Welcome to our luminous Summer issue of Flourish Digital Magazine a riveting collection of stories, interviews, insights and fun under the theme "When People, Places and Things Heat Up "
We ignite this issue with our cover model, Dwayna Haley, a true powerhouse in the Public Relations industry She's leading a remarkable wave of empowerment for Black women, standing as a beacon for others to follow Sharing the spotlight is Ana Megrelishvili, who is a shining example of our power to transform trauma into purpose; and Taylor D. Brown, whose destiny transcends the boundaries of the basketball court, inspiring us all to aim higher.
The People's Principal, Dr Ashley B Hosey, Ed D , talks with Paula G Voice about the joy and challenges of working with educators and children Robin Allen courageously shares about her journey as a Black woman navigating corporate diversity. Frank Carlisi provides us with an insider's look at Atlanta's thriving unscripted television industry. Elena Taylor-Bagger's Hey, Mamas! offering for this issue includes her featured mom, Michele Turner-Young, once a teen mother of twins who survived a suicide attempt to start SoulFire Movement, her vision for a mobile dance truck company These stories serve as a testament to resilience and the spirit of innovation
To maximize your success, we offer key considerations to look at before investing in PR, from long-time expert Karen Gamba We also delve into my personal exploration of the Personal Excellence Profile (PEP) matrix, a novel approach to unlocking your energy, excellence and power
With Summer in full swing, we celebrate the vibrant new I AM Jazz Lounge opening at I AM Café, part of the Vanda House, located in Sandy Springs bringing live jazz back to the heart of Metro Atlanta
Gather practical wisdom from Donnella Cranford on how best to handle life’s heated situations; and get some good advice on how to forge your future from our resident Lady Wisdom, Paula G Voice Janis Hunt Johnson takes a spiritual approach to loving our neighbor, even when things heat up between us.
On each page, this issue offers enlightenment, inspiration and entertainment I hope it challenges you, motivates you, and most importantly, helps you to flourish in all aspects of your life
Enjoy this sun-kissed journey!
With our theme this season, When People, Places and Things Heat Up, we look at exceptional individuals navigating a world in a constant state of change.
In Summer, we are given the opportunity to bloom much like the flora around us warmed not only by the sun but by our human connections Summer is a fun time for fostering meaningful bonds, connecting on a lighter, yet somehow deeper level and it makes for an informal space where we can collaborate on transformative ideas
As founder & CEO of STEM Atlanta Women, I'm proud to introduce our new Emerging Tech program, Flourishing Artificial Intelligence Women Shaping the Future of AI This initiative is our commitment to change our hope for a transformative force within the AI industry We will make waves!
We envision "Flourishing AI" as a guidepost, illuminating the path for a new generation of AI enthusiasts and professionals. By inspiring creativity and innovation, along with a passion for AI and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), we will shape the future of this dynamic industry. It's a milestone on our journey toward an inclusive and diverse tech environment. As we delve into the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence, we're accelerating gender equality in STEM and sparking tangible change in our society for women and girls to flourish We're also covering the latest trends and advancements that are shaping our world and setting the pace for the future
Let's embrace the replenishing warmth and radiance of Summer Let's flourish together
Editor-in-Chief
@flourishdigitalmagazine
Wateryourdreams withpositivity,weedout negativity,prune distractions,cherish everyfruitfulachievement, andalwaysnurture thesoilofyourcorebeliefs. Remember,everyblossom inyourlifebegins withinyou.
~CHLOÉ TAYLOR BROWN
THEUNSCRIPTEDTELEVISIONINDUSTRY,THRIVINGINATLANTA THEUNSCRIPTEDTELEVISIONINDUSTRY,THRIVINGINATLANTA by Frank Carlisi
WHYAMISTILLTHEONLYBLACKWOMANINTHEMEETING?
by Robin AllenTHEPERSONALEXCELLENCEPROFiLE(PEP)MATRiX:DECiPHERiNGTHESCiENCEOF GOODENERGY,EXCELLENCEANDPOWER
by Chloé Taylor Brown
MAXiMiZiNGViSiBiLiTYSUCCESS:KEYCONSiDERATiONSBEFOREiNVESTiNGiNPR
by Karen Gamba
SHEPiVOTSANDSHiFTS
Chloé
DwaynaHaley, FemininePowerPlayer
SHE IS BEAUTIFUL, KNOWLEDGABLE & SAGACIOUS AN INSPIRING WOMAN OF SUBSTANCE WHO GLADLY EMPOWERS OTHERS TO RISE UP AND FLOURISH WITH HER:
She values herself and displays IvyLeague confidence with grace and style;
She has keen perception;
She is decisive;
She applies her knowledge;
She pursues worthy, big dreams;
She has the knowledge and discipline to maintain and expand her dreams and others' dreams, too;
She energizes her mind, body, spirit and soul, and thrives;
She has the ability to take action, to occupy and hold a position, and to take charge;
She communicates masterfully and uses her communication abilities to speak truthfully, specifically and clearly to direct energy in a positive manner;
She has abundant, upscale communication channels, contacts and connections;
She shows up and delivers what she promises;
She duplicates, appreciates and acknowledges others' dreams, viewpoints, skills, visions, plans and desires;
She trusts and respects herself and creates trust and respect in others;
She is honest;
She is a big developer and producer;
Those connected to her to her game of excellence and to her area(s) expand spiritually;
She maintains big dreams, visions, plans, skills and actions;
She knows the value of creating her unique brand and projecting a trustworthy appearance that meets the requirements of any occasion;
She laughs freely, and sincerely enjoys herself, others and life; and
She loves operating in a win-win manner.
Intuitive, strong, bold, prosperous, successful, healthy and happy she is a breath of fresh air.
Copyright©2023byChloéTaylorBrown,Allrightsreserved wwwchloetaylorbrowncom
A model , an educator , and an inner beauty activist have come together to open the doors to something really special: The MicroHydra-LIFT.
The MicroHydra-LIFT is more than just an impressive device. It has been engineered and created to serve, treat, and leave you in awe. Whether you are the one giving the treatment or receiving it, when both the professional and the client are equally satisfied, radiant, and happy, that's a beautiful thing
The MicroHydra-LIFT® is a one-of-a-kind innovative treatment consisting of an eight-step program, combining four technologies to achieve smoother, plumper, more moisturized, and deeply hydrated skin It leaves you feeling instantly rejuvenated with a youthful, radiant glow The specialized, unique whirlpool tip is particularly exciting as it simultaneously sucks oxidized sebum from the skin pores while pushing moisture molecules into the skin's deeper layers, giving you immediate results
MicroHydra-LIFT, brand new in the United States, is being introduced into the content-rich curriculum of the Elaine Sterling Institute an internationally recognized school of beauty and spa education located in Atlanta, Georgia. This curriculum meets state, national, and international requirements, and includes not only theory but also lab and clinical experience. This is incredibly exciting as education, leadership, and experience come to the forefront for these graduates, who will be the first to be certified as MicroHydra-LIFT specialists
A great thing about equipping your salon or spa with this impressive, results-driven device is that the therapists have been thoroughly educated and trained to specialize in the delivery of the MicroHydra-LIFT
Three high-powered entrepreneurial women are fueling this revolution in the beauty industry Vanda Teixeira is an inner beauty activist, founder of Vanda Skin and the distributor of the MicroHydra-LIFT in the United States She has brought two additional influencers along with her: Chloé Taylor Brown, founder of Flourish Digital Magazine and international model, transforms the lives of women, elevating them through a powerful program called iDentity Shift [see page 68]. Completing the trio is Elaine Sterling, accomplished educator who leads the graduates of her established Elaine Sterling Institute into their future roles as exceptional beauty specialists. Working together, Vanda, Chloé and Elaine will surely make a powerful impact Vanda connects the dots with these meaningful relationships because she believes in a bright future for the beauty industry <
Dwayna Haley's rich professional life is rooted in the foundations of her personal life. Married for sixteen years to her husband, Bryan, Dwayna's narrative intertwines the essence of empowerment with a desire for cultivating change. As children, she and Bryan crossed paths for the first time in fifth and sixth grade but it was at Middle Tennessee State University that their connection blossomed into a relationship
Her career has spanned two decades, and within this time frame, she has achieved an array of feats She has led brand marketing strategy, communications, and C-suite counsel for Fortune 500 companies at industry-leading global communications agencies But her success does not stop there
Her two children, Noah, who is thirteen, and Lillian, who is nine, add another dimension to Dwayna’s life. She and Bryan also have a family dog, King, adding to their full and vibrant home life. The same passion she carries for her professional life, she holds for her family as well.
The embodiment of her career so far has been shaped by her resilience and creativity, marking her as an exceptional storyteller, strategist and architect of end-to-end marketing solutions From launching the first go-to-market advertising strategy in videoon-demand, to guiding the integration of consumer trends for optimizing business growth, Dwayna's career has been a testament to mining white-space opportunities to spark innovation and deliver a competitive advantage
Dwayna’s empowerment platform is driven by an intense desire to demonstrate the intersectionality of Black women. She pushes back against the confining mainstream narrative of reality-television caricatures that often stereotype Black women. She emphasizes, "We are wives, mothers, sisters and friends and pillars of our community. There is rich beauty and depth to be found in embracing us as whole beings " >
At present, Dwayna holds the role of Founder and CEO of Haley Communications Group and AskthePRGirl. These platforms provide marketing, public relations, and business development consulting for corporate companies, nonprofits, and niche agencies seeking game-changing growth. Prior to her current position, she served as Chief Brand & Communications Officer for the Metro Atlanta Chamber (MAC). Before that, she was the Executive Vice President, North America Growth Lead for Porter Novelli.
Having graduated from Middle Tennessee State University, where she was later inducted into the College of Media and Entertainment Hall of Fame, Dwayna today resides in Atlanta with her family Dwayna’s multi-faceted identity as a marketing and communication professional, an advocate for Black women, and a dedicated wife and mother illuminates the depth of her character and commitment to her community
For this profile, Dwayna provided thoughtful answers to our questions.
I launched this brand years ago as a platform to express my intersectional perspective within public relations and marketing I was tired of seeing the same industry pundits give their take on business case studies I was also tired of seeing a monolith influence the face of our industry. It became my thought leadership platform to show a different side and personality within the PR and marketing field. Today, my focus has slightly shifted. AskthePRGirl now centers on Black women, and celebrates the dynamism of our intersectionality, all from the perspective of one PR Girl. Who better to tell our story than someone who tells stories for a living?
The “ angry Black woman ” trope, unconscious bias, and microaggressions that plague Black women in the corporate world have levied an undue level of emotional trauma as we attempt to build a career.
While the social reckoning after George Floydʼ s death in 2020 triggered exuberant, widespread corporate investment in diversity, equity and inclusion [DEI], three short years later, fatigue from DEI accountability has introduced increased performance scrutiny, predatory behavior, and retaliation particularly against Black women in the workplace.
Last year, I experienced unexpected job loss. After twenty years of navigating extreme bias, I was fed up No amount of code switching, being a chameleon, or creating comfort in majority-White spaces helped my career, saved me from punitive action, or spared me from disproportionate scrutiny I began interviewing other Black women in senior corporate ranks, and learned that they were also feeling alone, frustrated, trapped and hopeless I said, “Enough is enough ” I launched AskthePRGirl Presents: Empowerment for Executive Black Women to do something about the issue No one is coming to save us. It’s time we save ourselves.
Tell us more about the event. On May 22, 2023, I invited over 100 executive Black women to AskthePRGirl’s inaugural Empowerment Evening for Executive Black Women. The curated experience offered attendees a safe space to share their stories, opening the door to emotional healing and renewed empowerment Through a fireside
What can Black women do to change their circumstances and to address toxic environments?
It’s important to understand that the bias we endure is systemic Unless leadership in the company you serve is bullish about inside-out transformation and accountability, there’s not much you can do beyond documenting all things, and keeping receipts in case of litigation The most important thing we must all do is change our mindset The battlefield of the mind is where we must focus
Shift your beliefs of self and your value. Know who you are and Whose you are. Believing in yourself, and refusing to ingest the poison of toxic behavior as some sort of indictment of you, rather than an indication of that person ’ s flawed character this is the revolution we need.
Depression in Black women often appears as anxiety, frustration, short-tempered moods, or “bitchiness ” Our resilience and strength often don't allow for traditional sadness, or even suicidal ideation, which is associated with deep depression We persevere But we ’ re hell on wheels to deal with
We also suffer from the highest cases of heart disease, inflammatory diseases like lupus, and many autoimmunodeficiencies because our bodies are holding on to all of the anxiety, stress and trauma. We have to change our mindset for our health. Our lives literally depend on it. <
@asktheprgirl
www.asktheprgirl.com
I’m that woman the-only-Black-woman in the meeting, the-only-Black-woman in the whole department—among a mix of men and women from other races. I was that woman when I started my career over twenty years ago working for a technology company. And twenty-five years later in today’s remote environment I’m often the-only-Black-woman on a Zoom or Microsoft Teams call.
I’m not the only Black female who has experienced the-only-Black-woman syndrome. Across many industries, Black women frequently are the only one in a department, in a meeting or at a conference. >
I
I walk into a conference room and attend meetings like I belong there, even if there are upper management and executives in the room I have a skill they value and I’m not hesitant to share my knowledge
Over the years, I’ve had experiences with people who cannot hide their disdain for Black people I will sometimes respond to an email that is what I call “intellectual fire.” I refuse to be intimidated.
I do my homework, I do the research and I prepare myself to address questions and make suggestions. I analyze related topics and scenarios and prepare responses for similar situations
Today’sworkforceismulti-generational withBabyBoomers,GenerationZ,Millennials,andGenerationXall workingtogether.Withinthismulti-generationalworkforce,therearestillthe-only-Black-womanscenarios. Herearetipstohelpmanageandthrivebeingthe-only-Black-womaninthemeeting:
Remind yourself of your skills and abilities. Don’t be afraid. Don't allow them to sense your nervousness Read affirmations to boost your self-esteem. Find a mentor who can offer advice on meeting preparation and presentation skills.
The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel. Conduct research on the meeting’s topics Memorize pertinent and relevant information
Enter meetings with confidence. If you do feel nervous, put on the cloak of confidence and strut into the room with a mask of belonging
Be proud to be that girl. Be proud of your accomplishments and skills to land in a place where you are the only one
Know how to communicate and operate in a corporate setting. Years ago, we were told to “fake it till you make it.” Today’s term is “code switch.” Code-switching is changing your behavior to appeal to a different audience—which translates to adapting effectively to a corporate environment
Talk that corporate talk. Elevate your language. Communicate with intellect. Regardless of your profession, be professional, flexible and respectful.
There are many reasons for this perpetual conundrum We are the minority There are more of them than there are of us. That’s the mathematics of the corporate equation and power. Black women adapt. But there are unexplainable nuances to the-only-Black-woman syndrome. I wrote this article to start the conversation Let's raise awareness and propel positive change that is meaningful and realistic <
Robin Allen has worked as a full-time senior-level consultant in marketing and communications for Fortune 50O and high-tech companies. She is a freelance writer who has written 50+ articles for national and print publications Robin is a multipublished author of women’s fiction Her latest novel is It’sComplicated:ANovel
wwwrobinallenbookscom
I don’t allow myself to feel intimidated.
Hey,mamas!Fallisfastapproaching,andaswe savorthebeautyoflifeinSummer,we'realso preparingfortheinevitablechangesthatcome withthenewAutumnseason AtTheInnovative Mom®,ourmissionhasalwaysbeentosupport, educate,empowerandnurturemoms Webelieve thatasmothers,itisessentialforustoembarkon apersonalself-carejourney,strivingtoachieve ourgoalswhilemaintainingasustainablelifestyle andfulfillingourresponsibilitiesasparents. >
OUR LATEST INSIGHT FROM THE INNOVATIVE MOM: EMBRACING CHANGE AND EMPOWERING MOMS
Ourvisionhasbeentocreateaglobalcommunity wheremomsfromdifferentbackgroundscan cometogether,embracingoursimilaritiesas mothersandcelebratingourculturaldifferences Throughvirtualtravelsandconversationswith momsworldwide,wehavediscoveredacommon thread:Wetendtotakeonagreatdealwithout consideringourselvesintheprocess Ourdreams andaspirationsoftentakeabackseataswe prioritizeourfamilies and,oftenattimes,face exhaustion.
It'simportanttorecognizethatthereisnoonesize-fits-allplanformotherhood.Whetheryou'rea singlemom,married,anempty-nester,amomof multiples,oramomofone,webelievethatyou canlivealifeyoulovewhileraisingafamily.It'sall aboutfindingabalancethatworksforyouwhile honoringyourpersonaljourney
Selfcareiscrucialinthisprocess Asmoms,we oftenforgettoprioritizeourownwell-being amidstthechaosofdailylife However,taking careofourselvesallowsustoshowupasourbest selfforourfamilies
Thisisnotselfish;it'sanecessaryactofloveand compassion.
Weencourageyoutoembracechange,topursue yourdreams,andtoprioritizeyourownwellbeing.Remember,youarenotaloneonthis journey.
AsFallapproaches,let'swelcomethenewseason withopenarmsandopenhearts Takethis opportunitytoreflectonyourpersonalgoals,to seeksupportfromourcommunity,andtofindthe balancethatallowsyoutolivealifeyoulovewhile nurturingyourfamily
Motherhoodisauniversalexperience thattranscendsbordersandcultures Itis ajourneyfilledwithjoyandchallenges andanabundanceoflove.Webelievein honoringandpresentingmotherhoodinall itsbeautifulforms,toencourageand solidifytoallmomsthatyouarenotalone. InthisissueofFlourishDigitalMagazine, we’dliketopresentourfeaturedmom:
Tell us a little about yourself
Iamthirty-eightyearsoldandamotherofthemost beautifultwingirls,whoaretwenty-oneyearsoldandin theirsecondyearofcollege IwasborninPortsmouth, VirginiaandraisedinBoston,Massachusetts.Myparents arebothSouthernfolk mymotherfromVirginiaandmy fatherfromNewOrleans,Louisiana.Iliketoconsider myselfacity-countrygirl,becauseofthefoundation, foodandfamilylegacyIwasraisedin.Mymotherwasa serialentrepreneurwithmultiplehobbies andsheliked todragusintohelpingherdothem Shealsoworked twentyyearsatadetoxhospitalhelpingaddictsgetoff thestreet MyDadwasaNavyveteranandfirefighterof thirty-fiveyears,andoneofthebestgrillmasters Ihave threesisters,Iamthesecondoldest,andIamdefinitely theblacksheepofthefamily.DadcalledmeBlackPunky BrewsterbecauseofthewayIdressedandlivedjoyously asachild.
What are your hobbies and interests?
Ilovetodance,totrynewtypesoffoods,andtotravel andmeetnewpeople
What are the values and principles that guide your life?
Thevaluesandprinciplesthatguidemylifeare gratitude,constantself-development,familyand community andobtainingaharmonious,healthylifein allareassuchasphysical,emotional,mental,spiritual andfinancial.Andtheyalllookalittledifferent dependingonwhat’shappening.
Motherhood is filled with various challenges. Can you share some of the challenges you have faced as a mom and how you have overcome them?
ThemostchallengingthingI’vehadtoovercomeasa MomisunderstandingthatIdon’thavetoproveanything toanyone IwassixteenandineleventhgradewhenIhad mytwins andtheworld,theschoolandmyfamilytried tobeatmeupfornotfollowingtheirprogram,fornot livinguptotheexpectationstheyhadforme Wow!Like, howdareyouthinkwhatyouhadinmindformylifewas forme?AndsoItriedforaverylongtimetoprovethatI wouldn’tbeastatistic,thatIdidn’tneedtheirhelp,and thisisthecrazypart thatIcouldstillfollowtheusual program,asateenmom.Thatwasnotmypath.Goingto collegeforfouryearswasnotmypath Itried Believeme Goingintothemilitarywasnotmypath Becominga firefighteroranurse whichmyfamilyrecommended wasalsonotmypath!Itriedtodoallofthesethings becauseoftheextremejudgmentfromallsides EveryonewastellingmeIneededasecuritymeasureto beabletofinanciallycareformydaughters. >
Wow, that was a lot to go through at such an early age. Sometimes, moms reach a point where they feel the need to start over or to make significant changes, Have you ever felt that way? And if so, what prompted your desire for a fresh start? And how did you go about it?
InFebruaryof2009,myfamily’shouse,whichmy daughtershadjustmovedbackinto,caughton fire.Thisledtofouryearsofbouncingfromshelter toshelter,fromscatteredsitetoscatteredsite Andapitfallintoalcoholism Inyearfourofthis downwardcycle,Itriedtocommitsuicideby drinkingmyselftodeath Itwasafterthatmoment whenIsawIwasstillalive thatIrealizedhow selfishIhadbecomeinmypain Igrewupfighting boysforfun.Ihadthemostamazingdaughters. HowdareIdothattothem?IknewIhadtomake anefforttochange,andgetbacktothatjoyous go-getterIhadbeengrowingup.
SoIwentbacktodancing Makingthatdecision changedmylife!AfterIbeganfocusingondance, mylifeturnedupsidedowninthebestway possible ItwasnotsomethingIthoughtIwouldbe makingalivingfrom.Ididn'tknowifitcouldbemy purpose However,afteragreatdealofwork,Iwas abletosupportmyselfandmydaughterswith onlydancework!Untilthepandemichappened, andmygigswerecutshort Butthisputmeona divinepath tostartmyowncompany,whichI've namedSoulFireMovement
How do you implement self care into your daily life?
Myselfcarehasevolvedtremendously.Atfirstmy selfcarelookedlikedrinkingwithmyfriendson theweekendsorwheneverIcould Nowit’snew moonbathsandmeditationwithmykids Ihave begunforgivingthatsixteen-year-oldgirlwho wasbattlingalotofmentalandemotional challengesbecauseshehadtogrowupfastand missedoutona“normal”teenexperience.
Is there a particular person who has had a significant influence on your life?
Myparentswereprobablythebestrolemodelsin mylife.Theybothhavepassednow.TodayIam muchlikemyownmother.Shetaughtmetohave myownbusiness AndmyfathertaughtmethatI candoanythingIputmymindto Howmagical thatis!AndsonowadaysIammyownmom
What has been the greatest piece of advice you ' ve been given as it relates to motherhood and self?
Youcannotpourfromanemptycup Takecareof yourselffirst
What is the one piece of advice you'd like to share with other moms?
Havegracewithyourself.Putitinyourcalendar asaremindertoday.Youareonlyhuman.
Where can we find out all about your company, SoulFire Movement? What support do you need to help you move forward in your goals?
SoulFireMovementLLCisamobiledancetruckfor hire.Webringthestagetoyou,byofferinga uniquespaceforpop-up-styleexperiencesof dance,fitnessclasses,communityprogramming andspecialevents Additionally,webroadcastour ownmovementclassesweeklyonlineand throughourdigitalapp,topeoplearoundthe nation Iampursuingmentorshipandfunding RightnowIamseeking$80,000tocompletethe coststhatwillallowustolaunch.
wwwsoulfiremovementcom
@soulfire.movement
Achieving this vision I’m sure will not only change your life but so many others' lives as well. I invite our readers to visit your website I can’t wait to book a class, and see all of your dreams come to fruition! <
Showcasingtalented womenandgirlsin thefashionand beautyindustry,and celebratingthose whohave contributedgreatly toit.
ishostingitsfirstfearlessfashionandbeauty exhibitionSunday,September24,2023at3:00PM
EST Thiseventwillshowcasetalentedwomenand girlsinthefashionandbeautyindustry,and celebratethosewhohavecontributedgreatlyto thisindustry
BossGirlIncisanonprofitorganizationfoundedin 2020bytheneleven-year-oldXaraKemp,whose missionis"toturnagirlintoaBOSSthrougha SISTERHOODthatinspiresallgirlstoDREAM BIGGERandusetheirVOICEastheirPOWERto createeconomicchangeforallwomenandgirls."
24 Sept 2023
When intuition, vision, and desire come together, that's when the magic happens As we connect, we can all feel it.
Three years ago, when Sandy Springs' everpopular Cafe 290 closed its doors after more than forty years of offering live jazz, the Atlanta music scene took a significant hit. There was no longer a centrally located venue for some of Atlanta's top jazz musicians to shed, bless the stage, and wow the audience members who had come to know and love them Fewer places existed for jazz enthusiasts to support their love for America’s first improvisatory musical art form, and many anxiously awaited a new venue for live jazz music.
As one door closes, another opens. A new possibility emerged in the Spring of 2023 Spiritual healer and activist Vanda Teixeira who was already a success with her popular Café I AM, a healthful European (Portuguese South African)-inspired eatery and espresso bar located inside The Vanda House decided to create The I AM Jazz Lounge As part of the café, the Jazz Lounge has allowed for the re-emergence of live jazz on the Atlanta music scene.
Vanda now presents the amazing pianist and vocalist, Chanda Leigh, who monthly captivates her audience with an undeniable soulful talent
Chanda's passion for music started when she was only eight years old, when her mother bought her a journal the first of many This established her love for music, which grew when she later studied creative writing and jazz piano at the prestigious Spelman College Upon graduation, she channeled her energy into songwriting and formed the Chanda Bailey Trio in 1995, performing at festivals and venues throughout Atlanta
Chanda shares her favorite songs alongside local, regional and international musicians namely bassist Anthony Daniel, an Atlanta native, who weaves sultry bass notes on his upright. Together the duo has been delighting audiences
In 1997, Chanda Leigh moved to Los Angeles to begin her television career as a member of the all-female house band of The Keenen Ivory Wayans Show After the show was canceled in 1998, she met and began writing with Grammynominated producer, DaMone Arnold. Together they created her debut album, Easy on the Eyes.
She has created multiple records, including her second record, Big City Life, an album described as reaching "beyond the surface to the emotion that really tells the story" Her third project, Simple Life, is “one of my favorite works because it represents all of the great musical experiences I’ve had in my career.” She has toured and recorded all over the world, in five continents, for as many as 60,000 people She's worked with such internationally known artists as Neil Diamond, Irene Cara, Morgan Heritage and Chris Botti. >
Starting this June, The Café I AM officially opens its doors to the general public for its monthly I AM Jazz Lounge offering a private, intimate setting of chic elegance. The goal is to provide a unique place for showcasing local musicians to nurture a new venue for creating magical musical moments for upcoming and flourishing jazz artists
Chanda Leigh shares, “I love the idea of celebrating this monumental moment in my life with my loved ones, friends and musical colleagues, as this opening celebrates my fiftieth birthday.”
It's a new beginning, where it's hoped that jazz artists will continue to touch the heart of Atlanta for years to come. >
A special treat surprises audience members each performance, when a young pianist, Rafael ("Rafa"), graces the stage to share his raw talent. Vanda's son, Rafa is a talented soul now breaking onto the Atlanta music scene With a classical background and a distinctive sound, Rafa is making an exciting new start as he follows in the footsteps of his jazz mentors [Read more about Vanda and Rafa on page 43 ]
At the iHollywood Film Fest, Chanda Leigh garnered five awards We can only imagine what successes the I AM Jazz Lounge will bring, as the stars align and shine brightly on future musicians and artists. As we let the ideas and connections flow to create a renewed sense of community, it's as if the old soul masters are directing the strings of fate as destiny unfolds.
The story of Chanda Leigh's rise to prominence in the jazz world and her ongoing contribution to the local music scene embodies the excitement and warmth of live jazz everywhere, reflecting the dynamism of the Summer season. Much like the sultry days of Summer, the world of jazz is a hotbed of inspiration, continual growth and transformation < WWW.THECAFEIAM.COM
Fromtheenergeticworldofsports,Ifound adestinybiggerthanthebasketballcourt.
I'mTaylorD.Brown,onceaproballer,nowguiding athletesatalllevels fromaspiringmiddleschoolersto collegeplayers,aswellaspros, andevenOlympians—acrosseverysport.
I'mallinonAppliedParallelIdentityCoaching.I recognizeanidentitywithineachathletethatgoes beyondtheirperformanceonthefieldorthecourt a uniqueidentitythatdemandsattentionandgrowth.
Inourjourneytogether,Iofferathletesthetoolstolook withinanduncovertheirrealselves.Weidentifythose skillsthattransferoffthecourt,weexplorepassionsthat existbeyondtheirsport,andwecraftabalancedlife thatisn'tconfinedbygamestats.Iutilizeresourcessuch asthePersonalExcellenceProfile(PEP)assessment[see page78]tohelpilluminatetheunseenstrengthswithin.
Wesetgoalswithpurpose targetedobjectivesthatalignwithpassions,notjust dreams.Wedevelopahungerforcontinualevolution andlearning.Webuildresilience,teachingathletesto adapt,toriseaboveandtoconquerchallenges Nomatterifthey'reayoungtalent,acollegiatestar,a professional,oranOlympian—andnomattertheirsport, IseethepotentialforgreatnessineveryathleteIcoach. JustasImademymovesonthecourt,Iaimtohelp athletesmaketheirmarkinlife,beyondtheirsport.
Embrace Your Multi-Dimensional
Greatness: Pivot, Shift, and Level Up in Life with The Athlete's Applied Parallel iDentity (API)
TAYLOR D. BROWN
by Laurie Renfro
Syndrome
[sin-drohm, -druhm]
noun a set of concurrent things (such as emotions or actions) that characterize a particular identifiable pattern, abnormality or condition
It’s every little girl’s dream to win her mother’s favor Without a doubt, that hope was in me when I first met my mother I remember it like a picture pulled from a camera roll Her face in soft-lens and lips a Fashion Fair pink, my mother bent toward me in the Children’s Home Society receiving room. Somewhere between her smile and her outstretched hands, I grasped the truth of my fortune The exquisite creature before me would be my mother I was nearly four years old and it was love at first sight. But the honeymoon would not last.
My mother was not a bad person She took care of me and she was kind between bouts of aggression. She gave herself to our community. She was the favorite kindergarten teacher to legions of kids; the long-time children’s choir director and special days committee chair at our church; and an avid fundraiser for the NAACP as well as for the service-oriented sorority we now share
But away from the public eye, my mother was critical, disagreeable, controlling and, often, just plain mean And of all the things she found objectionable, I think I topped the list Only those in our inner circle knew this side of my mother, leaving her public image, which she so valued, unscathed.
I spent decades trying to win my mother’s favor Actually her unconditional love Despite and because of my mother’s resistance, I was driven to prove that I was a good daughter and worthy of her choosing Repeatedly, however, our interactions left me feeling harried, hurt and humiliated But I couldn’t stop trying Over the years a pathology developed. A syndrome Well into my forties, I continued to over-perform for my mother and jump to her ever-escalating requests right up to the moment I learned that I had been disinherited. I recognized myself in the tellall book, Mommie Dearest, where author Christina Crawford says:
Legendary actress Joan Crawford, Christina’s adoptive mother, was not as manic as portrayed in the film version but, like my mom, she was grossly unfair, often irrational, sometimes brutal and unpredictably punishing
Good-Daughter Syndrome is an equalopportunity disorder affecting women raised by biological and adoptive mothers alike Written in short-story-like vignettes, Amy Tan’s The Joy Luck Club reveals the hidden pasts of four older Chinese immigrant women and their American biological daughters, and how each of their lives was shaped by their respective mother’s experiences Although the book’s primary theme is the clash of Chinese and American cultures, the quest for maternal favor also surfaces as a theme common to the eight characters telling their stories
In one of the more startling vignettes, AnMei Hsu, one of the founding members of the Joy Luck Club, describes what she witnessed when her estranged mother returned home to honor her own dying mother, despite having been falsely accused, publicly shamed, torn from her children and exiled: “and then I saw her pull up her sleeve and pull out a sharp knife She put this knife on the softest part of her arm I tried to close my eyes but could not. And then my mother cut a piece of meat from her arm my mother took her flesh and put it in the soup She cooked magic in the ancient tradition to try to cure her mother this one last time.”
I’m certain that many with Good-Daughter Syndrome feel that they have given their own “pound of flesh” The abuse and entitlement exercised on a daughter who only seeks her mother’s favor wields power well beyond the moment The effects leave daughters feeling unworthy and deny them what Amy Tan calls life’s “best quality,” as revered by the Joy Luck Club members and most of our mothers >
I spent more than twenty-five years trying to make sure that Mommie Dearest loved me, trying to win her acceptance and approval.
Havingseenitinmyself,Iusuallycan recognizewomensufferingfromGoodDaughterSyndromewithinthefirstfew conversations.Mostoften,theyaresmart, drivenandaccomplished Theyarealso kind,compassionateandgenerous But thesewonderfulqualitiesareoffsetbya practiceddenialofselfinfavorofunworthy others andbyblindersthatkeepthem fromrecognizingthosewhoonly consume Good-DaughterSyndrome depriveswomenbeyondtheconfinesof themother-daughterrelationshipasa deep-seatedfeelingofunworthiness lingers despitebravado,accomplishment orprovensuccess andinformspresentdaychoicesandbehavior AndI’mwilling tobetthere’samaleversionofthe syndromethatdoesthesame
Womenaroundmyagehaveentered somethingofanewera.Ourmothersare dyingandwearefindingthefreedomto talkaboutthewaystheirlivesimprinted uponourown “Allyoucanbeisyour mother”isthetossed-aroundretortaswe recallthingsfunnyorquirkyorlovelythat weinheritedfromthem Wearealso unearthingsomeofthemoredifficultand tragicexperiencesthatwoundedour mothersandtheirabilitytomotherus.We aredrawingconnectionsbetweenwhat weknowoftheirpaststothewaythey raisedus and,wheneverpossible,giving themthecompassiontheysorelyneeded, butdidn’treceive,waybackwhen.
ThereisnoonewaytocureGood-Daughter Syndromeand,maybe,likeantibodiesthat remainafteraninfection,someremnantsof theafflictionmightneverbecleared But awakeningtotheindicativepatternsishow healingcanbegin.Andfromthere,patterns canbeinterruptedor,asIliketosay,the routinecanbeinterrupted Butbelieveme, it’snoteasy Facingthefactthatyouhave beenabusedbyanyoneistough.But lookingsquarelyatabusebyyourown mother thepersonwhoshouldcherish youthemost canfeellikeafrighteningly impossibletask
WhenIwasachildunknowinglysuffering fromGood-DaughterSyndrome,several specialwomeninmycommunitysawme Withoutalarmingmymother,theyfound waystodemonstratetheirloveformeand toshowtheirconfidenceinme Iam eternallygratefulfortheirencouragement andsupport EachyearwhenMother'sDay comesaround,it'smywishthatevery strugglinggooddaughterwillbetrulyseen bystand-inslikemine Theyaremothers too,whetherornottheyhavechildren,and theyarevitaltosurvivingandovercoming Good-DaughterSyndrome. <
UNSCRIPTED UNSCRIPTED UNSCRIPTED TELEVISION
Atlanta, Georgia, known for its vibrant culture and thriving entertainment scene, has emerged as a powerhouse in the unscripted television industry. With its diverse locales, talented workforce, and supportive infrastructure, the city has become a magnet for reality TV shows, documentaries, and game shows, transforming the way viewers engage with unscripted content. >
Over the past decade, Atlanta has witnessed a meteoric rise in the unscripted television genre The city's unique blend of urban landscapes, picturesque suburbs and natural beauty offers an abundance of compelling backdrops for various shows Productions such as The Real Housewives of Atlanta, Love & Hip Hop Atlanta, and The Walking Dead have not only captivated viewers worldwide but have also showcased the city's distinct culture and dynamic lifestyle Atlanta's unscripted television industry has flourished due to its pool of talented individuals working behind the scenes. The city boasts a skilled workforce that includes producers, directors, camera operators, editors and other industry professionals. Moreover, the presence of renowned production companies and studios has further bolstered the industry's growth, providing a platform for local talent to shine, and attracting seasoned professionals from across the nation. >
Atlanta's robust infrastructure and supportive environment have played a pivotal role in nurturing the unscripted television industry The city offers state-of-the-art production facilities, sound stages, post-production studios and equipment rental services all vital components for producing high-quality content Furthermore, Georgia's attractive tax incentives and the Georgia Entertainment Industry Investment Act have encouraged production companies to choose Atlanta as their preferred filming destination, fueling the industry's expansion, and attracting major networks and streaming platforms
Atlanta's unscripted television industry owes much of its success to the city's vibrant community and engaged audience Locals often participate in casting calls and serve as extras, creating an authentic representation of Atlanta's diverse population on-screen The shows, in turn, reflect and celebrate the city's unique character, fostering a sense of pride and connection among viewers
Atlanta's unscripted television industry continues to thrive, offering a captivating blend of entertainment, culture, and real-life narratives With its exceptional talent pool, supportive infrastructure, and engaged audience, the city has firmly established itself as a go-to destination for unscripted television production, further solidifying Atlanta's status as a hub of creativity and innovation <
is the Chief Creative Officer of ExV Studios, a creative force in developing unpredictable concepts in unscripted television ExV Studios’ deeply rooted industry relationships have helped it build an unexpected and engaging portfolio of content with A&E, Lifetime Network, Truly Original, DIGA Studios, Tim Grady Films, First Watch Productions, and more The award-winning ExV Studios, based in Atlanta, Georgia, is represented by the William Morris Agency
are just waiting are just waiting to happen to happen
WHEN THINGS HEAT UP IN YOUR LIFE, HOW DO YOU HANDLE IT ?
Just recently, things were heated in my life I was faced with an unexpected and unwanted situation, which had been forced upon me Initially, I felt four hot emotions: resentment, anger, fear and anxiety. They did not make me feel good, and I did not want to hold on to all these unwanted sensations. What could I do to escape this uninvited reality?
When I examined my options, I could feel the actual heat rising throughout my body the simmering resentment, anger, fear and anxiety. None of these were positive attributes and I hated feeling this way I knew that when I fan the flames of negativity, it eventually burns into my way of thinking This, in turn, takes me down a rabbit hole of overthinking and rethinking the situation, which fuels more resentment, anger, fear and anxiety giving it the power to take over. I was determined not to allow that to happen! I knew I needed to shift from negative to positive thinking.
So, what did I do? I immediately turned to a strategy I have been using that I call the H.E.A.T. Method.
I ask myself: What is the truth? Am I being honest with myself about it?
I knew the reality was that I would have to face the intensity of the situation and step in and take care of the uninvited, unwanted and unexpected turmoil It was staring me in the face, and I was the only person available and the only one privy to the information needed to take care of it.
I ask myself: What am I feeling? Why am I feeling that way?
I already knew that when things heat up in my life, and uninvited things occur, or people do things I dislike, my emotions will inevitably follow. Again, the reality is that the feelings were present but I had a choice about feeling them, then releasing them, and replacing them, instead of holding on to them. That is precisely what I did. I permitted myself to experience the emotions, but only for a limited time. >
I ask myself: What can I do about what is in front of me? What can I do, and what can I not do?
Instead of focusing on what someone else should have done or could have done in this situation, I acknowledged and accepted that they were not going to do it and really, they were not able to handle the task at hand. And even though I had a history with the individuals who triggered me, I acknowledged and accepted the reality of the circumstances without giving power to negativity. I was determined to control my thoughts to not allow my thoughts to control me
I ask myself: How would God deal with this? Before I moved forward in handling this heat in my life, I intentionally asked God to lead me through this uninvited journey I read several meditations, Scriptures, and prayers before I moved forward This prepared me to act out of love instead of resentment, anger, fear or anxiety. For we know that God is Love.
I completed all that needed to be done in a spirit of love accompanied by peace, because I used the H.E.A.T. Method.
The next time things flare up in your life, I invite you to try my H.E.A.T. Method. Let love be your guiding force. <
"And do not allow yourself to be weary in planting good seeds, for the season of reaping the wonderful harvest you’ve planted is coming."—Galatians 6:9
As I sit with Vanda Teixeira-Saitowitz and her son Rafael ("Rafa") at Café I Am, savoring the aroma of fresh cappuccino, their unique bond, much like the blend of the coffee, is palpable There's a warm rhythm in their conversation, a symphony that only a special mother–son duo can orchestrate "I feel extremely honored to be Rafael’s mother," Vanda
a ' s future in music looks promising He is paring for his high school sophomore-year recital anticipates a packed schedule over the next few s, filled with both classical music and jazz.
hey drain their coffee cups, Vanda and Rafa e into the most cherished aspects of their her–son relationship. For them, communication is cornerstone, serving as a basis for mutual erstanding. They make it a point to try to view gs from the other's perspective, a practice that ngthens their bond
el so many special connections with Rafa Too n it feels I have been in this relationship before, I have been his mother before," Vanda says, her ds laden with emotion In her journey of honoring elf, she strives to be the best mother she can be, ng Rafa in realizing his full potential For Rafa, bond is deeply treasured, a soul link that ates their relationship to a divine level
da and Rafa's special bond goes beyond being ely mother and son They are partners on a ed journey, their paths intertwined through the s of life's symphony each learning, growing and wing together. <
Asweentereachseasonofourlives,wefindpromiseandpossibilities Wetrulyarewhatwethinkweare andthatiscrucialtothejourney.
IoncehadtheopportunitytointerviewErnestineShepherd TheWorld’sOldestFemale BodybuilderSheiseighty-seveninhumanyears buthermindsetappearstobeinherforties! WhenErnestinestartedherfitnessregimeattheageoffifty-six,anyofuswouldhavesaid, “Nowayissheevergoingtobeabodybuilder” buthermindsetsaidotherwise!Yourscantoo!
Maybeyoudon'twanttobeabodybuilder,butknowthis:Yourmindset determineswhateveritisyouchoosetobeIlovewhatGeorgeEliotoncesaid: “Itisnevertoolatetobewhatyoumighthavebeen.”
InmyfirstpublishedbookMyJourneytoLadyWisdomAfterMidnight(nowavailableon AmazoninKindleandpaperback),Itakeyouonthejourneyofdiscoveringyourown“Iam” It’snevertoolatetodiscoverwhothatpersonis!
Asweembraceourpersonaljourney,therearefourquestionsthatneedtobeconsidered:
OK, I know, this may sound like a silly question. That’s what I thought when I asked myself the first time But can you genuinely answer? I don’t know about you, but my answers always started with something like, “I am so-and-so’s wife," or "I am so-and-so’s mom. " It wasn’t until my roles and titles shifted that I realized: I actually could not answer the question Sound familiar?
Please don't misunderstand me; the roles of wife and mother are wonderful and honorable roles, which we cherish. However, as our life's seasons come and go, those roles will shift. So, let’s go back Before you were a spouse, a parent, an employee and so on, who were you? What did you like to do? Think about it What makes you laugh? What gives you joy? What is fun? What is exciting? What do you absolutely love to do something you would do it even if you didn’t get paid? These are important questions to ask yourself >
Each of us has a purpose. Our purpose is birthed out of the things that we do that bring joy to others and the things that we do that bring joy to our very soul. What brings you real joy? Wouldn’t it be wonderful to be able to do that on a regular basis?
Is there someplace you always wanted to go? What will it take to get there? I was reminded of this when I planned a trip to Africa last year. Initially, I couldn’t imagine going through the process of getting there. However, I began by taking one step at a time. I completed one requirement at a time. The trip eventually manifested, and it was wonderful! I answered the myself going? My answer was: Africa. And I went.
I host My Journey with Paula G, a weekly TV show that is seen on a variety of platforms. I always tell my audience that time is precious; it is the one thing that we cannot get back. We are always waiting until the time is right, until the money is right, until the stars are in proper alignment. While we do need to exercise wisdom in all that we do, sometimes we simply need to answer the call to “go” and embrace the unknown journey ahead.
The greatest conversation you will ever have is the one that takes place in between your ears. What is God speaking to you? Your obedience to His Word will determine the course of your life. Some of us are in the empty-nester season. This can be your season of opportunity to pursue some passions and dreams that you otherwise would not have pursued due to your previous seasons in life. I myself am on a mission to encourage and influence my fellow Baby Boomers to pick up where they left off and finally live out the life of their dreams. >
I have had the opportunity to pursue a career in radio, television, voiceovers and commercials and now I do lifestyle modeling too and I love it all! Lord knows, it is a journey filled with unknowns There are ups and downs There have been trials and triumphs, but it has all been worth it! What is your journey? What is your “I am"?
Regardless of where you are in your spiritual walk, or where you stand with your faith and belief in a Power higher than yourself, I can only tell you what my own journey has been People ask me how all this got started It was an answer to a prayer I can’t give you some big grand glorious story other than to tell you that prayer works!
We all have a journey, and we all travel on our unique path with different experiences and various levels of assistance along the way Whatever your journey may be, what is for you is for you! Focus on you; don’t compare yourself to what someone else has, or to what someone else is doing or has done Seek God Ask for direction Ask for open doors of opportunity Ask for the discernment to recognize the open door(s), for the courage to walk through and for the wisdom to embrace the journey And keep thanking Him for the journey! <
You know those moments when you feel fully alive, and everything just seems to fall into place? It's those times when you're so absorbed in the task at hand that everything else fades away. Those are our moments of personal excellence, great energy, and power—glimpses of the peak potential that exists within each of us. In this article, I want to share a powerful tool that can help tap into this potential: the Personal Excellence Profile (PEP) assessment.
The PEP is more than a test; it is a revelation—a spiritual and scientific approach to personal understanding. Rooted in well-established scientific principles, the PEP goes beyond mere cognition to incorporate a holistic approach. It assesses the most vital life abilities, translating them into a measurable spectrum, which can then serve as a roadmap to personal and team excellence. >
A key factor that distinguishes the PEP from standard assessments is its extensive focus on twelve distinct life abilities These encompass the core of human existence, and their refinement forms the foundation of a highperforming individual, team or business. They include the ability to value self, perceive, decide, communicate, build rapport, interact, act, produce, have certainty, command, expand, and lastly, accomplish what you've decided
These abilities aren't isolated; they're interconnected feeding into, and strengthening each other. By knowing how to use and elevate these twelve abilities, one can enhance overall excellence, energy, power and performance. They form the building blocks of personal mastery and the linchpins of a successful, dynamic team or organization
But why is the PEP assessment crucial? Because it's an impetus a powerful energy generator that drives you out of your comfort zone, pulling you from the status quo toward excellence. It's a tool that allows you to go beyond merely "getting by" to stepping into a realm of mastery. This works for anyone whether you are an individual, a family, a team, a company or even a nation
Understanding your strengths and weaknesses through the PEP assessment isn't just about fostering self-awareness; it's about realizing the infinite potential that lies within you It’s about creating a bridge between who you are now and the best version of yourself that you aspire to be.
When we consciously work on these twelve abilities, we begin to elevate not just ourselves but also those around us It becomes a collective surge towards excellence, a ripple effect that can profoundly transform teams, organizations and even whole societies
The PEP assessment thus becomes a conduit for personal growth and societal advancement.
The science of energy and excellence embedded in the PEP offers a refreshing shift in perspective, promoting a culture that values holistic development and consistent improvement It pushes us to stretch our boundaries, to expand our horizons, and to achieve a level of mastery we might not have ever thought possible
In an increasingly competitive and challenging world, the PEP assessment serves as a beacon, a compass guiding us towards realizing our innate power and potential. It’s not just about measuring; it’s about evolving. It’s not just about performing; it’s about excelling.
The essence of the PEP lies in the understanding that every individual, every team, and every organization has a unique blueprint of power and excellence. It's about discovering this blueprint and utilizing it to elevate ourselves and our communities
So, let's harness the power of PEP, break away from the status quo, and embark on the journey to excellence and mastery Because true greatness lies not in where we stand, but in what direction we are moving <
Public Relations is a multi-faceted discipline that requires a comprehensive understanding of its principles, techniques and best practices By enrolling in PR courses or attending webinars, you will gain valuable insights into the evolving media landscape, emerging trends and the dynamics of public perception. Such valuable knowledge will enable you to navigate the PR landscape with confidence and make strategic choices that align with your goals
Before investing in PR, take the time to clearly define your goals and objectives. Are you looking to increase brand awareness, improve your reputation, attract new customers or enter new markets? By establishing specific and measurable goals, you can align your PR strategy accordingly and gauge the success of your efforts
To position yourself effectively in the market, conduct a comprehensive competitive analysis Identify your competitors' PR strategies, their messaging, media presence and the level of success they have achieved This analysis will provide valuable insights into the competitive landscape and help you differentiate your brand, making your PR efforts more targeted and impactful.
Successful PR campaigns are built on a deep understanding of the target audience Conduct thorough market research to identify your audience's demographics, preferences, behaviors and media consumption habits This information will guide your messaging and enable you to engage with your audience through the most relevant channels and platforms
To stand out in a crowded marketplace, you need a compelling story that resonates with your target audience. Identify the unique aspects of your company or brand that set you apart from the competition Craft a captivating narrative that showcases your values, expertise and the solutions you offer A strong and authentic story will capture attention and generate media interest, amplifying your overall visibility
Establishing relationships with journalists and media professionals is vital for successful PR for individuals or businesses Invest time and effort in building these relationships by providing expert opinions and offering to deliver relevant content. By positioning yourself as a trusted resource, you increase the likelihood of media coverage and positive exposure.
Investing in PR can significantly enhance your visibility and contribute to your success or to that of your business; however, it is essential to approach it strategically and consider the key factors outlined in this article. By educating yourself, clearly defining your goals, understanding your target audience, developing a compelling story, and building relationships with the media, you can position yourself or your company for maximized visibility success even before you invest in a PR Agency <
www.exv-agency.com
karen-gamba-04537089
Karen Gamba is the CEO of the ExV Agency, a global force for PR, content production, and unscripted television development.
by Chloé Taylor Brown
Dear resilient, professional woman ,
I write to you as a fellow traveler in the challenging, rewarding journey that is professional life. We each possess an internal powerhouse waiting to be fully harnessed: our mind. Akin to the distinct forms of H2O ice, water, clouds and vapor our mind has three parts: Conscious, Subconscious, and Super-conscious. Each bears different functions, yet each forms part of the same entity, the same mighty engine driving our personal and professional growth. >
This is the part of the mind that thinks, solves problems, and makes decisions. It is the realm where you formulate and attain your goals. With your conscious mind, you can select which thoughts and information reach your subconscious. Learning to wield this power can be challenging, but mastering it is empowering This is your tool for strategic thought, where you deliberately shape your reality.
Imagine this as a massive data repository, storing every thought, word, and action you've ever experienced. Like a computer hard drive, this information can be accessed at any time. It's the part of your mind that brings back a forgotten childhood song or lets you ride a bike years after your last ride. But, it also reflects your self-perception and feelings about others and situations, visible in:
- Your energy level and mood
- Your physical appearance
- Your body language
- Your actions and behaviors
- Feelings of sadness beneath an upbeat façade
- Dressing sloppily when you usually take pride in your appearance
- Avoiding eye contact
- Frequent disagreements and conflicts
If you recognize these traits surfacing in your life, your subconscious mind may be holding onto something that is disturbing your peace. In such cases, speak with someone you trust about these concerns to begin your journey toward mental clarity and emotional liberation.
Yet to be mentioned, but far from forgotten, is the super-conscious mind. This component serves as our inner compass, guiding us toward our purpose, toward our highest potential. It's the part of us that is innately connected to a bigger picture, providing us with intuition, creative inspiration and an understanding of our most authentic self.
Understanding these three aspects of the mind, and learning to navigate them effectively, is a profound exercise in self-empowerment. As we grow and evolve, so should our ability to use these mind powers to maintain our resilience, our grace our "girlswag," if you will—and to build the happy, fulfilling life we deserve
Remember, you are more than a professional title; you are a powerhouse of potential. You have the power to consciously choose positivity; to access and to heal your subconscious; and to connect with your super-conscious so that you can discover and live out your true purpose. Use it well, use it wisely.
With strength and love, Chloé
We’retaughtfromayoungagethatweoughtto followtheGoldenRule totreatotherstheway wewanttobetreated astheBiblesays,tolove ourneighborsasourselves(Leviticus19:18) But sometimesthingscanheatupprettyfast even betweenpeoplewholoveeachother And keepingourcoolcanturnouttobeachallenge.
Onethingwecandotocultivateanattitudeof patience,graciousness,andkindnessisto simplygetintothehabitofbeingpolitewith everyonewemeet WriterandactivistWendell Berryhassaidthathetriestopracticeona regularbasishavingafriendlyconversation withsomeonewithwhomhestronglydisagrees.
Hedescribesthistypeofcordialbehavioras actuallyrequiredofus:“Iftwoneighborsknow
thattheymayseriouslydisagree,butthateither ofthem,givenevenasmallchangeof circumstances,maydesperatelyneedtheother, shouldtheynotkeepbetweenthemasortofprepaidforgiveness?Theyoughttokeepitreadyto hand,likeafireextinguisher”
Whenitcomesdowntoit,althoughthereare millionsofdifferentwaystobelieveandtolive,the onethingwehaveincommonisthatweareall humanbeings Whetherweseeeyetoeyeornot, weareallconnected Weneedtorelyoneach other.
IlikeBerry’sexpression,“pre-paidforgiveness.” Howdowedothat?Howdowestayattheready toextendpardon eventopeopletowhomwe areopposed “likeafireextinguisher”? >
Ifweputasideourdisagreements,andfocusinsteadonoursharedhumanity,wecanfindagood numberofordinarythingswehaveincommon Oncewegetintothehabit whilewaitinginline, chattingwiththebarista,sharinganelevator,talkingtoacustomerservicerepresentative,standing atacrosswalk,andsoon—wecanfindoutthatitispossibletohaveacivilconversationwithanyone. Wecantalkabouttheweather,commentonwhat’shappeningatthemoment,discusssports, mentionfamilymilestones,andtouchonothereverydaysubjects
Thispracticeisneeded,nowmorethanever notjustwithourneighborswithwhomwemay disagree,but ineverythingwedo,everywherewego,includingourinteractionswithfamilyand friends,aswellaswithstrangers.
ThisremindsmeofabiblicalphrasethatI’vealwaysfoundpuzzling:Jesussaid,“agreewithyour adversaryquickly”(Matthew5:25)
Whatdoesthatmean?Whatifsomeonereallyisyouradversary yourfoe,theopposition,youractual enemy?Howcantherebeanyagreementthere?Jesusevenadvisedustoloveourenemies (Matthew5:44) Howcanthatpossiblywork?
ThewordJesususedasadversaryislikelytheHebrew(andAramaic)wordsatan whichisnotabig reddudewithhorns!Itsimplymeans“accuser,”“adversary”or“opponent.”TheGreekwordantidikos hasthesamemeaning.Basically,satanis“anaysayer.”
OneBibletranslation(TheMessage)putsitthisway:“Sayyou’reoutonthestreetandanoldenemy accostsyou Don’tloseaminute Makethefirstmove;makethingsrightwithhim”
Buthowintheworldcouldwepossiblyagree? >
Agree with your adversary quickly”?
Agree with your adversary quickly”?
TheoriginalGreekoftheNewTestamentfor agreeisthewordeunoeó,whichmeans“to thinkwellof,”“tobefavorable”and“to understandwell.”InbiblicalHebrew,theword agreeisya’ad,whichisaboutcomingtoan agreementonaplace“tomeet,”“togather” andeven“toengage”(asinmarriage).Ialso noticethatthereisthebuilt-inHebrewword ayd,whichmeans“witness”
Whatarewereallywitnessingwhenweinteract withanotherperson?Canwelookpastour differencesandseeafellowchildofGod?Can westrivetoapproachthatotherpersonwithan attitudeofblessingratherthancriticism?Ifso, thenourdisagreementswillfadeintothe background.
SpiritualtrailblazerMaryBakerEddywroteinher essayLoveYourEnemies:“Wemustloveour enemiesinallthemanifestationswhereinand wherebyweloveourfriends;musteventrynot toexposetheirfaults,buttodothemgood wheneveropportunityoccurs.Tometeout humanjusticetothosewhopersecuteand despitefullyuseone,isnotleavingallretribution toGodandreturningblessingforcursing.”
Boldwords Easiersaidthandone Still,wehavetotry.Anditdoesmakea difference.
Name-calling,anger,meanness thisbehavior oftenstemsfromhurt,insecurity,lonelinessor sadness Respondtoaninappropriateoutburst withanoptimisticobservation,alight-hearted joke,ahug,oracompliment insteadof snappingback.
It’sallaboutdecidingtorespondinsteadof react That’swhatI’vebeenaimingtopractice daily Alongwithageneroushelpingof gratitude.Anditworks.
There’salwaysatleastoneblessingsomewhere evenrightwhereaconflictseemstobe Andwe canchoosetobegratefulforit
Idon’talwaysgetitright,butI’mdeterminedto keeptrying.
Be agreeable. Be agreeable.
I’vecometorealizethatagreeingisn’tatallabout havingthesameopinionasanotherperson;it’s aboutbeingagreeable
Agreeablenessischarminganddisarming!
Respond, don’t react. Respond, don’t react.
A CONVERSATION WITH THE PEOPLE’S PRINCIPAL
Paula G.:
Doctor Hosey, we first spoke in March of 2020, as we were on the threshold of a pandemic On my podcast platform, you shared some valuable information for parents on how to keep their children academically engaged. You also talked about keeping your staff engaged. We are now three years beyond the initial impact of the pandemic Where are you today with your students and your staff?
Ashley:
It's currently my third year at the middle school, but it's really my first normal year at the middle-school level And people here are thinking, "Well, technically you've been here two years." Yes, I've been here two years but this is the first year from start to finish that we've had a normal start, meaning that there was no "virtual" option We started face to face We have not had any quarantining We didn't stop. And all affairs continued as a normal school year.
Paula G.:
That's huge, what you've said. I just want to sit here for a minute, because I think it's hard for those who are not in education to understand the magnitude of starting a middle-school career at the height of a pandemic. This is the first year that you actually have what we would consider a normal school year So, coming into the middle-school environment, brand new at the top of a pandemic, what was that like?
Ashley:
It was different! I was at an elementary school for three years I got them through the pause of the pandemic, introduced them to online classes, basically got them comfortable with that, and we were about to close out the school year when I got the call to go to the new school. So I was at a new school, at the height of the pandemic We can't forget how the pandemic was when we first were in it Everybody had on masks on if you actually got to meet people face to face.
So, my first meeting with my staff was on Zoom That first year certainly was interesting to say the least Some people I probably would not know if they came up to me to speak to me because for students and staff, I only knew them from the nose and eyes up, with the mask. I knew their voices, but not actually what they looked like That's very hard for building a relationship. Starting at a school, you normally have a Meet and Greet the Principal event. Parents never got to do that. It wasn't until my second year that I actually started meeting parents in a small setting Zoom meetings and things like that Right now, I feel great, because I can actually meet parents and talk to them and see them.
They can come into the school, and we're having programs So, for two years running this school, when people knew you, but they didn't know you that was a very interesting dynamic. I rely strongly upon building community, on forging relationships with people. It's hard to build relationships with people when you can't be in the same room with them It's hard to team-build with a staff when you can't be in the same room with them.
And so, it required me to learn some new skills. I had to be more intentional with my conversations, with my motivations, with my strategies and with my presentations more intentional in my focus than I ever had in any of my years in education.
It sounds like, whatever was placed in front of you, whatever the situation was, you looked at it, analyzed it, figured out a way to navigate it, and simply went forward with it. Back at the beginning of the pandemic, none of us really knew anything So, everybody was masked up, and we had gloves and shields and all that sort of thing What was it that got you out of bed every morning? >
I had the privilege of meeting with Dr. Ashley B. Hosey, an exceptional advocate for quality education who really cares about students and teachers. Here are highlights from our lengthy conversation.
—Paula G. Voice
Ashley:
Well, I love what I do! My job of educating children and students and helping them reach their potential that doesn't change. The format and the programming changed; it changed our jobs. I love problem-solving And it was a problem that needed to be solved Some of it was very spontaneous and creative, which is right up my alley So having to come up with creative ways to keep the staff motivated so that our kids could learn and get some educational benefit that was my motivation. Because remember, before the pandemic, people were always saying, "Education needs to change. We have to do something different. We have to try something different "
So guess what? In one year, education changed completely to something that we had never done before. Many people thought that we all already knew how to use distant learning. No, we didn't! We'd never used that! It was not used! And Zoom became the thing I remember when I first discovered Zoom I remember introducing it to my elementary school teachers The were like, "You can do that? This is awesome!" So, for me, it was finding ways to make the teachers' job easier. And trying to keep them motivated was my motivation for doing my job. It changed what I had to do. Finding ways to engage them I was making sure that they knew what they were doing, that they were getting the training. Checking in with them very frequently in virtual meetings was another way of getting to know them. We played music in our virtual meetings and different things such as that. That was the only time that I could see everybody without their mask without that barrier
I think it is worth noting for anyone who has not been in a school building in awhile that you oversee teachers across the spectrum. That is, brand-new teachers coming out of college, veteran teachers, and everyone in between And normally when things change in a school building, perhaps with technology let's say, probably some of those veteran, more seasoned teachers might have befriended the younger teachers, and they would help them along with whatever it is And as a principal, you would not necessarily have to put your hands on that, because they're helping each other. And you've got the department meetings to attend. But in this foreign environment, there you were, having to navigate all new territory in a sense to meet everybody just where they were >
Ashley:
Exactly! That was difficult Because you couldn't put everybody in the same room. You couldn't have mentor meetings. And when I came in, the staff was pretty much the same because people were so uncertain, people just stayed where they were I did have to hire a few people, but learning to hire people on Zoom, that's a different interview process from meeting with someone face to face.
Paula G.:
Right! And you were at the beginning of it, where nobody knew anything In addition to finding ways to reach your staff, and train your staff and be there for your staff, just like the students, you're having to learn these things at the same time. Who knew what Zoom was three years ago? I would dare to say, not every school principal or administrator successfully navigated through this whole experience as well as you have. As you look back and reflect, what would you say was the key to your success?
Ashley:
I was very patient. I realized that I could get an email in the morning from the district at 8:00 AM saying, "We're doing this. . . " and then by 9:00 AM, it may be something different, and something else by 12:00 noon By the end of the day, that's how quickly information was rolling out
Keeping teachers informed was one of the things that was most important. I would let them know right away. As soon as I knew something, they would know Also, I think one of the successes was finding things and saying, "You know what, don't even worry about that." I realized that teachers were stressed out as much as the kids were. Not only were they trying to do a job, but they were also dealing with their own mental health around this pandemic You can't go anywhere You can't do the things that you usually do for stress reduction. You can't do the things that you like going out and doing. For awhile, we couldn't go outside because they shut down the parks at one point And the gym
So, overall, I was being very patient with people letting them know, "It's, OK," and "Let's reset."
We changed our bell schedule to give teachers more time The second year was the hybrid year where we had some kids face to face, and some kids virtual. And teachers had to teach both of them at the same time!
Paula G.:
Because of this experience in education, what changes have been made?
Ashley:
One of the biggest things, Paula, I think that happened, is that we realized some things about all the stuff we were doing it didn't matter. Let me give you example. Here in the state of Georgia, we were really big on the CCRPI [College and Career Ready Performance Index] how we graded schools and all those things Well, for three years, we didn't get a CCRPI score And guess what? Schools kept going! That stress, and all that emphasis that we'd put on that score, was stressing teachers out. "Do this, do that." Was it all really necessary? The second thing that I think we found out is that there are ways of doing things that are more efficient I often tell people that you can't work harder; you need to work smarter.
We really focus on our kids. We realized that kids were going to have some issues coming from covid-19 But of course there are always going to be issues But the whole experience brought back into the conversation SEL Social and Emotional Learning and we build support for that, which is so vital for kids. To build social skills It goes hand in hand with coming out of the pandemic We have to consciously build our schools around that. Because these kids are missing some parts of socialization.
I also feel that for teachers, it's OK to make time for self care Before the pandemic, if you’re a teacher, you're supposed to be working all the time, staying late, getting in early, and volunteering all the time. But the importance of self care came up during the pandemic, and that conversation continues. I still make sure it's part of what I talk about with my staff Now, self care doesn't mean you don't have to come to work. You have to come to work. I need you to work. Self care has its limits. But self care is important. We are talking about life balance. >
Paula G.:
Until you walk in the shoes of an educator, you won't understand the fullness of the situation. I know often there is a lot of criticism about how teachers are doing things, or complaints about the education system, or what have you. To those critics, to those people who may not have set foot in a school building and yet have so much to say, what do you want to tell them?
Ashley:
You’re at home teaching your kid and helping them. People learn really quickly. Teachers do a whole lot What I hope people will understand is that it is a much more complex job than most people realize.
People need to be patient. Education is still evolving. We will continue to catch up to the gaps that happened during the pandemic. When I talk to kids, I have to calculate in my mind think back "OK, what year was it?" Because they missed some things during that particular year of school, and I recall the gaps. So we need to recognize those things and be patient with teachers. Teachers are finding other careers, doing different things, because the pandemic has broadened their horizons. They find that they're qualified to do some other things.
So, to any critics out there, I say, "Come into the arena. See what's going on. Pick up a bat, pick up a sword, pick up a shield Come on in " At my school, we're still defining and redefining how to get this job done differently.
Paula G.:
I appreciate you always bringing such insight to the field of education how it evolves, and how students evolve doing things smarter, not harder. There is constant evolution. We are a changing world. We are a fast-evolving world. And if we are to prepare the leaders of tomorrow, then indeed we must continue to evolve to meet them where they are We have to effectively teach them what they need to learn in order to be productive citizens moving forward.
Ashley:
Yes It's no longer about knowing dates and memorization of facts What skills are we teaching kids? We have to teach our children to be successful. What they need from us is to learn the skills to understand what they're seeing, to navigate what they're seeing the skills to adapt, and to connect to the people around them And that's in addition to math and social studies and science and all those things.
Paula G.:
You are a triumphant warrior, winning on the battlefield of education The People’s Principal, Dr Ashley B Hosey <
I am Paula G. Voice: lifestyle/commercial model, voiceover artist, host of the TV talk show My Journey with Paula G and author of My Journey to Lady Wisdom After Midnight
Hoang Dang, a 24-year-old Vietnamese-American, brings a layer of warmth to our Summer issue. His journey so far and his aspirations for the future are exemplary—as he seeks to continue to evolve and to make a difference. We hope his story inspires you to reflect on your own life journey. How can your life ignite positive change in the lives of others? >
Creative Director : Chloé Taylor Brown
Photography: Joshua Brown juiceshoots
I was born and raised along the southern coast of Vietnam. I ventured to the United States at the age of sixteen. Here, I not only graduated from high school with Honors but also served in the U.S. Army.
My transition into American life was a challenge, but not for the expected reasons. With a fair grasp on English, I quickly adapted to American culture and attained citizenship. But my main struggle was with the people I encountered. From my high school years to my time in the military—and even now in my workplace at a nail salon I have consistently endured bullying and exclusion.
I recognize that my experience isn't unique, but the ubiquity of such behavior doesn't justify its existence. This fuels my ambition to find a career that can project my perspective on a larger scale. While many perceive modeling as a glamorous and thrilling career path, I see it as much more than that; it is a platform to effect positive change. By putting myself out there, by being authentically me, I hope to inspire others to embrace their confidence and to overcome any insecurities or fears they may have. >
Looking ahead, I am committed to promoting diversity, inclusivity, and nonjudgment, regardless of the career path I follow. My only true aspiration is to be my genuine self and to inspire others to become the best versions of themselves.
As for my life goals, they are threefold: to find joy and satisfaction in my career; to travel the world, immersing myself in diverse cultures; and to be the best version of myself—physically, mentally and socially. <
byChloéTaylorBrown
The first time I shifted my identity I was sixteen. I wasn’t intentional about it because I didn’t know it was a thing or how I would have defined or described what I was doing at the time. But the truth is, an opportunity for me to shift and become who I wanted to be was presented to me after I was rescued from a terrible situation and invited to live with an aunt and uncle and their two children, half-way through my junior year of high school. This occurred following an incident I had been a part of at my high school, where I was definitely on my way to becoming a wayward teen just three years after the death of my mother who had been killed in a car crash, leaving eight children for my grandmother to raise That particular Friday afternoon, my fragile identity and broken paradigm completely crashed I believed in my heart that no one cared >
But my Aunt Anita did care She saved my very existence that Friday evening On Saturday she took me shopping to purchase the beginning pieces of a fabulous new wardrobe. On Sunday we all went to church; it was “ proper ” and conservative. On Monday my aunt and uncle enrolled me in the same high school as their two children.
During the course of that very first day and first few weeks of being at my new school, I sensed an overwhelming acceptance from everyone I encountered the teachers, and especially all the new cool, super-smart students The girls and the guys were incredibly friendly toward me and wanted me to feel included They did a fantastic job of allowing me to just be in a safe way
After only a couple months of being at my new school, in study hall a free period where we all got to interact with each other in open discussions I observed how free I was feeling and how my communication had gone from passive to confident and engaging in such a short time. I saw how the other kids respected and valued me and what I had to contribute. I was encouraged by the way they were responding to me and who I was being unlike the perceived disrespect I got from teachers and from many peers at my old school.
It was in that moment that it hit me. “Wow,” I thought. “I can be who I want to be here.”
I began feeling brave enough to talk about my goals “I’m going to be a model,” I told my classmates There were no side-eyes or outbursts of laughter, the way kids had reacted at my previous school My aunt and several of her girlfriends helped me to get ready to be who I wanted to be By the time I arrived at Mississippi State University a year and a half later, majoring in Fashion Merchandising and Design, I was able to hold, maintain, and expand my vision of being a model
Four years later, I managed to land an internship at a small fashion retail chain in Hayward, California With nothing but potential, determination and a burning desire, I happened to meet a woman on the streets of San Francisco who recommended I call a photographer; and this photographer personally walked me into Elite Model Management to meet Paul Butler who became my first Model Booker at my first modeling agency.
But being accepted into the agency was not the same as being ready I had to shift my identity again
Because I wasn’t ready mentally nor emotionally to be who I said I wanted to become, I started to lose my confidence and my energy I became very depressed The problem was, I didn’t know how to align myself to my new vision I didn’t know how to go from being a “college student majoring in fashion” to being an “urban sophisticate living the life of an international fashion model.”
I got though it by finding and hiring a psychologist and doing that work; and there was something about the self-help movement that turned me on. My real transformation mostly came from reading a book called The Magic of Thinking Big by David Swartz and practicing every single directive in the book, every single day
I genuinely worked on myself intentionally and consistently, with one big goal in mind Thus, I expanded my mindset, and shifted my identity again this time with great intention from who I was at the time to becoming who I wanted to be: a young Black professional woman living life by her own wonderful design >
I did this by expanding my mindset my view of what was possible for myself I elevated my vocabulary and my personal image My wardrobe and style changed from "college girl" to "chic model" to match my new international ideal
This work paid off in the most brilliant way Once I had shifted my identity, I was invited to join Why Not Model Management, one of the top agencies in Milan, Italy
In the language of Social Science, an identity consists of the qualities, beliefs, personality traits, appearance and/or expressions that characterize a person or a group Because identity is strongly associated with role behavior, according to Sociologist Peter Burke, “identities tell us who we are and announce to others who we are ”
Your identity is the way you view and validate yourself. It’s how you think and it’s how you feel about what you think It’s how you see yourself in relation to other people and to the world around you. Your identity is shaped by the roles you play in life such as daughter, mother, student, teacher, coach, engineer, doctor, attorney, model, prime minister, president, nun, artist, manager, community leader, executive leader, and so forth
This quote from the Harvard Review is significant: “Individuals who regularly engage in identity shifting are more likely to experience career advancement and success. " Based on my own experience in working with professional women of all ages, I observe the fact that because women experience career interruptions at significantly higher instances than men do, at different stages, every woman must consider her next moves She must recognize the importance of being very intentional about shifting her identity in order to move forward graciously and with purpose
If you ’ ve never experienced a paradigm crash, then count your blessings. Most of us have experienced at least once in our life a transition that shifted our paradigm maybe even crashed it As a result, your identity suffered, but you were able to work your way through, to something new and perhaps even greater Or, maybe you crashed and never worked your way through it, and you ’ re still stuck. For those of us who have experienced troubling transitions, crashes devastating losses of loved ones, jobs and careers, friendships, and missed opportunities we know these setbacks can be incredibly painful and challenging to get through But you can do it >
“For many years, I was a TV news anchor People stopped me on the street They felt like they knew me, and that they were my friends I was inside their homes. Then, very suddenly, after so many years, I was not.” Because of the life transitions women experience, Cynthia Good said she felt like she was nobody. She wondered, “What do I have to contribute to the world?” Her uncertainty and not-so-great feelings about herself lasted, “too long of a time” she said. “When 9/11 hit, I remember wondering what I could do to be of use, because this is the kind of big story I would cover ” She felt useless However, Cynthia was able to pull herself through by shifting her identity from TV news anchor to print magazine publisher Later she shifted again to become a digital magazine publisher of Little PINK Book, a digital and events resource for working women
Cynthia says, “Yet again, years later, which happens, my grown children left home I've struggled to reconsider who I am and what my role in the world is now Then again, I had to make a huge shift from being a wife, a supportive spouse, a married woman, after twenty-seven years of marriage, two days in court, and suddenly again I had to become a much different kind of person. I was a woman who overnight had to become 100 percent independent, financially and in all ways. It rocked my world, turned it upside down. And now, five years later, I am still evolving into this new person. ” Cynthia goes on to say, “If we can address these sorts of often anticipated changes before they hit us so hard, that would be a good thing ”
The need for identity shifts favors no particular gender, person, group or location Anyone and everyone could greatly benefit from being proactive in assessing where they are now and asking themselves a few important questions Why? Because things, situations and people change We all change
Start by asking and deeply considering these questions: Who am I now? What do I like best about myself now? What makes me giggle and laugh, now? How do I want to show up in my life now? What do I need to release and let go of, now? What new traits, characteristics, and skills do I need to acquire to be who I want to be now? What do I sincerely want to contribute to myself, to my community, and to the world, now?
For working women, professionals, corporate executives, and even women leaders of nations, such as Jacinda Arden, now former Prime Minister of New Zealand there are no special exceptions when it comes to life transitions. When a big change occurs, we all have a desire to shift to transcend who we are now, to how we want to show up in a new way. Frequently, women will level up to almost every challenge But if a crisis or burnout ensues or something worse there can be a complete identity crash This can be brought on by any number of reasons, such as: being fired; being promoted, and suffering from imposter syndrome; getting married; having a baby; dealing with aging parents; experiencing the death of a loved one; enduring a beloved pet’s passing; retiring; re-entering the workplace; facing emptynest syndrome; or going through a divorce Women are often expected to keep it together and perform like super women by juggling multiple responsibilities at work and at home simultaneously. >
We start the shift by accepting and acknowledging that we are not perfect, and we never will be That’s an illusion Nor can we do everything at the same time at a wonderfully high level of excellence, when we ’ re fragmenting and dispersing our energy depleting our excellence into too many small, insignificant things So, be clear about what you ’ re working toward accomplishing now that’s your vision, your goal, what you are intending Do regular “vibe checks” to make sure your attitude reflects who you really are and where you ’ re headed now
We all know that terrible things can and do happen, and that we can get through them easier and with less stress with a good attitude, and with the realization that these transitions are not only normal, but they are an opportunity for growth, self-discovery, self-empowerment and even complete transformation
If you sincerely want to regain your power, then this is where you can actually start by visualizing and reframing your narrative, or simply by deciding and choosing where you want to go from here. After deciding and choosing what you want to shift into, find out what new skills, talents, characteristics and traits you will need to sharpen, as well as what you'll need to acquire in order to start shifting and stepping into who you want to be now.
In starting over, know that shifting your identity requires a new enhanced mindset that will produce new feelings and actions, which will help you rebuild your self-value, and elevate your ability to perceive and thus to make good decisions You will know how to communicate these decisions with energy, which will give you the ability to start aligning yourself with your new ideal and how you want to show up now Your relationships will start to improve
Why? Because you are being true to yourself you are being more authentic and honest with yourself and in your relationships which helps you build stronger, more meaningful interactions with others. Shifting your identity can be a powerful inner tool that can help you align with your true self and achieve your goals, navigate life transitions, and lead a more fulfilling life and enjoyable lifestyle.
As professional and corporate women, know that shifting your identity requires not only a new enhanced mindset but also a shift in your image and visual appearance It's important to align your outer appearance with your inner shift in order to create a cohesive, authentic representation of yourself Indeed, this whole-life shift will guide you in manifesting the right people, opportunities, and experiences that will align with your new identity <
I'm a master Personal Excellence and iDentity Shift coach with over twenty years of experience in personal development and transformational coaching I'm excited to share with you my new iDentity Shift Playbook and transformational coaching program
BRANDING
Chloé -
Continued from page 5
Ana Megrelishvili, a beacon of inspiration and resilience, started her journey in the nonprofit realm back in 2007. Her aim was to enhance computer literacy and education in her home country, Georgia, in Eastern Europe. Her passion for impacting lives positively continued even when she came to live in the United States, serving in fundraising roles for various organizations such as the Berea Arts Council, Berea College, and the Bluegrass Rape Crisis Center.
Having ventured into the corporate world, Ana honed her skills in B2B sales across various business fields, playing a pivotal role in growth and business development at each juncture. However, the yearning to contribute to the world drove her back to the nonprofit sector, leading her to serve as a Board Member for Gift-Wrapping Stars for Children and as Gala Committee Chair for Saprea [see page 31]. In 2023, she founded Christian Professionals of Atlanta, a networking organization designed to unite Atlanta's leaders and create a lasting positive impact on the community.
Ana's own life experiences have molded her into the woman she is today. As a survivor of childhood abuse, she has embarked on a journey to educate those around her about her path to healing, hoping to instill hope and courage in others who have endured similar experiences. Ana's odyssey to healing is documented in her upcoming book, Blossom: Finding Courage to Change. Through her coaching business, she strives to guide individuals toward a path of positive change in their lives.
Ana holds a BS in Business Management from Berea College and an MBA from the University of Kentucky. In her spare time, she enjoys Latin dancing, volunteering and experimenting with new recipes.
Chloé: Ana, tell me about Christian Professionals of Atlanta. Why did you create this organization, and how does your book fit into this at the perfect time?
Ana: It all started when I had a supernatural experience. I was very far from believing in God or any Higher Power. But one night, I woke up, and started praying for the first time in my life and I heard a voice. It shook me to my core. My life turned upside down. I used to have a successful corporate career in sales, but I grew dissatisfied and unhappy, feeling there had to be more to life than just the acquisition of wealth. So, I quit my job and decided to take a year-long sabbatical to find my authentic self and my true voice, and to heal from past childhood trauma. I started this journey by traveling to different countries.
I went to Israel and Jordan to visit all the holy places. I went back to my home country, Georgia, to heal the relationship I have with my country, my family and my friends. I also went to a monastery for a silent retreat. During that retreat, I wrote a book in two days. It's a memoir about my healing journey.
Chloé: How did you write a book in two days?
Ana: Well, I guess I had a lot to say and I had to put it all down on paper. It's a memoir, about 150 pages, neither too big nor too small. It talks a lot about generational trauma, which is really difficult to escape. I documented four generations on my mother's side and three generations on my father's side, describing how trauma gets passed down through generations, and why it causes certain behaviors. It's rare for any person to escape it and break that cycle. >
IWENTTOISRAELANDJORDANTOVISIT ALLTHEHOLYPLACES.IWENTBACKTO MYHOMECOUNTRY,GEORGIA,TOHEAL THERELATIONSHIPIHAVEWITHMY COUNTRY,MYFAMILYANDMYFRIENDS.
Chloé: How did you know your family trauma had gone back so far?
Ana: I had a lot of triggers, especially as a young adult. So, I went through years of therapy. I tried different types of therapy regular psychologists as well as hypnotherapists. The more I did it, the deeper I went, especially into subconscious work with hypnotherapy. Many memories came to light in this process, revealing a lot of hidden pain and trauma. Writing the book was part of the healing journey. It allowed me to forgive people who had hurt me the most, and to release that pain.
Chloé: From when you w anticipating moment?
Ana: When first time in asked God, purpose is That night directions a make some to go down struggling w and give th last stop I m people sitti my lunches little clay b God's hands realized Go It was 2020 during that soon as the "best churc with the be of Atlanta.
And for the longest time, I went there by myself every Sunday. I didn't know about Bible study groups. I just knew I needed to learn more. And so, I had this craving to learn who God is, and what's our purpose. And that's what led to me taking my Sabbatical year.
Chloé: This is fascinating. So, you take the Sabbatical, go on your international trips, your spiritual retreat, and you write your book. And now, let's fast forward to today. Where are you right now?
Ana: The book is about to come out. It is being released about mid-July, and it's going to be available from Amazon and from Barnes and Noble. The title, Blossom: Finding Courage to Change, came to me during a prayer. My hope for this book is that people who read it will find encouragement: that your past trauma doesn't have to define you. You can blossom, flourish as an adult and break the cycle.
Chloé: And what do you want your book to do for you?
Ana: Really, my biggest aspiration is for it to change every reader for the best. It gives me credibility to speak about this topic. The fact that I myself have gone through this level of trauma, and then I've experienced healing afterwards it allows me to help others to heal.
I am also a Life Change Leader; I am completing a Life Coach Certification Program. With my personal experiences, the book, coaching certification, and the formation of Christian Professionals of Atlanta, this is a huge transformation. >
IWOKEUP,ANDFORTHE FIRSTTIMEINMYLIFE, ISTARTEDPRAYING.
Chloé: Let's go back to the group you started, Christian Professionals of Atlanta. How did you come up with the idea of this monthly Christian networking group?
Ana: During my Sabbatical year, I attended another retreat. During that one, I had a vision of transforming society in the United States, of really fight issues like homelessness. I felt overwhelmed by that mission. But then, I thought, what if I started by building a strong community of Christians in this city as step one? That's how Christian Professionals of Atlanta was born. So far, we've had four meetings. It's growing fast, by word of mouth, which tells me this is something that's wanted and needed.
The biggest thing that I want people to have is courage. If you're dissatisfied or unhappy with where you are in your life, it is in your power to change it. So, I ask, what are you doing now to change your circumstances? If the answer is nothing, then maybe you should start doing something.
Chloé: I like that. "If the answer is nothing, then maybe you should start doing something." Well, I have one more question. What if someone actually doesn't know what they want?
Ana: The biggest mistake that a lot of people make is thinking they can figure it out all on their own.
Chloé: So that's where you come in as a Life Change Leader and Life Coach, right?
Ana: Exactly. But even if you can't afford a coach at the moment, there is surely at least one person in your life who cares enough about you, where you can go to them and say, "This is what's not working. What should I do?" Building that community—a circle of support—is important for many reasons.
Chloé: And you're doing that, Ana.
Ana: Absolutely. Thank you, Chloé. <
DISCOVER THE EXCLUSIVE COLLABORATION BETWEEN DR. MAXINE CAIN AND CHLOÉ TAYLOR BROWN THAT REDEFINES SUCCESS FOR WOMEN AT AN INFLECTION POINT
Research and make a list of what you want Tip: Make your list online so you can paste links next to the items, which makes things easier to find later.
Log into your Google Slides account and create a blank page Extra: If you don’t already have an account, it's easy to sign up with your gmail.
In the radiant, sun-soaked days of summer, every day is an opportunity for celebration Yet, aren't you tired of receiving money or generic gift cards for every special occasion? Surely, as a vibrant teen or a lively adult, you still cherish the joy of unwrapping tangible presents on your special day, or anticipating opening the decorated boxes beneath the shimmering Christmas tree! What if you could steer your family and friends to give you exactly what you really desire? Today, let Gen Z trailblazer, Nyla Stevenson, guide you on a creative journey on how to create an interactive slideshow Wish List making gift-giving an absolute breeze for your loved ones.
Find a Google Slides template based on your preferred theme, such as Birthday, Christmas, Wedding, Baby Shower, Valentine's Day and more. Extra: Slidesgo, SlidesMania and SlidesCarnival are other websites where I have found templates.
Shake off the summer heat, grab a refreshing lemonade and let's dive in! This slideshow can be as minimalistic or as extravagant as you like. If you're someone who loves to bring on the razzledazzle like Nyla, feel free to infuse it with pizzazz! Add a sprinkle of magic to the tradition of gift giving, and you'll help make every celebration a personal, memorable experience No longer will you keep your loved ones guessing about your desires Hand them the keys to transforming your special day into an absolute success.
Once the template is applied to your Google Slides, you can start adding text and pictures. >
If you are not familiar with using this type of software, just stop at step 2 and add your list to one page of the Google Slides or just send your list to friends and family. But seriously, don't do that! Stay here and play, and you'll find out how easy and fun it is.
Create! When you add titles, pictures and links, your viewers can navigate through all your wants and needs.
Use your imagination Add something extraordinary Do something out of the box Inspire them Extra: I always add an "overachievers' section" listing pricey items and options for big ballers Make them laugh!
Share your slides with family and friends! Extra: You can do this through text message, email or directly through the software. Later, receive graciously! <
