November 2021 Issue by Where It Begins

TIPS ON

BEAUTY & PRODUCTS

TURNING YOUR

PASSION INTO

ACTION

CONTENTS NOVEMBER 2021 Arianna Rosado aka Ladi Rosa 04 Scotty Berg 06 Nailah Queen 08 Hailey Ralston 10 Kymia Collins 12 Diamond Drayton 14 Nana Otu (Coco Nyle Skin) 16 Stacey L 20 Rick Rhodes 23 TC Currie (Takes the Easy Path) 26 Kathy Ashby 32 Katherine Ladny Mitchell 35 Tiph’Arah 38 ByValentine Skincare 40 Luna Skins 42 Regina Sunshine Robinson 44 Judy Glenney 46 Tina Muir 49

06 20 10

40 23 26 Founder – Cece Hymes

42 W.I.B (Where It Begins) is an Independent agency with the aim to always be innovated in each approach taken to projects and making sure excellence is given in a projects execution when it comes to media marketing, branding, networking and management.

32 44 46

Founded by the well experienced and ever growing force; D.C native - Cece Hymes, the most important and integral aspect of W.I.B is that branding for both Creatives and Businesses is taken to the next level with each and every project undertaken. We’ve continued to represent a very diverse and well acclaimed roster of emerging talents in the entertainment, and businesses!

With a determined persistence for continued excellence, our Founder – Cece Hymes, with a college Degree in Business Management, has also worked within radio and with many companies such as: RDE Entertainment, H.I.G.H Entertainment and Caribbean Gospel Records Ltd.,

WIB Magazine

Arianna Rosado aka Ladi Rosa

Photo by: Cris Wolfe

"What is written to be mine, is already mine."

and that knowing that your partner is connected with you mentally, physically, and emotionally is the key to a healthy relationship. Q. Where do you see yourself in the next five years? A. In 5 years, I would like to see myself with a Grammy under my belt, and just being happy with how hard work has paid off for me. Q. If you could perform anywhere in the world where would it be? A. I would love to perform in Puerto Rico because that is where all my family is from, and I would just like to be able to perform for them and others on the island. A. “I ain’t No Taylor Swift” really just means that you don’t have to be in someone’s shadow but just being yourself is amazing in itself. It also means that being you does not mean you don’t belong somewhere or with a group of people; you’ll find your time when it comes. Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. Hi, my name is Arianna Rosado and I am 17 years old. I am a singer/songwriter. Q. What made you want to pursue your career in the music industry? A. What made me want to pursue something with music was knowing how great it is to connect with different people through my songs and being able to help someone feel as if they are understood with their problems. Q. Tell us about your single “I Aint No Taylor Swift” and the motivation behind the song?

Q. Are you working on any new events or upcoming projects? A. I am currently working on releasing an EP soon for my listeners. I am really excited for this drop! Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. You all can find me on my social media like Instagram: iamladirosa, Facebook: iamladirosa, any music app is Laid Rosa.

Q. Who are some music artists you would love to collaborate with? A. Some music artists I would love to collaborate with in the future would have to be Giveon, Jhene Aiko, Lil Skies, and Jack Harlow. Q. What is your favorite genre in music and your favorite music artist? A. I really enjoy all kinds of music, but my favorite would have to be R&B and rap. My favorite artist would have to be Jack Harlow. Q. Tell us about your new single “Personal Space”? A. ‘Personal Space’ really just means that showing attention to your partner is not a bad thing

WIB Magazine

"I have won several awards for singing but I think being nominated for a City of Kelowna award for excellence in the arts was pretty cool."

Scotty Berg

and he is pretty amazing. Opening for him would be pretty awesome. Q. How do you feel that TikTok has influenced your life? A. It has helped me find some new fans as well as some new music to try out! Honestly, I just joined in December, and I never expected some of my posts to blow up and go viral. Most of the comments I get are really positive but there are always haters out there, so it teaches me to just ignore them and keep being myself. Q. What is your most memorable achievement or accomplishment you’ve received? A. I have won several awards for singing but I think being nominated for a City of Kelowna award for excellence in the arts was pretty cool. It just helped me realize I get lots of support in the city where I live. Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. Thanks so much for having me! I am a 14-year-old singer/ songwriter from Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada. For the past several years I have performed at lots of different venues around my city and have recorded a few original songs. Besides singing, I play lots of sports and hang out with friends and family. Q. What kind of singer would you classify yourself as? A. I would say generally in the pop genre but lately I have been learning some country songs as well. There is a nice mix of some “pop country” type songs out there that I am really liking. Q. Tell us about your single “Friends” and the motivation behind the song?

A. Thanks so much for asking. The song was written in Nashville with some amazing songwriters and producer. It’s a great tune about having fun and hanging out with friends…basically just being a kid! After all of the lockdown stuff that’s been going on it’s really just a super fun upbeat song.

Q. If you could go anywhere in the world where would you go? A. Rome, Italy. I LOVE to cook, and pasta is one of my favorite foods so learning how to cook in Italy would be amazing.

Q. What is your creative process like? A. Usually, I just start writing stuff down that I am thinking about then try and put them into songs. For cover songs, I just go through billboard charts and stuff and listen to songs that I like and try them out!

Q. Are you working on any new events or upcoming projects? A. Yes! I am managed by Circle11 Entertainment and was down in Nashville with them writing and recording some songs with some pretty amazing people in the industry. I am set to release a song soon that is about living life to your fullest every single day. So excited!

Q. If you could go open a show for any artists who would it be? A. Has to be Justin Bieber. He is also Canadian and an unreal artist. I have seen him in concert,

Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. Instagram: @scotty_berg TikTok: @scotty_berg2 Facebook: Scott Berg website: www.scottyberg.ca.

WIB Magazine

Nailah Queen Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell us who you are and what you do? A. I’m Nailah Queen, serial entrepreneur and CEO of several businesses; Royalty Escapes Travel Agency, Realeza Styles, Royal Enterprises, LLC, and the NEWLY LAUNCHED Regally Insane Hair and Body Health Line™️. Q. What made you start your company “Regally Insane”? A. Regally Insane is a health and beauty company that was started from my dining room table in 2020. I was experiencing hair loss from the stress of the pandemic and started researching natural remedies with oils. I came across

WIB Magazine

so much information and decided to create a blend of 11 oils, bottled it and started to use it. Guess what...It worked!! After showcasing my hair growth, the oil and its benefits, I had many people wanting to buy it, so I gifted several bottles that I created by hand. I then decided that it was time. I wanted to put this product out to the masses, along with other health supplements that are geared towards overall body health for “people-on-the-go”. It was then that Regally Insane Health and Beauty line was birthed.

Q. Let’s talk about your product “Grow Like Crazy Hair Growth Oil”? A. My “Grow Like Crazy Hair

Growth Oil” is a blend of 11 natural oils infused with botanicals that promotes healthy, strong, growing hair. It also smells wonderful!

Q. What makes your products different from others? A. It was created by ME for those who are suffering from the same hair loss symptoms as I was, with a focus on natural hair. I use it myself and by publicly documenting my progress is how it helped solidify the effectiveness of my products. I’m a walking billboard for my hair products. I also can say the same in regards to the body health line as both my husband and myself use the products daily. Bottom line....they actually work!

Q. Where do you see yourself in the next five years? A. I see myself expanding to more regional beauty supply stores and large chain merchants across the country. I also plan to expand the body health line to offer classes (in person and virtual) to bring awareness and overall body health practices to consumers, so I am working on a storefront that doubles as event space. Q. Can you tell us more about the other products you have? A. We have a beard line for men that focuses on healthy beard growth, hydrating the skin underneath the beard, manageability and luster. We have beard balm and beard oils for that in a variety of attractive scents. The body health line was created with a focus on health issues we face particularly in the African American community. We

have products that help lower blood pressure, blood sugar, aide in weight loss, help with inflammation, build your immunity, increase energy and more. It was created for “people on the go” like travelers and those essential employees on the front line. Q. Do you have any specials right now? A. Yes, we currently have a Buy 2 Get 1 Free special. Use code B2GO Q. Are there any new projects or upcoming events?

"We currently have a Buy 2 Get 1 Free special. Use code B2GO."

A. We have many pop-up events scheduled over the next few months and have a new bath salt currently in the making. Q. What advice can you give to other women that are suffering hair loss? A. You are NOT alone! There are options out here to help with this. Your hair doesn’t define you, but your daily actions do. Be the best version of yourself you can be within your control and utilize products created to help in the other areas for the rest. My hair product line was designed just for “US” because i too suffered from hair loss, so know Regally Insane is here to help you. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. You can follow me on Facebook: RegallyInsane Instagram: RegallyInsane Pinterest: Regallyinsane Online at www.regallyinsane.com

WIB Magazine

"I love Grey's Anatomy and The Vampire Diaries."

Hailey Ralston

I just wrote what came to mind. I had to bring in a co-writer and editor to help me out after the first draft. But it was a super fun and unique process! As for being a leading actor in the film, it was easy and hard at the same time. It was definitely an emotionally challenging role for me. Therefore, I needed an on-set coach to help me. I am used to acting but doing that and having to worry about everything else was a little stressful but very much worth it! I can’t wait to share the final product on Amazon Prime Video on August 13th! Q. Where do you see yourself in the next five years? A. In five years, I see myself graduating from a college in California and beginning to become a full-time actress in LA. Q. If you could meet any celebrity who would it be? A. Millie Bobby Brown because she is super sweet, and I would love to receive some acting tips from her. Q. What is your favorite movie or tv show? A. I love Grey’s Anatomy and The Vampire Diaries.

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. Thank you for having me! My name is Hailey Nicole Ralston. I am a 17-year-old tv and film actress and filmmaker. Q. Tell us your experience being in the film “The Creature”? A. Of course! Working on “The Creature” was an amazing experience. I star in the film alongside young actress Riley Madison Fuller. I am also the writer, director, and editor. Writing “The Creature” was a fairly quick and easy process. Everything just flowed out of my brain and went straight into the script. I had no previous “idea” or “plot”, or anything planned out.

Q. Tell us your favorite person you follow on TikTok? A. My favorite person to follow on TikTok is Eliana Ghen because she is an amazing actress and I love studying her acting methods. Q. Tell us what crazy food you love combining? A. I love carrots and mustard together! Q. Are you working on any new events or upcoming projects? A. I am working on a few short films at the moment! Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. Instagram: @officialhaileynicole TikTok: @haileyactor

WIB Magazine

"If I could describe my future in 3 words it would be progressive, unlimited and international!"

Kymia Collins

I was terrified. I felt as though I wasn’t good enough, I lacked talent, and I wasn’t “pretty” enough for a pageant. The negativity was soon outweighed by the positive as I began to gain confidence and became the best version of myself, all due to the pageant. Q. How did you get into graphic designs? A. Growing up, I was always interested in computers and the way that a simple computer could develop anything from a painting to an application that can keep track of your sleep. My passion for graphic design developed as a way to channel my creativity and create art that could be enjoyed by others. Starting my own graphic design business just made sense!

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. Greetings! My name is Kymia Jacquelyn Collins and I am Contestant Green! I am currently attending the historic North Carolina Central University, majoring in Mass Communications with a concentration in Journalism. While also being a full time student, I am also the owner of my own Graphic Design business, “Graphics by KJ”! Q. How did you feel to be Miss HBCU Teen Contestant? A. Simply put, it felt surreal. I often look back and reflect on how I was when I began, and how much personal development was gained from the pageant in the end. To say I was nervous was an understatement,

Q. Let’s talk about the college you are attending and what you are majoring in? A. I am currently a freshman at the historic North Carolina State University, majoring in Mass Communications with a concentration in journalism. Q. Who do you look up to for inspiration or mentorship? A. I am constantly inspired by @TGtheMogul, her dedication, tenacity, and creativity is something that can leave any person in awe. She gives me the motivation to continue my graphic design business through college and to take it as far as I can! Other honorable mentions include both the late Maya Angelou and Alice Walker, both women have dedicated their lives to establishing eminent change within the black community and beyond. Meeting Alice Walker was an unforgettable experience that often makes me sit back and think of all the amazing accomplishments that can be made with dedication and hard work. Q. Tell us some goals you are working on accomplishing? A. Currently, I am working on several short-term goals such as graduating, expanding my graphic

business, travelling, and getting involved in my community. Some long-term goals that I am working on accomplishing are becoming an international journalist, documenting and travelling too different parts of the world, and constantly working on myself! Q. What advice would you give to the next generation of teen leaders? A. If I could give any advice to the next generation of teen leaders it would be to invest in yourself and network, network, network. Allow yourself to make connections with those in your community, and establish a foundation to build from. Doing these things will result in the fundamentals for your own personal success. Q. Are you working on any projects? A. At the moment, I’m not working on any projects. As I begin establishing a name for myself in my new community in North Carolina, I do want to host community based events that would allow the community to connect and mingle! Q. How would you describe your future in 3 words? A. If I could describe my future in 3 words it would be progressive, unlimited, and international! Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. To all the readers, you can follow me @graphics_bykj on Instagram or visit my website graphicsbykj.org.

WIB Magazine

"I motivate myself because I know exactly what I want in life and I'm not going to stop until I get it."

Diamond Drayton

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. Hello everyone! My name is Diamond Drayton and I am an animal science major at the illustrious Tuskegee University. So far, I’ve been trying to get my name out there to the campus, but it’s not easy when you’re a person who loves having alone time. But I’ve managed to become a part of the Tuskegee University Golden Voices Choir. Q. How did you feel to be Miss HBCU Teen Contestant? A. At first, I felt good. I had many hardships with daily life in general and sometimes I just couldn’t come to practice because of certain life events. But after the fact, I’m going to be honest with myself and everyone else. I was highly upset for like two weeks after the pageant because I felt embarrassed and felt like I didn’t deserve that placement in the pageant. But, I’m fine now. It is what it is. I don’t need a placement to tell me what I am and what I’m not. I’ve met people on campus who recognize me from the pageant such as Ms. Tuskegee University, and I know that bigger things are coming my way and there’s no doubt about that. I had fun meeting the other contestants and having practice with them. And I know what I do is amazing and that’s that. Q. What made you want to major in pre-veterinary medicine? A. I wanted to major in pre-vet because I loved animals more than humans. I want to speak up for those who don’t have a voice. And I know that animal endangerment, animal poaching, and animal abuse in general is still a problem today and I want to do everything that I can to fix it. Q. What made you pick the school Tuskegee University? A. I chose Tuskegee University because they’re the only HBCU in

the nation that produces great veterinarians and I know this school will give me many more opportunities to help me move closer towards my dream career of becoming a veterinarian. Q. How do you define your purpose in life? A. This is a hard question for me because I’m not sure what my purpose is yet. But I will say one thing, I know that I’m an inspiration to young girls who challenge anxiety and depression daily. Even though I don’t know my purpose now, I will know later on. Q. What motivates you to do your best? A. I motivate myself because I know exactly what I want in life and I’m not going to stop until I get it. Sometimes I think my motivation wants me to go above and beyond, so I just follow my motivation and see where it takes me. Q. As a teen leader what advice can you give to others? A. Well, I don’t necessarily think of myself as a leader. I think leaders should work together as equals and put their brilliant ideas together and create something for the greater good. But a piece of advice I will give to others is to stay true to yourself. Live in your truth. Be the odd one out of the bunch no matter how much it may weird people out around you. But never lose sight of your goal and don’t sit around and wait for it to happen. Remember, success is never handed to you. It is earned! Q. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? A. I would die to be by myself on a nice island resort without a care

in the world. Some people don’t understand the art of being alone. When I’m alone, that’s when my greatest ideas come to fruition. Q. Are you working on any projects? A. As of right now, I have too many ideas in my head that I can’t really put all of them in action yet because of school. But I definitely plan on building a project that helps the students of Tuskegee University. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. It was great having this interview and giving you guys’ insight on what life is like for me after the pageant! Make sure you guys follow me on Instagram @thelovely.dee.

WIB Magazine

"I think what makes me passionate about helping people look beautiful is reminding them that their flaws still make them beautiful."

Nana Otu (Coco Nyle Skin)

Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. My Name is Nana Otu and I’m the CEO and founder of Coco Nyle Skin. It’s a Natural skincare brand based in Canada. Q. What made you want to pursue a career in Beauty products? A. Beauty has always been a part of my life as long as I can remember. I think what really pushed me to pursue a career in beauty was my love for skincare and empowering women to love themselves. The beauty industry can push a lot of perfection. I wanted to encourage women that they didn’t have to be perfect to feel beautiful. Q. Let’s talk about “Coco Nyle Skin” and how it got started? A. I grew up struggling with acne, there were many days where I would refuse to leave the house because of how bad my skin was breaking out. It took a huge toll on my self-confidence. This frustrating journey and desire for clear skin led me to do extensive research and discover the benefits of natural skincare. I started doing a lot of natural skincare DIY at home to figure out what worked for my skin. The results were amazing. Eventually friends and family were encouraging me to start my own skincare line to help others which

birthed Coco Nyle Skin. My skin is not perfect, but it has gotten better with consistency and understanding and having the knowledge of what I am putting on my face. I want people who have gone through the same experience to know that there’s room for them in society. You don’t have to perfect skin to start our flaws and tell our story regardless of the beauty standard. Q. Tell us about some of your best products and what it is used for? A. My two best sellers are the “In the mist if its toner”, it’s a gentle toner that helps repair the skin and tighten the pores and the “I’m just hue-man” serum which is a moisturizing serum. This serum helps with hyperpigmentation and brightens the skin. Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? A. I see big things for Coco Nyle Skin. Black business needs to dominate the marketplace so one of my goals is to make it to major retails stores such as Walmart, Target, and Sephora. I would also love to be hosting skincare workshops to educate people on the basic things about skincare that isn’t always talked about. Education is so essential; many people don’t know where to start because of the lack of knowledge so I would love to be another side my business offers. Q. What keeps you passionate about helping people look beautiful? A. I think what makes me passionate about helping people look beautiful is reminding them that their flaws still make them beautiful. Our main motto at Coco Nyle Skin is “imperfect is still beautiful”. I believe that our imperfections tell our story and if we can embrace them confidently, they will find beauty in ourselves and who God created us to be.

Q. Can you give us some tips on skin care for dry skin? A. Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize! Especially while the season changes make sure that you find a good moisturizer that works for your skin and use it every day along with sunscreen. Your skin will thank you! Q. Are you running any specials for the upcoming holidays? A. Yes! we absolutely will, we will have a few gift sets so look out for them on our social media & website. Q. Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events? A. Currently No, we are really trying to focus on building the business, however, that can definitely change in the near future. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. You can follow us on our website www.coconyleskin.com & our Instagram @coconyleskin.

WIB Magazine

BOSS Lady "Everyone can be a BOSS but it takes a true leader to build an empire."

Lady TL

Stacy L

Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do. A. Thank you for the opportunity to talk about my brand and businesses. I am Stacey L, the creator behind the Boss Lady brand. I am a graphic designer and the owner of Awesome Flyers LLC. Here at Awesome Flyers, we support our clients by assisting and creating their branding and marketing campaigns, promotional and printing services, and a large range of other business support services to long to list in this formal response. I am also one of the owners of Total Xposure TV that is our primary platform for all advertising that involves videography and commercial advertisement of all Boss Lady inventory and products. Outside of the internal parent and child company interactions we also utilize this platform to show off other artists and company brands and business ideas. Q. What made you want to be an entrepreneur? A. As a child I always knew I wanted to lead, manage, organize, and inspire through a hot and exciting corporation managed by me and my family. I guess you can say that entrepreneurship runs in the family. It started with my father owning multiple businesses and I just followed in his footsteps. In

middle school, I started braiding hair, doing nails, graphic designs, charging business friends of my father and close friends who attempted to brand themselves as actors or models. I loved the feeling of making my own money. What has been proven about creating a plan for individual earnings to gain wealth and make millions you must become a business owner. It’s either you helping another business make millions or you are the business that hires people to make you millions and I choose the latter. Q. Let’s talk about “Boss Lady” and the motivation behind the brand? A. Boss Lady is my baby. Boss Lady came about from the reality show I created called “The Making of a Boss Lady”. My goal was to create a show that would promote women and their businesses and brands all over the world. I want the show to show a day in the life of a Boss Lady. On the show we spend an entire day with a business owner showing all the effort it takes working in the business, building that empire, juggling family, community, friends, and everyday tasks. When I created the plan for this show I intentionally set out to inspire and uplift people that don’t know if they are able to build and cultivate a business idea while raising a family. Shining the spotlight on Boss Ladies around the World doing their thing to create their own robust network of businesses and thriving in executing all the things it takes to be an entrepreneur completely defines the show. The Making of Boss Lady will be coming to our YouTube Channel soon. When someone purchases Boss Lady Products a portion of the products go to the production of The Making of a Boss Lady. I love to see others achieve success and I want to share other stories with the world.

Q. Where do you see your brand in the next 5 years? A. In the next 5 years I see Boss Lady with its own store and in major department stores/malls across the country. I also see The Making of a Boss Lady on the big screen as a movie. Q. Are you offering any specials for the holidays? A. Yes, so for the holidays I am going to have a discount on our Boss Lady T-Shirt. You must purchase it from our online store to receive the discount. www.awesomeflyers.com Q. What has been the biggest challenge you’ve had being an entrepreneur? A. As an Entrepreneur, I have faced several challenges. I will outline my top three: 1. Financial Issues. This is one of the main challenges that I have faced. Getting my business funded. Businesses that have been operating for a few years have the advantages of a history of good credit and years of networking under their belt, making it much easier for them to find investors and secure loans and contracts. Since my company is new, I have trouble securing financial funding that would help excel my company forward.

WIB Magazine

2. Finding Customers! Being a smaller company, it’s hard to attract customers. My marketing budget restrains my reach to certain audiences. Also, the companies I naturally compete with in my arena always creates tension with my product line. I am learning that people tend to stick with well- known brands and companies. The biggest asset I have is my creativity and since I am 100% the best graphic designer in the United States, I have a strong network of repeat customers. 3. Self-Doubt. An entrepreneur’s life is not attractive, at least in the beginning. It’s extremely easy to get discouraged when something goes wrong or when you’re not growing as fast as you’d like. Self-doubt creeps in, and you may feel like giving up. Don’t give up and keep pushing. Q. Tell us what makes your business so unique? A. Again, it’s the creativity you get from my graphic design skills. The ability to build something from a client’s vision is a special skill. I am the best when it comes to recreating and putting the vision into a marketing powerhouse.

Q. What advice would you give to someone who is trying to become an entrepreneur? A. I want to let that person know that you are unique and there is not another person that is YOU so whatever business you start or pursue it will bring your uniqueness to the front stage to shine and take the show. One thing that I do to motivate myself is read biographies on the most successful companies and people that you admire that operate within your same business set. Also don’t be afraid to change direction, it’s okay to start over or go in another direction if plan A doesn’t work.

Q. Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events? A. Yes, our Boss Lady brand always will have new projects starting or in flight. Right now, Total Xposure TV has a weekly show called Boss Lady’s Friday. On Fridays we do a giveaway and interview a Boss Lady on the show. To enter the giveaway, you must be a part of the Boss Lady CEO group on Facebook. You can find the group by searching Boss Lady CEO on Facebook to join. In this group we also promote other women entrepreneurs. Our goal is to encourage, inspire and uplift in this group. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. You can follow me and my businesses ventures on: FB Group : Boss Lady CEO's FB: themakingofabosslady IG: themakingofabosslady Website to purchase Boss Lady Products: www.awesomeflyers.com

WIB Magazine

Rick Rhodes

’’The Awakening of the Fire Within and is a testament to not only myself but everyone involved’’ Meet The Designer Rick Rhodes and Find Out Why The Phoenix is Rising in Ft. Myers.

Q. Who is Rick Rhodes? A. I am full of inspiration, ambition, and purpose. I grew up in Fort Myers, Florida, and in various other cities throughout the northeast. As a youth, I was never attracted to colorful or loud clothing. Instead, I loved garments that were sleek and unassuming. It wasn’t until I was incarcerated at the age of 22 and served over 15 years in prison for attempted murder, dealing in marijuana, and possessing a firearm that I set out to establish what I believed was a true representation of fashion for myself. I maximized my time

WIB Magazine

in prison and earned a BS in Organization Management from Grace College along with several associate degrees and certifications. The young man behind those walls fought each day to become the man you see now—a man filled with purpose and unwavering ambition. My goal is to encourage, inspire, and motivate. This is Rick Rhodes, a man who is more than a brand but a lifestyle. Q. What about the fashion industry inspires you? A. The level of creativity that can be shown through fashion is astonishing. Fashion allows me to

be expressive in so many ways, but it also gives me the opportunity to curtail my designs to every body type. Women have so many different body types and are often misrepresented in the industry. I want the women who wear my designs to feel beautiful regardless of their size and shape. This is why you’ll see a broad spectrum of cultures, shapes, height, and sizes throughout my upcoming show. Fashion inspires me because it’s a representation of being able to create with underrepresented models to truly reveal who we are in this country. Q. What keeps you motivated? A. I’m motivated when I know that I’m creating a garment for someone who will feel beautiful wearing it. While most people spend their hardearned money on clothing only to be disappointed, I strive for something entirely different. My goal is to satisfy the emotional state of individuals and reaffirm their confidence in their purchase. It sounds hilarious to say but it’s true—out with the pinning of the side, the pulling of the other side, and in with exactly what the client wants.

Q. What is the art of fashion? A. The art of fashion isn’t one-dimensional. It revolves around innovation and who you see and feel your client is and will become. Fashion, in my creative perspective, evolves around my interpretation, beliefs, and experiences. I want my customer to be with me for their entire lives from a high school kid wearing my logo label match t-shirts or a Polo button logo color match dress shirt to a professional entering the workforce, a student entering college, or an entrepreneur starting a business. I want my artistry to take that journey with them. Starting from a $20, $30, or $40 item and extending to a $3,000 or $5,000 custom-made dress or suit. This is artistry in its truest form and that includes the evolution of fashion throughout life’s trials and successes. Tell us more about your upcoming launch in Fort Myers. On Friday, November 19, 2021, I will unveil my artistry, passions, and vision with the launch of the women’s high fashion line at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in Fort Myers. The event is monumental because it’s the first African American-owned company to singlehandedly debut at the center. The theme is Phoenix Rising: The Awakening of the Fire Within and is a testament to not only myself but everyone involved. The evening will include red carpet walks, lights, a Hollywood spectacle, several performances, champagne, and hors d’ouevres. You’ll enjoy the beautiful Star of Daughters of Legends & One Night in Miami Kimberly Brown on the runway. Other special guests include Congressman Byron Donalds and his Senior Advisor Larry Wilcoxson, Mayor Kevin Anderson, the City of Fort Myers branches, Joe and Benita

North of The North Law Firm, Rich Castiano of the world-famous Cigar Lounge, Oron Harris of Cons to Dons, Janelle Harris of SheExist, Bullheaded PR and Artist Management, and many others. VIP and General Admission tickets are available on Eventbrite.com and rickrhodesfashions.com. Q. Do you have any final thoughts to share with us? A. This testament of my artistry is a result of walking in my purpose and letting my gifts be a testament to others. Please keep me lifted in your thoughts, prayers, and

meditations. This is a journey that isn’t made on my own but is an ambitious push. I refuse to let my past be an anchor and choose to let it propel me toward greatness. Join me to see how it all unfolds on November 19th and tune in as we release our YouTube documentary series, news, and interviews from the Phoenix models. Share your support on social media (Instagram and Facebook: rickrhodesfashion), purchase our exclusive designs and new arrivals at rickrhodesfashions.com, and learn more about modeling opportunities with the RickRhodes Talent Agency. I would like to thank my PR Eboni Hollaway and my entire Production Team Jonathan Pareala (JP Creativo) & Maiquel Madraza(photographybymaiquel), and others. A Special thanks to each of the Models Involved, and numerous other staff, and Jozsef Kali with our web design. To purchase tickets to the RickRhodes Fashion Show https://www. eventbrite.com/e/rickrhodesfashion-the-phoenix-rising-theawakening-of-the-fire-withintickets-168827600899

WIB Magazine

"In this crazy world we live in, my foremost concern for those working on transforming into the best versions of themselves is safety."

TC Currie

( Takes the Easy Path )

Bio: TC Currie leads a delightfully eclectic life as a writer, speaker, poet, transformational leader, body positivity activist, and occasional lingerie model. Her upcoming book, Take the Easy Path: 10 #GroundingGuidelines for a Better You, explores how you can create lasting change with self-love. She can be found at www.tccurrie.com

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone who you are and what you do. A. I am a Transformation Leader, lighting the path for others on their own journeys to becoming their authentic selves. My personal essays have been included in two Chicken Soup for the Soul books: The Power of Gratitude and Be You: 101 Stories of Affirmation, Determination, and Female Empowerment (newly published in 2021), and these essays have also won the Solas Travel award. In the last few years, I started my transformational poetry workshops, which are about being on the path to becoming your authentic self, in your writing. My newest book and workshop series, Take the Easy Path: 10 #GroundingGuidelines for a Better You, is a conversation about the life-changing lessons learned on my own journey to health while dumping diet culture along the way. Remember, “If you’re not having fun, you’re not doing it right!”

Q. How was your experience being in the “Be You” book? A. It was an honor and a delight. Chicken Soup for the Soul press publishes twelve books a year and so the process is very streamlined. All of the people I dealt with were kind and helpful. On the author call a week before the book launch, they said they had over 12,000 submissions for the book. They quickly whittled it down to 1,200 (most of the essays were not up to professional standards), and then haggled amongst themselves to get it down to the final 100 essays that would be included in the book. Even though the essay I submitted was run through a writer’s group for feedback and then professionally edited before I submitted it, they still made some edits and sent it back to me for approval. They also provide a lot of support in terms of suggesting how to leverage the book launch among our own social media followings, so more people can find out about these important stories. Q. What are 5 ways to leverage the power of gratitude? A. My relationship with gratitude started back in 2008, after my husband passed and the economy crashed. I’d lost my home, then the storage rooms with the vast majority of my possessions. I wrote about the journey in my essay, “The Gratefuls,” published in Chicken Soup for the Soul’s The Power of Gratitude (published in 2016). For me, gratitude is a practice, something I do in the midst of everyday life. From my upcoming book in 2022, The Grateful Game, here are 5 ways to leverage its awesome power: 1. Start Small. When I first started my daily practice of listing 10 things to be grateful for, I was unemployed and living in an unheated cabin on someone else’s property. I didn’t think there was much to be

grateful for, but I realized that I was grateful for my sight. For the ability to walk through the trees. For the trees themselves and so on. Since then, whenever life has thrown more stuff at me than I thought I could handle, I’d go back to basics. I’m super happy that I have my sight. I’m grateful I have a home I’ve lived in for 10 years now. So, start small and get back to basics. 2. Be Gentle with Yourself Looking for the good takes practice. You are literally laying down new neural pathways in your brain and it will take a while to build those trails. What you do not want to do is start beating yourself up because you missed a day. 3. Connect to the Feeling. It’s not just enough to run through a list, especially if it’s the same list every day. Husband, house, car, kids, dog, check, grateful for all that. Nope. For each thing that goes on the list, pause and connect to the feeling of gratitude for that item. I made a rule that I couldn’t put the same thing on the list two days in a row. I had to look for new things for which to be grateful. This becomes its own reward because I started being more creative while looking for things to put on the list. 4. Be Grateful for What You Already Have. If you hit a grateful block and sit down to write a list and can’t come up with anything, look around your physical space. Is there art on the walls? Look at the art. There was a point in time when you had to have that piece. You bought it and brought it into your life. Are there books on your shelves? Do you have a favorite novel among them? Be grateful for that. Be grateful for the author who created the story and the way it swept you away and the fact that you can come back to that story. Where did your rug come from? You get the idea.

WIB Magazine

5. Make It a Game. Coming back from a blissful week away, we ran into nasty traffic, and I started fuming. My dude jumped in and said ok, let’s play a game like the “I Spy” game we played when we were kids, but with gratitude. What are you grateful for that begins with the letter A? Um, apples? And we started going back and forth tossing out things we liked with the letter A, then started moving down the alphabet, and things got silly, and we started jumping around and the letters got mixed up, and we were laughing and decided that the only rule in the Grateful Game is that you are saying something that makes you feel happy. The traffic hadn’t changed, but we were having fun and I was squirreling away ideas for the letter’s “X” and “Z,” but I never got to use them, because by the time we got to “T,” the traffic had eased, and we were home! And instead of arriving angry and blowing away the bliss of the vacation, we arrived happy because we had filled the car with gratitude.

WIB Magazine

Q. Let’s talk about your book Take the Easy Path: 10 Grounding Guidelines for a Better You. What was the motivation behind the book? A. During a routine doctor visit, I was shocked to find that my blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure were all way over target. It was clear that drastic measures were needed, but I was definitely NOT doing another diet of cramming denial and shame down my throat until I hit some number on a scale. These changes needed to be sustainable, which diets never are. Defiantly, I decided to find a way to get healthy without going on a diet of denial. But how? It occurred to me that I knew a lot about what didn’t work, since all my previous attempts had led me to this sorry state. I needed to get healthy, but in a slow, steady, restof-my-life kind of way. I’ve been a software developer for 25 years, so naturally went to that skillset. I thought, “What if the system I need to redesign is me?” I decided to reboot my own system and give it an upgrade. Could I make it easy? Make it fun? I broke down every attempt I’d made at getting healthy - what worked and what did not. In that process, I came up with the Grounding Guidelines to help me get through the changes, with little bits of help throughout my day. These guidelines open with “No Shaming,” and move through “Celebrate Every Little Step Toward Health,” “I Decide that Today is a Good Day (not the number on the scale)” and “No Comparisons.” The last one “If You’re Not Having Fun, You’re Not Doing It Right” was tossed on at the end, but as I started carving my own Easy Path, it’s become one of the most important. Fun offsets stress, which studies have shown to wreak havoc on health.

When I later returned to the doctor’s office to check my progress, 100 days into my new life, I saw significant improvement. All of my numbers were down, I was eating better, and I had more energy. After a year of following my own guidelines, my blood sugar dropped by 100 points, my blood pressure had dropped by 40 points, and I had lost 60 pounds. That was when I knew without a doubt that I needed to share this journey with others who were trying to follow the ups and downs of the trends in diet culture and they were losing, just like I had been. These #GroundingGuidelines free us up to make decisions that make us healthier, but they keep us happier and more stress-free than the systems diet culture commonly promotes. Q. Where do you see yourself in the next three years? A. OMG, I have so many plans! My first workshop: Grounding Guidelines is scheduled for a February 2022 launch. That will be followed by Building Your Own Easy Path, in both workshop and workbook form later in 2022, which breaks down the process I went through to create the Guidelines and shows you how to apply that process to your own life. I’m re-recording my poem collection Ode to Cookie Dough as an audio book. Oh! and I’m one final edit away from finishing my mystery novel Runaway Rembrandt. The workshops take precedent, but I’m definitely planning on having that published in three years. Q. Can you share one of your short poems with us? A. Of course, thank you for asking! A couple of quick notes. This is from my Ode to Cookie Dough series, which is transformational poetry, all about the process of becoming your authentic self. Next, please take a moment to read this out loud. Poetry is meant to be heard, not just read in your head.

Question to a Butterfly Did it hurt, little one? In your dark cocoon, where an earthbound creature transformed herself into beauty with wings? Because I am trapped inside my own shadowy cocoon with only myself and transformation. I am in pain, shedding my skin, new things growing, my insides coming out. It is safe beneath the silken threads but unfamiliar, and I am scared. I want to know, little butterfly, because I want to hope. For if you felt pain in your cocoon, then my pain will become to me a symbol of my future flight. If you want to listen to me read Ode to Cookie Dough, you can do so here. Q. Are you working on any workshops or events? A. OMG YES! My first workshop: Grounding Guidelines is being scheduled for a February 2022 Launch. I hope to have the book published by then. The Building Your Own Easy Path Workshops will follow later next year. I’m hoping to bring back my Poetry Workshop series, which is a fun afternoon of hearing a poem, then breaking into dyads to discuss what it means to you and how you might apply it to your own life.

Q. What does building a community look like to you? A. In this crazy world we live in, my foremost concern for those working on transforming into the best versions of themselves is safety. I have clear guidelines for both the Facebook group and for the workshops around sharing and not tearing (down). That is critical for allowing the space for people to share their own experiences. As I learned with my poetry, the deeply personal is also universal, so hearing other’s stories is so empowering. Last, it needs to be fun (Grounding Guideline #10 is: If You’re Not Having Fun, You’re Not Doing It Right). My Facebook Transformational Leader feed is not just about the Grounding Guidelines, Body Positivity, and Death to Diet Culture, as one might expect. You’ll also find posts about kindness in the world (which happens all the time, but you never see it in the news), and my Squeeeeeee! Animals - mostly adorable baby animals from zoos across the world. I was criticized years ago for posting cute animal pictures because there is so much work to be done and it’s precisely because there is so much darkness in the world that I post them. There is beauty and joy in the world and one of the ways I cope is to be reminded of the happiness of seeing a young tiger cub seeing water for the first time.

Q. Who are some of your favorite authors? A. The Trance of Scarcity, by Victoria Castle is about how the stories we tell ourselves impact our lives. As a writer, and a teller of other people’s stories, this message touched me on a very deep level. Ms. Castle writes that the stories we tell ourselves can be very limiting - and they are just stories. When we start telling ourselves new stories, our lives can change. As I started doing the exercises and realizing how many limiting stories I had in my brain, I changed the narrative and started seeing my dreams come true. Other books that have been pivotal are The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. They are so simple, yet so powerful and can be touchstones as one goes throughout their day. I hope people use the Grounding Guidelines in the same way - something to grab for when things start slipping. Also, I would recommend pretty much anything by Brene Brown. Diana Gabaldon is much on my mind these days, as the 9th book in her Outlander series is dropping in *checks watch* 10 days. Her books are an excellent example of great storytelling and are their own Masterclass in fiction writing. Also on the fiction side, I love Alice Walker, Amy Tan, and of course Tony Morrison, who all have expanded my world view. Q. Where can readers follow you? A. First and foremost, my web page: www.tccurrie.com where you can find out more about me and sign up for the inaugural newsletter (once a month containing a deep dive into that month’s Grounding Guideline, an interview with a body positivity activist, and some tools to help you make it through the month). I can also be found across social media: FB: TaketheEasyPath IG: tccurrie Twitter: tccurrie LinkedIn: tccurrie

WIB Magazine

AWESOME FLYERS Custom T- Shirts

Custom Gym Bags

Flyer Design & Printing

Custom Mugs

Custom Key Chain Custom Mask Custom Business Cards

Marketing

Branding

Promotions

Check out more products we offer on our website such as logo design, website design, posters and more.

awesomeflyers.com 770-765-5486

WIB Magazine

Kathy Ashby

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. I am an artist of all mediums. I knew this when I was about 5 years old. I am a retired glass blower. Now, I sculpt, paint, play music and I write stories, articles and poetry.

WIB Magazine

Q. How was your experience being in the “Be You” book? A. The Covid Pandemic put a monkey wrench in the experience. It is always exciting to have a story accepted, in Chicken Soup for the Soul (my third one so far). It is a well-respected publishing house. The

launch date was postponed from May 12, 2020, to April 20, 2021. The first thing you learn about being a writer, whether waiting to hear from a publisher or for a book launch is how to be very patient. On another note, I am happy my story, ‘A Man’s Profession’ got a lot of reaction

especially locally in newspapers and social media. Women were happy to share the idea that things have changed for the better. Not all professions welcomed women in the old days. Feminism was real, hard-fought for and needed to happen to open men’s eyes and shake up the good-old-boy traditions. This may be a surprise for younger women. Do they take the freedom to choose a traditionally male job for granted? Maybe. The world is a better place and more productive when anyone can be who they want to be and work at a job because that is what they want to do and are good at it. Can women lose that? History has proved this to be the case. Think of Pythagoras c 500 AD, opening a school in Crotona where women and men were equally permitted into the ‘Esoteric’ circle, and then again in the 18th Century, the age of Enlightenment where the western women could be highly educated and publish her writings. What happened? Think of ‘keep barefoot and pregnant’. Women must strive to protect the liberties we have in the western world and spread the force. In 2009, the Dali Lama said, “The world will be saved by the Western woman.” Q. What or who motivated you to be a writer? A. Hearing that my dad was very ill threw me into a panic. He was

"Women possess power, but it is power that has yet to be seized, ignited, and released." the storyteller in the family, and I lamented the fact that the family stories would end, so, I started to write down the things I remembered. It poured out of me, one tale after the other. My dad recovered long enough to hear that I was a writer and he read several of my published pieces. I remember him saying, “I’m very proud of you”. It still makes me tingle to think about it.

Q. Let’s talk about your book “Carol A Woman’s Way” and the motivation behind the book? A. I was horrified to hear chainsaws at the back of my property. A trail-cutting crew was clearing old growth forest for a snowmobile trail. This started a battle to stop the ‘yahoo’ invasion (i.e., 3,000 snowmobiles going by on a Saturday). My family lost. The loss was painful, emotionally and financially, although in the ending of the book we “win”. Pre-reviewers, publisher and critics wanted a happy ending so it had a happy ending. Nevertheless, I thought the experience was important for people to hear and gain insight: What to do and what not to do. I also delved into the unique aspect of feminine activism, using the ups and downs of female cycles, strengths and weaknesses and introduced the idea of women friends in sync. (A topic first studied by Martha McClintock of Chicago University). This a theme, that I further explored, and it runs

WIB Magazine

through the book, (seven cycles, seven waves, hence seven strong times when to do battle) to explain the power women have. PMS times at the beginning of the each female cycle (urges) when there is a need to do something, to act, the body and mind working as one. It is a force within a woman’s body, which is preparing for life. Women’s collective energy at this time is the most supreme force on the planet. Q. How was your experience being chosen to participate on the “We Wise Woman”? A. I am grateful. This was an honor I never expected. I was insecure about my book theme in Carol “A woman’s Way”. I made it a sub-plot. I worried about the reaction. Somedays though, I thought to myself, someday probably long after I’m dead someone will study it at the PHD level and actually get it. Then, miracle of miracles, a woman, named Tryphena McShane gave a review of my book just after it came out. It was a very busy time, but low point in my life. Her review was fantastic. I hugged myself around the computer reading it for the first time and felt a cloak of warmth surround me. It was positive, emotional, raw and fearless about the theme. Not only did she get it, she said, that she got it! She said she cried with gratitude. Wow. She invited me to be on the website “We Wise Women” see full review attached. Q. What advice can you give to the next generation of women leaders? A. This quote is worth repeating. In 2009, His Holiness, The Dalai Lama stated that, “The World will be saved by the Western Woman”. From the We Wise

WIB Magazine

Women website it stated: “We Wise Women” recognizes that the Dalai Lama is talking about us and our time NOW. The largest group of midlife women the world has ever seen is awakening at this critical time for the evolution of the planet. Carol Shields said, “Women possess power, but it is power that has yet to be seized, ignited, and released”. Q. What books inspired you in your career? A. I love the stories of Robin Hood, the writing of Voltaire and the poetry of Alexander Pope and I too want to write great hero stories, create philosophy and be insightful with poems that help us understand our humanity. My new poet to admire is Amanda Gorman. Her poem and presentation of “The Hill We Climb” and bubble up possibilities over visual obstacles was so very real and ground breaking.

Q. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? A. We miss our son and his fiancé and our two grandchildren in Calgary, Alberta. I wish for a time when it is safe again. I also hope to save and then can afford Hawaii. They say it is beautiful. Q. Are you working on any new events or upcoming projects? A. I am writing poems, painting, learning to speak French and Croatian and enjoying nature and being on the land outside as much as I can be in all seasons. Every day I am still in the battle to save the planet by phone calls, letters to the Editor, Emails to politicians, and talking to friends and also on the radio, TV and social media. Young women will take up the fight and older women, Crones will guide them. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. I occasionally blog, post on Twitter and Instagram.

"Writing isn't always thrilling, but it has taught me joy, discipline, humility, and the value of a sense of humor.".

Katherine Ladny Mitchell

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. I am a thankful wife, mother, home educator, writer, and novelist who loves story-telling and drinking tea by the kettle’s worth. Q. How was your experience being in the “Be You” book? A. It can be difficult to publish nonfiction if you’re not already famous. Since I don’t want to become either a politician or an Olympian, I really appreciated Chicken Soup selecting my story. Chicken Soup maintains a high writing standard and provides helpful editing assistance prior to publication. They also pay well -- which is a huge plus. It’s nice when others value your work. Q. Let’s talk about your book “Don’t Settle for a Fairy Tale” & the motivation behind it. A. Don’t Settle for a Fairy Tale was my first adult-length narrative nonfiction book co- written with my husband, Jason. This project grew out of the realization that our Creator was more romantic than we were. Most people don’t mix God and romance, but Jason’s marriage proposal was both a heartfelt and spiritual experience for both of us. Jason had planned an epic proposal which included highlights such as enjoying a scenic walk after dinner, presenting me with a bushel of seventy-seven roses (each with a love note attached), washing my feet in the Chesapeake Bay, kayaking across the Magothy River to a significant dock in my life, and dancing with me to the melodies of a live violinist. Spoiler alert -- Jason did not plan on the summer solstice full moon, nor the live violinist (a last-minute

WIB Magazine

offer from a friend while we were at the restaurant). He also could not have known that years before we’d started dating, I’d prayed that the man God wanted me to marry would ask me to dance with him on that very dock. When the proposal story won a writing contest in the faith/non-fiction category, we expanded it into a book. Jason and I have different writing styles, but we truly respect each other’s voices. We enjoyed working together, and Jason is still my favorite “Alphareader.” Q. Where do you see yourself in the next 3 years? A. Ideally, I would love to publish my novels traditionally and devote even more time to my murder mystery series and speculative fiction. I would also enjoy teaching writing workshops to encourage other authors to stick with the discipline of story craft and hone their ideas into excellent pieces worth sharing. Q. How does your writing empower others? A. There’s a joke that says good writing is the art of rewriting

what you have already rewritten -- and it’s so true. Creative writing is a long game. Getting an “A” in English composition does not necessarily translate into getting an acceptance from a magazine, literary agent, or publisher. It took me two years of rejections and community critique before I got anything published. Since then, I have freelanced, self-published, acquired a literary agent, and lost a literary agent when folks weren’t interested in my work at the time. But I still love writing. When people read my stories, I want them to smile and think. If my limited experience -- in both life and writing -- can encourage others to become who they were meant to be, that makes it all worthwhile. Q. What has been one of your biggest challenges so far in your career? A. I think the biggest challenge for all writers is to connect with potential readers. Without a reader, writing is dead. I would prefer to have a long-term relationship with an agent and traditional publisher so I could focus more on

writing rather than on marketing. All authors must do both, but self-published authors must do everything – which consequently leaves less time for creative writing. Q. What are some of your other hobbies? A. When I’m not writing, I enjoy many things: hiking with my five kiddos, having people over for tea, dancing jazz at a local studio, cooking for family and friends, singing at church, and fire-breathing and poi-twirling on occasion just to shake things up. I’ve also recently started keeping chickens and hope to have a flock which eventually lays blue, green, and chocolate brown eggs so it feels like Easter every day. Yep. I dream big. Q. Can you tell us what or who has been your biggest motivation? A. In general, I’m most motivated when I feel I have something to say. (This explains why my blog posts are so sporadic.) I enjoy completing a whole story and then moving on to the next one. You will find my love of rhyme and whimsy in my children’s books, my love of truth and justice in my murder mystery series, and my concern for personhood in my speculative fiction.

culminating in a lethal injection behind closed doors once citizens turn forty-eight. By 2163, no one questions the Rite or remembers the elderly. When graduate student, Clara Milton, travels with a research team to study social development on a recentlycolonized planet, she’s shocked to find a well-established society with three distinct cultures – none of which observe the Rite of Passing. Seeing a world in which people care for the elderly challenges Clara’s cultural biases. But nothing prepares her for a far more unsettling discovery: for everyone day spent on Elpis 7, Clara will age one year. And the wormhole back to Earth won’t appear for another forty days when she’ll far exceed Earth’s age limit ... Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. Readers can best find me at www.katherineladnymitchell. com . My books are also available on www.Amazon.com and www. Barnes&Noble.com.

Q. Are you working on any new ventures or books? A. Yes! I am currently polishing a near-future speculative fiction novel entitled, Ephemeral. I hope to start pitching it to prospective literary agents soon. Here’s the gist of the story: After decades of declining birthrates, Earth faces a global health crisis as seniors outnumber younger citizens five to one. With not enough caregivers to go around, and national economies crumbling, the Vitae Conglomerate institutes the Rite of Passing – a life-celebration ceremony

WIB Magazine

Tiph’Arah

Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. We are Tiph’arah. We specialize in nurturing and growing Afro-Caribbean hair through the provision of organically sourced ingredients from Africa. Our current products available are a range of natural hair products, which prevent hair breakage, strengthen hair strands and stimulate hair growth. Our overall goal is to encourage women with natural hair to flaunt their hair and empower them to nurture their hair through

WIB Magazine

education of beneficial ingredients, tips and tutorials.

Q. What made you want to pursue a career in Beauty products? A. Initially, it was just a personal search for remedies to prevent hair breakage and stimulate hair growth. Upon doing that I came across a remedy which was then developed into the Tiph’arah products available today. The first trial was posted on a friends WhatsApp status which pulled in quite a few inquiries, so I thought it’ll be

sensible to establish a business as the products are of help to me and all those who have used it. Q. Let’s talk about “Tiph’Arah” and the motivation behind the brand? A. The brand is created to represent a luxurious lifestyle within the confinements of purity and integrity. Our ambitions are driven by the beauty of natural hair and all it comes with. We’re excited to help more natural women embrace this reality and eventually become comfortable with their hair.

Q. Tell us about some of your natural handmade butters? A. Our butters contain unique ingredients selected, cultivated, harvested and manufactured organically for Tiph’arah. Our ingredients (such as moringa butter and paw paw butter, amongst other unique organic ingredients) contain a variety of rich minerals, vitamins and antioxidants, which provide immense benefits for natural hair. Q. What makes your brand different than other natural hair brands? A. We believe our overall mission sets us apart from other haircare brands as we are not just a brand but a movement. Also, our ingredients are carefully researched and manufactured specifically for Tiph’arah, which adds value to the brand as these ingredients are exclusive to the brand. Q. Where do you see your brand in the next 5 years? A. In 5 years, we hope to have a complete haircare box including shampoos, conditioner, leave in conditioner, growth oils, amongst many more. Q. Can you give us any tips on Oils vs Moisture? A. Moisture is obtained from products that cause the hair to become damp or wet (such as water). However, oils are used to seal in that moisture. Oils on their own, when applied to the hair without any base moisture, yield little or no benefit at all.

For best results, moisture should be applied to the hair and then sealed in with an oil or butter. Q. Do you have any specials for the holidays? A. We have a gift box option coming up for Christmas and a few offers available for eligible products. Q. Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events? A. We will be attending the UKBBshow in London which is the largest business show in UK and Europe! Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. Our socials are as follows: Instagram: _Tipharah_ Twitter: _Tipharah_ Facebook: @Tipharahh

"We believe our overall mission sets us apart from other haircare brands as we are not just a brand but a movement."

WIB Magazine

"When people look good it boosts their self-esteem, especially women, we always want to look good that's our nature."

still not getting the results I was hoping for. I came across the ingredients in byValentine Skin Care and tried them, I thought wow and I believed there are a lot more people out there who could benefit, and it was in 2020 during the pandemic, I figured I had a lot of free time outside work, so I started working on the ideas I had come up with to build the brand. Q. Let’s talk about your brand “ByValentine Skincare” and the motivation behind the brand? A. It is a brand by me, and I have tested and proved it. I wanted to be able to confidently share my knowledge about the products, having to use them myself and I still use them, I felt that it would benefit a lot of people especially those looking for the best yet minimal regimen.

Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. My name is Valentine Sibanda, I am a UKregistered Pharmacist by profession. Outside the beauty business, I work in Retail Pharmacy. Q. What made you want to pursue a career in Beauty products? A. I was amazed by the results of the skin care products I was sampling. Basically, I had been in search for skin care products for myself, to help my skin because it had become so dull for some reason. I have oily/combination skin and I thought I had been using the right products but overtime I was

Q. How does your product help with acne and dry skin? A. The AHA fruit acids in the moisturizer and facial serum have antibacterial properties that help to combat acne. Zinc Oxide helps regulate oil production especially in acne prone skin. The products were formulated with ingredients that are work well together. For example, the VITAMIN ACE Moisturizers, as well as it helps with acne it also helps with dry skin because it contains Oat Silk which provides moisture to the skin and soothes the skin. Q. What are the main challenges you have faced since starting ByValentine? A. It was difficult deciding whether to get into the beauty and cosmetics industry or not, seeing how over-saturated it is but I realized the formulation of byValentine Skin Care products is unique and it is what’s needed in the market,

ByValentine Skincare

WIB Magazine

so I followed it through. When I began piecing everything together, I also realized there was so much to be considered, some things I hadn’t even thought about and there are still new things popping up even now, this has been a learning process as much as it is an experience. Marketing is still challenging but I am getting better at it by allowing myself to work with other people, at first, I was completely doing it all alone and I wasn’t achieving a lot by doing so. It has been helpful to collaborate with different people and working together with experts in this field. Q. Tell us about your 3 most selling products you have? A. The Black Clay and Liquorice Face Mask. The mask is infused with liquorice root extract which brightens, mattifies the skin for people struggling with oily skin. It prevents the formation of spots and evens the skin tones. This one is an all-time favorite, and a constant buy for our returning customers.

The Vitamin ACE Moisturizer The moisturizer is quite versatile it consists of all the essential ingredients to cater for all skin types. It soothes and nourishes dry skin; it adequately hydrates oily skin as well and controls sebum production. The ingredients are very calming therefore, suitable for sensitive skin as well. The antioxidant components Vitamins A, C & E also protect the skin and help reduce pigmentation. The Rose Aloe Toner The key ingredients in the toner are rose flower water and Aloe vera. The first noticeable thing about it is its refreshing rose scent and after applying it on to the skin it leaves the skin feeling supple and fresh. It helps rebalance the skin and makes it ready to receive the next step of the skin care routine. Q. What keeps you passionate about helping people look beautiful? A. Building confidence and empowering people, helping them feel comfortable in their own skin effortlessly. When people look good it boosts their self-esteem, especially women, we always want to look good that’s our nature. Q. Do you have any specials for the holidays? A. We are currently working on a new product, a face scrub. We are sampling the ingredients and looking at the results, hopefully this will come to fruition soon, it might not be ready in time for the holidays but definitely in the near future. We are planning to run a few promotions and we would like to do a Christmas Beauty Box giveaway in collaboration with other beauty brands.

Q. Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events? A. We are thinking about expanding the range and changing the packaging of some of our products but all in due course, it’s all a process. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. On Instagram and Facebook, both @byvalentineskincare

WIB Magazine

Luna Skins

Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. My name is Luna Seto and I am the founder of Luna Skins. Q. What made you want to pursue a career in Beauty products? 42

WIB Magazine

A. I developed a keen interest for homemade beauty remedies as a teenager I began creating the remedies for myself, friends and family and saw a brilliant result it was from that moment I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in Beauty products.

Q. Let’s talk about your brand “Luna Skins” and the motivation behind the brand? A. My aim is to provide high quality nature beauty remedies for all skin types. I strive to stand the test of time and desire to become a long-standing successful business.

Q. Tell us about your “Cacao Coffee Mask & Scrub” A. Cacao Coffee Mask & Scrub is a perfect combo just what your skin needs. Antioxidant-rich plantbased skincare products work to restore and strengthen your body’s cells by combating free radicals (oxidants). The vitamins featured in plant-based skincare products are vital to maintaining the health of your skin. They also support cell repair and can help decrease signs of aging. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and protects you from the free radical. It also helps to get rid of dead skin cells and moisturizes your skin well to make it soft, supple and radiant. Coffee helps in stimulating blood flow, which reduces acne coffee face pack benefits are that its rich antioxidants kill dead cells and remove impurities, making skin smoother and brighter looking. Coffee is a rich source of vitamin B3 (niacin). With Bentonite clay’s adsorbent power is helpful in treating acne breakouts and oily skin and Kaolin Clay removes pore-clogging contaminants such as dust, dirt and dead skin that can accumulate on the skin’s surface.

Q. What keeps you passionate about helping people look beautiful? A. I want to help build confident by giving a person glowing radiant skin. I want customers to look their absolute best! Our products can help with those annoying acne scars, cellulite and stretch marks so that you can feel like the best version of you. Whether a person uses lot of makeup or not Luna Skins products are about achieving great looking skin that glows under the spotlight or sunlight. Luna Skins products are organic, simple, natural based products that have no artificial chemicals. Q. Do you have any specials for the holiday? A. Our Cacao Coffee Mask & scrub is 2 in one is perfect special for the holidays. For our men we have foldable sandalwood beard comb

it’s a perfect size and the beard oil is 30ml all these products don’t take much space to travel with. Q. Are you working on any projects or upcoming events? A. I am working on green coffee timeless face mask and scrub. Upcoming events we have are our UK Black Business Show will be held at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre in Westminster London and on the 30 of October and on the 31 of October Luna, Skins will be at Queens_and_ rudy_j_media Black History Cultural Market at Beckenham. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. They can follow me at: IG. lunaskins_ Facebook. l.lunaskins Twitter. l_lunaskins

"My aim is to provide high quality nature beauty remedies for all skin types. "

Q. Where do you see you brand in 5years? A. For my brand to be recognized nationwide and international and to open a store in London. Q. Out of the all skin care brands what makes your brand different? A. Luna Skins ingredients are different to most brands as 85% of Luna Skins products are from Arabica Coffee beans that contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help beat acne blemishes. We use less ingredients on our products as less ingredients are more beneficial for the skin it’s not about the quantity it’s about the quality.

WIB Magazine

Regina Sunshine Robinson Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. My name is Regina Sunshine Robinson. I am an Author, Talk Show Host, Motivational Speaker, Empowerment Coach and Educator. In every area of business, my goal is to leave people better than I found them. I provide empowerment and inspiration

WIB Magazine

through positive content, events, community projects and one on one coaching.

Q. Let’s talk about “Regina sunshine global network and how it got started? A. Regina Sunshine Global Network is the business that houses all things, Regina Sunshine. We provide positive

content through publishing, education, media, and community initiatives. RSGN was created as an umbrella to house all the many projects I was already involved in and to unify my efforts to create more positive changes. Q. What or who inspired you to be the woman you are today? A. My mother and my grandmother were my biggest influences. My mother is the original Sunshine. The way she loves and serves people is the model for how I approach my purpose to leave people better than I found them. She always told me that I was beautiful and smart, and I could do anything I set my mind to. She said that God had a great purpose for my life, and I was going to do great things. People wonder why I’m so confident and quick to try new things. My mother’s words still ring true in my head and because of her, I truly believe in myself. My

grandmother was love personified. Her example of loving people to the point they each felt like they were the most special person on Earth, still inspires me. Her faith in God laid the foundation for me on what a life of worship looked like. My earliest memories of her are being on my knees praying with her. She would pray for everyone we ever met. LOL. I would often fall asleep while she prayed. Her faith sustained our family, and we all know that although she is no longer here in the physical, her prayers still cover us. Q. Can you tell us about your two books and the motivation behind the books? A. My first book was Regina Sunshine State of Mind: 7 Keys to Help You Get Your Mind Right. It is my personal coaching on a practical everyday approach to renewing your mind. I tell people all the time that this Sunshine personality is not by accident. I work for it. I build myself up and guard my mind in a deliberate effort to create the positive outcomes for my life. My second book was a collaboration, Lessons from My Grandmother’s Lap. In this book, I invited 11 other women to join me in sharing the wisdom and life lessons passed on to them from their grandmothers. Q. Let’s talk about “Awesome Girl Project”? A. The Awesome Girl Project started as a simple all-girl award show to recognize girls who were excelling in their individual gift or purpose. This led to publishing our first all-girl collaboration book in 2019, I Am an Awesome Girl. In this book, 25 girls shared what they thought made them an Awesome Girl. In 2020 we published the second book in the Awesome Girl Book series, When Girls Dream. In 2020, we also launched the Awesome Girl Academy, a girls empowerment platform for regular engagement and workshops. These sessions meet every 1st and 3rd Saturday morning at 10 am EST. In

" I would love to go to Italy. Between the beautiful architecture and great food, I feel like it would be a wonderful experience." 2021, we launched book number 3, Beautiful Just Like Me. We are currently working on book 4, You’re All That Girl, the first art book that will be released early December 2021. It is my goal to one day open a brick-and-mortar Awesome Girl Academy where the focus is assisting girls to discover their purpose while completing academic requirements. Q. What are some of your other hobbies? A. I love playing Scrabble and watching competition shows. Q. If you can go anywhere in the world where would you go? A. I would love to go to Italy. Between the beautiful architecture and great food, I feel like it would be a wonderful experience.

take care of myself as I do chasing achievement. And what I found is that I am better overall, and I am achieving more in less time because I am operating from a place of peace and rest. Q. Are you working on any new projects or upcoming events? A. The Awesome Girl Project is the one thing that has taken my major focus. I am also working on some pilots to pitch to some major networks. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. My website is, www.ReginaSunshine.com. You can find my social media links there as well.

Q. What advice can you give to the next generation of female leaders? A. Take care of yourself. There is so much information on working hard, setting goals, staying motivated, making it happen, etc. So many women get so caught up in being superwomen that we forget to take care of ourselves. I was one of those women. Now I deliberately take as much time to

WIB Magazine

"There are so many women of amazing achievements that I felt very honored to be among them."

Judy Glenney

Q. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. I am a retired physical education teacher, teaching at the college level for about 25 years, teaching primarily weight training. As a weightlifter, I am considered the pioneer of women’s weightlifting, During my career in the sport, I won four national championships, four masters national championships, and two world masters championships. Now I fill my time with volunteer work. My heart has always been with horses

WIB Magazine

and military veterans. Since my retirement I have the opportunity to combine both by volunteering at a facility that uses horses to help with veterans suffering from PTSD or TBI (traumatic brain injury). The results are truly amazing. I am also a speaker for Stonecroft Ministries and the current chair for our local outreach for that organization. Q. How was your experience being in the “Be You” book? A. I was truly humbled that they thought I was worthy to be

included. There are so many women of amazing achievements that I felt very honored to be among them.

Q. Who are some people that motivated you to be the woman you are today? A. First and foremost, I believe God had given me athletic talent. How I was going to use that became an adventure. Several people were definitely influential on my journey. My dad was always very supportive in whatever I did, especially athletically. His mantra was, “You

can be anything you want to be.” I never forgot that. In high school, I had a wonderful physical education teacher that I admired as she exemplified all I felt I wanted to be. She was athletic, a wonderful Christian, bold, great motivator, and a fantastic sense of humor. Without me knowing it at the time, she mentored me. At that time “mentoring” wasn’t a thing. She was the one that inspired me to pursue a teaching career in physical education. My husband was the one who carried on where my dad left off. My dad passed away very shortly after we were married but it seemed Gary (my husband) had the same motivating instinct by saying in his own way the words dad had given me. He introduced me weightlifting and virtually said, “Do it anyway,” even if there’s no women doing it. So, I did, and the rest is history.

couples around the country putting on weightlifting programs under the auspices of Campus Crusade. I became more and more interested in the lifts the guys were doing for the programs. These were the Olympic lifts. Weight training and weightlifting are quite different. Weight training is using weights for toning muscles or for strengthening athletic movements. Weightlifting is an actual sport, contested in the Olympics, that consists of the snatch and clean and jerk. I wanted to learn how to do those lifts as they combine not only strength but speed and coordination. Gary started training me on those lifts and I fell in love with them. I wanted to compete but there was no weightlifting for women, so Gary simply said, “Let’s start it.”

Q. Let’s talk about weight training and how you got started. A. Good follow up to the last question! I had always been fascinated with strength. Always wanted to test it, doing things on my own that required exerting muscle. Like I mentioned, I was athletically inclined, so I was in all sports and wanted to train with weights to get better. However, this was in the ‘60’s and weight training were “verboten” for girls. Between my junior and senior year in college I met Gary, who was a competing weightlifter, at the headquarters for Campus Crusade for Christ. The weight room was part of my cleaning area as I was assigned to housekeeping. I happened to be down there when Gary was working out. I was quite taken in by all the heavy barbells and equipment and wondered how they used them. We got to talking and he offered to show me some things about weight training. After one session with him, I was hooked – both on using the weights and on him! A short time later we were married. We traveled with other

Q. What has been your biggest challenge in your career? A. Although it wasn’t my professional career, I will talk about my “career” in weightlifting since I was involved with that even longer than my teaching career. When I first started weightlifting there was no competition for women. When Gary said “Let’s start it” I took him seriously. Thus began my pursuit to get women’s weightlifting started in the US and eventually into the Olympics which had always been my dream, to compete in the Olympic Games. The first challenge was being allowed to compete in competitions. Meet directors did not want me competing as the rules stated, “…the competitors, which shall be male.” I agreed to compete outside the competition as I didn’t really care about trophies or placing at that time, I just wanted to test my own strength under those conditions. They also used the excuse they had no official to weigh me in. Fortunately, Gary was on hand to do that. I also had to fight for a warmup platform as the other competitors told me I didn’t belong there, as they

continued to use all the platforms for themselves. Getting into gyms to work out with the heavy weights was also a challenge as these facilities were often times connected with the men’s locker room, I was again told this isn’t where I belongedthe rules stated such. The other major challenge was when I was starting to get the sport organized internationally and was working toward Olympic inclusion. The powers that be, i.e., the IOC (International Olympic Committee) kept moving the goal post. We would comply with their regulations, and they would come back with more directives. Very frustrating to say the least. We finally got to the point where they couldn’t ignore us and accepted us into the Games in 2000. To put that in perspective, I entered my first competition in 1972. Our first women’s US national competition was in 1981. So, my dream was accomplished but many years after my lifting career was over. However, I was blessed to be an official at that Games. Q. Can you tell us more about your book, “Mom, I’m A Girl” and the motivation behind the book? A. “Mom, I’m A Girl” was born reluctantly. My son took his life at nineteen after several years of

WIB Magazine

struggling with transgenderism. Several friends told me to write about what we had gone through, but I never had written a book and certainly didn’t feel like writing about this. However, after three years of encouragement from them and one big one from God I did. At that point I felt there would be other parents going through this. Actually, it became the book I needed but didn’t have. There was no information about how parents are to cope with this as I was going through it. I hoped this might give other parents some guides, not necessarily answers, to what they are experiencing. The book takes the reader on my journey with my son through his life, his transgenderism, and the things God taught me about what He had taken us through. As mentioned, I don’t intend on giving a lot of answers to the many questions parents will have if their child develops this, but I try to give my perspective on what I did on this journey. There is no “one size fits all” in this scenario. Each situation is different but there are some commonalities. As a Christian, I believed God used this to teach me many lessons about Him, particularly how to trust Him

even in the worst of situations. He is still there and still cares. Q. What has been your biggest accomplishment in your career? A. Again, going back to my weightlifting career, I would say getting the sport into the Olympics and being an official at that inaugural event. I was so pleased that women who had the same passion as I had were going to get their chance at winning a medal on the world’s biggest athletic stage. Q. What advice can you give to the next generation of female leaders? A. First and foremost, don’t give up on your dreams. There will always be people who will tell you that you can’t do that or will put you in a box where they think you belong. Many times, people told me throughout my life that what I liked to do “wasn’t what girls are supposed to do.” So, what if you go against the grain? If that’s your passion, go for it. My Olympic spark was ignited when I first started to learn those amazing lifts. It dimmed to a glimmer many times but never went out. Keep the spart going no matter what. Also, seek out people to come along side you who share your dream. I did not accomplish this dream alone, there were many people that I called on who I knew shared my passion. I knew they could help because they had connections I didn’t have. Don’t be afraid to ask for help – that’s not a sign of weakness it’s just acknowledging you may not know everything but who does? Q. Are you working on any new events or upcoming projects? A. As was mentioned in the first question, I have become involved with therapeutic riding with veterans. Horses have always been another passion but because of my participation in other sports and

WIB Magazine

life circumstances I wasn’t able to pursue any avenues with them. I am learning more about training and working with them on a level I didn’t know existed. I’m hoping to become involved with shows further on down the road. I still help out occasionally with weightlifting events but since COVID there haven’t been many opportunities in that area. I recently put on an event honoring our veterans at a local women’s gathering and would like to do more of that. Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. Unfortunately, I’m not a real media presence. I do have Facebook and on Instagram but don’t post much. My websites are where they can find the books: Mom, I’m A Girl is found at www.judyglenney.com and my story of pioneering women’s weightlifting, Uplifting Dreams is found at www.wlglenney.com.

Photo by: Sandy Guiterrez

Tina Muir

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and what you do? A. My name is Tina Muir, I am the founder and CEO of Running For Real, the largest global community of runners contributing and connecting positively to the world around them. I am a mother of two and former international runner for Great Britain and Northern Ireland. I host the Running For Real Podcast, which has amassed over 5 million downloads and Running Realized, noted as “The ‘Invisibilia’ of running” by Women’s Running. Q. How was your experience being in the “Be You” book? A. I have always loved Chicken Soup For The Soul books, and one of my biggest passions are helping people to see that they are perfectly imperfect just as they are, so this was an ideal match for me. I loved being able to share my story, knowing it would help others to recognize and embrace their own journey. Q. Let’s talk about “Running for Real” & the motivation behind it? A. It initially started as a place for people, primarily people who like to run to share their struggles, to celebrate the highs, but also work

Photo by: South Bay Photography

WIB Magazine

culture has a long way to go but Running For Real helps to take us a few steps closer to the place we believe it can be.

Photo by: Nicky Hayes

through the lows. So much of what we see in social media and online is about how great everything is going, the highlight reel of everyone’s lives. I wanted to provide a place where runners could show all the stages of their journey and connect with others doing the same. Since then, it has evolved slightly by putting advocacy and inclusivity as a fundamental core. We want to provide a place where runners can have conversations about what it means to feel welcomed, to belong somewhere. We know the running

Q. Where do you see yourself in the next three years? A. Three years is a tough number to think about! I would love for the community to be thriving and strong, a place for growth, compassion, and love. I hope we have events all over the world, held by other runners, bringing together those who have a passion for running, but also want to contribute positively to the world. Beyond that, I don’t know, after so many years as a professional runner having goals dictate my life, I like letting the path unfold before me, let’s see what happens!

Q. Let’s also talk about your podcast & how it got started? A. The Running For Real Podcast started in 2017 as a place for runners to share those highs and lows together, to see that elite athletes, inspirational people, and even medical professionals still make mistakes, still struggle with doubt and fear, still have hard days. I pride myself on asking unique and challenging questions to my guests, even if, like Malcolm Gladwell, they have been interviewed hundreds, if not thousands, of times. Running Realized launched in 2020, and this podcast came about after discussing running culture with my friends, Knox Robinson and Jon Phillips. We wanted to create a place to expose runners to new people, who have a different world view to the one they do, but do it in a highly produced, NPR style way, where it enjoyable to listen to for the extras too. With each episode we wanted a few takeaways for listeners to act.

So often we are told we need to do something, but either not told what to do or told something that is too big for us as an individual to do. We hope this show filled that gap.

Photo by: Sandy Guiterrez

Photo by: Altra

Photo by: Sandy Guiterrez

"I loved being able to share my story, knowing it would help others recognize and embrace their own journey."

Q. What has been one of your biggest challenges so far in your career? A. In 2017 I quit running at the peak of my career. I had to make the decision to step away from the sport as I was getting to a point where I despised it, and my body was in a bad place from years of restrictive eating. At that moment, I was very much in the mindset (as are a lot of professional athletes, although changing now) that we don’t quit. No matter what. We are tough and strong and gritty, so that means never quitting. Having to run a personal best time in the marathon a few months prior, quitting felt like such a big risk. Was I throwing away my talent and career? But I knew in my heart it was the right thing to do…and it was! Q. How did motherhood change your approach to running? A. I remember in my first race back after having my first daughter I ran the Disney World Half Marathon. In the hour before the race, I left my daughter with my dad, and spent a lot of the time before the race began wondering if she was okay, would she be crying? Would he be able to find me at the end? What if she was melting down? Questions flooded my mind. I was able to focus, and then ended up winning the race. A few minutes after I finished, I found my dad and Bailey, we were invited into a VIP tent where I would be interviewed by the local media.

WIB Magazine

to the time I wanted to run that I hadn’t enjoyed the races at all. I hadn’t looked around or looked up, only forward. This race I was finally able to remember that while I run to challenge myself and be my best, I also do it because I enjoy it. If you look at photos of that race, I was smiling most the way round. I really enjoyed myself (and ran fast too!) Q. Are you working on any new events or upcoming marathons? Photo by: Sandy Guiterrez

runners in the community to feel seen and recognized. My running was one part of my life, but giving back was so much more rewarding.

When we got in there though, Bailey had no care for me or my race, she was hungry, she wanted food. It was a strong reminder that life was different now. Before my running controlled the lives of everyone around me. Every element of my life was perfectly controlled from the meal the night before having to be an exact food I wanted (versus fish tacos which was “good enough” at Disney) to removing all stress before the race and doing as I pleased after. Rather than seeing it as a burden, I welcomed the change. It took the pressure off and reminded me that at the end of the day, running is just running. What really matters is the good I put into the world, through raising my girls to be strong women, and helping

WIB Magazine

Q. What has been your most memorable run/marathon? A. The London marathon 2015 was special to me. Having grown up 20 miles outside of London, I considered it my hometown marathon, and I had spectated many times before, dreaming of someday doing it. I had friends and family all over the course, which was an incredible thing to have (especially living in the US, I rarely had that opportunity), and the famous sights of London all around was cool too, but that was not what made the race special. The other marathons I had done to that point had been so focused on time. I gripped so tightly

Photo by: South Bay Photography

A. I am racing The New York City Marathon on November 7th and running my first 50k two weeks later at the Golden Gate Classic in the Bay area. I am excited to be a part of those, especially as my relationship with running has become even more healthy and satisfying since my second daughter, but also really enjoying work for Running For Real too. We have lots planned for 2022 and would love to see you there! Q. Where can the readers follow you? A. Runningforreal.com has everything you could need I am @tinamuir88 on Instagram @ tinamuir on twitter And you can join our running community on Facebook at tinamuir.com/superstars

Photo by: Sandy Guiterrez

GET THAT GLOW

WWW.PRETTYINPINKSTONINC.COM

Photographer: Gudrun Gabriel Stylist: Vivian Dinkins-Stith Make-up Artist: Yolanda Marshall Hair: Lisa Newton, Hair Game

November 2021 Issue

Articles inside

Tina Muir

Judy Glenney

Luna Skins

ByValentine Skincare

Regina Sunshine Robinson

Tiph’Arah

TC Currie (Takes the Easy Path

Katherine Ladny Mitchell

Kathy Ashby

Rick Rhodes

Diamond Drayton

Scotty Berg

Kymia Collins

Nana Otu (Coco Nyle Skin

Hailey Ralston

Arianna Rosado aka Ladi Rosa

Stacey L

Nailah Queen