EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Deborah Franklin
SENIOR EDITOR
JC Gardner
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Brandon J. Jolly
Table of
Check out our Cover King: Brian Gibbs
Soul Focus - Health and Wellness:
Latanya Henry-Smith, PhD
Beauty and Fashion: Nichelle Johnson, Kolor Beauty
Musings from JC Gardner
Travel & Tourism: Tracy Shorter 3 5 8 9 19 24
A Drink From the Well Spiritual Corner: Debrayta Salley
Leader in Ministry Spotlight by JC Gardner: Nathan Couser
Hey Y’all!!! The Men’s issue is here. As a Church Girl CEO,it had been on my heart for a long time to honor the men who support us. This issue was harder than I thought to choose the cover and feature, we had so many to choose from. All of their stories were so phenomenal.
But, without going any further, I have to give honor to my father, the late R. L. Franklin Jr., who was my leading man. He was always there for me and supported me in everything I did, whether he understood it or not. I also can’t leave out my brothers who are awesome in their own right: Mark Franklin and Justin Daniels. So Godly and big-sisterly proud of them.
To have acclaimed opera singer Pastor Brian Gibbs on the cover was a no-brainer. He is the epitome of a Godly man who truly loves and supports the women in his life. Oh yeah, did I mention he is my cousin? Yes, I did drop a name and trust me, I’m proud to do it.
I can’t go any further without acknowledging the woman who gave me life who gained her wings, Mrs. Ola Franklin. She was my very first cheerleader and critic. My mama was the one who I could depend on for an “Amen” and a “Girl, what did I tell you to do?’’ when I didn’t move fast enough for what she wanted me to do. Her singing, cooking and vibrant personality will truly be missed.
Deborah Franklin
Deborah Franklin Editor In-Chief, Church Girl CEO Magazine
BY LATANYA HENRY-SMITH, PHD, LSSP
The intricacies of maintaining robust and harmonious platonic and romantic relationships are paramount for our holistic well-being. An often overlooked yet pivotal element in relationships is the interplay of energies. Delving into the dynamics of energy in relationships can profoundly influence the depth and endurance of our interpersonal bonds. Masculine and feminine energies stand as the primary archetypes in relationships, wielding substantial influence over our relational dynamics.
Masculine energy is commonly linked with attributes such as fortitude, assertiveness, autonomy, and analytical reasoning. It embodies the essence of action, rationality, and resoluteness. Conversely, feminine energy is distinguished by traits like nurturing, intuition, empathy, and openness. It encompasses the virtues of ingenuity, emotional intelligence, and cooperation. It is imperative to note that masculine and feminine energies transcend gender confines, encompassing all individuals irrespective of their gender identity. It is crucial to acknowledge that both energies coexist within each individual, albeit in varying proportions.
Recognizing the complementary nature of masculine and feminine energies is pivotal, rather than perceiving them as conflicting forces. When these energies are in balance, they harmonize, nurturing a sense of unity and mutual understanding. Conversely, an imbalance in these energies can foster
disharmony and discord within the relationship.
Attaining a harmonious balance of masculine and feminine energies within a relationship is indispensable for mutual growth and empathy. It entails acknowledging and respecting the distinctive strengths of each energy. It involves embracing assertiveness and empathy, logic and intuition, action and reflection. When one partner predominantly embodies masculine energy while the other embodies feminine energy, it creätes a complementary synergy that fosters a sense of wholeness and cohesion.
Dr. Latanya Henry-Smith is a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology who provides mental health services in Texas public schools. She is a contributing author for a national magazine and public speaker and founder, Sapphire Emerald Solutions & Associates.
BY NICHELLE JOHNSON, KOLOR BEAUTY
Sorry Ladies, this one is ALL about the Fellas! Gentlemen, we celebrate with you. In preparation for the fall and winter seasons, we want to give you a heads up helping you preserve how GOD made you by keeping you smooth and moisturized. Also, these tools of the trade can be used me ways to kin and e game ith having a ragrance. First skin care. I love the n Care line, a universal line r specific, I find that men from this the great things about men is that through al times a
week, so the skin cells are constantly being renewed.
As you know, the trend for the last couple of years has been smooth, well-kept beards. So the focus must be on exposed skin to keep everything in perfect harmony. I love a great cleanser and Kiehl’s has the infamous “Ultra Facial Cleanser 150ml Duo” (regularly $50.)
This facial cleanser helps remove dirt and debris in a non-invasive way without stripping skin of essential moisture. It’s formulated with the best healing agents such as Squalane, Avocado Oil, and Glycerin, and is suitable for all skin types. Kiehl’s offers a great moisturizer, “Facial
Fuel Men’s SPF 20 Moisturizer 200ml Duo” regular price at $90. This has a 4 ½ star rating and is a SPF 20 moisturizer. It’s great for re-energizing and invigorating fatigued, dull skin. The ingredients are Caffeine and Vitamin C & Vitamin E, and provides antioxidant protection, along with softening and refreshing the skin. The plus side is that it is non-greasy.
Gentlemen, this line provides a plethora of skin care products that will address all skins concerns from eye care to darks spots to night serums and full body washes. For those of you who know me know that I am a feel-and-touch Chica. So, I recommend that you visit Nordstrom or Ulta to experience the product up-close. Whatever you do, be sure to do it during any major holidays to get the most bang for your coins.
Finally, my favorite “Him” grooming accessory, but of course, is an amazing fragrance. I believe every woman can attest to the fact that there is nothing more inviting than a man who just smells so darn good! With this consensus, I am sharing my favorite men’s fragrance which is none other than the ferocious “Parfums de Marly” Althair Eau de Parfum $250 (2.5oz) -$350 (4.2 oz). This was introduced in their Fall launch last October. Althaïr Eau de Parfum, made in France, contains amber with a blend of citrus and spices, then exhorts you to a sweet vanilla heart in the middle, and settles it’s base on warm and woody notes. The notes are orange flower, Italian bergamot, ceylan cinnamon, and Guatemalan cardamom. It’s sooo cozyyyy.
You can find it at Nordstrom and Nieman’s.
Do your thing Gentlemen!
That’s it guys, the tea has been spilled. Now you know how we feel. Go ahead and indulge; treat yourself, which is a treat for us ladies too!
Nichelle Johnson aka Kolor Beauty Enterprise… Kolor Beauty…Stay Blessed
Nichelle has over 25 years of experience in the makeup industry. She has worked with some of the top cosmetic lines such as MAC, Estee Lauder, Fashion Fair and Benefits Cosmetics. She is currently freelancing as an Estee Lauder Expert throughout the MD, DC, VA, & DE Corridor where she teaches women skin care and makeup daily routine techniques.
BY DEBRAYTA SALLEY
To the men in our lives…Dear Kings,
You have always been acknowledged for your strength, leadership skills, and ability to protect and serve.
At this moment, I’d like to thank you ALL, encourage some and empower others to continue showing up in an authentic state of vulnerability, sharing where you truly are mentally, emotionally and spiritually from the deepest places in your heart. Please know that It is NOT and will NEVER be in vain.
Listen, aside from all those other great attributes, this is exactly who supportive women NEED you to BE. We want to support you in facing that issue or concern and in accomplishing that dream or goal through prayer and also in action with the tools we have in our unique, handy dandy toolboxes. We want to see you healed,
whole and set free from anything that has held you hostage, kept you bound or from moving forward just as bad as we want it for ourselves. We desire to witness more “Power Couples.” These are those who are rooted in Christ Jesus, serving him with their God-Given gifts and talents, making a difference in their communities while they, more importantly, support one another through growing pains, the challenges that life, at times may bring, AND seeing each other’s dreams being fulfilled.
As a Coach who provides “Safe Spaces” for women to freely vent without judgement and explore the resolve in the Word of God for the matter; by observation, I have now come to recognize that men truly are in need of the same. In addition to you abiding in God’s presence, may God position and lead you to those safe people and places where you’ll be able to authentically unload any heavy thing you may be carrying. Stay Encouraged, YOU
Sincerely Submitted from God’s heart and the pen of one of His daughters. We Love You!
-Debrayta Denise
Get a copy of my new 30-Day Journal “A Safe Place to Land” at: https:// www.debraytadenise.com/products/ asafeplacetolandjournal.
Along with God’s Word, the daily prompts, reflection and empowerment will assist you in meeting your goals, desires, implementing quiet time and seeing the changes that you desire.
Debrayta D. Salley aka “Debrayta Denise” is an online boutique owner and the Founder of Debrayta Salley Enterprises where she writes, speaks & hosts intimate meet ups with intention to Empower Paths, Support Growth and Inspire Change.” She also Blogs and provides “Safe Spaces” for Women to unwind and get renewed in Body, Soul and Spirit.
Shop for Inspirational Apparel & Home Decor: www.debraytadenise.com.
One Stop view of opportunities to connect: https://linktr.ee/DebraytaDenise
BY DEBORAH FRANKLIN
Can you share with the Church Girl CEO readers who you are and what you do?
My name is Brian Gibbs. I am the Executive Pastor at Living Word Community of Faith and an opera singer.
What was your motivation to choose this industry as your career?
Becoming the Executive Pastor of Living Word Community of Faith is the latest update to my life. I was ordained as a pastor on December 17, 2024, so it’s still pretty new. My motivation for being a pastor is simple. I desire to please God. To be completely honest I never wanted to be a preacher, let alone a pastor. I was happy singing a song here and there. I like being in the background. That being said, if pastoring is what will bring God the most glory, then I’m all in.
Sometimes, we forget that the calling on our lives or the purpose of our lives is not always wrapped up in doing the things that we desire to do. Often, it’s the hard thing that we have no desire to do that is required. If we are truly going to live a life for Christ, then we must be willing to do whatever will bring God’s glory to the forefront. We see this with Jesus himself in Luke 22. Beginning at the 39th verse, we find Jesus going up to pray. In verse 42, He asks God the allow the cup to pass but immediately gives over to doing what he was called to do by saying, “Nevertheless not My will but Your will be done.” Jesus understood that what He was about to endure in the crucifixion was not about Him. It was about doing what God had sent Him to do so that God’s name would be glorified. It is in giving over fully to the calling that God has placed on our lives that God gives us the strength we need to carry out the task at hand. We see this in Luke 22:43 when the angel comes down to strengthen Jesus.
So, getting here has been a major journey. It’s not been a simple or easy journey by any stretch of the imagination, but God has had me in the palm of His hand all the time. The more I surrender to His will the more He strengthens me. “Pastor” may be my title and office, but my real job is to surrender completely to God in all things that I do.
I think the thing that really motivated me to choose a musical career path is music’s ability to move and heal people. There are few things that can move us the way music does. For me, it has always been the truest way to express how I’m feeling, no matter how big or small the feeling is. Singing is also when I feel closest to God. That is enough of a motivation.
Thinking back, it really makes a lot of sense that I would choose to chase after a singing
career. My life has always been filled with music in one way or the other. I grew up in a musical family. Both my mother, Dorthula Gibbs, and my sister, Leontyne Gibbs, sang. Some of my fondest childhood memories are sitting around the house singing together. I grew up in church singing, and I was always in the choir at school. I probably started think about music as more than a hobby in 5th grade. My teacher, Mrs. Kay Nollie, gave us a project that required each student to decorate a paper bag and fill it with a few things about ourselves. One of the things I put in the bag was a sheet of paper with music notes on it. When I said that I liked to sing, she asked me to demonstrate, and I did. Coincidentally the vice principal of the school was observing the class and he was impressed and asked me to sing at the upcoming 6th grade Open House. This would be the first time I was onstage singing solo in front of a large crowd outside of church. I loved that experience but singing remained a personal thing. It was an outlet just for me.
When my sister passed away when I was 13, I was shattered and struggling. It was music and singing that I turned to cope with all the pain I was feeling. God used music to heal me. It was during this time that two important things happened: 1. I really started to think seriously about singing professionally; and 2. I discovered my love for opera. I studied music and did vocal competitions all throughout high school and went on to study vocal performance at Lamar University with the goal of becoming an international opera star. I didn’t make the international star part, but I managed the professional opera singer part. I was blessed to sing in the chorus for the Houston Grand Opera for over a decade.
Singing in that chorus has been one of the greatest joys of my life. As a chorus member I was privileged to be a part of over 20 productions, including the world premiere of an opera called “Marian’s Song.” The opera was written by Damien Sneed with text by former Houston Texas poet laureate Deborah D.E.E.P Mouton. The opera tells the story of the world renowned African American contralto Marian Anderson. Ms. Anderson paved the way through hardship and racism so that people who look like me would have the chance to persue a career in opera. Being a part of that production was one of my proudest moments. Seeing how the show moved people and encouraged them not only to learn about Marian Anderson, but about opera in general, kept me moving forward. Music changes things and I wanted to be a part of that.
What challenges have you experienced in this industry and how did you overcome them?
The challenges have been vast and different. Pastoring and preach makes you look at yourself and love yourself in a deeper way. It is sometimes difficult to accept that God in all His power and knowledge would choose us to do anything for Him. We begin to focus on what we have done instead of who He is.
I struggled with this. When I looked at myself and the things that I’d done, I couldn’t believe that I was usable. The fact of the matter is He knew us and what we would do, and He still chose us.
Romans 8:28 -30: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom
He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.”
I’m reminded of this verse in times that I have made mistakes, or I feel unworthy of the call. God knows who I was, who I currently am, and who I will be. On the more practical side of pastoring, the biggest challenge has been adjusting to the dayto-day responsibilities of leadership at this level. Learning to run a church is not an easy thing. I thank God for placing me in Living Word Community of Faith under the guidance of my pastor, Apostle Steve Taylor, II. Apostle Taylor is always there to
light a fire under me and to keep me moving forward. He is an outstanding teacher and mentor. I really can’t thank God enough for choosing Apostle Taylor to guide me on this pastoral journey.
My singing career, specifically my opera career, has presented a set of challenges that are completely different than those of pastoring. There are some obvious challenges to mention, such as learning to sing in other languages or finding time to practice but the most difficult and honestly most heart-breaking challenge that I have experienced in my opera career has been racism. Any black person or person of color that works in spaces that are predominantly white will have stories of microaggressions they have experienced in the way of inappropriate questions and jokes or stereotypical assumptions being made about them. I have had my skills doubted because of the color of my skin. I have also been treated as though I should only sing gospel or spirituals and have been met with shock when it is realized that I am capable of more. For almost any large stage production, everyone will need to where makeup to help create the appropriate look for the show. I have been in situations where there was no effort made to acquire make up in my shade when everyone else was provided for. There was one situation where a white colleague needed a new foundation. I offered him the one that had been given to me. He protested that the shade I had couldn’t possibly be a match for him. He was shocked and disturbed when I pulled his shade out of my companyassigned makeup kit. The makeup staff made no effort to find a shade that would work for me. It can be frustrating and hard to deal with. The world of fine arts is often perceived as open and inclusive, and in a lot
BrianGibbs,UniversityofHouston-VictoriaGraduation2022
of ways it is…but there is still work to do.
How has your faith played a role in your business\career?
My faith is the most important thing in everything I do. Nothing that I have achieved would have happened without my faith In God. When I have been faced with challenges in my career, it’s my faith in God that has given me the strength to keep moving forward. It is Him that has brought me to where I am. I’m just allowing him to use me as He will. My prayer is that everything I do, not matter how big or small, will bring Him glory.
What significance does it hold for you to be the inaugural male cover feature for Church Girl CEO Magazine?
I’m just excited!!!!! I’m honored and I really couldn’t be prouder. Even being considered is a blessing but to be on the cover and to be the first....I don’t really have words. Just thank you! Its significant because this is a year of new beginnings for me. Being on the cover of a magazine is something I never considered for myself. God is doing a new thing, and I can’t wait to see what God has in store, not only for me, but for this fantastic magazine! My hope is that something I’ve said will help someone go a little further or help them remember they are not alone.
What advice would you give someone to enter your field?
There are a few things that I always try to remember.
1.Always keep God first and be willing to
bend to His will and his direction. His way is always better. Proverbs 3:6 NKJV says, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” There is a plan for your life.
2.Your attitude determines your altitude. We all must do things that we may not enjoy but having a bad attitude will get you nowhere. Remember we work as if unto the Lord.
3.You can be excellent without being perfect.
4.It’s ok to ask for help. I have a tendency to try to do it all and that is neither healthy nor smart. Ask for help when you need it and partner with people around you. No one can do everything alone.
5.What other people think about you is none of your business. Focus on God and what he says about you.
HTTPS://WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/IVYWAYNEPHOTOS?IGSH=MW5QB2TYZJBKNWQ1NG==
BY JC GARDNER
“Every setback is a lesson. Believe in your vision, for it carries the power to impact the world.”
Nathan Couser is a dynamic individual, gifted with a unique blend of imagination, insight, and vision. His talents and skills have allowed him to breathe life into a variety of projects, including but not limited to theater, media, and art. It was my immense pleasure to interview Nate, a longtime friend and encourager. It is my hope that you will be blessed by his artistic flavor, servant’s heart, and words of inspiration.
JG: What is your profession and/or the name of your business(es) and how did you get started?
NC: I am a multilayered entrepreneur and artist. I am an actor, director, educator, jewelry designer, radio personality and cultural curator.
I am the owner of:
The Artist Exchange Media Hub:
-The Artist Exchange Media Hub was founded a decade ago by my passion for broadcasting. Inspired by my love for radio, I envisioned a platform for artists to discuss the world, fostering connections among entrepreneurs, community leaders, and educators to share ideas and conversations.
Vashtiblue Jewelry Studio:
-Vashtiblue Jewelry Studio originated from my love for the arts and a therapeutic exploration into jewelry making during my theater studies at Coppin State University. After discovering its healing potential post my grandmother’s loss, I delved deeper with guidance from artist Elaine Foster. Vashtiblue Jewelry Studio has been in business for 15 years.
JG: What are the benefits/services your business provides and how long have you been in business?
NC: VashtiBlue Jewelry Studio and The Artist Exchange Media Hub share a common goal: to educate, motivate, and redefine the narrative for urban artists, enhancing unity among artists and entrepreneurs of color.
JG: What has been the most challenging aspect of being in business?
NC: Being a business owner presents several challenges, and among the most difficult is navigating the unpredictable rollercoaster of financial stability, along with managing cash flow, securing funding, and sustaining profitability. The ever-changing economic landscape and unforeseen expenses create
huge obstacles to financial planning. The weight of decision-making, from strategic choices to day-to-day operations can be mentally taxing. Balancing the diverse needs of my personal life, customers, and the business itself requires self-motivation and adaptability.
Additionally, the responsibility for the business’s success or failure rests squarely on the owner’s shoulders, creating a significant emotional burden. Despite these challenges, I wouldn’t have chosen any other path for my business. I have found personal fulfillment in overcoming obstacles, learning, and growing.
JG: What has been the most rewarding aspect of your profession and/or being in business?
NC: The most rewarding aspect of my art and entrepreneurship lies in the impactful responses from former students inspired by my support, mentorship, and personal journey. Witnessing their growth and success is profoundly fulfilling, validating the significance of mentorship and the power of shared stories. The connection forged through inspiration and guidance fosters a sense of pride and purpose, transcending individual achievements to contribute positively to the artistic and entrepreneurial community. It’s the joy derived from knowing that my experiences and encouragement have sparked creativity and determination in others, creating a ripple effect of inspiration that extends beyond my I journey.
JG: Give the reader some encouraging words about pursuing entrepreneurship.
NC: Becoming an entrepreneur is a courageous journey. It is filled with challenges and sacrifices. Embrace the uncertainty as an opportunity to learn and grow. Every setback is a lesson. Believe in your vision, for it carries the power to impact the world positively. Surround yourself with a supportive network, seek mentorship, and relish the small victories. Entrepreneurship is an amazing adventure. Embrace the journey with passion, tenacity, and an unwavering belief in your capabilities. You can turn dreams into reality—your entrepreneurial spirit is the catalyst for change.
JG: What helps you relax or de-stress?
NC: Meditation, music, painting, and writing are my trusted avenues for relaxation and rejuvenation. Engaging in mindfulness through meditation provides a serene escape, while the rhythmic melodies of music soothe my soul. Painting serves as a therapeutic outlet, and the act of writing allows me to express and reflect, collectively forming a harmonious blend that consistently revitalizes my spirit.
the ups and downs. While I haven’t always leaned on it, its unwavering presence has been a grounding force. In moments of uncertainty, it’s a silent sanctuary where I find peace. Faith isn’t just a belief; it’s a resilient thread, weaving through the fabric of my existence, providing comfort and fortitude. Recognizing its power, I’m learning to embrace it more fully, finding profound peace in the unwavering faith that steadies me in life’s unpredictable journey.
JG: How has your faith sustained you or played a role in your life?
NC: Throughout my life, faith has been a constant source of strength, a quiet refuge in
JG: Feel free to give a shout-out to anyone.
NC: I want to shout out to my Grandmothers Shirley Chislely and Marie Wilson. I feel their love around me all the time, and to my mother for all the sacrifices she made for me. Also my beautiful nieces, my sister, and last, to all my friends who have supported me and kept me encouraged through the tough times.
Nate Couser has received several honors from a variety of notable organizations, such as The Fashion Umbrella Foundation, Baltimore Fashion Week, the Baltimore Crown Award, Jewelry Designer of The Year, Podcast of the Year, and the United States Attorney’s Office for activism in the LGBTQ+ Community. Nate is located in Baltimore, Maryland.
BY TR AC Y SHOR TER
As we are in the midst of warmer weather, it’s a great time to think about a summer road trip. If your family dynamics include a pet, planning your next vacation to include man’s best friend can be challengingbutwithproper planning,it can be a memorable experience. Today, I would like to share five (5) tips that helped me when my Shiz Tzu, Phoenix, journeyed by car from Alabama to Texas. The trip was supposed to be 9 hours but turned into 11 hours due to bathroom and restless breaks, mostly on my end.
1
Dog tags are important- Make sure you have current dog tags on your pet. If they are microchipped, be sure that your contact information is updated. If your dog, gets away from you during the trip, this could help someone reach you sooner. It is also a good idea to have the microchip company’s website and contact number in your phone for assistance.
2 Dogs need their own dedicated space in the car- Provide a safe, comfortable space for your dog in the car. Just because you are traveling by car, be careful not to overpackthe car. The size of your dog and their
energy level will determine the amount of space your dog needs. On our trip to Texas, we utilized a doggie car seat for Phoenix. This kept him secure for any sudden stops, and he had ample room to snuggle off to sleep.
3 Don’t skip bathroom breaks- Let’s remember if you must go to the bathroom, be assured your dog does too. Plan time in your drive for laps around the parking lot or at the preferred doggie park at most service stations. When using one of these areas, be sure to clean up after your pet before leaving. Nothing is more disturbing than a messy dog park area.
4
Carry a collapsible crate for hotel/ AirBNB stays - A crate is a great way to help your dog feel safe in unfamiliar locations. The collapsible crates don’t take up much room in the car and if your dog is crate-trained, it gives a sense of familiarity in a strange setting. This was the best thing we brought along for Phoenix’s trip to Texas.
5
Know the destination guideline regarding pets- While there are attractions and restaurants that allow pets to join you for the experience, it’s a wise idea to not assume this is the case at every establishment. In the event your furry family member is not welcomed, consider booking a stay at the local doggie daycare in the area. This will give both you and your
dog socialization time. The added plus is any extra energy is gone by the time you pick them up, so a restful night’s sleep is usually the reward.
My first trip with Phoenix, required more planning but having him with me instead of being boarded was well worth it. I did not have to wonder how or if he was properly being care for, as I was providing the care. Most importantly, we got to share time I would have missed had I boarded or left him with family or friends.
Tracy Shorter, CTA Shorter Route Travel tracy@shorterroutetravel.net
205-329-4117
