Women Of Wealth Holiday 2016

AFFLUENT WOMEN LEVERAGING POWER AND INFLUENCE

Women of Wealth

HOLIDAY 2016

Liliam M. Lopez Brenda L. Hill-Riggins REDEFINING THE STAIRWAY TO SUCCESS

Photo Artist, DAVIDiPhoto, Inc. www.davidiphoto.com Make up by: Rory Lee @makeupbyrory

Katrina McGhee page 26

Stephanie Barnes Taylor page 44

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BRENDA L. HILL-RIGGINS

Features 44 Darryl & Tracy Strawberry COVER STORIES 32 Lilliam M. Lopez 70 Brenda L. Hill-Riggins

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Departments HER STORY 12 Cheryl Jackson 18 Lauretta Pierce HEALTHWISE 22 Dr. Sharleen Lord 26 Dr. Linell King INSIDE WEALTH 28 Audrey Hope

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CHERYL JACKSON

CONVERSATIONS WITH SUCCESSFUL WOMEN 38 Katrina McGhee 50 Stephanie Barnes Taylor 56 Gwendolyn Braimoh 59 Diane Hughes Pollard ENTERTAINMENT/MEDIA 62 Dr. Jackie Mohair 66 Elyse Murray

TRAVEL 76 Chill out in Cancun 80 WOW WHIRLWIND

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SUMMER 2016

Dr. Lei Lewis Frank Lewis Anna McCoy Shivonne Taylor Brandy O’Neal Dawn Bolton Michelle Williams Shondalon Hoffler Somalia Ramin Trisonia Lewis Fran Sherman Daphine Long Daryl McCoy LoriAnne’ Hayes Nykole Wyatt Lydia Pace Ayana Finch Sheryl Nance-Nash Pamela Johnson Marilyn Helgeson Remi Osi Dlores Photography Kenneth Turner Photography Jared Zem Photography Cris Baker Sekem Ramin Alyiah Thomas Dee Moore Satia Thomas Sonya Savoy Liliana Giddens Info@womenofwealthmagazine.com www.womenofwealthmagazine.com womenofwealthmagazine@gmail.com Magazine Availability Issues are available at Barnes and Noble and national airports.

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Publisher’s View

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An Open Letter to my loyal readers:

M

y dear precious followers, I truly hope you have enjoyed reading about the women that shared their life story with you from quarter to quarter as much as we did interviewing and writing about them. As we come to a close of the 2016 season, I am reminded of the many women that experienced day to day challenges just as we do even with their success. I found that the interesting part of their stories was how they went from the challenge to the winners circle. I refer to that as redefining their stairway to success, an exercise that we all must do from time to time. Even if success was handed to us on a silver platter, life is too unpredictable to rest on ones laurels. We must always remain alert for the next opportunity to redefine our path to success or redirect our success at the top in order to stay on top.

Personally, I have found that life is like a chess game, you must always remain focused, disciplined, alert and prepared so that when it is your turn to make the next move you are able to move even when there does not seem to be a move available to you. I recall the story that someone told me and now I will share it with you. There was this museum filled with many things and one of the things was a chess board sitting on this table. People would walk up to the table and study the board from all different angles and soon walk away shaking their head, as far as they could see the game was over, the King was trapped. One young man walked up to the board, took a seat at the table and stared at the board. He stared and stared seemingly for hours and then he could be heard way down the corridor shouting! The King has another move!

The King has another move! Whenever it appears that I am truly boxed in. I see no way out of the situation. I stop squirming and will myself to be at peace. I remind myself that the King always have another move. I turn it over to Him. We accomplished so much this year. We have moved Women Of Wealth Magazine forward by placing it on the digital platform as well as increasing its visibility throughout airports around our nation. In addition, we began forward movement in another direction as well when we launched our Billionaire Roundtable Intensives. We experienced huge success with this phenomenon as we traveled the nation, playing with certified billionaires and multimillionaires. Also in 2016, we established our Fabulous 5 Cover Speakers Tour. An empowerment move that serves as the foundation and framework for the WOW Speakers Bureau Platform. With the Fabulous 5 we have traveled to various cities within our nation empowering the greatness in women that are already successful but want to enlarge

their space or be stretched in the space that they are in. We have launched 2 more magazines, KAT, our Kids and Teen Magazine and MBQ, our Men Of Wealth Magazine.

As for me, your Publisher, God has truly honored me this year. First, I received an Award for the work that I do in Bridging The Gap between the Church and the Streets at the MuSec Legends Award founded

by Arreasha Z. Lawrence. Thank you Arreasha from Columbus, Georgia, next, the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from President Obama, as orchestrated by God with Dr. Jacqueline Mohair, founder of Trinity Girls Network chosen to deliver this gift to me. Thank you Dr. Mohair of Atlanta, Georgia. Next, I received the “Empowering Women Award” from the Hispanic Women’s Society Network. Liliam Lopez, founder of the South Florida Hispanic Chamber Of Commerce. Thank you Liliam, Miami, Florida and last but not least, at the Book & Business Expo Gala, I will be receiving the Excellence in Media Award from Dr. Shirley K. Clark, Founder. Thank you Dr. Clark, Dallas, Texas. I fulfilled so many speaking engagements, too many to list. Our next big thing is the Billionaire Roundtable Intensive in Las Vegas, Nevada, December 2nd through 3rd why don’t you join us there.

Please expect more from us in 2017 as the WOW TV LifeStyle Series enters your living room and onto your mobile device, your social media and internet platforms.

God has indeed enlarged our territory. For additional information about Women Of Wealth Magazine or to be in one of our amazing magazines you can reach us at womenofwealthmagazine@gmail.com or info@ womenofwealthmagazine.com. To send letters to the publisher, you can do so at lei.womenofwealthmagazine@ gmail.com.

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HER STORY

Jackson W

omen of Wealth Magazine was fortunate enough to witness firsthand the favor that God has bestowed upon this Woman of God, so aptly named Cheryl “Action” Jackson.. Jackson serves the world through her nonprofit, Minnie’s Food Pantry, named after her now deceased mother, Pastor Minnie Hawthorne-Ewing D.D. We attended, what has now been dubbed by Women Of Wealth Magazine, the “Nonprofit Gala of the year.” The event was attended by, amongst others, Mark Cuban, owner of the Dallas Mavericks and Celebrity Star on the hit TV Series, Shark Tank. Oprah Winfrey sent a $100,000 donation and The Dallas Mavericks Team was there to support their teammate, Devin Harris, who was being honored.

It was a breathtaking event, and when the gala was over, there was not a dry eye in the house; God had moved again in a miraculous way. We were also finally able to talk with Dr. Cheryl Jackson who gave us the story of the organization and her passion for touching lives in a significant way.

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The biggest obstacle women owned businesses face is being true to each other and ourselves.

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It’s difficult not only starting a nonprofit but keeping the operation going. You must have a strong gift of gab and the ability to hear the word NO thousands of times, but don’t let it shake you.

WOW: Cheryl tell us about your family.

CJ: I have been married to Artis Jackson for over 30 years. I have 2 handsome sons and gorgeous daughters and 4 grandkids.

WOW: What are you passionate about?

CJ: I am passionate about feeding the hungry, using my life to make a difference and living my life to see God’s face in peace.

WOW: Are you a champion for diversity and mentorship?

CJ: I believe everyone needs a mentor and everyone can be a mentor because we are all on different levels in life and we can help each other reach our desired level of success.

WOW: How do women business owners find a good Mentor?

CJ: They find people that are successful and they ask them strategic questions that will help them get to the level they want to go. They should also ask someone they admire and respect to be their mentor. A direct ask of any question gets you a direct answer.

WOW: What steps do you suggest women take to expand their small businesses.

CJ: Do the research first. I would then suggest taking baby steps, starting a business isn’t easy and if you begin too fast you may fall and never recover. It’s like a child learning how to walk for the first time, they take baby steps until they are confident they can move forward to the next place they are trying to go.

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WOW: What do you think is the biggest obstacles that women owned businesses face and how should they go about overcoming these obstacles.

CJ: The biggest obstacle women owned businesses face is being true to each other and ourselves. It is sad that we can’t come together in a pure form to help each other succeed. The only way we can overcome the obstacles is for us to be a real friend, support each other and trust unconditionally.

WOW: Equality for women is lacking in so many ways, can you share your opinion on that?

CJ: Equality for women vs men will never be equal, however, since we know that, we must play the game more strategically. It’s a man’s world, there’s no doubt about that but if women stick together, we can be strong and powerful.

WOW: Tell us about your climb to the top.

CJ: Honestly, I haven’t reached the top. I am still in the process. The journey has been a challenge and a series of ups and downs. I started my charity, Minnie’s Food Pantry with a whisper from God to feed the hungry. I asked my husband if I could clean out our pantry at my house and I asked my friends to do the same. I had enough finances to last for two months. I relied on my faith to take

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me every step of the way. The favor of God helped me go from a 500-square foot building to over 18,000 square feet and providing over four million meals to people around the world. Our organization has grown from a grassroots organization to being featured on Good Morning America, Steve Harvey, Entertainment Tonight, The Talk and many other national television shows.

Oprah Winfrey and Mark Cuban recently donated $100,000 to our charity.

The climb has taken me and my staff through some tough times, I lost my mother, Minnie Ewing, who was the matriarch and namesake for Minnie’s Food pantry. I have questioned what climbing to the top really means.

In April, Minnie’s Food Pantry opened our first location outside of Texas and we started the Pantry Project as a program of Minnie’s Food Pantry, thanks to the connection of Lauretta Pierce who was an ambassador to help facilitate the connecting of our organization with the Bronx Regional High School. I have learned along the way that the saying, “It’s lonely at the top” is a true saying. Be careful what you pray for.

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WOW: Do you think America is ready for a woman to be president?

CJ: Yes I do.

WOW: How hard is it to start a Non-profit?

CJ: It’s difficult not only starting a nonprofit but keeping the operation going. You must have a strong gift of gab and the ability to hear the word NO thousands of times, but don’t let it shake you. When I started my charity, I didn’t have a mentor or even a clue as to what my next steps were but I knew that my foundation had to be strong and that’s the reason for our success. We built this charity on integrity, trust and passion. When you are consistent and you don’t waiver in your message, sooner or later someone will hear you and respond to your call. For me that someone was Oprah Winfrey, Mark Burnett, Mark Cuban and Torii and Katrina Hunter

When you are consistent and you don’t waiver in your message, sooner or later someone will hear you and respond to your call.

WOW: Thank you so much for this interview Cheryl. Now tell our readers how they can help Minnie’s Pantry continue to thrive and how they can reach you.

CJ: To learn about Minnie’s Food Pantry visit the website at www.minniesfoodpantry.org to learn about Cheryl Action Jackson and speaking opportunities visit www.CherylActionJackson.Com. WOW

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HER STORY

Lauret t a Pierce

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Sacred Scars

H

er story is one of redemption and the power of freedom and possibilities. Lauretta Pierce, once a victim of abuse and insecurity, is now in a position to bless others with lifechanging opportunities. Pierce is an entrepreneur and business owner known for her successful product, Covenant Cookies. Her brand also includes gourmet products like Covenant Coffee, Lauretta`s Sweet Messages, and Fixx My Boo Boo Kids Skincare products. The story, however, started in a dark and challenging period of her life.

Breaking the Cycle Of Abuse Finding herself in abusive relationships wasn’t what she planned, but somehow Pierce was locked in a vicious cycle from which she didn’t have the power to escape. She had suffered brokenness for years from a domestic violence lifestyle and had a habit of being attracted to men with abusive and manipulative tendencies. “During the time when I suffered this way,” Pierce says, “I didn`t think there were answers. I believed the abuse would automatically stop.”

After many physical attacks, however, she no longer felt a desire to live. According to her, fighting back seemed hopeless or even more deadly. She hid scars, bruises and breaks from loved ones for fear of their involvement.

Her boyfriend at the time who was the father of her youngest child, would violently beat and verbally and emotionally abuse her. “When you are manipulated long enough you become desensitized,” says Pierce.

“You don’t know anything else, and I had no strength during the abuse. I only asked him not to kill me in front of my kids. There was nothing left for me.”

The day came when she thought it was indeed over for her. Her boyfriend had viscously attacked her leaving her bleeding and so fatally injured that she was almost unrecognizable. She was able to get help, and he was arrested, and that became the relief for which she had prayed. “That freed me,” says Pierce who, with only $35 in her pocket, fled to North Carolina with her children to get a fresh start.

She was able to pick up the pieces of her life, but the weight of her past still took a toll on her. Soon she began drinking as a way to numb the pain, and the cycle continued until she knew she couldn’t go one more day in that condition. One day while driving the words of a Kirk Franklin song broke through her heart and gave her hope. She knew she had to make a change and she was able to find the strength to do just that.

I began to volunteer at homeless shelters etc. and had an idea to put Bible verses and inspiration in fortune cookies and doors began to open.”

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New Opportunities On how her business/ministry began Pierce says, “I started in 2005 as a ministry to give something back. I began to volunteer at homeless shelters etc. and had an idea to put Bible verses and inspiration in fortune cookies and doors began to open.” After three years of giving her cookies away, she got the opportunity to work with a magazine in Atlanta. The partnership gave her important recognition and soon her business was awarded Atlanta`s Most Unique Business. She named it Covenant cookies and hasn’t looked back since. She has since added more businesses and products to her brand.

If someone can hurt you and not care, they can kill you as well. They don`t care about you. Get out.

On Helping Others Find Hope Because of her experiences, Pierce is passionate about helping women recognize and break free from abuse. “Know that there are answers, shelters, organizations that will help,” she says. “You are valuable and a woman of worth.” She believes that abuse never just stops; it must be stopped and encourages women who find themselves in such situations to get out and seek help. “If someone can hurt you and not care, they can kill you as well. They don`t care about you. Get out.”

Pierce continues to partner with many organizations, shelters, schools, etc. to bring hope to those that need it most. She gives her time and resources to Minnie’s Food Pantry in Plato Texas, The Darryl Strawberry Autism Foundation, and many others.

Coming Full Circle Pierce desires to continue to make a difference in the world by touching, changing and inspiring as many lives as possible with all her endeavors. The pains of the past, from the abuse and the insecurities to the struggle of single motherhood, have all brought her to a place strength and fulfillment. She is an inspiration to many today through her business and inspirational speaking. According to her, “I want to inspire others by the dramatic turn that my life has taken.” WOW

You can visit Covenant Cookies on Facebook and other social media by following the below links: Facebook: Testimony: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=tOV6fjxjIbc. Email her at laurettapierce1@aim.com.

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HEALTHWISE

Your Health is Wealth HEALTHY SKIN IN WINTER WEATHER

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Winter can be harsh on your skin. Ready for some Insider Skin Care Tips?

Dr. St. Surin’s Winter Skin Tips: Moisturizing soaps. Dove soap or body wash (sensitive skin versions available), Aveeno skin relief body wash, and if you must have fragrance - Lever 2000. My male patients love Dove for Men face and soap bar & body wash (they even have a shampoo). Men need smooth skin to! Stay away from antibacterial soaps as they are drying to the skin, unless you were advised to use them for a specific condition. For eczema, there is a plethora of moisturizing cleansers from Cetaphil, Cera Ve, and Aveeno.

Emollients. As unsophisticated as it may seem to some, Vaseline or white petrolatum, is the best moisturizer. Aquaphor, a thicker white petrolatum is also an excellent alternative. Vanicream has developed Vaniply – an ointment for very sensitive skin without lanolin or mineral oil (for those who have sensitivities to these ingredients). If the thought of dousing yourself in Vaseline doesn’t excite you, I also recommend Curel Ultra Healing, Aveeno Skin Relief cream or ointment, Cetaphil or Vanicream skin creams. Creams are heavier than lotions, and therefore more moisturizing. After

showering or bathing, pat your skin dry, and immediately apply your moisturizer to lock in moisture.

You may have been able to get away with lighter lotions during the summer, when the air was humid. However, winter weather may require heavier creams or ointments.

There are even exfoliating prescription lotions and creams and exfoliating body washes prescribed by dermatologists. In my practice, we sell prescription-strength alpha hydroxyl acids and retinol containing products to exfoliate dry skin, making a healthy glow possible even during the winter.

Humidifiers. Many newer homes are heated with forced air, which is drying. If your home does not have a built-in humidifier, using a safe, cool mist, or warm mist humidifier at night will humidify the air and keep your skin moist. This can be especially helpful for those with eczema.

Nonsteroidal Moisturizers. These products, such as Hylatopic Plus and Tetrix were formulated for individuals with eczema or dry skin to restore the skin’s barrier function. A prescription is required to obtain these products, so see your

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Sensitive skin may do better with just a bland cleanser (no added active ingredients) such as Cetaphil Foaming Cleanser, Neutrogena Foaming Wash, or Vanicream Soap Bar.

dermatologist.

Scrubs: Sugar scrubs are great for exfoliating dry skin of the body, hands and feet. The smell good and leave you feeling butter soft. They should not be used daily and they should not be used on broken skin as that may be irritating. For the face, I use and dispense fine cosmetic facial scrubs with alpha hydroxyl acids such as glycolic acid. I wound beware of scrubs with large or coarse beads as these products can be irritating and cause redness. In skin of color, redness is oftentimes followed by dark patches. In this case, less is more.

Now what about your beautiful face? I named my dermatology practice Visage, which means “face” in French, because your face speaks volumes even when your lips aren’t moving – your eyes, your smile, and your skin tell a story. In our selfie- and social media – obsessed culture, everyone is focused on being camera-ready. We now go “all out” for Face Time and Skype. So how do you give “good face”? It starts with healthy skin. Are you ready?

Start with a cleanser.

You should wash your face twice a day and definitely wash your make up off.

Sensitive skin may do better with just a bland cleanser (no added active ingredients) such as Cetaphil Foaming Cleanser, Neutrogena Foaming Wash, or Vanicream Soap Bar. There are also creamy versions of many washes that are more moisturizing. If you are too tired to wash your face, they even make Cetaphil cleansing cloths and Neutrogena Make-up Removing wipes. Just open, wipe, and ditch. They are perfect for your gym bag and for travel!

Many cleansers contain active ingredients such

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as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, which are beneficial for those with acne-prone skin. You may find that these products still do not fully control acne, and you should then seek care from a dermatologist. If you develop irritation or an allergic reaction after using these products, you should then seek care immediately and follow up with dermatologist. I treat a large number of patients for dark spots and dry patches left over from irritating skin care products. The truth is that we don’t know what irritates our skin or what we may be allergic to until after we’ve tried it.

A non-comedogenic moisturizer with sunscreen (SPF 30) is recommended, even during winter months, especially if you ski (SPF 50). UV rays may cause dark spots and wrinkling, even in winter. Wearing sunscreen on snowy days is advised as the sun reflects off of the snow and onto you.

Many people believe that are wind burned when they are actually sunburned after shoveling snow.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is the latest craze. It has actually been around for decades in our hyaluronic acid fillers used for filling flattened cheek, sagging jowls, facial folds, and plumping lips ( Juvederm®, Restylane®, etc). Hyaluronic acid is a humectant naturally found in your skin, which holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water. It’s no wonder that HA has found its way into our beauty products. In my practice, I use many different formulations of HA, depending on the patient’s skin. The Visage product line features a specially-formulated hyaluronic acid serum which imparts moisture immediately. Neutrogena HydroBoost is available over the counter. It even

soothes dry hands. Your dermatologist may prescribe Bionect is a hyaluronic acid moisturizer. Be red carpet ready with HA + facial Vitamin C serum.

For dry lips - Aquaphor works well. Aquaphor with SPF 30 is perfect for winter getaways to sunny areas. Neutrogena also makes colored lip balms with sunscreen. Lip gloss wearers - just make sure gloss stays on the lips and not past the vermillion (“lip line�) border of the lips as this may cause black heads and acne around the lips.

For dry Hands. The winter season is also associated with cold and flu viruses. We are all washing our hands frequently (I hope) or using antibacterial gels and liquids. Many of these are alcohol-based, and can be drying, as is hand washing. So when you reach for your Purell, be sure to reach for your moisturizer. My patients appreciate and enjoy the Nonsteroidal Moisturizers mentioned above as well as Neutrogena Norwegian Hand Formula to keep their hands soft and healthy. Your skin not only keeps you beautiful, it actual-

ly envelopes you. Your skin is your protective barrier against pollutants, dust, and microbes. Dry skin can crack, and this compromises the integrity of the skin barrier. Moisturized skin is healthy skin. Other great hand moisturizers include Cera Ve Therapeutic Hand cream and Aquaphor. The list goes on, but we do not have enough time to discuss it all.

These are recommendations and should not be taken as medical advice. You will have to try a few products before discovering the perfect one for you. Schedule an appointment with your dermatologist, especially if you have a skin condition that is not improving or worsening. Dermatologists are medical doctors who specialize in skin, hair, and nails. A dermatologist can evaluate your skin and help you customize the best skin care regimen for Sharleen St. Surin-Lord, your unique skin type. There M.D., FAAD, FAACS www.Visagederm.com is no substitute for a great 301-773-SKIN dermatologist. WOW

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HEALTHWISE

T

hat time of year where everyone has the best intentions for changing something about their lifestyle. While over 80% of Americans make resolutions, only 8% achieve their goals.

It’s New Year’s Resolution time.

“YOUR HEALTH IS YOUR WEALTH” WRITTEN BY: DR. LINELL KING

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A January 2015 Nielson survey indicates that health and wellness were top priorities for U.S. consumers last New Year.“Staying fit and healthy” was the top resolution, coming in at 37%, followed closely by “lose weight” (32%). And based on the survey results, just a handful of people didn’t make any resolutions (16%). The good news is that people who make a resolution are 10 times more likely to meet their goal eventually than those who never make a resolution. If like many Americans your resolution is to lose weight, then the only remaining question is where to start. There are so many weight loss and diet books available all claiming to have the one and only secret to successful weight loss. For this reason, it’s easy to become overwhelmed.

Feeling overwhelmed is a great way for the mind to make excuses to do nothing.

Therefore, I have created a basic checklist for you to use to evaluate any plan or book before you buy into the plan and potentially head down yet another road to confusion and inaction.

Beware of weight loss plans that . . .

• Promise dramatic rapid weight loss (“Lose 30 lb. in 30 days”) • Suggest that there is one easy permanent solution to weight loss • Promise permanent weight loss with no effort • Say “Studies show that . . .” but provide no references from reputable scientific journals • Suggest that consuming or elimination any one food or food group is the secret to successful weight loss • Promise weight loss without exercise • Encourage consuming less than 1,200 calories per day • Include magic potions such as pills, creams, or patches • Say you can lose weight and eat all you want • Encourage you to buy their food or supplements • Use the word miracle • Provide no maintenance or follow-up plan • Do not encourage permanent lifestyle changes There is not a one size fits all approach

to weight loss. There are lots of great plans out there, the trick is to find one that works for you. Try to find one that works for your lifestyle and preferences: If you don’t like vegetables choosing a vegan plan is probably not going to work… choose one where you can add and experiment with vegetables but still include other healthy foods you like.

Choose one that has some flexibility to accommodate eating out and traveling.

With all of the weight loss plans and books available, it makes you wondering, why are so many people still overweight? And those who do lose weight just gain it back! Make this year the last year you resolve to lose weight! Dont go on a diet, rather make a lifestyle change.

Master these 4 keys to success to achieve your ideal body weight once and for all.

KEY #1: KNOW YOUR WHY. You must know why you want to change your health and improve your life. What do you plan to achieve by taking action? You can’t do anything until you have a very clear why. The why becomes your vision, your goal, the reason you keep going when you want to quit. It has to be about you and what you want from living a healthier fuller life. It has to be realistic, being younger may not be possible but feeling younger can be!

KEY #2: THE CORRECT INFORMATION. If you don’t have clear and correct information to guide your actions, then your mind will create confusion with the misinformation surrounding it every day, and it will sabotage your efforts. It is very easy to feel overwhelmed with so many diet plans and conflicting information and lists of what to eat and what not to eat, with no lists being the same. This confusion can become a line of defense against taking action. It is important to use your judgment. Ask yourself who is providing the information you are following? What are their credentials?

Do they promise unrealistic or unsustainable outcomes? Are they selling a cure-all magical solution? A licensed medical professional can provide you with current and correct information to make decisions

about what is best for your health.

KEY #3: A PERSONALIZED PLAN. You need a plan that fits you and your lifestyle. There is no one size fits all. The plan must be sustainable, this is not a temporary fix. Therefore, it is critical that it fit easily into your every-day life and that it is adaptable for special occasions, dining out and travel. Be patient, developing a personalized plan will inevitably take some trial and error to figure out what is easiest for your schedule and your lifestyle. Your health care expert can help you to fine tune this plan by providing accurate information and suggestions for success.

KEY #4: ACCOUNTABILITY. You need someone, whether it is your friend, your health care practitioner, your spouse or someone you just met also in action to change their health, you must have someone to be accountable to, an accountability partner. This person will be there when you face challenges along the way when you face temptations or feel that you want to quit. This person will remind you of your why when you need it. They also provide a person to report to. So if you don’t do what you planned to do on any given day, you will have to tell them and tell them why.

If you master these four areas, you will accomplish your goal and achieve ultimate vitality. WOW DR. LINELL KING is the #1 Bestselling author of Mastering Vitality. He has helped over 50,000 people achieve ideal body weight and overcome medical illness.

FREE GIFT: Go to www. masteringvitalitybook. com for a free download of Dr King’s #1 Best Seller, Mastering Vitality.

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INSIDE WEALTH

Wealt h FROM THE INSIDE OUT

WRITTEN BY: MARILYN HELGESON

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I

have observed Audrey Hope’s re-evolution and her wish to tell HerStory rather than HisStory for almost 25 years.

Back then, this London-trained actress was selling Birkenstocks to support her LA-based cable television program, Real Women.

At one point she deviated and became the spiritual counselor at a world-renowned Malibu rehab center. There, based on her clientele, she earned the right to call herself “Healer to the Stars”. Recently, I reconnected with Audrey at her lovely, peace-filled home in Brentwood, California to catch up on HerStory— the ways it deviates from HisStory— and to have a conversation about Women of Wealth. Through her brilliant smile, Audrey let me know that for her, stars have come to include the Heavenly Stars as well as the Hollywood stars. At that point, I put on my mental seatbelt; I knew this was going to be radical.

Audrey reminded me that her lifelong mission has been to eradicate self-doubt in women. She considers it the worst of crimes as it is a double crime. First there is the original wounding— what is done to us— followed by what we do to ourselves because of it. If this is healed, women will heal and if women heal, the men and the world will heal. Women first, and then everybody and everything else. We don’t need any form of societal permission.

Audrey thinks in universal principles. She believes it is time for the Goddess to return. Right now women have the power to realign the planet. This requires monetary resources, an inner revolution, and a re-storying. Dorothy had it right. We’ve had our red shoes on all along. What began as a mission on the ground, fighting for respect, for our basic rights, wages, opportunities, votes, physical safety and freedom from abuse, is now an inner journey.

This is a time for women, a time to reactivate ancient codes, balance what has been unfair and unequal and set things right. We must change the narrative in preparation for leading the way to uber feminine wealth and peace on this planet.

As Joseph Campbell pointed out in The Hero’s Journey, where we stumble, where our wound is, there lies our treasure. This is the key that explains those who have monetary wealth but who miss the wealth of happiness and peace of mind. This unresolved self-doubt is where the Judy Garlands, Whitney Houstons and so many others sadly miss the joy they should have found in their creative and financial successes.

Where are we blind? What is the path on which to move forward? Audrey says that first we women need to recognize that we have been brainwashed. We need to see the value in learning to use two words, “no” and “enough”. Each of these words is a complete sentence. We need to say loudly, “I will not let anyone hurt me again!”

The steps forward according to Audrey are: Step 1: Educate ourselves as to how we have been brain-

It is time for the Goddess to return.

washed about our intrinsic value. This requires stopping the lies about ourselves that HisStory tells. It requires leaving the party that isn’t really satisfying us. The Mayan prophecies about the end times are really about a new golden age where the Goddesses take back their power. Yes, it is an inner journey all about ending our loss of self.

Step 2: Heal the soul’s wounds which we suffered around the age of 5 or 6. Everyone has one. Dig a little and you will identify yours.

Once you’ve identified your soul’s wounds, then recognize the soul contracts that we have come here to heal and complete.

Step 3: Marry ourselves first.

Step 4: Stop the self-inflicted slaps. HisStory, which has hidden the story of women, has been a crime against women. Recognize that the greater crime, the double crime of HisStory, has been the self-doubt that has been instilled in us.

Step 5: Recognize that we can change our lives in a moment, much like how the caterpillar becomes a butterfly, by entering a chrysalis of feminine spiritual law, self-love, and self-care. In love with ourselves, and in honor of our inner beauty, there is nothing we cannot do. We can reach for the stars and take everyone with us.

Self-love, what Audrey calls the sovereignty of the self is the key to success in each and every one of our endeavors.

Here are three tools to implement that don’t require checking into a pricey Malibu recovery center: 1. Live the cliché— become the change you want to see in the world.

What you wish to receive from others, be to yourself.

2. Become your list. Those attributes that you want in a man or a profession: accomplished, powerful, fulfilled, etc. Become them yourself.

3. Embrace the spiritual law, ‘I am the creation of my own reality filled with the miraculous ‘power of the divine.’

This conversation compelled me to re-evaluate the things that I consider important for my peace and satisfaction. I left with a resolve to capture any power that has leeched from my spirit and harness it for my future. I am more determined than ever to saturate the lives of the women in my sphere with love and positivity and encourage them to find their power. What started off as an interview has become a life lesson that I intend to marinate on and grow from for many years to come. Audrey and I ended our reunion by raising our glasses to toast you and your journey with and to Wealth from the Inside Out. It’s time for you to claim your greatness. WOW

We must change the narrative in preparation for leading the way.

For more information about Audrey Hope and a more in-depth experience with her system that has ‘Healed the Stars’, go to www.AskAudreyNow.com

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COVER STORY

“LopezLily”

W

hen Liliam M. Lopez known as “Lily” started the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, 22 years ago, little did she know that this non-for-profit organization was going to become one of the most recognized and well- known Hispanic chambers of commerce of the U.S. This was back on July 21, 1994.

She said, “This all started by some entrepreneurial friends of mine who told me that since I had non-profit experience, we should seize the moment and start a Hispanic Chamber that would represent the 67% of the population that is of Hispanic descent in Miami-Dade County. Plus, we wanted to outreach to those non-Hispanics who wanted to do business with this important group to join and work with us.” She says this with lots of facial expressions as a good Latina and laughs at the fact that the group never thought that the organization would be what it is today.

The beginnings like all beginnings were hard. She says that although things were difficult, she never gave hope because she believed in this project. “When people have a dream about something, they should never give up, she says. When a person dreams big, follows that dream, works hard and has the good intention of helping the community, chips fall into place,” Lopez says emphatically. She smiles a lot and is a happy lady. According to her Chairman of the Board, Felipe Basulto, Retail Market Manager for TD Bank Miami-Dade County, “I met Lily in the year 2000. We connected immediately, and we have worked together for many years. I finally was selected to chair the organization two years ago, and it’s been a fantastic opportunity.” Mr. Basulto mentions that Lily is intense and works very hard. She has the ability to connect with people instantly and people really follow her.

Lopez decided that it was important to have a foundation as well in order to give back to the community once the chamber was established. Having come from a family of educators, she recommended to the board that a Foundation should be created to provide scholarships to financially disadvantaged sr. high school students. Since the foundation was created, it has granted over $600,000 worth of scholarships. The chamber was inducted to the Academy of Business and Hospitality of Miami Dade County Public Schools as one of its Champions.

The foundation also has an Education Enhancement Program that provides scholarships in the form of a paid trip to students who win in a partnership with Southwest Airlines.

In the past 10 years 105 students have won a scholarship to travel to a historical city in the US where a chamber partner hosts a one day workshop for the students on different subjects of interest. “This has

This all started by some entrepreneurial friends of mine who told me that since I had non-profit experience, we should seize the moment and start a Hispanic Chamber that would represent the 67% of the population that is of Hispanic descent in Miami-Dade County.

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been one of the most wonderful projects we have in the foundation,” said Lopez. We have taken students to Washington, D.C., New York City, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Francisco, Seattle, Chicago, among other cities. They have visited the headquarters of Microsoft, Boeing, Facebook, NBC, Macys, New York Life, Southwest Airlines, Comcast, and so many other fantastic companies that have partnered with the SFLHCC on this project.

The SFLHCC has many programs and events for its members to network and be able to do business with one another. It hosts an annual health fair, its Viva Miami Hispanic Heritage Business Expo, four lunch/learn business series annually, its Hispanic Women’s Society Network luncheons plus its annual signature events. “We basically have events every two to three weeks, and I am proud to say that all events are packed full so that means we are doing something right!”

Liliam M. Lopez currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Alliance for Aging, the Miami-Dade Area Health Education Center, the Small/Micro and Minority/Women Business Owned Business Enterprise Advisory Committee of Miami Dade County Public Schools, the Advisory Council of the Hispanic Scholarship Fund and on the President’s Council for Florida International University (FIU). She served on the Entrepreneurial Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta’s Regional Economic Information Network (REIN) as the only Hispanic woman in that board for the period 2008-2010, among many other boards she has served on throughout her career.

Liliam M. López has received numerous awards including: the 2016 NFL Hispanic Heritage Leadership Award, the 2016 Women of Wealth award presented by the Women of Wealth Magazine in which she was featured in its cover; the 2014 Women’s Fund “Woman Giving Back Treasure” award; the 2014 Thomas Gibson Award; the 2014 Take a Walk in Her Shoes award presented by Chapman’s Community Partnership for the Homeless; the 2014 Community Business Leadership Award presented by UNIDAD’s New Gener-

Lopez decided that it was important to have a foundation as well in order to give back to the community once the chamber was established.

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LILIAM LOPEZ PRESIDENT’S ROUNDTABLE 2011

ation Leadership & Workforce Institute; the 2014 Women of Impact Award presented by the Miami Dade County Women’s History Coalition; the Big Brothers, Big Sisters’ 2013 Miracle Maker Award; the 2012 Broward Women of Distinction Award; the 2010 Women Extraordinaire presented by South Florida Business Leader; The 2010 St. Thomas University Global Entrepreneur Award; the 2008 Induction to Miami Dade College’s Hall of Fame; the 2007 Miguel Cervantes Award presented by Nova Southeastern University; the 2006 March of Dimes Award in the Education and Training Category; “2003 Business Woman of the Year Award” CEO non-profit category presented by the “South Florida Business Journal;” “In the Company of Women” award presented by the Miami-Dade Parks and Recreation Department on March, 2003; and the Keys to the City of Miami Beach presented by the former Honorable Mayor David Dermer on June 20, 2002.

Lopez is married to Architect/Urban Planner, Alfredo C. Sanchez, and they have a 16 year- old daughter, Lillian Karina Sanchez, currently attending Immaculata La Salle in the 10th grade.

As we finished our interview, we wish the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, its Board of Directors, its Chairman of the Board and its President/CEO, Liliam M. Lopez much success in the future! WOW

The SFLHCC has many programs and events for its members to network and be able to do business with one another.

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LILIAM LOPEZ COMCAST AWARD

womenofwealthmagazine.com | 37 LILIAM LOPEZ WITH THE MAYOR OF MIAMI

CONVERSATIONS WITH SUCCESSFUL WOMEN

K

atrina McGhee believes that within each of us lie the seeds of unimaginable success.

Helping others to nurture theirs has been the hallmark of her life’s work. She is a through-bred professional and serial entrepreneur who has passionately combined her love for transforming communities with her gifts for leadership and business. She is the founder and CEO of Loving on Me, a multi-media lifestyle brand dedicated to inspiring and equipping women to love themselves more, and the former Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the nation’s leading nonprofit organization focused on breast cancer research and awareness. She’s also an author, loving mother, and a passionate community advocate. Recently she sat down with WOW to chat about her exciting career path and the lessons she has learned along the way.

Tell us about your family.

I’m a mom of an amazing 27-year-old son who is my greatest joy in life. I am also blessed to be part of an extraordinarily loving and resilient family. My parents, whom I admire so much, both grew up in Louisiana picking cotton. They were raised with a strong sense of faith, family, and responsibility, and instilled those same values within my brother and me. My father in particular has been one of my greatest career role models. He grew up very poor, but always believed you could be more than what you see, allowing him to go from the cotton field to college and then on to a professional career. That “anything is possible” spirit lives within me too, and throughout my many transitions has been a fundamental truth that I hold dear.

How did you get started as an entrepreneur? Tell us about your journey.

I’ve had a very unusual career path. My undergraduate degree was in Accounting and I started out at an oil and gas company as a Royalty Analyst. I remember being so excited because I graduated with one of the highest paying jobs in my class, but I soon realized accounting was not for me. Like many things in life it wasn’t what I thought it would be, so while still working full-time I went back to school to get an MBA, even though I had no idea what I wanted to do.

When they finally forced me to choose an area of focus, I decided to go with marketing. Those were the classes I enjoyed the most, and this time around I was determined to do something I loved. So after graduation I bopped around a bit working with a couple of marketing and sports agencies before stepping out on faith to form a boutique marketing agency with a friend, and then finally landing a job at the national center of the American Heart Association, There I found home. I finally had a position that seamlessly married my love of marketing, business and strategy with my passion for helping people. I eventually became their National Director of Marketing, launching a $7 million national women’s campaign that would lay the groundwork for their now wildly successful Go Red for Women movement.

It was work that I loved but I was traveling way too much. My son was at a pivotal age, and I wanted to be the one to raise him. So I decided to come out of the corporate world and go back into business for myself. This time I started two businesses: an online retail store featuring African American collectibles and home décor, and a consulting company focused on healthcare marketing. This allowed me to feed my passion for creativity while also continuing my commitment to the health and well-being of women. I grew both of those businesses for about four years until my son was almost finished with high school, and then joined Susan G.

First and foremost, always remember that “You are enough.’

Regardless of what you achieve in this life, you are a beloved child of God and that gives your life value, purpose, and meaning.

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Komen for the Cure as their Director of Cause Marketing, eventually becoming their EVP and Chief Marketing Officer.

After working in the non-profit field for nearly two decades, I left Susan G. Komen and embarked upon my next great adventure, training this generation of change makers to transform our world. Through my consulting company, Katrina McGhee Enterprises, I serve as a strategic advisor to some of America’s most beloved charities, offering training courses in fundraising, personal branding, leadership and presentation skills. I also started Loving on Me, and launched a global movement which is changing the lives of women around the world.

So this is where I am now, running what are my 19th and 20th businesses. It’s been an incredibly fulfilling journey, albeit a circuitous path. As a serial entrepreneur who believes in being led by the Spirit what I’ve learned is when you pursue your passions in life your higher purpose will be revealed. The key is to follow the path that’s right for you, without comparing or competing with those around you.

What advice do you have for women who are struggling to do it all even as they find their path, both in life and career?

First and foremost, always remember that “You are enough.’ Regardless of what you achieve in this life, you are a beloved child of God and that gives your life value, purpose, and meaning. I believe the reason so many of us are overwhelmed, working ourselves to severe illness and early graves, is because we forget this fundamental truth. Instead of embracing our inherent value we waste time in pursuit of external validation, rather than bolstering our internal self-worth.

But when we understand that the “me” we were created to be is enough, we approach this business of living differently. We have no need to do it all, instead focusing our energy on what sets our soul on fire. It is from this perspective that we are poised to achieve unimaginable success.

Second, I want to tell you that I believe in you. I believe you are smart and strong and capable of bringing the vision you have for your life to fruition. As women, we often forget how important it is to affirm each other. So if no else is speaking life into your dreams, let me be the first. You are a masterpiece, and your best is yet to come.

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You authored a book titled Loving on me. What inspired you to write this book? And what message did you want to deliver with it?

From the womb to the tomb there is a war on our self-worth. Loving On Me: Lessons On a Journey from Mess to Message is our battle plan for winning. The story begins in 2012 as I’m leaving Susan G. Komen, when a professional crisis turned into a personal calamity. Out of nowhere I began to experience panic attacks, high anxiety and pain so severe I thought I was having a heart attack and stroke combined.

On the outside I was at the top of my game but on the inside I was a hot mess, wondering how a path that seemed so right had gone so horribly wrong.

When the doctor told me my only course of action was to take a time out, I knew I needed to make some life changes, and fast.

No way was I meant to go through life sick, exhausted and filled with anxiety. There had to be more than what I’d known before.

Turns out I was right. It was during my season of rest and renewal that God revealed some powerful life lessons – incredibly simple, and yet so profoundly impactful when they’re applied. I was so excited I

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When we understand that the “me” we were created to be is enough, we approach this business of living differently.

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started sharing what I’d learned on a blog, and to my surprise women from all walks of life and from more than 100 countries wrote back to tell me that’s my story too. In one way or another we’d been working so hard to prove our worth, we’d somehow lost sight of ourselves. In trying to control everything, we eventually controlled nothing, most especially the runaway train that was our own lives.

Loving on Me was my love note to women, to help us get back in the driver’s seat of our own lives, and to move forward knowing we are enough. It reveals the answers that allow you to access the more God has in store for you - embracing faith, releasing fear, and experiencing the fullness of life for which you were designed.

It was during my season of rest and renewal that God revealed some powerful life lessons – incredibly simple, and yet so profoundly impactful when they’re applied.

What projects are you working on at the moment?

I’m so excited because this fall we’re kicking off an exciting Go Get Your More tour. It’s six power hours of personal branding and positioning for doers who are ready to get things done. I can’t wait to pour into the hearts of dreamers and visionaries from around the country, who I’m confident will in their own way make our world a better place. We’re also developing a Loving on Me inspirational product line, making affirmations a part of everyday life, and I’ve already started working on my second book. WOW For more information on Katrina’s services or to book her for speaking/media, visit her website at www.KatrinaMcGhee.com.

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DON’T COUNT ME OUT

Strawberry

Darryl and Tracy

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P

astor’s Darryl and Tracy Strawberry are the founders of Strawberry Ministries and the Darryl Strawberry Recovery Center. They are passionate about restoring lives and relationships through the power of God and the process of change. They are authors and speakers on a mission to spread the gospel and bring hope to the world. Their Passion is fueled by their personal experiences that have taken them from deep darkness and despondency to a place of restoration and hope.

Their Past Struggles Darryl a former New York Mets major league baseball player had always been talented and athletic, but a history of abuse and addiction by his father tainted his success and career. His father, Big Hank Strawberry, was one of the best softball players of his time but along with his success came his tendencies for drinking, abuse, rage and infidelity.

Darryl describes his childhood as a disaster a reality he couldn’t seem to get rid of even long after he grew up and came into his own as a professional athlete.

He began to drink, abuse drugs, and before long he had gone down a slippery slope divorcing twice during his baseball career and struggling to battle his drug problem. In 1992, through the invitation of a relative, Darryl attended a Christian event where he got saved but, unfortunately, his battle with addiction did not go away.

Tracy had a similar struggle. As a 30-year-old she found herself divorced twice, lost in a cycle of addiction and unhealthy relationships.

She was broken and lost living a lifestyle of defeat she so desperately wanted to escape. She tried everything; it seemed, to turn her life around but nothing seemed to work; change seemed impossible for her, and she started to lose hope.

Somehow Tracy found help to get off drugs and stay sober; then she met a woman who invited her to a Christian meeting where she gave her heart to Jesus. That changed her life. “From that day forward I started to grow and heal, and in time, my life completely changed,” she says. “It did not happen overnight, and the process of change was not easy. My entire life has been transformed by surrendering my life to Christ and living my life according to the Word of God.”

Darryl and Tracy met at a Narcotics Anonymous convention in 2003.

Between them, they had a history of addictions, abuse, divorces, debt and so much more. womenofwealthmagazine.com | 45

“I live in the divine healing and transforming power of God and have a passion to lead others into that same Power!” Tracy says.

Marriage: The Early Days Darryl and Tracy met at a Narcotics Anonymous convention in 2003. Between them, they had a history of addictions, abuse, divorces, debt and so much more. By the time they met and got married, Tracy and Darryl had nine children between them. Tracy was recovering from her drug addictions and had just lost a custody battle for her children. Darryl was millions of dollars in debt, and still struggling with addiction to drugs and women.

Their marriage was difficult and once again they found themselves on the brink of a possible divorce.

They struggled to trust each other and make their marriage work. They had an emotionally destructive dynamic, unable to find a way out of the despondency.

Somehow they got settled into church and began to engage with God’s word. They listened to their pastor’s teaching, took them to heart and began to take definite steps to making their marriage work.

“I had to stop blaming Darryl,” Tracy says, “It was so easy to step into self-righteousness and point

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fingers, but I had my own issues to deal with.”

They decided to seek after God and trust Him to make a way when there seemed to be none ahead for them. Today their marriage is exciting blessed and fulfilling because they love and respect each other. Darryl encourages men to love and listen to their wives. “It doesn’t make you less of a man,” he says.

A Complete Turnaround Darryl and Tracy found true redemption and restoration in Jesus Christ. Today, they share their story as a powerful illustration of the true power of God and His redeeming love. They are on a mission to lead people to Jesus Christ and to restore lives and relationships through the power of God and the process of change.

“I live in the divine healing and transforming power of God and have a passion to lead others into that same Power!” Tracy says. “It is my purpose, desire, and passion to teach others how to overcome defeated living, live the Victorious Life and to fulfill their destiny in Christ.”

“I have a heart for people,” Darryl says, “especially those who are faced with conditions, situations or battles in their lives that often bring a deep sense of hopelessness to the soul. Much of my life has been filled with the battles that have left me without hope. However, that is not the case today. Today I have hope! No matter what comes your way, or how many times you may fall, you do not QUIT! You never give up! You get up, and you keep moving. If there is breath in your body, there is purpose and reason for your life. Sometimes that’s hard, if not impossible at times to see. I do not know why we have to go through certain things in life, but I know that there is a purpose and a reason for everything.

I do know that in my life, all my successes, failures, and experiences have brought me to where I am today. My strength and the reason that I am here today is proven through the experiences and conditions I have endured. God continues to bring me through, to carry me and breathe life into my body. The bat is retired, and the spikes are in a box, but the

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true passion and purpose for my life is just beginning. That passion is being able to make a difference in the lives of others. Today I have hope, hope I want to instill in others.�

Their Work and Ministry Together they run the Darryl Strawberry Drug & Alcohol Rehab Detox Treatment Center in Orlando. Their Treatment Program is a 28-day residential Christian counseling program designed to treat addictions and all forms of substance abuse including prescription medications. The program provides medical detoxification followed by primary treatment, including a 1-year continuing care plan, designed specifically around the needs of each client.

Their Christian recovery program is led by Christ-centered therapists and staff who are trained in addiction, spiritual, and Biblical recovery. They provide inspirational Biblical counseling within the framework of the Christian treatment program.

They also offer the Clean Sober & Saved Recovery Curriculum designed to be a helpful resource to people who struggle with God or need help embracing their Spiritual Connection within their recovery. WOW Visit http://strawberryministries.org/ for more information on their ministry and programs.

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You never give up! You get up, and you keep moving.

If there is breath in your body, there is purpose and reason for your life.

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CONVERSATIONS WITH SUCCESSFUL WOMEN

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S

tephanie Barnes Taylor is an attorney, author, speaker and founder of Fabulous University, a transformational coaching program where women learn to lead with brilliance and maximize their gifts in the marketplace.

Armed with a strong desire to help women explore their leadership potential, Taylor has used her influence to create programs that provide the knowledge, strategy, and tools to take women the extra mile in their dreams and careers. Her company, The Fruition Group, LLC, specializes in leadership and strategic planning solutions, seminars, workshops, and coaching. She is a leader, mother and professional in every sense of the word. It is a pleasure to bring you her story in this edition of WOW.

“It is interesting how some of the most devastating experiences in your life could be a set up for amazing wins that you never expected.”

The Early Years: Finding Herself Born and raised in Mississippi, Taylor was blessed to have a loving family who believed in her. She knew from a young age that she would do great things and make an impact in the world even when she had no idea what the details of that would be. She had a vivid imagination and creative energy and was interested in finding creative outlets for her gifts. However, like most creative people, finding that one thing to focus on was an initial challenge which led to her changing her major eight times before she decided to study English.

She graduated from Tougaloo College and moved on to Harvard Law School and eventually started her career in a law firm in Houston doing litigation. In 2002, however, during the dot.com bust, the law firm she was working at went through a massive restructuring which resulted in many layoffs. Taylor was amongst the workers who lost their jobs. “That was a shocking and devastating experience for me,” she says. “This was a real pivotal point in my life. My then husband was in his first year of fellowship at the time so I was the primary breadwinner and we had just had our second son. It was a difficult period, and I took the layoff personally. I had a lost a position I loved, and which was, at the time, a part of my identity not to mention that it messed up my whole plan and career track.”

In hindsight, however, she realized that it also one of the best things that happened to her. “It is interesting how some of the most devastating experiences in your life could be a set up for amazing wins that you never expected.”

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“Leadership is about using your influence to inspire others to do things that have value.”

Her Leadership Development Journey Years later her family moved, and she was able to transition into an in-house position in the health sector that ended up being a really great experience. As a healthcare executive, she was able to develop her leadership skills on a deeper level. “I was thrust into the position of having to oversee an entire department, and also work with others throughout the organization. Also, being the only female executive in a male-dominated environment came with its challenges. I learned how to be assertive, yet connect with others in a way that made for effective communication.”

With time, her desire for growth and advancement grew, and she decided to apply for a CEO position in another organization and, even though she didn’t get it, that experience opened up her understanding of what it really meant to grow as a leader.

“I started reading books on leadership and realized that it wasn’t about position or authority. Leadership is about using your influence to inspire others to do things that have value. This changed my perspective and how I worked with my team. One experience stood out for me that I’d never forget.

We had just concluded a project, and I was talking to one particular team member and commending her on the job well done. I said to her “You’re such an amazing leader. I’m so proud of you.” I’ll never forget the look on her face. That comment caught her unawares and she teared up. After talking with her for a while, I realized that she had never identified herself as a leader. No one had ever referred to her as one, and she never saw herself as anything beyond the current track that she was on. So, I had a great opportunity to mentor her and support her to grow beyond my department.”

Creating Opportunities for Women Through that interaction, Taylor became more aware that there were very few women in leadership positions in the organization. She wanted to do something about that. “I thought I was in a position to be able to make a difference in that regard, so I had a conversation with the CEO, and the general response was that there weren’t women qualified to fill leadership positions.” She knew that that couldn’t be the case, there had to be women who were capable of leading in such capacities. So she asked the CEO for permission to develop a leadership program that focused not on the technical skills related to the health care industry but

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“I help women to be bosses. It doesn’t matter whether they want to work for someone else or work for themselves, I help them to elevate their influence and accelerate their revenue.”

real leadership skills on how to build influence, communication skills, etc. “Basically, I created the program using the information I had garnered from the books I’d read and things I’d tried to do in my own leadership development.

He agreed, and we decided to reserve the first class for women only. It was a successful project because we had two VPs and two directors to come out of that program.” However, Taylor’s desire wasn’t just to help these women get promotions. She created that class because she wanted them to see themselves as leaders and use their influence to be able to make a difference in the organization and beyond.

“That experience helped me figure out what my purpose was and what I wanted to do with my life,” she says. “It took me 35 years to finally figure it out.”

She led that class five times in that organization and started her own company, The Fruition Group, and began to offer her leadership training services outside the health care industry.

In 2014, Taylor retired from her law practice. “I have been fortunate to have a legal career that helped me develop the skills set that I can now use to develop other leaders.”

Current Endeavors and Future Projects “Today I have my signature coaching program called Fabulous University where women learn to lead with brilliance. I help women to be bosses. It doesn’t matter whether they want to work for someone else or work for themselves, I help them to elevate their influence and accelerate their revenue. Using my skills in strategy and process improvement, I help them to navigate a career path so they can turn their dreams into reality. I realize that most women know what they want to do, but they don’t have a plan. And as with anything in life, you’ve got to have a strategy. I also believe that equipping

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ourselves with the knowledge and the right tools will help us be more confident in pursuing our goals.�

She has authored five books and is now getting ready to revise her third book to be released in 2017, Finding the Fabulous in You: A Guide to Creating an Extraordinary Life and Career. The book draws on the experience she has had in building her career and helping other women build theirs.

A lifelong learner, Taylor now has a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership and continues to apply her knowledge in creating more opportunities for women to explore their potential.

Dr. Stephanie Barnes Taylor can be reached at Stephanie@fabulousuniversity.me or call (855) 7-FABYOU. Visit www.stephaniebarnestaylor.com for more information.

Follow Stephanie on Twitter and Periscope @crownedatbirth or www.facebook.com/ StephanieBarnesTaylorAuthor.

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CONVERSATIONS WITH SUCCESSFUL WOMEN

Gwendolyn

Braimoh 56 | womenofwealthmagazine.com

G

wendolyn Braimoh is a visionary and pacesetter who has gone on to blaze the trail and create opportunities for many men and women in the cosmetology industry. She is the Founder of The Expertise Cosmetology Institute in Nevada and entrepreneur of over 30 years. She speaks to WOW about her business, passion for education and desire to leave a lasting legacy.

WOW: Gwendolyn, tell us about you and your family.

GB: I’m the mother of two daughters and grandmother of two. I am an entrepreneur of over 30 years’ experience in the beauty and cosmetology industry.

WOW: You run the only African American Owned Cosmetology School in Nevada. That is very impressive. Please tell us about the institute.

GB: I am the Founder of The Expertise Cosmetology Institute, Nevada’s first African American Owned School of Cosmetology in Nevada. We have two campuses and currently conduct the state’s only Spanish Language Cosmetology training program. We are dedicated to teaching the art of beauty.

We not only teach students the fundamentals of cosmetology, but we also show them the entire business process. We teach job placement and businesses management for those who decide to take that route. Our students are taught how to market their businesses and properly serve their clients. We are currently the only bilingual cosmetology institute in the State of Nevada and we are blessed to be able to serve so many students in our facilities.

We not only teach students the fundamentals of cosmetology, but we also show them the entire business process.

WOW: What challenges if any you have had to overcome in creating success for your Institute: GB: There have been a lot of difficulties along the way. Funding was an issue at some point. The process of becoming accredited as a cosmetology school also came with its challenges. We are now fully accredited and have been able to secure Title IV funding through programs like the Pell Grant.

We are also associated with the Department of Education which is huge for us as we are centrally located and can serve students from all over the city of Las Vegas and North Las Vegas. In December 2013, we also opened “The Expertise Beauty and Barber Spa” to assist in employment opportunities in the beauty industry.

WOW: How did you start out in your career? What opportunities did you have before you started your own school?

GB: I graduated from cosmetology school at the age of 19 and went on to work for Dudley Products as an ambassador. We were set up in salon clinics and took classes on how to use the Dudley products. With time, I noticed a void in the market, and it had a lot to do with diversity. I realized there was a need for a cosmetology school for African Americans. I thought there had to be a way to train African Americans on how to serve clients in their own communities, so I decided to establish a multi-cultural school. I had help from my mother and even though there were no investors at the time, we kept going. Two years after we opened our school, we were awarded a grant from Senator Harry Reid’s office because we had been recognized as a successful organization.

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WOW: You are obviously passionate about creating opportunities for the community. In your opinion, how do African Americans teach their children about generational wealth?

GB: We probably could do more. In our family, my parents showed us the value of entrepreneurship. My mother was a business owner for many years. I watched my parents operate their business and learned so much from them.

As for my children, I try not to do for them what they can do for themselves. This gives them the opportunity to learn by engaging with different aspects of business and indeed, life. I mentor my daughters, give them business direction and encourage them to take classes, etc. It is important that they stay focused so that they can achieve success for themselves. We definitely must teach our children about wealth

WOW: What will you do to make the world a better place? What do you want your footprint to look like?

GB: We are beginning to work with both men and women.

We have hundreds of graduates working in their own businesses and hiring others. We just opened a school in the Women’s Correctional Institute that is a huge footprint that we want to leave. These are women that will sooner or later exit the system, so giving them another chance to change their lives is a huge step. Legislation 2015 bill changed the rules to make it possible for us to go into the prison system.

There were over 300 applications that had to be considered for 12 slots. We chose the top 25 and applied a cosmetology aptitude test to further shortlist them. We wish we could have taken all 300. The women who got into the program cried because they will have the opportunity to leave the system with a career, a chance to live an independent life. We self-funded this program and gave grants to the 12 that entered the program initially a huge footprint. Since the program’s inception, it has expanded from 12 to 25 in just five months!

We placed something in this world that will make it a better place to be in even after I am gone. I’m grateful for the opportunity to leave a major footprint within the Las Vegas Community and possibly the country! WOW

We must teach the next generation to be independent and have choices if we intent to leave a legacy behind.

WOW: Gwen how do you see wealth?

GB: Wealth is more than money. It is a responsibility. It is being in a position to serve, to transform lives, to be able to create a legacy, to be a change agent for those you meet on your journey through life. We must teach the next generation to be independent and have choices if we intent to leave a legacy behind. They need to know how to acquire generational wealth and how to become master business owners. If we expect to pass on the generational wealth concept, mentorship will need to play a key role in creating this type of value in the equation of creating generational wealth.

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Please contact us at www.expertisebeauty.com, 1911 North Stella Lake, Las Vegas, NV 89106. (702) 636-8686.

CONVERSATIONS WITH SUCCESSFUL WOMEN

A

n educator and Philanthropist, Diane Hughes Pollard believes in the power of human potential and the role of education in broadening horizons and creating opportunities. She is the Founder of Rainbow Dreams Academy, a public charter school dedicated to serving and creating opportunities for at-risk youth in low-income communities. She is a woman of wealth and wisdom making a huge difference for the next generation and we are proud to share her story and thoughts with you.

DianeHughes Pollard Living fearlessly means that a woman is able to take care of the needs of her family and herself independently. This is very important to her overall wellbeing.

WOW: Tell us about your childhood and how it has impacted who you are today.

DHP: I had a most pleasant childhood. I am one of six children and I grew up in a family of strong and determined people. I had the benefit of a formidable extended family unit. I was fortunate to receive the support, guidance and direction of family members who believed in me and gave me the confidence I needed to be able to enjoy success.

Both my parents instilled in me the value of hard work and dedication. They also believed, as I do, that education is the foundation for success and the key to opening doors and broadening horizons. I embrace that ideal and work hard to impress the value of hard work and dedication to each of the students enrolled in Rainbow Dreams Academy.

Both my mother and grandmother served as role models for me together with other women in my church family whom I looked up to.

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Small business owners are a key factor in our nation’s economy. When small business owners are held to the same standards as multibillion dollar corporations they must reduce overall expenses.

WOW: Tell us about Rainbow Dreams Academy as a non-profit and how you operate to improve the lives of others.

DHP: Yes, we are a Non-profit because all funds generated

by Rainbow Dreams Educational Foundation are invested back into the programs and services sponsored by our organization which includes Rainbow Dreams Academy, the annual Las Vegas Juneteenth festival and our Art 4 Education Program.

As an educator, many years ago I envisioned the creation of a different kind of learning environment for disadvantaged children. My vision evolved into my passion and Rainbow Dreams Academy became a reality. Today, streams of children flow through the halls of Rainbow Dreams Academy, a public charter school serving children and families in one of our city’s most economically distressed communities. In addition to having a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, our school has grown from 52 students in grades K-2 and now serves grades K-8 and provides an extensive arts curriculum which includes violin instruction, vocals, and the performing arts. We are now serving multiple families and can only imagine how many of our students will achieve excellence because of the motivation they received while in our care!

Every day I see the excitement on their faces as they learn new things and are challenged to set high standards and stretch to greater heights.

WOW: There are many schools of thought on this issue but we’d like to know your thoughts on education and entrepreneurship. Do you think one should come before the other?

DHP: I believe that education comes first. It is the basic foundation that will open doors for successful entrepreneurial opportunities. Education helps to establish credibility and develop relationships that create networking opportunities.

WOW: How important are entrepreneurs and small business owners to the economy? And how will the state of the nation affect the small business owner?

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DHP: Small business owners are a key factor in our nation’s economy.

When small business owners are held to the same standards as multibillion dollar corporations they must reduce overall expenses. Reducing operating costs often equates to layoffs, cutting personnel costs. Such actions often lead to increased unemployment which increases the demand for government-funded services and ultimately impacts the family unit.

WOW: Have you had the opportunity to visit other nations? If so how do you compare the rest of the world to the United States?

DHP: I have had the opportunity to extensively travel the world and visit several continents. While I respect all people, their cultures, and religious beliefs, I am very proud to be an American because “there’s no place like home”!

WOW: You no doubt have been blessed with great opportunities; given your experiences in life and career, what does wealth mean to you?

DHP: Wealth means being able to understand the value of money; that it is a medium of exchange that should not be taken for granted nor squandered irresponsibly.

WOW: Let’s talk about women. What does it mean for a woman to live fearlessly? How can she balance or manage the demands of marriage and the CEO suite?

DHP: Living fearlessly means that a woman is able to take care of the needs of her family and herself independently. This is very important to her overall wellbeing.

As far as marriage and career demands are concerned, neither role should be downplayed. Certainly, a stable household environment enables the CEO to perform her responsibilities in a smooth, efficient and effective manner when all parties understand that both roles are mutually beneficial.

WOW: Is America ready for a woman president? Should a woman be commander-in-chief?

DHP: Historically, as the leader of the free world, the United States has had 44 presidents and they have all been males. Now that women have successfully shattered traditional “glass ceilings” at all levels of leadership, our time has certainly come.

WOW: Thank you for the interview Dr. Pollard, now tell us how do we contact you: DHP: Your readers can reach us at the Rainbow Dreams Educational Foundation, P. O. Box 34271 Las Vegas, Nevada 89133, 702-255-3001. 2020 Campaign, www.rainbowdreamsfoundation.org. WOW

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ENTERTAINMENT MEDIA

Dr.JacquelineMohair

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Tell us about your family life.

I am the daughter of the late Fred J. Perteet and the late Rosie L. Perteet. I grew up outside of Kosciusko, Mississippi the birthplace of “Oprah Winfrey “ and graduated from Mississippi State University in Business. After leaving Mississippi, I continued my education in Atlanta and received an MBA and Masters in Educational Leadership. I was then called into ministry and earned a doctorate in Theology. My mother was a school teacher so education was very high on the books. So naturally , I also shared her passion for education.

My husband and I have been married 14 years and have 4 children and 4 grandchildren. Family connection and legacy are very important to me. Being a businesswoman, at one point, I got so caught up that I found myself not spending quality time with family. Taking care of business without spending family time meant my kids were growing up without me. When realizing there was no point building a business if I lost them in the process, I began holding my entire family in high esteem. Family is first, dinners, activities and lots of conversation are important and we support each other. They support my calling in ministry and with my nonprofit.

What is your nonprofit focus?

The name Trinity Girls Network (TGN) was given to me a little over 10 years ago. God gave me the name from His trinity – God the Father, Son and the Holy Ghost. In which now the network is a DBA of Heaven at New Haven Outreach a 501c3. An outreach ministry that I started in 2012. I studied the Word to seek direction and domestic violence and human trafficking became my focus.

Little girls were getting “lost in the sauce” with low self- esteem and many other challenges hitting them day-to-day. I saw the challenges they faced first hand in the school system and with my kids. My heart was burdened to tap into my community and be able to coach young girls to know they were more than what people said they were and that, “Greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.”

TGN empowers, inspires and helps young girls and women, guiding them away from abusive situations and transitioning them to independent and healthy lifestyles. We do this through a trinity approach: 1) ending violence against women and girls; 2) providing opportunities through education; and 3) preparing girls for success. We want girls to be aware of what’s going on. In Gwinnett County human trafficking is hidden and needs to be brought to light. It’s easy to get tricked and lured into these situations. TGN aspires to partner with other organizations bringing awareness and teaching girls about leadership, etiquette and education.

TGN empowers, inspires and helps young girls and women, guiding them away from abusive situations and transitioning them to independent and healthy lifestyles.

Why is an issue like domestic violence hidden instead of asking for help?

Domestic violence is often hidden and I understand the embarrassment because I have walked through it. I was in a relationship for 4 years and dealt with it. I went from having a busted ear drum to being pushed through a glass table and ended up in the emergency room. My arm was cut up with keloids and I was ashamed. I wouldn’t wear short sleeves. That incident tore into my self-esteem. I asked myself how I got into a domestically violent relationship. I covered the scars because I didn’t want anyone to see. But it wasn’t just the scars on my arms--it was the scars I felt inside. My self- esteem was so low I thought, who else would want me now?

The enemy plays with your mind! I almost lost my life and had plastic surgery for

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my face. That was just one time but this was the straw that broke the camel’s back. It was the one that broke me down enough to make me get up and move forward. But I didn’t move forward alone. For most of us, it’s hard to get out alone. I was strong enough to call the cops. My friend, Stacy took me for the restraining order. Honestly, if Stacy hadn’t taken me, in my state of mind, I may have gone back. We all need a Stacy to help us walk to freedom.

Women don’t share because they are hurting inside and need healing. As I healed, I was able to share and show the scars. I learned that what you go through doesn’t define who you are and realized I am a overcomer. Women are overcomers.

What do you think of having a woman President?

I go to the Bible and reference a woman called Deborah who was very bold at leading people. I see in President-Elect Hillary Clinton the same boldness and ability to lead. What an honor it would be to have the first woman president! We’ve already changed history with President Barak Obama and doors are being opened. I look forward to the day of the first Black woman president. I have already pushed and moved forward prophetically believing that Hillary Clinton will win this election and then we’ll have the first Presidential Women Awards.

Tell us about the Awards Gala coming up.

What an amazing opportunity this is! I applied for the privilege to work with an initiative of President Barack Obama to acknowledge outstanding community leaders and when they got back with me, I was elated. There are so many people doing awesome things and I wanted to connect with them to make sure they were recognized.

This is what President Obama intended for this award space.

With this being his last year, the awards are timely. On November 5th, we will celebrate not just his legacy but, people who have advanced our community with their excellent work—including the creator of Women of Wealth Magazine, Dr. Lei Lewis.

Magazine, Dr. Lei Lewis.

I learned that what you go through doesn’t define who you are and realized I am a overcomer. Women are overcomers.

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What books have you written?

To date, I’ve written four books and I’m currently working on a series. The first book of the series is called “Gurl...

Get Your Life! The 7 steps to being a Girl on Fleek”. Each book will be used in our TGN programs.

My first book, Birth the Entrepreneur Mindset in You, speaks to creating a vision without limiting the mind. From this book we want participants to tap into another realm of creating income so that they don’t just depend on working for someone. Mindsets are elevated to own a business or be the technology guru. We weren’t always taught about ownership. While reflecting, I remember running for queen of our school and having to raise money. I went to our pantry, got some popcorn, popped it and sold it on the school bus. I didn’t realize this was a sign of an entrepreneurial spirit. We want to tap into this spirit in our girls. Greater is on the inside and sometimes you just need someone to pull it out.

The second book is a co-authored book called, Positioned to Prosper is written by and for women offering 8 golden nuggets to ensure prosperity. Then I wrote a book, The Resurrected Womb: Living in the Abundance of His Grace which deals with a topic not normally discussed in the sense of healing. It covers how to be healed and walk out of the hurt of abortion. One must deal with the loss and hurt of abortion before they can be healed and move forward on a positive path. The fourth book, Speak Life & Life is an affirmation book that teaches us to watch the words we speak. Our words have power.

Is there anything else you want to share with the readers?

I encourage the readers to get on board to fight domestic violence and bring about an end to human trafficking. The women in these situations are being controlled and manipulated and violence is prevalent. It’s time to scream aloud about it and help others get out. Our mission at TGN is to instill greatness in our young girls in hopes that they don’t fall into the same pitfalls. We are about empowering them to reach there full potential in life. We are to train them in the way they should go. It’s my turn to be an advocate and help others come out of the darkness and dungeons to know it’s not too late to dream a bigger dream and step into boldness and freedom. WOW For more information on the Trinity Girls Network go to www.trinitygirlsnetwork.org.

And to reach me visit www. Jacquelinemohair.com or email me at themohairs@gmail.com or 1-888-400-8257.

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ENTERTAINMENT MEDIA

Elyse

Murray 66 | womenofwealthmagazine.com

W

ith 30 years of experience in the entertainment industry, Elyse Murray has done it all. From being a singer and dancer to working as an agent managing artists, she has made her mark as a thorough professional. Today she is the Sole Proprietor of Elyse 7 Group Agency where she manages artists, books tours, and events, and oversees contract negotiations.

She is also on the frontlines of Lupus advocacy, working to ensure that research and clinical trials continue so that we can finally find a cure for the silent but deadly disease.

She is a woman of strength and courage who has faced many challenges but continues to soldier on. We are blessed to have her story in this edition of WOW.

WOW: Tell us about your childhood.

EM: I was born and raised in New York City in the Northeast Bronx as one of four children. I went to High School at Harry S. Truman and also attended Fashion institute of Technology in New York city.

WOW: Did you know always know what you wanted to do and that you would be where you are today?

EM: I had no idea I would be where I am today. We came from humble beginnings. My mom was a single parent who raised four children and she always aspired that we go farther in life. My dream at the time was to be in the music business but you never know what your destiny will be and where you will go in life.

I danced and sang professionally. I was the lead dancer in several videos which opened up a door for me to become an agent, being an actress you are faced with several challenging roles that compromise your integrity as you grow in the Industry, you make a choice and reach a point in your career to make a decision to either go further as an actress or to simply go in another direction. An opportunity opened up for me to work as a receptionist for a new booking agency (which I named and called) - Pyramid Entertainment Group there is where my training came in, which lead me to take the opportunity and proceeded to work my way up As Vice President and Partner giving them 17 Years of my Life.

In 2005 I was diagnosed with lupus so I decided to step out on faith and start my own agency. I decided I wanted to be a woman in business and invest in myself. Which birthed the Elyse Group 7 Agency where I am the Managing Agent for artists like Cherrelle and Cameo. I book many artists across the country like Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly, Karyn White, Jeffrey Osborne, The O ‘Jays, Gladys Night, El DeBarge, Ginuwine, Lyfe Jennings, Chaka Khan and many more. I recently had the opportunity to be involved with the Artist Common on a special project. In addition I’m consulting & the Agent for a young International artist called Donyale Renee. I will Jump on conference calls and work diligently on Lupus advocacy work. My typical day does not end until about 2 a.m.

I decided I wanted to be a woman in business and invest in myself. So I started Elyse Group 7 Agency where I manage artists likes Cherrelle and Cameo.

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WOW: What does a typical day look like for you?

EM: I start out with prayer, go for a walk, meditate and work out. Then I look at my itinerary which might include anything from managing my artists, Scheduling Tours to working on one of the many boards I sit on. I’ll probably take conference calls and do some Lupus advocacy work. My typical day does not end until about 2 a.m.

It doesn’t matter if you want to be an actor, writer or singer just learn all you can about the business.

WOW: Have you ever had a mentor? What impact has mentorship had on your life?

EM: At the time when I was focusing on dance and videos and aspiring to be an actress, Lee Oca Thompson mentored me in theater and arts. He taught me to understand the dynamics of dance and body and movement. My mom was also my biggest cheerleader. She trained me in etiquette, grace, and charm and had me running in Beauty Pageants which prepared me for International social norms. Some of my other special mentors and close sister friends are Dr. Lauretta Pierce and Sonya Young. In the Music Agency Field- the Late Great Ruth Bowen, of (The Bowen Agency), was one of my biggest supporters in my life. Of course, my father who was one of the first African American Business Men on Wall Street in the very early 70’s. He and I later re connected and today we are a tight family.

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WOW: What would you say to young artists trying to find their way in the business?

EM: I would encourage them to study the legalities of the business. It is important to know how to negotiate contracts, engagements and agreements and everything about the business. You also need to connect with people who are succeeding and from whom you can learn. Look for mentors in the specific fields you want to go.

Take classes. Intern Intern Intern Hang around the studios and learn all you can. It doesn’t matter if you want to be an actor, writer or singer just learn all you can about the business. Go to seminars and volunteer in the field you’re interested in. It’s the best way to learn, grow, use your talent and be recognized.

Don’t be afraid to dream big and take the necessary steps to get there.

WOW: How can young artists overcome challenges and make money in the business?

EM: One of the ways to make money is to decide exactly what you want to do. If you are a writer, copyright your works so that they are protected with the library of congress.

There are so many resources where one can find information on record companies, radio stations, studios etc. Try to seek opportunities through that route. I started as a receptionist but left as a Vice President and partner to start my own company. Don’t be afraid to dream big and take the necessary steps to get there. Also, when you do earn money, invest in yourself. Constantly be a game changer who is willing to work hard and reach for more.

You will definitely face challenges but you have to keep pushing yourself forward.

It helps to surround yourself with great people who can pick you up, encourage you and keep you accountable.

WOW: What other important projects are you working on?

EM: Right now I’m working as a spokesperson for the Lupus foundation Under my Elyse Murray Speaks organization. I’m advocating to get legislators to take notice of this terrible disease and help to find a cure. It is a cause that’s close to my heart. I also want young people to be aware so they can get tested.

Lupus is no respecter of persons and you never know until you get checked. Lupus can go undetected for years so don’t ignore any pains, constant fevers or other symptoms you might be having. It took me 13 years to find out I had Lupus.

There’s no cure right now so we’re advocating and raising money to keep the clinical trials going. In addition Assisting with the Minny’s Food Pantry’s across the country, as well as helping Lauretta’s House organization.

WOW: How do our readers contact you?

EM: emurray@elysegroup7.com http://about.me/ElyseMurray WOW

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COVER STORY

Brenda L. Hill-Riggins SEASONED BUSINESS MOGUL CREATES NEW INDUSTRY SECTOR

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B

renda L. Hill-Riggins is a self-motivated, senior executive and co-owner, of MARS Contractors, Inc. In addition to her business success in the construction industry, Brenda has set her sights on a new venture, fulfilling her purpose as an author, speaker and life coach as The Vision Surrogate™.

Over half a century’s journey has brought this mother of 3, grandmother of 9 and great grandmother to 4, to an adventure that has been part nightmare and part uplifting fairytale.

From being kicked out of high school and becoming a teen mom on welfare, to running a major construction company

and organic farm, Brenda has mastered the art of living life on God’s terms and in God’s plan. She’s masterful at taking what’s handed to her and using it for a higher purpose. Now, living the life she’s always wanted, she invites you to step into your greater purpose too.

Tell our readers who you are?

I am first, a child of an awesome God. Growing up a middle child of 11, I took my place learning to lead and follow. This continued in my role as wife to Marcus, mother to Jeanine, Ira, Brenda Ashley and Tyvonne; and co-creator of MARS Contractors. As much as I’ve loved running the business with Marcus, I’m just as excited to step into my new role as inventor and The Vision Surrogate™. It’s a natural transition because at Mars Contractors we are deeply committed to the best interest of our clients, as well as humanity as a whole. As The Vision Surrogate™ my constitution remains the same--bringing purpose to clients through a new vehicle.

What is a Vision Surrogate?

A Vision Surrogate is a spiritual guide, helping birth client visions. As The Vision Surrogate™ I’m marked with an extraordinary sense of vision and foresight, often offering what some might perceive as impractical ideas. The Vision Surrogate™ is not a substitute for a natural visionary but a vehicle to help bring the natural visionary’s work to life at a higher level. Just like a Business Strategist might give insight on how to grow your particular brand or business, The Vision Surrogate™ knows how to grow and expand your idea.

In a spiritual manifestation, a Vision Surrogate is a necessary resource to bring to life the basic elements of the spiritual manifestation design.

A Vision Surrogate is a spiritual guide, helping birth client visions.

How do you do what you do?

Part of what I do as The Vision Surrogate™ cannot be explained in the natural realm. It’s a spiritual gift. I’ll try to explain what I mean: Every join between dimension level and fact level, is a spiritual manifestation. In this environment, one marked with vision and foresight, can enter and integrate the dimensions.

This is the work of The Vision Surrogate™. Speculative and often impractical ideas, are brought to the forefront through The Vision Surrogate™ to the client.

The Vision Surrogate™ has unusual foresight beyond the natural visionary’s mental images produced by the imagination.

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This sounds different. Tell us more of the uniqueness of what you do?

First becoming The Vision Surrogate™ was a unique gift and identity given to me through the spiritual realm. As The Vision Surrogate™, I extract data logic and systematically look up and replace every incoming idea from a natural visionary, with a spiritual equivalent. This only occurs when a dimension record or a fact record is brought into the spiritual manifestation environment. Now, I am The Vision Surrogate™ but others can become Vision Surrogates and have the gift of decoding uncertain knowledge.

If you are a true visionary, I probably have your attention. If you are new to the spiritual manifestation-process, you are probably horrified. There is no need to be afraid of this futuristic manifestation process. It is in Divine Order and the true secret to coming into one’s authentic self. For those visionary’s believing they have the answers through their vision, you may be thinking that if you know your underlying vision, then why not move forward from the data you’ve been given?

Yes, in the Creation transaction-processing environment, the meaning of a natural visionary is directly related to the record’s content (the instructions you receive from man’s knowledge and our habits). But, in the spiritual manifestation environment, a Vision Surrogate must be a generalization of what is found in the record. He or she, must have been designed (possessing the abilities to understand the details of the Vision) to assist the natural visionary in understanding the intent of God. Consider The Vision Surrogate™ as the spiritual manifestation manager, who helps control and manage the slowly changing dimension crisis that may arise, in the spiritual manifestation-process. This relationship is intimate between The Vision Surrogate™ and the visionary and built over intense time together. The Vision Surrogate™ learns the visionary’s habits and ways as well as what guides and sustains them in order to use proper insight, hindsight and foresight to see what the natural visionary can’t see.

What is the process of becoming a Vision Surrogate?

The process of becoming a Vision Surrogate is laced with character building.

Interestingly enough, I had to become a Vision Surrogate before I could be The Vision Surrogate™. In order for me to fulfill my purpose I had to become the purpose.

Guiding others to becoming a Vision Surrogate starts with a 9-step process built from the acronym of the word, “surrogate.” Candidates go through an entire year of intense training. We start with “ search and surrender” and end with “emergence and enlightenment” where participants stand in their true vision.

Are other Vision Surrogates already practicing?

From what I know, I am uniquely The Vision Surrogate™. Others of course, have prophetic gifts and spiritual callings but I am the leader of this movement to not only birth visions, but to guide others through the process.

Brenda, it sounds like you are creating a new industry.

Many would label this Empowerment or Purpose coaching but perhaps a new industry sector is a better way to define what has unfolded. The differences are clear.

Vision Surrogates are not coaches – we are spiritual guides and the process we use is one that is only entered into with a spiritual calling or vision.

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Every join between dimension level and fact level, is a spiritual manifestation. In this environment, one marked with vision and foresight, can enter and integrate the dimensions.

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How do you accomplish or market something no one has heard of or understands?

This has been a 30-year journey and honestly, I didn’t always understand every step of the way either. As I share my own process and humanity as evidence of how far one can go with starting over in a different realm, the market will open up for Vision Surrogates to enter. Once others know they can start over and be born again-purposeful and creative--in an environment conducive to their existence, they will certainly be open to clearer understanding.

My goal is to educate on the need for a Vision Surrogate. As I patiently waited for the right season, I know God placed me on this plane at this time.

What did you do during the wait?

While I was waiting for the future to catch up with me, I worked on me--my attitude and honing in on developing positive and generative habits. As a Vision Surrogate to be, I helped give birth to my husbands dream. MARS Contractors Inc. is the company we grew into a multi-million dollar empire and is the proven concept of my ability to surrogate the success process for others. As God nurtured me I nurtured MARS. Not only did I learn how to build homes but I also learned the value in creating a vehicle that fostered others’ dreams and changed lives. In the housing industry people can live abundantly while creating avenues to build additional income. As people got to know Marcus and I in construction, they also saw me creating a market for diversified success. I implemented strategy to accommodate any learning and growth curve present with newcomers and identified the skills and tools necessary for exponential growth over a short period of time.

Grooming into The Vision Surrogate™ I was practicing being The Vision Surrogate™. My clients believed I was offering Business Coaching when in fact, I was offering Vision Surrogate sessions.

What’s the difference in Life/ Business Coaching vs. Vision Surrogate Coaching?

There are many differences in each of these coaching philosophies. First a Life Coach helps one get on track with varied areas of their life. It could be anything from breaking a bad habit of smoking to losing weight. A Life Coach motivates you through varied projects or time sensitive areas to stay on track. A Business Coach works with clients moving their business from one point to the next.

The Vision Surrogate™ moves beyond simple goal setting and takes a deeper dive into one’s purpose-driven lifestyle. Once identifying the authentic self of clients, The Vision Surrogate™ then helps map out a spiritual plan beginning at the core of the soul. Goals are formulated from the core or true essence of each person—guiding them through their vision and mapping a path to live that vision fully. These are not “soft skills” but a blend of spiritual, scientific and technologically sound facts and procedures to launch and elevate.

What is the vision you have for your Life?

The first part of my vision has been achieved – to become The Vision Surrogate™.

From this place, I see the building of a Dynasty that incorporates every part of the world touched by the The Vision Surrogate™. I want to seed into my clients the life their vision deserves and watch them bloom.

This sounds enormous! How do you plan for such a task?

I have created a blueprint and the process in working with The Vision Surrogate™

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Consider The Vision Surrogate™ as the spiritual manifestation manager, who helps control and manage the slowly changing dimension crisis that may arise, in the spiritual manifestation-process.

will be promulgated with the help of 5 Vision Surrogates. We will impart the knowledge that has been gifted to us – into others – for exponential growth expansion. The movement has already started and taken hold.

What have you done to ensure exponential growth for your business and how is that like your building of MARS Contractors?

Like with MARS, this business was started with a vision— gifted, prayed over and secured as God’s plan for my path. The business is built on a strong foundation with a solid and secure infrastructure. The vision specifications are very detailed and thorough. The Blueprint is clear and actionable – just like the plans for building in a construction project. And, just as we map out timing in construction, the time for The Vision Surrogate™ is ripe and ready for this work to be done.

We understand who’s interested in construction but, who will need this work?

Anyone who has a dream or has ever dreamt of a different, more authentic, life--is a possible client. However, currently we are working with a small and exclusive population to keep our message as pure as possible.

How do we learn more about this exclusive community?

We invite you to take a look at www.thevisionsurrogate. com to learn more. There is an upcoming Vision Surrogate session in the Spring of 2017 where a handful of individuals will be guided through the process and welcomed into our community.

For those wanting a premier of the evolution of my work, I also have a newly released book, Pregnant With A Vision, which shares my 23-year journey to this very place. In the book I illustrate and compare trimesters of childbirth and vision birth, in parallel, for the reader to understand God’s purpose in designing one’s purpose-filled life.

Brenda, thank you for this interview and for your giving spirit in helping each of us understand better how to move into our purpose.

You’re welcome. It’s been my pleasure to serve and thank you for such insightful questions. WOW For more information on Brenda L. Hill-Riggins or her work, visit www.thevisionsurrogate.com. You can also find Brenda L. Hill-Riggins as a contributing author of Roadmap to Success along with Stephen Covey and Ken Blanchard; and see a compilation of her reflections along her physical, spiritual and mental journey in the book, Segments of Time.

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TRAVEL

Cancun CHILL OUT IN

WRITTEN BY: SHERYL NANCE-NASH

M

Have a three part plan. Focus on your mind, body and spirit. In just three days you can get your groove back.

Start with an early morning walk on the beach. You’ll be able to hear yourself think and breathe. The biggest noise will be splashing waves. Next up -- your body. Take a boxing class at the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa’s gym. Relax, it’s not like one of those intimidating gyms at home, it’s full of windows and breathtaking ocean views. There’s more equipment than you might know what to do with, an aerobics studio, indoor pool, whirlpool, sauna and more. Burn some calories and some stress.

Soak up all you’ve accomplished so far and

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celebrate with a healthy lunch at the resort’s BeachWalk restaurant. Think blackened grouper sandwich or grilled greens Mediterranean salad.

Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach in a gorgeous thatched roof private Bali daybed. Warning: don’t be surprised if you fall asleep.

Pamper yourself further with a trip to the 35,000 square foot Mayan spa. Your toughest decision will be what treatment to choose.

There are plenty of choices, and none that will disappoint you. You’ve probably never had the Hunab Ku Ritual, a traditional Mayan massage.

Go for it. Relish 20 minutes of heaven that uses a mixture of rituals and unconventional healing movements, with a very unique abdominal massage technique performed according to the traditional beliefs of energy flow.

Cap off a fab day with dinner at the resort’s Gustino Italian Grill. Be ready to be wowed.

It’s gorgeous with large glass windows, many candles, live saxophone music, excellent

Photos courtesy of JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa.

aybe you think of Cancun as one big party town, for sure there’s that kind of action there, but it’s also a place where you can find that inner peace. Situated on the south-east coast of Mexico in the state of Quintana Roo in the Yucatan Peninsula, Cancun’s warm, white powdery sand beaches and turquoise crystal clear waters welcome weary souls.

service and more.

Tomorrow, get your sunrise beach walk in and then test yourself with yoga in the gym. Don’t freak out, there are classes for all levels. Cool off in one of several pools. Eat an early lunch and then venture beyond the resort. Try deep sea fishing, golf, or take in the interactive aquarium, Tulum, an ancient Mayan fortress city, or Xplor Park, where you can zipline and raft on underground rivers.

For another memorable dinner, go to Porfirio’s.

It takes an unique twist traditional Mexican flavors, textures and colors. It’s guaranteed that you haven’t had tacos, enchiladas or quesadillas like this. Porfiro’s is contemporary, yet doesn’t lose all traditions. Enjoy the lively Mariachi band and drink up. There are more than 100 different labels of Tequilas and Mezcales.

Call it quits before it gets ugly. Get a good night sleep because tomorrow adventure awaits.

Get one last morning beach walk, sip a cup of tea and get ready to embark on a guided snorkeling

Focus on your mind, body and spirit. In just three days you can get your groove back.”

expedition. Don’t chicken out. Get in the water and give it a try. You’ll be happy you did. The sea creatures and coral reefs are a sight to behold.

Feeling good about your bragging rights that yes, you indeed snorkeled, or at least attempted to snorkel, treat yourself to Le Natura, a quaint café with vegetarian and healthy food that is loved by locals.

Back at the resort, go get one last snooze in the daybed. Relax, reflect. Let the sea again, serenade you to sleep. For your last meal in Cancun, hit Sasi Thai nearby. It’s an elegant fusion of Japanese and Thai food with al fresco ambience.

As you pull away from the resort and head back home, you won’t even remember what you had been fretting about or worried about what comes next. WOW

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www.havanawatches.com

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WOW WHIRLWIND

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C E L E B R AT I N G

7 Years Of Women of Wealth WoW Magazine

Nation’s Top 87 Women Mentoring Leaders

Winter Edition 2011

EdiE FrasEr Diversity Activist and Philanthropist

And more in this special issue…

First Lady Michelle Obama, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, Bonnie McElveen-Hunter Judith McHale, Lulu Flores, Kathy Calvin, Betty Hudson Dr. Paula Whetsel-Ribeau, Rosa Whitaker, Dawn Sweeney Ambassador Julia Chang Bloch, Joi Gordon

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First Lady Michelle Obama on the Importance of Mentoring and Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor’s Journey to Living the American Dream

winter 2011

WOMENOFWEALTH.COM

SPRING 2012

of

A Tribute to

WHITNEY 1963-2012

AFFLUENT WOMEN LEVERAGING POWER AND INFLUENCE

AFFLUENT WOMEN LEVERAGING POWER AND INFLUENCE

Winter edition 2015

Women of Wealth SPRING 2015

NBA

Wives WOMEN OF WEALTH

Kristina Ratliff Deborah Williams

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Dee Dee Abdur-Rahim

Jazette Lane- English

“BEHIND THE BENCH” LEADING STRONG

Tomi Rose

“OFF THE FIELD PLAYERS’ WIVES ASSOCIATION” A Force To Contend With