Best in Business Magazine January 2022

THE MAGAZINE ENTREPRENEURS HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR! COMMUNICATE

JANUARY 2022 | ISSUE 03

BEST IN BUSINESS MEET COACH JESSICA AVERY: Leading our future with a true servant's heart!

ALL ABOUT COACHING LEARNING WHO THEY ARE AND WHAT THEY DO!

Welcome, Dr. BizBuzz!

New answers to ageold business problems!

NONPROFIT NEWS:

BILOXI READS!: NEW PROGRAM BRINGS BOOKS AND LITERACY COACHING TO THE COAST!

EXCLUSIVE!

BECOMING THE BEST IN COMMUNICATION:

BEST TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE RELATIONSHIPBUILDING IN YOUR BUSINESS

JANUARY 2022 | $7.99

SHEILA FARR | 03 | CELEBRATING NEW BUSINESSES WWW.GULFCOASTTRAINING.ORG

BEST IN BUSINESS

CONTENTS NOTES + PICKS + FEATURES + A LITTLE GOOD NEWS

03 EDITOR'S NOTE

15

BECOMING THE BEST IN BUSINESS COMMUNICATION!

Editor Sheila Farr talks about the importance and excitement in - celebrating new businesses.

08 HOOP CARES LLC A new business serves seniors with a smile!

18 BOOK BITES: AUTHOR PROFILES

Learn more about a few of the authors from the upcoming anthology, Cage Fight: Overcoming the Battle in Your Mind!

27 FEATURED BUSINESS: BLUE LOTUS CREATIONS

New herbal emporium is taking downtown Biloxi by storm at Champagne, Art & CBD!

37 NONPROFIT NEWS BILOXI READS!:

LOCAL PROGRAM WORKS TO BUILD LIFE-LONG READERS

33 FEATURED AUTHOR: SHER GRAHAM Building good business communication is key to success!

COACHING WITH A SERVANT'S HEART! Meet educational leader Jessica Avery! A former teacher and principal who is working to serve the leaders in her school district and beyond.

12 THE COACHING CAREER FIELD EXPLODES! We're exploring the field of coaching and all the types, styles and niches for coaches. We'll even help you decide what type of coach is best for you!

38 BOOK PICKS We share our picks for the best new books about business communication!

1015 HOWARD AVENUE, SUITE C BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI 39530 TRAINTHEGULFCOAST@GMAIL.COM WWW.GULFCOASTTRAINING.ORG

02 JANUARY 2022| ISSUE 03

6

34 ASK DR. BIZBUZZ

BEST IN BUSINESS

A NOTE FROM OUR EDITOR BEST IN BUSINESS MAGAZINE STAFF Sheila Farr, Editor-in-Chief Mary Bell, Design and Imaging CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sher Graham, Feature Writer & Dr. BizBuzz

SPONSORED BY:

Gulf Coast Training & Education Services, LLC

Rob's Cabinets & More, LLC

Smokin' Guns Range & Shooting Academy

WedgeCorp

Best in Business Magazine is a monthly publication that celebrates small businesses and entrepreneurs. It is designed to provide business, leadership, and management information that will help propel businesses to their next level and help them be the best of the best.

Office of Communications: Best in Business Publishing, LLC 1015 Howard Avenue, Suite C Biloxi, MS 39530 Phone: (228) 229-3117

Sheila Farr, Best in Business Editor and Publisher

Happy New Year!

A new year is like starting a new chapter in your life.

It’s your chance to write an incredible story for yourself. As you pursue your hopes and dreams, may this year bring you much success and may your journey be adventurous.

Here at Best in Business Magazine, we are excited about bringing you new information that can make a big difference for your small business! We have new features, new tips and strategies, and so many ways to help you grow your small business. We'll be featuring COACHES this year - because the coaching industry has really taken off in the past two years. Our kick-off feature is very special to me because she is a stellar young woman whom I have known since she was a teen; I am so very proud to introduce you to her! We'll also be featuring authors, businesses - and this month is also our inaugural feature with Dr. BizBuzz! She'll be answering ALL of your "best in business" questions!

New is the year, new are the hopes, new are the resolutions, new are the spirits, and new are my warm wishes just for you. Have an exciting and fulfilling New Year!

Let's work together to be the BEST in business!

Sheila

03 JANUARY 2022/ISSUE 03

BEST IN BUSINESS

Rob's Cabinets & More Making Dreams Come True Along the Mississippi Gulf Coast Since 2009

Rob Cavaco, Owner 10447 Lemoyne Boulevard D'Iberville, Mississippi 39540 (228) 326-4830

BEST IN BUSINESS

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COVER STORY

COVER STORY: Coaching in Education Leadership

by Sheila Farr

Born In Arizona, Jessica Avery was raised in a military family. This allowed her to live in several different places throughout her public education journey; cultivating rich experiences and learning to embrace diversity. At the age of twenty-one, she joined the Navy where she served for five years. After leaving the Navy, Mrs. Avery finished college and made the decision to become an educator. She began her career in education in Suffolk, Virginia, as a Special Education high school teacher in 2004.

In 2006, she became a 4th-grade teacher where she remained for five years. A servant leader at heart, Mrs. Avery felt she could have a positive impact on students and teachers by becoming an educational leader. In 2012, she was named Assistant Principal and in 2015 she became a Principal, where she remained for six years before being named Coordinator of Employee Relations.

During her tenure as Principal, Mrs. Avery built a strong leadership team and led her school from being a school in focus to a fully accredited school. As the leader of a school that was a model for school improvement, Mrs. Avery has co-presented at the Virginia Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development. In addition, she presented to the Suffolk Leadership Team Sustainable Strategies for School Improvement, using data to drive instruction and effective use of professional learning communities. Building relationships is her passion and more specifically, identifying students that are underserved and finding a way to become proactive to help them succeed

Coach Jessica with Latoya McGlone and Cynthia Devers

in school. Through her leadership, she has worked with other educators to help them become educator-leaders.

Mrs. Avery received her Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from St. Leo University, her Masters in Elementary Education from Regent University, and her Ed.S in Administration and Leadership from Regent University. Currently, Mrs. Avery is working toward her Doctorate degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at Virginia Tech, with her dissertation interest being the School-to-Prison-Pipeline.

We sat down with Mrs. Avery as we started to look at all the different types of coaches emerging in today’s workforce. We talked with her about her experience in the field of education and how that prepared her to become both a mentor and coach to many of her teachers, associates, and others in her community.

BB: What are the primary types of coaching that you enjoy doing?

JA: I have worked with educators to help them grow in their field (teachers who want to become leaders and current leaders who want to grow in their careers).

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COVER STORY

BB: Can you tell us a little about your education? What type of training did you complete to become a coach?

JA: Most of my formal education has prepared me to coach. My education includes: Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from St. Leo University Masters in Elementary Education from Regent University Ed.S. in Administration and Leadership from Regent University.

I am currently working toward my Doctorate degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at Virginia Tech.

Additionally, I hold several certifications, including: Admin and Supervision PreK-12 Elementary Education PreK-6 Division Superintendent License (although I don’t currently have experience at this level).

BB: What is your current profession? Are you a full-time Coach, or is coaching something you do in addition to your work in a different profession?

JA: Coordinator of Employee Relations in Suffolk Public Schools. I have had several opportunities to coach others in my various roles as a teacher and as an administrator within the school system.

BB: Who is your ideal client to coach? Are there certain areas that are of the most interest to you or people that you feel you are better suited to serve?

JA: Someone who wants to grow in their career or someone who wants to learn how to develop teams would be a good coaching candidate for me.

BB: How many years of Coaching experience do you have?

JA: 17 in education BB: Is there anything else you’d like to share with us today?

JA: I am passionate about building leaders who work in the field of education. To contact Mrs. Avery, you may email her at kna2000_us@yahoo.com.

Christy Fowler (L), Ashley Nettles (M), and Mrs. Avery (R)

Coach Jessica Avery is a true servant leader!

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NEW BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT

hoop cares LLC Liz Hoop is a multi-time best-selling author who loves helping others; especially the elderly and disabled. She serves on the board of directors for the Mental Health Association of South Mississippi, Adopt A Grandparent Day, and Teen Challenge for Women in MS. She selflessly gives of her time in volunteer efforts that help others.

Hoop Cares LLC, provides information for people seeking resources for their elderly family members. They also provide transportation services to medical appointments for those without a means of transportation to get there.

Liz is an expert community and physician liaison who is dedicated to helping meet the needs of our aging and disabled populations here along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. From Gulfport to Moss Point; if you need help navigating the confusing waters of finding resources to help you better care for your aging family members, please contact Liz! You can reach her at (228) 363-1599 or via email at hoopcaresllc@gmail.com .

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ADVERTISING

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WHAT IS COACHING

What in the World is a Business Coach (and do I need one)?

Part One of a Two-Part Series

by Sheila Farr

Over the past two years, one career field

Business coaches build actionable plans.

continues to vigorously gain traction. That field is professional coaching. The job of a coach is to

Unlike consulting or therapy, coaching helps

teach, demonstrate, analyze, encourage, motivate,

individuals and businesses focus on the future,

and more. Coaches who help you meet life,

fosters individual performance, and helps individuals

career, or business goals have a similar role. They

develop their own path that is best suited to their

ask questions, help you identify goals, work with

lifestyle and career goals. While they do share some

you to create a plan, and structure a process to

commonalities, it is important to understand that

assist you in being successful.

coaches seek to drive the individual or business to some measurable action. They work with the

A business coach will assist and guide the

individual or business leaders to set goals, develop

business owner in running a business by helping

actionable steps, measure outcomes, and make

them clarify the vision of their business and how it

adjustments where and when necessary.

fits in with their personal goals. Business coaching is a process used to take a business from

Proactive business owners seek to understand why

where it is now to where the business owner

reaching business growth goals is important to them

wants it to be. Coaching and Mentoring can

personally, and the impact it will have on their life.

sometimes be confused since both roles are

After all, the business owner ultimately determines

bringing their years of experience to the table.

the speed and passion in which the goal is met (if

The biggest difference is that a mentor focuses on

ever). If it is not linked to the business owner’s

advising while a coach will assist the owner in

personal dreams, goals and plans for themselves,

goal planning and keep them accountable so that

there is no burning reason why getting to that

they achieve success.

business goal is critical.

Source: Harvard Business Review

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WHAT IS COACHING

After clarifying where a business owner would like

Business coaches are typically experienced

to take their business, business coaching will help

entrepreneurs and business owners themselves

plan and prioritize what goals and strategies are

who decide to use their talents for building and

needed to help progress the business closer to its

growing a business to help other business owners

goal. A business coach will meet with the

reach their goals.

business owner regularly, either weekly or monthly, to keep them on track to the

While there’s plenty of information and advice

commitments made during the past coaching

available online on how to start and grow a

session.

business, all of it is, by nature, generic and not specific to your unique business. Business

Coaches have years of experience that they bring

coaches, on the other hand, are able to provide

to the table. They help owners figure out what

something far more valuable – personalized,

their goals are, and create a road map to reach

custom advice.

them. Their perspective on the company can help owners see which items are just tasks and which

If a person wants to learn how to play an

are long term objectives.

instrument, it’s much easier to find a teacher than it is to teach themselves. Likewise, if an athlete

Business coaches create owner accountability.

wants to improve their skills, the best thing they

A critical component of business coaching is

can do is join a team that has a great coach.

accountability. You will never see a football coach run laps of the field for their team. The very same

We apply this logic – the fact that great coaches

fact is true of a business coach. A business coach

and mentors are the quickest routes to success –

is not a consultant. They will not do the work for

to most every pursuit, yet the same logic is often

you in your business. They are there to keep you

overlooked when it comes to growing a business.

focused on the end result and remind you why it is important. They will motivate you to keep your

Business coaches are typically expert

commitments. They will act as a sounding board

entrepreneurs who know what it takes to make a

and when needed hold a mirror in front of you,

business successful. To learn more about how to

highlighting your business and personal blind

find a business coach that is the best fit for you,

spots.

follow along with Part 2 of this article that will be featured in our February 2022 issue. Also, follow

Coaches track goals by creating key performance metrics (KPIs) that makes the journey to reaching them very transparent. The coach is there to keep track and measure progress that someone might avoid recording if they are on their own. When the journey is transparent, it makes the person that is in charge of reaching them very accountable.

Best in Business all year as we feature coaches from various types of specialties and career-fields.

We're celebrating 2022 as the "Year of the Coach," so let us help you find the perfect coach to move your practice or business FORWARD!

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COMMUNICATION IN BUSINESS

Becoming the Best in Business Communication

by Sheila Farr

Having strong communication skills can help in all aspects of life - from your professional life to your personal life -and everything that falls in between. From a business standpoint, all transactions result from communication. Good communication skills are essential to allow others and yourself to understand information more accurately and quickly.

In contrast, poor communication skills can lead to frequent misunderstandings and frustration. In a 2016 LinkedIn survey conducted in the United States, communication topped the list of the most sought-after soft skills among employers.

Top Soft Skills - LinkedIn Survey 2016

But what does it take to become a good communicator? To become the best in business communication, we believe it takes the following: • Listening more than you speak.

• The ability to approach conversations with curiosity and empathy.

• Becoming a master at understanding body language and non-verbal cues.

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COMMUNICATION IN BUSINESS

A willingness to make positive assumptions about other people and keep an open mind.

A strong desire to understand the other person’s perspective.

Now that we have a snapshot of what an effective communicator looks like, let’s go straight into discussing some useful tips for improving your communication skills.

7 Ways to Become a Better Communicator 1. Listen well This is one of the most vital steps to good communication. Yet, one of the most overlooked and underutilized. It can be difficult, too, because we all want to be heard! Practicing active listening (listening to understand vs. listening to respond) can help you understand exactly where the other person is coming from and stay connected.

2. Stick to the topic Though it can be tempting to bring up the past, especially if you’re feeling attacked, it’s always best to leave history alone. Focus on the topic at hand and speak only about the current issue.

If things start to get off course, try to re-direct and keep your laser focus concise and to the point of your intended conversation. If this doesn’t work, it may be best to take a break. You can agree to talk about things later when you’re both feeling calmer.

3. Practice reflection This is a technique many therapists use. You want to mirror (or reflect) what the other person is saying to help clarify and understand. Keep your focus on understanding what the other person is saying.

Use non-judgmental, neutral phrases and statements (such as “it seems to me…”, “it sounds like…”, “I want to hear your point of view,” and “tell me more”). Avoid using judgmental ‘you’ statements (such as “you’re overreacting” or “you’re yelling at me”).

Clarify what you hear them saying, feeling, and thinking.

For example, “Now let me see if I’m understanding you correctly. It sounds like you’re saying that I keep leaving my dirty socks on the floor, and you feel taken for granted and angry because I never pick them up, and you want me to take initiative and be more organized and neater with my things. Am I understanding you correctly?’

You keep reflecting back to your communication partner until they agree that you’ve heard them correctly.

Don’t rush the process. It can take some back and forth to hone in on the exact message but is so worth it.

This technique can be quite effective but requires patience and practice. Once you get the hang of it, it can be an incredibly useful way to connect and work through relationship and work-related issues.

4. Pay attention to body language Notice the nonverbal cues you and your communication partner are sharing with each other. These can include: a lack of eye contact which can show disinterest, avoidance, or lying crossing arms or legs which can reveal defensiveness or the appearance of being closed off to the conversation body positioning. For example, if your feet are facing away from the other person but towards the door, it can show that you’re ready to end the conversation and leave the room. a loud tone, which can reveal that someone is feeling emotional or not heard

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COMMUNICATION IN BUSINESS

5. Embrace silence and wait time Silence can actually be a good thing. It gives you both a chance to collect your thoughts and take a deep breath if needed. Never mind the awkwardness. Have you ever been in a conversation with someone who constantly interrupts you when you’re speaking? Of course, you probably have. Pretty frustrating, right?

I’ll admit this is one of my biggest pet peeves (and I’m guilty of doing it, myself). As someone with a naturally softer voice, this tends to happen to me more than I’d like, but just because my voice is soft doesn’t mean I don’t have an opinion that I’d like to share.

As a teacher, I learned about the importance of wait time. In the classroom setting, it means giving students extra time to respond after you ask them a question, but it can be an effective communication tool as well. When people get caught up in a rapid-fire communication pattern this leaves little time for personal introspection. Seek to allow the conversation to flow naturally. Slow it down intentionally. This is a great way to make sure you’re not interrupting the other person’s train of thought (or words).

Try this technique the next time you’re having a conversation, and don’t be afraid of a little silence.

6. Be open and honest This may not come naturally to people who have kept their true feelings hidden for much of their lives. But practicing honest, open communication is crucial if you want to build strong relationships. Even though it can be scary to be vulnerable, approaching your conversations with honesty and honoring who you are as a person at your core allows you to live up to your full potential.

7. Be appreciative No matter how difficult the topic of conversation may be, always find something you can thank the other person for. It could be something small or more significant.

Maybe your husband is a great cook. Or your friend is always there to talk when you’re having a bad day. Be sure to share this with them so they know how much you love and appreciate them.

Practicing gratitude in the small things comes through in our relationships and conversations. Plus, you can experience the benefits of being grateful too. Just showing up to talk through an issue can be cause for appreciation, so always make sure to thank the other person; if nothing more, thank them for their time.

Learning to be a good communicator is a life-long skill that takes lots of practice. Some people are naturally gifted in this area, but knowing that you can improve your skills and become much better is encouraging.

Focusing on listening, body language, reflection techniques, and staying open and honest are some notable ingredients of effective communication. I hope you’ve found these tips to be helpful for both your personal and working relationships. We've taught these principles for years and have found that practicing these skills and techniques can truly help make you the best in business communication.

If you're interested in our free communication class happening later this month, simply register at our website (www.gulfcoasttraining.org) or use the link to sign up: https://bit.ly/3z1gH48

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AUTHORS

Special Feature: Authors' Spotlight

Cage fight:

Overcoming the battle in your mind Release date: 27 January 2022

Our actions are a direct result of our thoughts. If we listen to the confusion in our brains, we are likely to have a life filled with struggle, insecurity, uncertainty, and frustration. However, if we trust in the Lord and the power of His Word, we can transform our minds and become champions over the darkness!

Worry, procrastination, confusion, anxiety, anger, and feelings of unworthiness - all these are attacks on the mind. Cage Fight is an anthology about how you can step into the ring, do battle against these attacks, and remain victorious in the fight! You'll hear from 23 authors who have experienced struggles; insecurity, overthinking, financial struggles, phobias, scary diagnoses, the frustration felt when dealing with uncaring individuals - experiences that occur in our everyday lives that knock us off balance, get us spun up in our heads and oftentimes prevent us from living the life the Lord has planned for us. Learn how they bravely stepped "into the ring" with themselves to face their own negative self-talk to become victorious over the lies of their greatest enemy! It's all about the importance of mental wellness!

Brought to you by Visionary Author, Sheila Farr (CEO of Gulf Coast Training & Education Services, LLC, and Editor-in-Chief of Best in Business Magazine), Cage Fight releases digitally on Thursday, January 27, 2022, and in paperback on January 30, 2022.

This month, we're happy to feature and spotlight several of the authors of this compelling new anthology!

Visionary Author, Sheila Farr

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AUTHORS

Serene Dumas Lee Featured Author Leaders are often thought of as guides, helping one or more people to achieve balance in society; or to satisfy various forms, of goal completion. Proving that successful leadership is defined best, in teaching others to find their place within; is the compassionate professional, Serene D. Lee. Serene D. Lee is an author, philanthropist, administrative guru, and CEO and founder of Rhema, LLC; an organization that seeks to assist entrepreneurs and corporations, to fulfill their administrative needs, at an executive level. Bringing numerous years of note-worthy expertise in the areas of facilitation, educational instruction, and advancing administrative leadership; Serene sets the standard in her specialty, by providing clients with the ease to effectively run their own business, successfully.

Rev. Dr. Rene Minter is a Christian Based Psychotherapist in private practice in New York and Director of non-for-profit management.She is advocate for mental services where she treats patients in need without regard of income. She believes “ All Minds Matter. “ She is a social worker by profession with a master’s degree in Clinical Social Work. She possesses a Doctorate in Ministry and is a certified chaplain. She is devoted to the ministry of missions globally with projects in a West Africa where she offers charitable support to women and children. She has held NGO responsibility with the United Nations. She is an author of four anthologies; Women Inspiring Nations, Breaking the Code of Silence Now!, Your Voice Matters and Amazon #1 best seller; Finally Free. She is an Author, Blogger, Motivational Speaker, Humanitarian.

Dr. Rene Minter Featured Author

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AUTHORS

Liz Hoop Contributing Author Liz Hoop is a multi-time best-selling author who loves helping others; especially the elderly and disabled. She serves on the board of directors for the Mental Health Association of South Mississippi, Adopt A Grandparent Day, and Teen Challenge for Women in MS. She selflessly gives of her time in volunteer efforts that help others. Liz is the owner of Loop Cares, LLC.

Pastor Clara Cohee-Russell: Founder & CEO of REACH Women 4 God Ministries, which is now Women Walking In Wisdom. She is a woman after God’s own heart, called and chosen of God to preach the word of God in the highways and biways; reaching out to a dying world sharing what thus says the Lord. She is a prayer warrior, an exhorter, mentor, certified transformational life coach, worshipper, entrepreneur, and three-time published author. She is the coFounder/Administrative Officer of Iron Sharpening Iron Ministries .

Lady Clara Russell Contributing Author

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Coach Brandi Miles Contributing Author Brandi Miles is a world changer – and she wants to bring you along for the ride. A mother of six, love is her superpower. Brandi is a Life Coach for veterans and a believer in the power of playing (which is evident in her signature tie-dyed, well, everything).

She helps veterans go from camo to rainbow. Brandi’s clients learn how to VU life differently and break free from fear that often makes veterans feel stuck after they leave the structured and controlled life they’ve known in the military. She uses her life experiences and education to provide them with support, encouragement, structure, and advice.

“Cage Fight” is Brandi’s first published work where she tells part of her own story of leaving the military and coming to terms with her own feelings of being stuck. She shared more of her experiences and story as a part of the docuseries “Women in Combat,” where she also served as the life coach on set. Brandi was then invited back to be the life coach on set for another production – a reality show called “A Little Love.”

You can reach Brandi for coaching, public appearances, or speaking opportunities in the following ways: Email: VeteransUnleashed1@gmail.com or you can follow her at @VeteransUnleashed on social media.

AUTHORS

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AUTHORS

Karen Curtis-Beck Contributing Author Karen Curtis-Beck is an aspiring writer and talented photographer, born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia.

Karen considers her faith and family to be most important to her. She is married to her college sweetheart, Richard Beck Jr., with whom she has three sons. Karen is the youngest of four siblings.

Growing up, she had a thirst for knowledge, eye for beauty, and a fierce competitive drive. She worked her way through college and graduated with honors with an undergraduate degree in Organizational Communications and a Masters degree in Adult Education – Curriculum and Instructional Design.

Today, Karen works as a corporate communications consultant. She enjoys traveling and maintains an active lifestyle through her various community service projects as a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

Karen is excited to publish her first book as a coauthor of Cage Fight, and plans to continue sharing her life experiences through future publications.

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Cindy Ann Rogers Contributing Author Cindy Ann Rogers is a wife, mother, and grandmother. She enjoys spending time with her family. She is a Registered Respiratory Therapist and Director of Respiratory and Neurology at Houston Healthcare. She has 32 years of experience in healthcare with 21 years in management. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in Biology from Georgia Southwestern and an MBA in Project Management from American Intercontinental.

When not working or writing, she enjoys collecting vintage treasures, going on rides with her husband in their Model A, gardening, and crafting.

Cindy is an optimist and makes it a priority to share positivity in everything she does. Writing has always been on her bucket list and working on this project is like a dream come true.

As the CEO/EVP, Neurobehavior, for OSBI/Synergy Solutions Collab, Mobile, AL, she is a co-active neurobehavior coach and business health communications consultant. Her experience has provided opportunities to coach/consult thousands of individuals/companies around the world to overcome their challenges through their trauma drama, chaos or ‘stuff,’ and to co-actively achieve their dreams.

An international speaker and best-selling author, journalist, and host of REAL TALK community mental wellness programs, she has spent over 50 years learning and sharing with others through education, training, and 1:1 coaching. A life-long community activist who has spent volumes of volunteer hours in advocating for social justice issues, special populations, crime prevention, mental health and business, she has received national and local recognition awards for her service.

Sher Graham Contributing Author

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Kimberly Woodcock Contributing Author At the nucleus of change, lies a shift, in the mind. Ushering others into the powerful world of transformative thinking; is the compassionate professional, Kimberly Woodcock.

Kimberly L. Woodcock is a Youth Counselor, international bestselling author of a Joyful Heart and More Precious than Gems, She Knows Her Worth, Speaker, CEO of Rise and Rejoice LLC that can be contacted at riseandrejoicellc@gmail.com or @riseandrejoicellc on Facebook and Instagram.

Her Mantra is clear: Her mission in life is to learn, grow and teach what she knows (Maya Angelou). No one should ever feel unloved and unworthy. Through Jesus, we are a global family of kings and queens with a bloodline of royalty, hope, love, courage and understanding. We are united in the Body of Christ, leaning on his arms everlasting.

Brenda Young The gift of inspiration is one of the most significant traits of a natural-born leader. Having the courage to live out values of integrity, discipline, and transparency, in the face of a generation, on the verge of malfeasance; is an honored rarity, assumed by few. Leading by example, is the compassionate professional, Brenda Young.

Brenda Young is a number 1 bestselling author, women’s advocate, business generalist, CPR Instructor, registered phlebotomist, registered medical assistant, Correctional Captain, Professional Life Coach, and CEO/Founder of Babs Jewels LLC, a multidimensional retail and women’s support specialty, focused on providing various buyers, with a diverse selection, in jewelry-based products and other inspirational resources.

Contributing Author

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Alfred Wells, Jr. Contributing Author I am an Active-Duty service member with over 29 years of service in the United States Air Force. I have achieved the top 1% rank of Chief Master Sergeant and I am the CEO of A Lion’s Tale®, LLC, co-author of two upcoming anthologies, “My Walk Past Hell Volume II: The Men” and “Cage Fight: Overcoming the Battle in Your Mind”.

The best job and most important duty is that I am a father of three and grandfather to one. After growing up and leaving Hammond, Louisiana for the military shortly after my 18th birthday, I discovered a world I only dreamt of. A small-town boy raised by a strong single parent and here I am traveling the world, skiing, and snowboarding in the Alps, walking the beaches of Italy and Spain, riding my motorcycle on the Autobahn, seeing the wonders of Amsterdam, visiting Dubai, ski diving in Hawaii, etc. I carried bags with me on those journeys…known physical and unknown emotional baggage that accompanied me on those trips.

I am currently working on two book anthologies, “My Walk Past Hell Volume II: The Men” with visionary author Dr. Yolanda Jerry and “Cage Fight – Overcoming the Battle in Your Mind” with visionary author Sheila Farr. These projects have been a mental and physical journey for me as well as a season of growth. The My Walk Past Hell Volume II: The Men is comprised of nine men being genuine, revealing, and transparent. Cage Fight host nineteen authors being vulnerable and sharing their battles.

My contributions to My Walk Past Hell Volume II: The Men is a story of overcoming adversity. My title is “When Your Silence is too Loud, Chose a Different Song.” This chapter was a personal challenge; it forced me to revisit a few things that I thought I had buried. This also further enhanced my understanding and strength of connectivity.

During some of your toughest situations, people show up that genuinely care for you. It is said do not kick a man when he is down. The other portion is to offer him a helping hand. Looking back, I would have thought those around me the most would have noticed changes in my walk…that I was walking through my own hell, but that was not the case.

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AUTHORS

My contributions to Cage Fight Overcoming the Battle in Your Mind is about dealing with a battlefield of thoughts and how they shape our outlook and selfesteem. My title is “Unknown Angels.” I was blessed to be sent three Angels during one of my most difficult seasons. I faced an uphill battle and dealt with some challenging decisions, mental anguish, and a forest of fair-weather acquaintances.

Learning how to win in what I considered a lose/lose internal match was a task I did not think I could win- but after going ten rounds in my head, I stood a different person. Even though the battle continues, when the final bell rang for this match, I noticed I had received God’s Grace before the fight began and had gained a better understanding of who I was and what I could achieve.

Other projects/businesses for me: I am the CEO of A Lion’s Tale ©, LLC, where the mission is to help others see past their scars to overcome and succeed. We not only sell apparel…we sell a mindset!

You can accomplish anything…you may carry life’s battle scars both external and internally, but you are here to tell the tale. You survived and lived to talk about, lived to help others know how to navigate a life’s tricky situations. You have the heart of a Lion - lions are known for courage and strength; a “tale” is a story, we encourage survivors of life’s battles to courageously share their tale or story to help others see they are not alone. Storytelling helps to visualize and connect with a person or situation. Many have Failed. Overcame. Succeeded. ©, and we ask “What’s your story?…” because sharing yours may help another get through theirs.

My contact information is: Email: alionstalellc@gmail.com Website: www.alionstaleapparel.com IG: alions_tale FB: alions_tale

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FEATURED BUSINESS

Blue Lotus Creations Herbal Emporium at Champagne, Art & CBD on Howard

FEATURED BUSINESS

In the heart of Biloxi, Mississippi's historic district

by Sheila Farr

beats a vibrant small business community filled with funky favorites and new, innovative enterprises. Falling into both the "favorites" and the "innovation" categories, we found Blue Lotus Creations and Herbal Emporium.

Blue Lotus Creations Herbal Emporium is a health and wellness brand. Blue Lotus Creations’ products are created to make you feel healthier and more energized.

The products are all-

natural, of high quality, very effective, and most of all: affordable. The Blue Lotus product line includes

an

array

of

wellness

solutions

developed to help people look and feel their best, including a wide range of herbal medicines and

products,

CBD

products,

nutritional

supplements, weight loss products, coffees, tea, essential oils, skincare products, and more, for a lifestyle

of

wellness.

Blue

Lotus

Creations

products are hand-made using essential oils, various butters, and hemp without any fillers, binding

agents,

synthetics,

parabens

or

nonorganic ingredients.

Blue Lotus Creations and Herbal Emporium Owner, Natalie Bonner

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BEST IN BUSINESS

You will also find a host of other carefully curated wellness products at the emporium.

Owner, Natalie Bonner says, "Incorporating our wellness products into your daily routine will contribute to you living a lifestyle that will make you feel happier and healthier."

Champagne, Art & CBD offer Wellness in Many Forms. At Champagne, Art & CBD we retail art, leather goods, premium CBD, non-CBD, as well as a host of other Nutraceuticals to shift your Mind, Body and Spirit into a state of wellness.

We also showcase artworks from local Gulf Coast Artisans, as well as handcrafted leather works and jewelry by our resident artist Sabrina Stallworth of AllbottledUpbybre.

FEATURED BUSINESS

Natalie: Growing up as a young person with the propaganda and dogma related to the “War on Drugs”, and later on in life as an adult discovering the truths about the premise behind the War on Drugs, the range and uses of plant medicines, to include the documented efficacies of the cannabis plant and other herbal plants, I had a light bulb moment, I was un-jacked from the Matrix, and immediately began a journey of learning more and more about the efficacy of plants in treating human and animal ailments. The healing properties of plants (and trees) and their essential oils. As I learned more, I knew I had a responsibility to my community, and myself, to all those within my community who were purposely harmed by the ill-fated unsuccessful War on Drugs, to educate. My community, the black community has been the most disenfranchised and demonized racial group as it relates to the criminalization of cannabis, and it would be remiss of me NOT TO enter the now legalized space to showcase the truth about the plant, it’s wellness capabilities, how it was used to

Best in Business sat down with Natalie to learn more about what drew her to this career field and how an "ah-ha" moment, led her to one of the best decisions in her life...and business!

Here is is what we learned when we sat down with Blue Lotus Creations Herb Emporium's owner, Natalie Bonner: BB: . Why did you decide to start working in your field?

criminalize a group of people, and most importantly to help people understand that wellness truly does come in various forms. It all starts with a seed.

BB: How long have you been in this industry?

Natalie: I entered the industry in August 2017

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BEST IN BUSINESS

FEATURED BUSINESS

BB: What are some of your favorite things about the work you do?

Natalie: Educating people about the efficacies of plant medicine.

Teaching them the basic principles of herbal healing. Seeing the understanding and change of mindset when one accepts and trust that there are various paths to obtain health and wellness outside of their Doctor’s prescription pad. The true gateway drug. Learning more and more about this vast landscape of herbal plant remedies now adds value to my life, and my sharing adds value to the lives of others.

BB: What type of work did you do before this?

Natalie: I served as Senior Vice President of Contracts for a Department of Defense Contractor headquartered in Tampa Florida. I have been in the Government Contracting Profession since 1989. A little over 32 years.

BB: What advice would you give to others considering coming into this career field?

Natalie: Continue to learn, and apply passion and information learned. You must be steadfast. This is not a “get rich quick because cannabis, marijuana, or hemp are being legalized State to State” scheme. It is an expensive endeavor. The market is saturated, but if you believe in the plant, and yourself, stay the course, you will reap the rewards. You must believe and participate in the process. You participate in the process by serving as an advocate, by being an intentional servant in your capacity as an advocate. Never give up, and never stop.

PAGE 30

BB: How can people get in touch with you to learn more about what you do?

Natalie: As the Founder of Blue Lotus Creations, LLC, and CoFounder of Champagne Art & CBD, I may be reached via email at natalieb@mplct.com, via telephone at 770-714-9408.

We are located at 989 Howard Avenue, Downtown Biloxi.

BEST IN BUSINESS

FEATURED BUSINESS

BEST IN BUSINESS

PAGE 31

TALK BACK!

TALK BACK! Last month we asked you about the biggest challenge you've faced as an entrepreneur. Here's what you had to say...

"Money! The lack of starting out and the inability to keep it and run a profitable business." ~ Chad B., Upper Marlboro, MD~

"My biggest challenge is marketing. I really don't understand the difference between marketing and advertising and I'm not sure how much of either I should even be doing. I could really use some help understanding how to budget for marketing and how to understand if it's even helping." ~ Kim B., Denver, CO ~

"For certain, my biggest challenge as an entrepreneur is having to do everything on my own. I'm just getting started, so finding a way to get it all done without being completely frazzled is my struggle." ~ Kelley C., Macon, GA ~

TALK BACK!

LET US HEAR FROM YOU! EMAIL US AT TRAINTHEGULFCOAST@GMAIL.COM TO SHARE THE BEST ADVICE YOUR BUSINESS COACH OR MENTOR EVER GAVE YOU. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

BE SURE TO INCLUDE YOUR NAME, NAME OF YOUR BUSINESS, AND THE CITY/STATE IN WHICH YOU ARE LOCATED AND WE'LL SHARE YOUR COMMENTS IN OUR FEBRUARY ISSUE!

"Finding customers is my biggest challenge!

Any suggestions for someone who is just starting out in a life coaching business?" ~ Kathy S., Adrian, MN ~

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BEST IN BUSINESS

ADVERTISING!

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PAGE 33

FEATURE

Featured Contributor

BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS ESSENTIAL KEY IN CREATING OPEN WORKPLACE DIALOGUE

BY SHER GRAHAM Happy New Year 2022!

Clear and effective business communications is essential for executives, teams, personnel,

What a great topic to discuss for the new year!

managers to become productive employees through the responsibility of their job

Communication is the critical key to creating a calm

performance, and for their happiness, leading to

culture from the chaos of business activities.

the company's financial stability. Without the right processes and tools in place, the flow of

Communication is a behavior that each person and

information is interrupted, with a high potential

organization define differently, based on the

to lead to a culture of a chaotic communication

behaviors of the individuals, teams, personnel, staff

process. For example, this could be anything

involved in this two-way process.

from managerial communication to technical communication with vendors to a minor

Management gurus W.H. Newman and C.F. Summer

misunderstanding between executives and

define communication as "an exchange of facts,

administration. Once communication becomes

opinions, ideas, or emotions between two or more

unclear, a company’s core systems risk falling

persons." It is a two-way process within and outside

apart.

the company environment; an evolving systematic process (verbal, nonverbal, digital) that involves

The communication process does not

speaking, listening, and understanding. The purpose

differentiate by company size, or location, or

of communications is to improve organizational

number of products, or CEO knowledge or

practices and processes to reduce serious

experience or company longevity. As a business

consequences of internal and external business

communications expert with over 50 years using

communications between management, employees,

the OAR business communications health

board of directors, and customers that impact the

methodology (Observation, Assessment,

company's profitability.

Revitalization), I have worked with tens of thousands of clients who have varied CEO

Every type of organized activity in a company relies

management styles, high personnel recruitment

on the process of business communications. Business

and hiring turnover, small or infinite

communication typically includes everything from

products/services, business plans/models (or

making or reading reports, giving instructions,

not!), multiple language users, and profit and

ideating, making suggestions, and even the way you

loss (P&L) statements.

feel about things.

We want to hear from you! Ask BizBuzz a question.

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The commonality of all these companies begins with understanding and implementation of the seven principles of business communications. These seven fundamental concepts are clarity, completeness, conciseness, courtesy, correctness, consideration and

DR. BIZ BUZZ

What is the secret? Empowering you to manage your business and its growth success. My goal is for you to succeed and to become successful in product/services, financial profitability, and set an example of how a successful business becomes sustainable and successful from closing Gap 1: Written

concreteness.

Business Model.

Join us in February and March when Dr. BizBuzz discusses these seven communications principles in more detail, and the positive and negative impact on the

Remember: “Everyone starts a business with passion, but not everyone starts it with enough planning.”

corporate culture of every business!

February Part 2: "Communication Types and Principles"

Always remember: Communications is the critical key to creating a calm culture from the chaos of business activities.

Sher Graham, CEO, Synergy Solutions Collab, Mobile, AL, is a business health communications strategist, coach, consultant, EVP of STUFF, international speaker and author, health advocate, and adventurer. Email her: synergytosoar@gmail.com. www.shergraham.com

Ask Dr. Bizbuzz Reader's Question: "Is it important to have a detailed business plan if you are not looking for any sort of funding or will a simple one-page executive summary suffice?"

Continued on page 35

Chris, D'Iberville, MS

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BEST IN BUSINESS

DR. BIZBUZZ

Dear Chris, Your question is especially important to the success of any business. A written detailed business plan (even if it is one page) is important to business success and sustainability.

These two documents are not the same thing. Your business plan is the guiding management flow of action items that you as the CEO monitor, adapt and evaluate on a consistent schedule over a specific time. The executive summary is a written overview of the main points of a longer report, i.e. business plan, annual report, white paper etc. and part of the business plan.

If your intention is to become a successful entrepreneur, then a business plan is necessary.

As all businesses rely on sales revenue, grant funding, donors, in-kind, etc. types of funding or financial support to maintain a business and sustainability, it is important that you have a CEO mindset to manage your business and not let the business manage you. If you do not know where you are going and how to get there, then your business roadmap will not be focused nor help you see obstacles or successes on your journey. Research has shown that thirty percent of businesses where a business plan is implemented consistently daily shows much greater success over a shorter period. Having it in your mind and 'running on whatever' becomes overwhelming and will not get you to the level of success you dream of without some hurdles you missed in your mind.

Starting to write down the steps you need to take prior to becoming a business entity (LLC, Inc.), is a critical step. Writing an organized and well thought out business plan is the plan of action for how you start, grow, what milestones to achieve and in what timeframe, monitor success, evaluate what you have done and determine what you may need to change on your path to success. What is important is that your business plan meets your needs. Think of your business plan as your BGPS! Good luck on your business venture. One great resource to assist in writing your plan is SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides free and confidential business mentoring services to prospective and established small business owners in the United States. www.score.org.

Dr. BizBuzz January Intention: Practice what you preach or change speech.

You can ask Dr. BizBuzz Send your business questions to us at: bestinbusinesspublishing@gmail.com

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BEST IN BUSINESS

a little good news...

SHARING GOOD NEWS AND EXCITING EVENTS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE!

Calling all entrepreneurs! The Boss Your Lane Conference is scheduled

to begin February 2022, and the speaker call is now open. If you're interested in learning more, visit them at: www.speakatbosssummit.com

Watch for the release of "Cage Fight: Overcoming the Battle in Your Mind," on January 27, 2022. Best In Business Magazine Editor, Sheila Farr, is the visionary author of this project and it's guaranteed to

be one you won't want to miss!

Congratulations to Visionary author, Ashley Robertson, on achieving international best-seller status with her riveting anthology about the power of a positive mindset! Congratulations to the writing team of "Mindshift Achievers."

Congratulations to author and publisher, Allison G. Daniels, on the upcoming release of "Empowered to Win, 3rd Edition! We'll be looking for her new book at the end of January!

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BEST IN BUSINESS

NONPROFIT NEWS

EXCLUSIVE: NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

BILOXI READS!: A PUSH TO ENCOURAGE OTHERS TO READ LEADS TO NEW MISSION FOR FOUNDER

What started as a love of books and reading will soon be a new non-profit for Biloxi resident, Sheila Farr.

Biloxi Reads! started as a simple literacy initiative to help keep children reading through the summer of 2019, but it quickly morphed into a full-fledged literacy initiative.

During the summer of 2019, Sheila was having a conversation with a local teacher about how some students really struggle with reading through the summer because they don't have access to the libraries or good quality books to read. Farr, who has been a volunteer literacy coach for more than 20 years, was bothered by this. She reached out to a local bookstore owner and asked if they would allow her to purchase a gift card each month to give away to children for books. Much to her surprise, the bookstore (Southern Bound Bookshop) donated half the books and allowed her to purchase a gift card for the other half. With a new partner, Farr, who owns Gulf Coast Training & Education Services, LLC, would have children post about their favorite books or the types of books they like to read, and at the end of each week, she would draw a winner from the submissions made to their Facebook page. They had so much fun with the contest for the children, that in later months they extended the program to include senior citizens, and then to Veterans. Soon, individuals started donating books to the initiative, so even more people were able to receive free books.

"Because the program has grown, I just decided it might be time to do something a little more formal with it. I've been teaching low-level readers for a very long time, and it's something I absolutely adore. I just kept feeling like this might be the year we stretch out and do a little more with the programs," Farr said.

Soon, Biloxi Reads! will be an official nonprofit and will be able to serve even more people along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The organization is dedicated to inspiring people to love books and to love reading.

Farr hopes to help as many people as she can gain the literacy skills necessary to become life-long readers. :

Our mission is to prepare children, low-level readers, seniors, and Veterans to become readers by reading aloud to them, providing high-quality books, and offering literacyrelated experiences. The vision of Biloxi Reads! is to help all children, seniors and Veterans, regardless of socio-economic status, build strong literacy skills and gain an appreciation for and a life-long love of - books and reading.

To learn more about the Biloxi Reads! initiative, visit their page on the website of Gulf Coast Training & Education Services, LLC at www.gulfcoasttraining.org .

SUGGESTED READING

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PAGE 38

Bookworms FOR

MORE

GOOD

COACHING

READING

AND

SUGGEST

ABOUT

THE

COMMUNICATION, THESE

BEST

IN

WE

BOOKS!

THE HEART OF LASER-FOCUSED COACHING

Author Marion Franklin shares unprecedented concepts that will help new coaches and even the most experienced coaches gain new insights and ideas, including a deeper understanding of what they already know.

EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION AT WORK

In the digital age, as workers increasingly go remote, the ability to communicate clearly and effectively is―now more than ever―a highly desirable skill. Whether you talk, text, or email, Effective Communication at Work has everything you need to help boost your workplace performance and productivity

IT BEGINS WITH PLEASE

WHATEVER HAPPENED TO "PLEASE" AND "THANK YOU"? We live in a world where respect, gratitude, and appreciation have been replaced by efficiency, dismissiveness, and even fear of genuine connection. Sometimes, we don't stare up from our screens and devices long enough to realize there is even another person on the other side of the tweet or email. "Is anybody out there?" One thing is for sure: this speed of life has taken a toll on our basic use of good manners and etiquette. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the decline of professional business communications.

A LION’S TALE©

WHAT IS YOUR STORY…

We connect with others through shared experiences. Sharing relatable stories is how we have passed down lessons from generation to generation. It is also how we can help another get through a difficult season. Sharing your story may assist others to share theirs.

THE BRAND

The Lion represents strength, leadership, and courage. The scratches over the eye are the battle scars of life - see past your battles and remain mindful of life lessons and experiences. The Lion looking forward with roaring showing his teeth signifies, “I am ready, focused, and prepared to face the next challenge." Lastly, the slanted Crown, is a reminder to adjust your Crown and mindset accordingly and it also serves as a reminder that...I AM ROYALTY!

There is a story behind every King and Queen, we have all overcome some type of adversity, some more than others. It is a story of how we "Failed. Overcame. Succeeded. ©” We have failed or been knocked down, but we rise and stand as KINGS and QUEENS!

FAILED.OVERCAME.SUCCEEDED.©

Everyone has a story...the evidence of battles is displayed by visible and invisible scars while others are displayed with a Crown of victory, but both are reminders of how we "Failed. Overcame.

Succeeded. ©”

What’s your story…, visit us at www.alionstaleapparel.com

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BEST IN BUSINESS

Visit us at www.thankfulandblessed365.com

ADVERTISING

PAGE 43

BEST IN BUSINESS

ADVERTISING

Coming in february: developing new managers and leaders!

All year long we will be featuring coaches in our magazine because we've learned it is a career field that is growing exponentially. In February, we'll be highlight Coach Brandi Miles of "Veterans Unleashed." A coach who focuses specifically on the needs of those who have served, Brandi will share with us how she helps others, "VU Life Differently!"

Next month, we'll also be talking about becoming a new manager! We'll focus on leadership styles, communication styles, and share some of our favorite resources for new leaders.

Also coming in February is our monthly, "Book Bites" segment. We'll be meeting new and upcoming authors and discussing books, projects, and other good things that are happening for them and their businesses.

Finally, we'll hear much more from: "Ask Dr. BizBuzz! One of our favorite business gurus, the incomparable Sher Graham, will be entertaining your business questions and providing answers that can help you confidently navigate the rockiest waters in business.

gulf coast training & education services, LLC

next month: developing new managers and leaders

gulf coast training & education services, LLC