnerships with brands.

She says the materialism would conflict with her messaging to followers, which is based in authenticity.

50 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

Breathing It All In

Aguirre’s days typically begin with meditation. She strives to consistently incorporate self-care, whether through a hot bath or hanging out with her dog.

If it’s the day before one of her teaching events, Aguirre says she’s “like a monk.” In isolation, the wellness leader taps into her feelings and thinks deeply about her intended lesson. To begin each class, she likes to share something that’s going on in her life.

“I’m young, so every time, I get nervous, like who is going to listen to me?” Aguirre says. “So, I really like to connect to something bigger and relatable. Then I can just show up and be a vessel for light and lessons.”

The intention setting, as well as a recent trip to Bali, has the yogi geared up for a big year in 2019. Her immersive SoulFull event will expand onto Austin’s iconic Seaholm Lawn across from Lady Bird Lake.

Aguirre is also taking SoulFull on the road. She’s teaching the nonprofitfundraising mini-fest in Houston, Miami, Los Angeles, London and other cities internationally.

“If you make something a reality out into the world, it will come,” she says. “But I can’t be everything at once—a businesswoman, a marketer, an event coordinator and a teacher.

It’s hard to juggle, so asking for help is so important.”

She’s also launching her own yoga-retreat company, online video platform and podcast. In all her efforts, she hopes to continue collaborating with other area teachers. These sizeable plans run side by side with Aguirre’s continued presence in local studio classes and workshops.

Last month via Instagram, Aguirre reflected on her dynamic journey: “I started teaching yoga when I was 18 alongside my studies, and eventually, things fell into place. Today, I am grateful for every single step of the way from my earth birth to rebirth, the beautiful moments, the challenges and each heartbreak that fueled every performance or creation, music, movement and art.

Without it, I wouldn’t have ended up where I am now.

I give my whole life to these things because they have saved me and can save all of us.”

ATXWOMAN.COM |  51

“”

If we’re not meeting the public’s needs in that park space, there’s no reason to do what we’re doing.

—Elizabeth Carroll

52 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

GREEN SPACE The women behind The Trail Foundation are working to safeguard, improve and champion the Butler Trail so Austinites, visitors and generations to come can continue to enjoy and celebrate Austin’s crown jewel.

BY NICHOLAS BARANCYK | PHOTOS BY TAYLOR PRINSEN

The most mystical quality of city structures is their ability to transcend. They entangle themselves within our urban landscapes and become an embodiment of a city itself. What is Paris without its Eiffel Tower, San Francisco void of the Golden Gate Bridge or New York City sans Central Park?

Austin too possesses such a token. Though not as grand as the Colosseum, its emblematic characterization as part of the capital city has nevertheless helped define our fascination with blending the wild with the manufactured. This is the story of the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail and the women—past and present—who’ve transformed two muddy riverbanks into a worldwide icon.

PRESERVING AN URBAN TREASURE Heidi Anderson is new to The Trail Foundation, the nonprofit organization charged with protecting, enhancing and honoring the trail. She’s focused, jovial and harbors the energy of a well-tuned reactor. Assuming directorship in 2017 of the now 16-year-old Butler Trail preservation organization, she was drawn to the idea of mingling land conservation with improved access to public space, a prospect sweetened when working with an amenity so beloved by Austinites.

“What makes The Trail Foundation and hike-and-bike trail so unique is how important it is to this community,” Anderson says. “It’s ingrained in the thread of the soul of Austin, Texas. It is so important to people that we have to honor and respect that.”

But in order to determine how this 10-mile loop around Lady Bird Lake became so interwoven in the city’s persona,

one must harken back to Lady Bird herself.

The Colorado River has a troubled history with this city.

Frequent floods inundated the town and posed major health risks, which led to the eventual clear-cutting of trees along its riverbanks. When this prevention method backfired and made flooding worse, Austin dammed the river.

The damming formed a small reservoir just south of the Capitol building, which came to be known as Town Lake. But all the litter that had been previously whisked downstream riddled the muddy riverbanks. KTBC, a local news station, called it an eyesore. So, after enough public outcry, the local government decided to do something about it.

In 1971, Mayor Roy Butler and his wife, Ann Showers, installed the Town Lake Beautification Committee, with Lady Bird Johnson at its helm. A well-traveled woman with a penchant for wildlife, Johnson was inspired by how older cities like London preserved their natural treasures in urban environs. Combined with her insight on the Texan need for shade, her vision of the trail was born.

The plan involved cleaning up the waste dump, reforesting the shoreline and building a trail around the lake’s circumference. A new fad called jogging had just hit the States and an urban running route seemed an excellent way to persuade the public to care more about the land.

After creating a few more parks and pavilions, the committee had completed all it set out to do and disbanded in 1976. As its spiritual successor, The Trail Foundation is “trying to maintain that legacy,” Anderson says. But that can be a tall order at times, especially when tasked with improving a space rather than creating one outright.

ATXWOMAN.COM | 53

A PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION Tackling that challenge requires expertise from various professions. Project and Creative Director Elizabeth Carroll says a singular project can involve urban ecologists, architects, structural engineers, graphic designers, landscapers and more.

“We have to filter through what everyone is saying and figure out those moments of coming together and collaboration,” she says. “If you leave out any of the stakeholders...you’re missing an important facet of the project.”

All these specialists are needed for TTF’s ecological approach to land conservancy. In every endeavor, the team is thinking about how to naturally strengthen the walkways by including native flora and employing green techniques. It’s a task especially crucial as the trail experiences more wear and tear.

“The trail is kind of that well-loved teddy bear; the ear is falling off, the eye is popping out, the stuffing is coming out the back seam,” Carroll says. “So, we’re encouraging this natural system to be built in a way that allows it to come back from this natural impact.”

And their methods are working. After last year’s October flood, the trail saw only minor structural damage, despite being completely submerged in some areas. Even the wildlife on the waterfront—or riparian edge—bounced back after a few weeks. Carroll says it was a reaffirming moment for her, one that signified the foundation’s team was on the right path.

So, the professionals help design the trail projects, but who determines what those projects should be? For those answers, one party supersedes the rest. Their needs form the backbone of TTF and guide the foundation on which installments will garner the most impact. The members of The Trail Foundation live and breathe by the opinions of the public, the opinions of you.

“We’re working in a park space,” Carroll says. “If we’re not meeting the public’s needs in that park space, there’s no reason to do what we’re doing.”

As it turns out, the public has a lot of feelings. Some Austinites want more art on the trail. Others want none at all.

There are cyclists and dogs and runners with baby strollers.

All these different user groups intermix on the path and create a delicate scale for TTF to balance out.

But despite differing ideas about how the trail should be utilized, TTF Development Director Rachel Rountree sees the unifying nature the trail has in her regular meetings with donors.

“People love the space. They want to make it better and they want to be a part of it,” Rountree says. “It’s a place that brings people together and doesn’t divide them.”

54 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

MONEY MATTERS TTF’s biggest challenge at the moment is exposure. The team has been selective about where and how they use the foundation’s name, and even considering that, the organization’s advertising is subtle: a watermark on a map or a stray acronym adorning signage. Rountree says this lack of branding results in trail users new and old not realizing how important the foundation is to the development and preservation of the land.

“We need to put our name out there more so people understand who we are, what we do and how we can make their trail experience better,” she says.

Rountree explains that while the Austin Parks and Recreation Department handles the day-to-day maintenance of the trail, bigger projects like the boardwalk and ecological restoration are funded by TTF in total. As a 100 percent donor-backed organization, it’s not always a breeze for TTF to find the necessary cash when it’s needed.

“Every person matters. Every dollar matters,” Rountree says.

“We’re a committed team, but we’re not miracle workers.”

Limited capital equates to a more constrained team size and longer project times. But a new seed fund and $1.1 million donation is about to change all that. Thanks to that significant gift from Colin Corgan, a retired partner with Goldman Sachs, the foundation’s Corgan Canopy Fund enables TTF to cover the expenses of feasibility studies, drafting and all those initial soft costs that often slowed down progress during the early stages of the organization. It frees TTF up to work at a faster clip.

“We’re going to be able to do things at a more rapid pace than people are used to seeing,” Rountree says.

In fact, change will happen almost three times as fast. The foundation has completed 16 projects in the past 15 years. Now the organization has queued up another 15 projects slated for completion in the next five years.

But despite the game-changing nature of the Corgan donation, Rountree fears it may have a sinister side effect.

The public may see this chunk of change and think TTF is doing just fine, that it doesn’t need further monetary support. She clarifies that this money is specifically confined to the preliminary stages and covers none of the actual funding for projects. Furthermore, the money spent is replenished during the fundraising stage, creating a cyclical fund for upcoming projects.

“I hope people will celebrate [Corgan’s] generosity and his vision,” Rountree says, “but that they won’t forget about everything else that still needs to be done.”

“”

What makes The Trail Foundation and hikeand-bike trail so unique is how important it is to this community.”

—Heidi Anderson

ATXWOMAN.COM | 55

“”

It’s a place that brings people together and doesn’t divide them.

—Rachel Rountree

56 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

THE AUSTIN CONNECTION As Austin’s population grows—projected to double by 2050—the trail must change as well. More than 2.6 million people walked its shady corridors in 2016, not only for recreation, but also for transportation into and out of the city. Anderson says her team sees this as a prime chance to offer something greater than just a Lady Bird Lake roundabout.

“What we’ve been trying to do lately is to lift our heads up from just this 10-mile loop and honor the fact that we have an amazing opportunity to be the hub for a variety of spoke trails that exist,” she says.

Anderson’s grand plan is to advocate for closing the gaps that separate the 227 miles of trailway scattered throughout Austin, forming an interconnected system for the city. It’s an idea that not only rings true to TTF’s modified mission statement, but also resonates with Anderson’s team on a personal level.

“One of my core values is this inextricable connection,” Carroll says. “We’re all tied together, whether we want to be or not. So, to me, the trail is that spiderweb. It’s that connection pulling everything together in a physical way and a community-centered way.”

To accomplish such a goal, TTF needs to expand.

Anderson would love to add more members to her sixperson team, donning a model like that of the Central Park Conservancy in New York City. It would enable TTF to take on more of the daily work, freeing up the Austin Parks and Recreation Department to spend its resources in more underserved areas of the city.

However, she notes, that day is still far off.

“Two million, 600 thousand visits a year is going to become 4 million before we know it,” Anderson says.

“So, we have to evolve as an organization, and that doesn’t happen overnight.”

KEY MOMENTS In an effort to prove the trail is more beloved than even most Austinites realize, Anderson reaches into her purse in search of a touchstone of sorts.

“Let me show you something,” she says, pulling from her wallet a piece of plastic about the size of a credit card.

On the card is a picture of a woman in athletic gear panting in front of a body of water with brick and glass high-rises in the background. After a few moments, she points to the structure the woman is standing on and says it’s the boardwalk. She calls out one of the buildings as the Austonian. The woman in the picture is on the Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail.

“This is a Westin key card for a hotel,” Anderson says. “My parents brought me this key back from their trip to Venice, Italy.”

Anderson explains the iconic nature of the Austin trail is part of what makes it so special for people, so much so that hotels in Europe use its image on their key cards. The trail is often imbued with an almost hallowed quality, even abroad. Indeed, Rountree says she often runs into people who say “the trail is their church; it’s their sanctuary.”

It’s no surprise then that more than a few wedding engagements have occurred between its trailheads.

Anderson herself was married at Lou Neff Point, a scenic overlook on the trail. It’s clear Butler Trail is a place where lives change for the better.

So, in this way, the seeds planted by Lady Bird Johnson have rooted themselves in the spirit of Austin, growing until distinction has blurred. Her trail has extended beyond itself, snaking past streams and causeways and into the identity of those who wander its wooded avenues.

ATXWOMAN.COM | 57

G

OURMET

RECIPE REVEAL

GRAN-OOH-LA-LA

Welcome the new year and your dieting resolutions with a healthy and flavor-packed take on a breakfast staple.

BY CHANTAL RICE

Austin foodies buzzed with delight, happy to welcome Guild when it opened recently on North Lamar Boulevard. The progressive American seafood restaurant is a concept from Chameleon Companies, the hospitality group behind Austin darlings Swift’s Attic and Wu Chow. Partner and Head Chef Sterling Ridings, who possesses a passion for innovative cuisine and a French-rooted, Japanese-influenced style, leads the Guild culinary team, which also includes several acclaimed female chefs. And while the Rosedale neighborhood eatery has become beloved in a short time for its gorgeously plated and exquisitely delicious seafood dishes and seasonal vegetables, this coastalinspired upscale eatery is also gaining a devoted brunch following each Sunday.

CURRIED GRANOLA Ingredients

Directions

2 cups rolled oats

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Mix together the oats, coconut, salt and oil. Place the mixture on a parchment-lined cookie sheet and toast it in the oven for 20 minutes, stirring the mixture halfway through.

1/2 cup unsweetened coconut 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 3 tablespoons canola oil 1 medium-sized lime, zested 1/2 cup light-brown sugar, firmly packed 1 teaspoon Madras curry powder 3/4 cup peanuts 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds

58 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY JANUARY 2019 2019

2. O nce the mixture is toasted, reduce the temperature of the oven to 300 degrees.

3. C ombine the oat mixture with the remaining ingredients.

4. B ake it all at 300 degrees for 30 minutes, stirring after 15 minutes.

5. Remove the mixture from the oven, cool it to room temperature then enjoy the curried granola alongside yogurt and fresh fruit or as a healthy snack on its own. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

Photos courtesy of Elizabeth Van Huffel Photography.

A brunch favorite, Guild’s curried granola, served at the restaurant with peanut-butter custard, vanilla yogurt and fresh berries, is a simple yet healthy dish that imparts tons of flavor, in particular from Madras curry, which is often used in more savory recipes but pairs alluringly well with sweeter ingredients.

“The aromatics of the Madras play exceptionally well off of the sweetness of the lightly candied peanuts and the coconut, to the earthiness of the oats and pumpkin seeds,” Ridings says. “These big flavors are balanced out with some fresh lime zest, which provides the illusion of acidity. For the sweetness, I prefer to use a lightbrown sugar. It provides a hint of molasses that plays the perfect foil to the spices in the curry, such as cumin and fenugreek.”

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Scripted or memorized history

•

Not allowed to speak for self

•

Appearance younger than stated age

•

No formal ID, documents held by

•

Subordinate, hyper-vigilant, or fearful behavior

companion

•

Companion who refuses to leave

If you suspect someone is a victim of sex trafficking, call The National Human Trafficking Resources Center 333.373.7888 or text HELP or INFO to 233733 for discreet help.

For more information, go to Bethe1Educate1Save1.com

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HOW TO KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME TO FILE FOR DIVORCE Divorce attorney Janet McCullar answers your questions.

BY JANET MCCULLAR

January is a busy month for divorce lawyers, who often see people who don’t want to spend another holiday with their spouse. Whether or when to file for divorce is an extremely personal choice, but here are some frequently asked questions that might help you with your decision.

Most of all, if you are worried about whether to stay or go, stop torturing yourself. Go see a divorce lawyer. Gather information. Learn about your rights. Don’t take divorce advice from friends, family or your spouse; they are almost always wrong. Talk to a divorce lawyer instead.

How will I know it is time to file for divorce?

Most people agonize about or contemplate divorce for years before they actually file for divorce. There are many aspects to consider: impact on children, relationships with family and financial security. If you’ve been contemplating divorce, gathering information by meeting with a lawyer can help you to process your decision. Trust yourself too.

Give yourself all the time you need to make the decision.

You will know when it is time.

Are there times when a person must file for divorce?

Rarely. However, there are times when it may be strongly recommended or even urgent. Have you discovered your spouse has cut you off financially? Has your spouse made a threat to take your children? Have you been injured by your spouse or been scared by a threat to harm you physically or financially? If you are worried or scared for any reason, see a divorce lawyer.

What if I am scared physically or financially?

If you are being abused, leave right away. If you can, make a safe departure without saying you are leaving. Keep a set of keys and some cash in a safe place that you can easily access if you have to leave immediately. If you have children, it’s OK to take them with you; it doesn’t mean you will lose your home or your children. If you are worried about safety or finances, talking to a lawyer can help.

Don’t worry if you don’t know about your finances. A divorce lawyer will help get you the information you need.

Can I get a legal separation?

In some states, there is a process for legal separation, but that is not the case for Texas. Part of the divorce process is figuring out who is going to live where, how finances will be handled and visitation with children. Filing for divorce doesn’t always mean divorce. Sometimes people file for divorce and later reconcile.

The papers may look overwhelming to you and may make you feel angry or hurt. They may be hard to understand.

They may look bad and worry you. Most divorce papers have a lot of dos and don’ts. But most divorce papers just contain a lot of legalese. If you’ve been given divorce papers, see a divorce lawyer right away.

Janet McCullar is a nationally respected trial attorney known for her skill and success in the courtroom. She has represented clients in hundreds of complex divorce and custody cases. Although she represents clients during trying times, her cases are routinely resolved amicably to save the client the time, cost and pain involved in litigation. McCullar is board-certified in family law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. She was also selected as a fellow in the prestigious American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, an organization that consists of the nation’s top divorce attorneys.

The Law Office of Janet McCullar, P.C. | 3200 Steck Ave., Suite 300, Austin | 512.342.9933 | jmccullarlaw.com

Photo by Caitlin Candelari.

Photo by Caitlin Candelari.

I’ve been given divorce papers. What do I do?

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ATXWOMAN.COM | 61

W

ELLNESS

WAITING ROOM

HOT SPOT

Central Texas’ only pod-based infrared-sauna spa is encouraging Austinites to reach better health by sweating it out.

OK, I’ll admit it: I am a sweaty gal. I have come to terms with the fact that I occasionally feel swampy and clammy and often (particularly during about nine months of the year in Austin) emit a natural glow that has nothing to do with a suntan or bronzer. Friends who have worked out with me can attest to my less-than-genteel ability to practically cascade sweat within a 5-foot radius during athletic activities. Alas, I have accepted this bodily inconvenience as a natural occurrence, brazenly insisting that though I may perspire (occasionally at inappropriate times and often when others are seemingly chilled to the bone), it in no way means I am less feminine, well-mannered or dignified.

That’s why when I first learned of the new CYL Sauna Studio in South Austin, a luxury infrared-sauna studio that professes sweating is the body’s “safe and natural way to heal and stay healthy,” I had to check it out. After all, the company’s mantra is “Sweat happens,” a maxim I can definitely support, especially if enhancing my natural ability to perspire contributes to a healthier me.

Brooke Stubbs, the owner of CYL in Austin, says she discovered infrared saunas when she visited CYL’s studio in Nashville, Tenn. After just one visit, she was hooked.

“I loved the way it made me feel lighter and more energized,” Stubbs says. “I slept so soundly that night. When I woke up the next morning, I couldn’t wait to go back. I was addicted!”

Stubbs spent the next year researching infrared therapy and learning about the health benefits—which include pain relief, detoxification, weight loss, stress reduction and skin rejuvenation—before opening her own CYL franchise in Austin.

“It’s all the benefits that you don’t see right away that make me really excited about bringing infrared saunas to the Austin market, from reducing wrinkles to improved cardiovascular health,” she notes.

Convinced I should check out this life-changing sweat house (Indeed, CYL stands for “change your life.”), I booked an appointment, unsure of what to expect other than a moisture-laden experience.

BENEFITS OF INFRAREDSAUNA THERAPY • • • • • • • •

• • • •

etoxification D Anti-aging Skin rejuvenation Weight loss Sports recovery Stress reduction Pain relief Improved vascular elasticity, causing lowered blood pressure Improved circulation Wound healing Reduced cellulite Relief from chronic disease

62 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

The CYL Sauna Studio is a well-lit, clean and welcoming space that does not at all feel as though sweaty people are in and out all day, like some fetid gym. Stubbs and her staff go to great lengths to ensure the studio is a sanitary environment where their clients feel comfortable spending time sweating it out.

There are several private suites, cozy rooms featuring individual speakers emanating calming music, low light and personal infrared-sauna pods.

Unlike conventional saunas that heat the air with steam, causing the body to sweat only at the surface and making the air difficult to breathe, CYL’s sauna pods rely on soothing infrared heat that is dry and a lot gentler. Espoused by the likes of the Mayo Clinic, NASA and the World Health Organization, infraredsauna therapy is entirely safe and, according to CYL, offers seven times more detoxification than a traditional sauna.

Thoroughly hydrated and ready for some heated relaxation, I disrobe (As they say at CYL, “Less is more,” and the experience is best had in your birthday suit.) and clamber into my personal sauna pod, a cylinder not entirely dissimilar from a tanning-bed apparatus. I set my concerns about claustrophobia aside, knowing my head will never be inside the pod and that at any point, I can slide the pod’s door farther down my body to feel more at ease, all while continuing to reap the benefits of the infrared heat.

As Stubbs has suggested, the first half of my 30-minute sweat session is quite calming. I am cozied into my pod, my mind wandering aimlessly as I nearly fall asleep in the warmth of its quiet embrace, all the while burning calories and detoxifying my system.

Halfway through my session, a sweat technician pops in to place a cool cloth on my forehead, which further soothes me. It is at this point I notice my body starting to react a bit differently. I realize my heart rate is elevated, a sign that my body is being warmed from the inside out and my blood flow has increased.

I also realize I am sweating much more, but I remain relaxed and comfy. Just when I reach the point of my heat threshold and long for a reprieve, a tiny alarm sounds near my head, alerting me that my session is complete.

Sweaty and unsightly (and caring not one darn bit), I saunter, totally blissed out, from the studio to my car, then drive, albeit somewhat lackadaisically, home amid hordes of Austin traffic, not bothered by it at all.

Soon, I realize, for the first time in weeks, my seasonal allergies are alleviated, and when I go to bed, I fall into a peaceful, relaxing rest, getting easily the best night’s sleep I’ve had in months.

Photos courtesy of CYL Sauna Studio.

BY CHANTAL RICE

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Menopause: It’s such a weighted word that most of us don’t even want to say it out loud, let alone talk to our friends, family and health-care providers about it. Let’s be real: Menopause seriously sucks. There, we said it. We can all agree unanimously, so now let’s actually talk about it. Even if you’re not going through it right now, you may want to pay attention anyway because if you’re a lady, you’re destined for menopause, whether you like it or not. But it’s OK. You’re not going to go through it alone. Half the human population is destined for this not-so-sexy chapter of life and we, your fellow lady friends, will help get you through it.

So, what’s the deal with menopause? What is it exactly? What can you expect and what can you do about it? We met up with our experts in the Women’s Health Institute, including obstetrician gynecologist Dr. Margaret Whitney and physician assistant Teresa Reed to pick their brains about it. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions they get and their answers about menopause and how it might affect you.

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What’s new on the market for women with menopause? Are there new treatments, medications, procedures, etc.?

What is menopause?

Menopause, by definition, is the ceasing of menstruation. This is a period of a woman’s life (typically between the ages of 45 and 55) that marks the end of her reproductive period.

There are currently many treatments, medications and procedures in different stages of development. Some of these, such as vaginal laser treatments, have not been fully vetted and are best administered on a study protocol because safety and efficacy are still under investigation.

When do women usually come in to discuss menopause with the doctor?

Along with the physical aspects of dealing with menopause (difficulty sleeping, weight gain, etc.), does the Women’s Health Institute offer help regarding the psychological effects menopause may cause?

Most women visit their doctor when bothersome symptoms begin to present themselves, but some patients who are delaying fertility to their later 30s and early 40s are beginning to inquire about menopause, as it relates to fertility, at younger ages.

Psychological effects of menopause are also considered in treatment, as it can be a difficult time for some women. At UT Health Austin, the Women’s Health Institute offers behavioral-health specialists who practice in the same space as our providers. This allows us to collaborate and discuss your needs in real time in order to tailor care specifically to you.

How long does menopause usually last?

Menopause is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period and occurs on average at age 52. The menopausal transition can last for many years and occurs as a result of declining estrogen production from ovarian follicles. During this transition, women will often see changes in their menstrual cycle and may experience the symptoms commonly associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, mood and sleep disturbances, and changes in libido.

What are some of the signs it’s time to see a professional?

Prolonged heavy bleeding or bleeding between periods should always prompt a woman to seek evaluation, as should absence of menses prior to age 40. Any bothersome symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood and sleep disturbances, changes in libido and vaginal dryness, can often be treated, with the goal of improving your quality of life.

What else do you think is important for the modern woman to know about menopause?

k

Menopause does not have to be terrible or signify old age. Let’s throw that stigma out the door and right into the trash.

Are you seeing any difference in how women are being diagnosed?

While there are tests out there that can provide some information about ovarian reserve, these do not predict when a woman will become menopausal, so we diagnose it after you have experienced 12 consecutive months without a period.

Hormone levels during the menopausal transition are erratic and unpredictable and do not typically add value in the setting of menopause evaluation, though there can be some exceptions. Generally, the symptoms you are experiencing guide the treatment and are the main focus of care.

Several years ago, there was some controversy with using hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, and its correlation to heart disease. Are those concerns still valid?

These risks are most notable in women who are older, such as those older than age 65, or those who have a high risk at the baseline. The decision to use HRT should include an informed discussion between each patient and her provider, and the decision to use and/or continue HRT should be individualized based on the severity of the symptoms and the degree of risk.

A variety of treatment options exist, depending on your primary issue, and there is still ongoing research to address gaps in knowledge. As such, there is no single option that fits every woman, and care at UT Health Austin is tailored to address the needs of each individual patient.

Symptoms of menopause include: • hot flashes. These can cause you to feel a sudden rush of warmth in your face and upper body. They can last a few seconds, minutes or even longer. They can occur several times a day or just a few times a month.

• night sweats. Hot flashes during sleep can result in night sweats, which can cause sleep disturbances and fatigue during the daytime.

• trouble sleeping. Sleep problems such as insomnia may occur independent of night sweats.

• moodiness. Emotional changes may cause mood swings, irritability or mild depression.

• irregular periods. Heavy or lighter periods or no periods at all are part of menopause transition.

• vaginal dryness. Vaginal dryness, discomfort during sex, low libido and an urgent need to urinate are all symptoms that may also occur.

You may be reading this and thinking, “Great. So, basically, I’m looking forward to 10 years of torment followed by my own death.” No! Menopause does not have to be terrible or signify old age. Let’s throw that stigma out the door and right into the trash. Menopause is your body saying, “Hey, thanks for all the awesome work all those years. Now it’s time to transition into low-power mode so you can put that valuable energy toward more enjoyable things in life.” So, the next time a hot flash hits, just pretend you’re having a short private vacation in the tropics, basking in the sunshine with a piña colada in hand, and know you’re not alone.

If you are experiencing symptoms of menopause or are looking for a care team to help you manage your menopause-treatment options, consider the UT Health Austin Women’s Health Institute, which is dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate care and ongoing support all women deserve to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. For more information or to make an appointment, visit uthealthaustin.org or call 1.833.UT.CARES.

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ELLNESS

STAFF PICKS

WORK IT OUT Forget New Year’s resolutions; the Austin Woman staff shares our favorite workout secrets for fitting in fitness in busy everyday life.

NIKI JONES CREATIVE DIRECTOR

COURTNEY RUNN

Her workout secret: “I do chair squats at my desk every day, a minimum of 50 at a time!”

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Her workout secret: “My goal this year is to workout before work more consistently. Since I’m not a morning person at all (It takes several alarm clocks to get me up, y’all!),

accountability is huge.

The more people I tell I’m going to run or go to the gym, the more likely I am to go. And cute workout clothes don’t hurt for motivation either!”

CHANTAL RICE MANAGING EDITOR

Her workout secret: “

POONAM PATEL

is my go-to workout secret. It may not seem like much, but every little step counts. Whether it’s squeezing in a 30-minute brisk walk on the treadmill, going for a two-hour trek through my neighborhood or just parking farther away from the H-E-B entrance, including walking in my daily routine makes me feel invigorated.”

Her workout secret: “My workout secret is literally me doing 100 jumping jacks every now and then. I wouldn’t say it’s my favorite because I wouldn’t workout if I didn’t have to—ever. But sometimes I just have one too many slices of pizza and really feel it in the evening, so I’ll try to fit in a set of 100 jumping jacks prior to hopping in the shower. I’ll throw in some squats as well if I’m feeling energized.

Does it make a difference? I hope so!”

Walking

OPERATIONS MANAGER

MONIKA KELLEY ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Her workout secret: “My favorite workout secret is to

roll out of bed onto a yoga mat first thing in the morning, do 200 crunches, four sets of two-minute planks and 20 minutes of foam rolling.”

MADILYN BISCOE MARKETING AND EVENTS MANAGER

Her workout secret: “I try to fit in 100 squats and a one-minute plank every day, whether it’s in front of the TV or waiting for my pasta water to boil. It’s not a lot, but it makes me feel like I’ve done something to work for that pasta!”

66 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

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Don’t Lose Rest Over What is sleep apnea?

How is obstructive sleep apnea diagnosed and treated?

While snoring results from the incomplete obstruction of the airway during sleep, complete obstruction produces cessation of breathing, or apnea. This is commonly referred to as obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, or OSAS. Obstruction is most commonly a result of relaxation of the muscles that support the throat, palate and tongue base. This relaxation produces narrowing or obstruction of the airway, especially when breathing in. As a result of this lack of breathing, the body’s oxygen levels drop and the brain arouses you to allow breathing to resume. Sleep is disrupted and deep, restful sleep is typically difficult because of the constant partial awakening. The consequences go beyond fragmented sleep, as the low oxygen levels over time may produce serious cardiac, vascular and metabolic changes. Symptoms include excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty with concentration, irritability and morning headaches.

While the presence of these symptoms may be highly suggestive of OSAS, the diagnosis is established by analyzing the sleep quality with a sleep study. There are portable monitors that can be used overnight at home that may be useful screening exams and are fairly accurate in cases of severe disease. The gold standard, however, is a monitored overnight sleep study in a sleep lab. Once the results have been interpreted, the diagnosis can be made with a high degree of accuracy. If OSAS is present, the initial recommendation is nearly always a device that is worn at night during sleep. A CPAP machine, or continuous positive airway pressure machine, administers constant low-pressure airflow via a mask worn over the nose. This airflow helps open the obstructed airway and allows for normal breathing at night. While this is effective for almost everyone, many have difficulty tolerating the device at night. In these cases, surgery may be recommended or an oral device that temporarily repositions the jaw can be used.

Who is at risk for sleep apnea?

Risk factors include both anatomic issues and behavioral factors. Obesity greatly increases the risk for apnea, and neck circumference alone (a thicker neck) is highly correlated with obstructive apnea. Smoking and the use of alcohol or sedative medications are risk factors as well. Smoking causes inflammation and swelling in the throat and triples the risk of apnea.

Sedatives or alcohol consumption may cause excessive relaxation of the muscles of the throat, which worsens airway obstruction.

What is the role of surgery in treatment?

For patients who cannot tolerate the CPAP device and for whom an oral appliance is not adequate, a procedure may be recommended. There are numerous procedures involving a laser or other devices to reshape the tongue base or palate, many of which are more appropriate for treating snoring. In some patients with specific obstruction in the palate or large tonsils, tonsil removal or palatal surgery may be the best choice. However, the cure rates for most patients may not be adequate. Oral surgeons developed procedures to adjust the position of the jaw many years ago and for decades, these were used for the correction of bite problems. About 30 years ago, these procedures were adapted to treat sleep apnea. Most studies confirm cure rates in the 95 percent range, making orthognathic surgery, or jaw surgery, the most successful procedure if surgery is necessary. The three- to four-hour procedure is performed in the hospital, and after an overnight stay, most patients return home the next day.

Most patients can expect to return to work in 10 to 14 days. If you are contemplating surgery, most surgeons will want sleep-study data and a trial of CPAP to occur first. Most medical insurance plans cover OSAS surgery.

What are the medical consequences of sleep apnea?

The long-term exposure to low oxygen levels during sleep substantially increases the risk of high blood pressure (hypertension) and stresses the cardiovascular system. The risk of heart attack and stroke is greatly increased and cardiac-rhythm abnormalities, such as atrial fibrillation, are common. Metabolic issues such as insulin resistance, Type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome are often consequences of untreated apnea. Abnormalities in liver function and scarring (nonalcoholic liver disease) are sometimes observed as well. In addition, there are the issues produced by the lack of adequate sleep and sleep quality. These include excessive fatigue, moodiness, irritability, difficulty concentrating and, of course, sleep-deprived partners.

For a consultation with Austin Oral Surgery, call 512.591.9557 or visit austinoralsurgery.com.

W

ELLNESS

HER ROUTINE

STONE COLD

Curler Pat Popovich stays fit throwing stones at Chaparral Ice.

STORY AND PHOTO BY GRETCHEN M. SANDERS

68 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

Pat Popovich slid her first stone down a sheet of ice 12 years ago when she attended a learn-to-curl session at Chaparral Ice. “I was hooked from day one,” she says.

Soon, her life revolved around this peculiar sport, which originated centuries ago in Scotland.

Cross shuffleboard with bowling then add ice, and you get something akin to curling. But no skates are allowed. Curlers wear special shoes and sling stones across the ice toward an area called the house, a group of embedded circles where points are scored. Curlers can sweep the frozen surface with special brooms to increase a stone’s potential to score.

“It was a weird sport to me at first,” says Popovich, who, at 68, isn’t easing up on her game. “It was weird being on ice in Austin, but Austin embraces the weird.”

A longtime member of Lone Star Curling Club, Popovich has competed with and against Olympic curlers, including 2018 American gold medalist John Shuster. She has represented Austin at national and international bonspiels, aka tournaments, and is a certified curling instructor.

Here’s how this curling crackerjack stays in stone-throwing shape.

THE A.M.: “I wake up at 5:45 a.m. and stretch for a few minutes before I get out of bed. I punch the air about 100 times, twist my torso and flex my feet. Then I go downstairs and make coffee. I have oatmeal soup when I get to work—raw oats and nonfat milk with blueberries and a small banana cooked together.”

THE WORKOUT: “I curl for two hours once a week at Chaparral Ice year-round. It’s a workout. Sweeping the ice is done in fast, vigorous spurts. It elevates my heart rate and works my back and arm muscles. This sport requires good balance. Yoga can help curlers control their delivery and shifting body weight when they throw stones. General fitness is also important. I strive to take 10,000 steps per day. I also do two 30-minute get-fit classes a week after work.”

THE DIET: “I’m always aware of what I’m eating. I like fresh food, such as poached salmon and Brussels sprouts tossed with olive oil and cinnamon. Growing up in Hawaii, I learned to try different things. I don’t like sauces because I want to taste the food I’m eating. I usually go out for lunch during the workweek.

I’m not a big dinner person; an apple and cheese with some olives or almonds is enough. Before I curl, I eat a banana, a yogurt or an energy bar. I have a fast metabolism and burn food fast. People tell me it’s not fair. I love red wine and a good margarita, and I must have a piece of dark chocolate every day.”

THE GEAR: “Curlers need warm, flexible clothes. Yoga or exercise pants work well. It’s cold on the ice, so I dress in layers, with thin socks under wool socks because my feet get especially cold.

I wear a long-sleeve shirt under a T-shirt with a jacket and thin gloves. I use a lightweight Goldline broom with a swivel head and BalancePlus shoes. Curling shoes cost $100 or more and have a Teflon slider built into the one that goes on your sliding foot. The other shoe has a gripper so it doesn’t slide. The league provides our rocks. Curling rocks come from a quarry in Scotland, weigh 42 pounds each and cost $5,000 for a set of eight.”

THE MOTIVATION: “Curling is fun, athletic and strategic. You have to think. It’s known as chess on ice. It truly is a team sport.”

THE MINDSET: “I know I have the shot in my repertoire. I know what my skip wants. I can execute what’s asked of me to help the team.”

THE P.M.: “I’m reading The Martian by Andy Weir right now. It’s funny.

Lights out at 10:30 p.m.”

ATXWOMAN.COM | 69

P

OINT OF VIEW

ON THE MONEY

KEEPING YOUR FINANCIAL RESOLUTIONS

This budget plan is easy to set up and stick with in the new year.

BY JENNY HOFF

One of the most popular resolutions for the new year is shaping up finances. But unlike getting in physical shape, financial fitness can feel a little more complicated. The key is to keep it simple and create a system you can stick with. In a podcast interview with financial advisor Hilary Hendershott, she suggested skipping itemizing and instead, creating three simple spending buckets: yesterday’s promises, today’s funds and tomorrow’s dreams.

Here is how you can get started.

4. START A SEPARATE SAVINGS ACCOUNT (TOMORROW’S DREAMS).

Open a separate bank account for future purchases and set up an automatic transfer of whatever amount you want saved up every month. This account can be used for purchases you know you’ll want to make eventually: a car, a down payment on a home or even a fun trip with friends or family. Don’t have a credit card or debit card linked to this account so you’re not tempted to tap into it for your daily expenses.

Once you’ve set this up, you’ll have an automated system in place. You’ll know what you owe, what you can spend and what you’re saving up for. Get this down first and then you can plan to tackle bigger financial goals in 2020.

1. FIGURE OUT HOW MUCH YOU BRING IN EVERY MONTH.

This might seem like a simple step, but it’s more than just knowing your salary, which is pre-taxed. Look at your bank account. Note how much is deposited with each paycheck and calculate how much you actually bring in per month. If you’re selfemployed or own a business, calculate how much you make each month after taxes.

This includes your mortgage or rent, car payments, student loans, life insurance, utilities and former credit-card bills. (With this system, you won’t be racking up any new debt.) Pay these bills from the bank account where your paychecks are deposited.

This is sacred money and not to be tapped into for any reason.

3. USE PREPAID CARDS FOR DAILY EXPENSES (TODAY’S FUNDS).

After subtracting what you owe every month from your income, choose a reasonable amount from what’s left that you think you’ll need for daily expenses for a month. Then put that amount of money on a prepaid card. If you prefer to split it up even further into weekly amounts, do that. This way, every time you make a purchase, you will see how much you have left for that week or month. Consider this a “spend-down” card. Instead of seeing how your debt grows every month on a normal credit card, you are watching your allowance dwindle as you spend. If you find that you are reaching the bottom of this allowance too early in the month, get creative instead of dipping into your other funds.

Brown-bag your lunch, catch a ride with a friend or have a date night that doesn’t involve money. Within a couple months, you’ll have adjusted to the new budget. Remember, it’s not about denial. You can still go out with your friends for happy hour or catch a movie. It’s about learning how to spend your money on what really gives you joy instead of spending it without thinking.

70 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

Studies show consumers spend an average of 12 to 18 percent more when using credit cards versus cash or debit cards, which far outweighs any potential cardholder rewards. Put your cards on ice for a few months and see how your bank account changes.

Once you’re in better control of your budget, you can slowly reintroduce them to your wallet.

Headshot courtesy of Jenny Hoff.

2. CALCULATE WHAT YOU OWE EVERY MONTH (YESTERDAY’S PROMISES).

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What to Know Before Saying ‘I Do’ to a Premarital Agreement

BY KRIS ALGERT

The wedding day is fast approaching. The venue is secured, friends and family members have made travel plans and most of the details have been completed. You are ready to rest, relax and enjoy the days leading up to this milestone event. But then your soon-to-be spouse presents you with a premarital agreement to sign. What should you do?

Texas has allowed people about to marry to enter into premarital agreements for many years.

In the last five years, though, we have seen a significant increase in the number of couples requesting premarital agreements.

Before you sign a premarital agreement, ask yourself the following questions: • Was this a mutual decision?

• How much do you know about your partner’s finances?

• What are you and/or your partner trying to protect?

• Do you know anything about Texas’ community-property laws?

• What is in it for you?

These questions are significant because the Texas Family Code sets out the exclusive remedies and defenses available to enforce premarital agreements. As tempting as it is to just sign the document so you can refocus on the upcoming wedding, you would be wise to pause. You cannot later invalidate an agreement because you change your mind or did not understand the law or the provisions of the agreement.

As tempting as it is to just sign the document so you can refocus on the upcoming wedding, you would be wise to pause.

Premarital agreements can be as simple as each person confirming what property they bring into the marriage and as complex as eliminating any community estate and dictating what happens in the event of divorce or the death of a spouse. The primary purpose of a premarital agreement is to modify Texas’ community-property laws. Modifying the law impacts not only the financial aspects of any future divorce, but it also impacts estate planning.

Before saying “I do” to a premarital agreement, meet with a competent family-law attorney to get the facts about the law governing these documents.

If you would like more information about premarital agreements, please contact me at gbafamilylaw.com/attorney/kristen-a-algert or 512.456.3957.

Kris Algert brings to clients a wealth of experience in developing creative, individualized solutions for highly complex divorces. An innate problemsolver, Algert is adept at managing issues such as high-conflict personalities, sharing or dividing unusual assets and complex characterization issues. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, board-certified in family law by the Texas Academy of Family Law Specialists, Master Credentialed Collaborative Professional and has been named a 2018 and 2019 Best Lawyers Collaborative Law Lawyer of the Year in Austin.

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OINT OF VIEW

I AM AUSTIN WOMAN

EMPOWERING WOMEN WORLDWIDE

Whole Planet Foundation’s executive development and outreach director, Joy Stoddard, shares how her organization is improving women’s lives through

conditions or inLike so many crease nutrition levof us, my role els, as well as dream model was for the future. The my mom. She dignity that comes was glorious, from moving from tough and perceiving yourself demanding! as a beggar to a As a successbusinesswoman is ful businesstransformative! woman and At home in the head of Austin, Whole our household, Planet Foundation she really did donated $1 million it all. Alongto our microfinance side her, my partner to fund father would microloans for busisay, “You can nesses such as taco do anything trucks, food stands, you want in mobile nail salons, life,” and, “If catalogue-jewelryyou’re going sales companies to work eight and handicraft hours a day, enterprises. The you should do The dignity that comes from moving from perceiving road to economic something you is a yourself as a beggar to a businesswoman is transformative! independence like.” When gift we should all be they put me on able to experience. a public bus in the early 1980s to travel to a nearby town How can you help to empower women all over the globe? Please and serve as a hospital candy striper at 12 years old, I saw consider joining our annual Prosperity Campaign in Whole Foods it as an adventure and an opportunity to help people.

Market stores March 1 through 14, when you can round up your That moment signified the first time I knew deeply that change or donate a dollar at the registers. Small change is big service would become the passion that fuels my life, change when microcredit is the vehicle and when we all come thanks, in large part, to my parents. together to alleviate poverty. Since 2006, shoppers have donated Now I am motivated by the women I meet in Africa, Asia and all $43 million, all of which has been donated to the cause since over the Americas. As Whole Planet Foundation’s executive deWhole Foods Market covers 100 percent of foundation operating velopment and outreach director, my job is to raise awareness and costs. Whole Planet Foundation has disbursed $71 million through funds for the world’s poorest people, mostly women. Whole Planet worldwide microfinance partners, funding 3.1 million microcredit Foundation is a Whole Foods Market nonprofit dedicated to alleloans and creating 17 million opportunities for microentrepreviating global poverty where the company sources products. In 75 neurs and their family members to live better lives. countries, including the United States, Whole Planet Foundation Empowering women the world over contributes to their wellfunds microcredit loans that are usually less than $200, offered ness and well-being and helps me live my purpose instead of with no formal contract or collateral, repaid and reloaned again working for a living. I am well-traveled, having visited 40 counand again. These revolving funds then help reach more women, tries and 48 states, but in all of my travels, the experience of providing more opportunity. The repayment rate is an incredible meeting microcredit clients and seeing them flourish is what fuels 97 percent because microcredit as a vehicle to alleviate poverty my energy. Once, while I was in Indonesia, a microcredit client works, but also because most of these women have been living in told me, “I will be thinking of you [in the United States] and you generational poverty. will be thinking of me [in Indonesia] and together, we will draw With this opportunity to change their own lives through their strength to move through our life challenges.” She was right! own hard work and ingenuity, they can create or expand a homePlease visit our website, wholeplanetfoundation.org, to learn based business, send a kid to school, improve the family’s living more, or find me on LinkedIn.

72 | AUSTIN WOMAN | JANUARY 2019

Photo courtesy of Joy Stoddard.

microcredit loans and how Austin women can help make a difference.

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AUSTIN WOMAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2019

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