Women's Quarterly Insight 2022

Insight 2022

4 GUILT

FREE RULES To Live Your Best Life

HOW TO mindfully ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS

Get featured!

(see details inside)

Meet

Hafsa Munir

RELATIONSHIPS

are you self

promoting?

3 tips to help you use social media

WHY DO I KEEP ENDING UP IN REALTIONSHIPS WITH THE SAME PERSON?

Insight 2022

Serenity Chambers Women on the Move Toccara Nicole Business Spotlight

Lyss Stern Women on a Misson

Robert Conqueror Roberts Man of the Hour 2 WQMagazine.com

Lina Duque Women in Business

WQ EVENTS

Women’s Quarterly Magazine Everyday Woman Contest

Are you an Everyday Woman? We’re searching for a woman with a great story to be on the cover of our magazine. If chosen you will win a complete photo shoot, a featured magazine spread, and sponsored gifts and prizes. Two runner ups will win a one-page feature in the magazine.

Previous Winners FIRST PLACE WILL RECEIVE: •

A professional photoshoot

•

A feature story in Women’s Quarterly Magazine

•

Her photo on the cover of Women’s Quarterly Magazine

•

Sponsored gifts and prizes

RUNNERS-UP (2) WILL RECEIVE: •

Social Media Promos

•

A feature story in Women’s Quarterly Magazine

Register Today! * Due to Covid-19 and best safety practices, location of the photoshoot will be determined at the end of the contest. USA residents only where applicable.

Official Rules apply.

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WQ EVENTS Become a Sponsor Bronze Package

Silver Package

Gold Package

$500 2 Weeks of Social Media Tags Radio Ad Listed on Website

$1000 30 Days of Social Media Tags Weekly Newsletter Includes Radio Ad 1-Page Magazine Ad

$2,000 90 Days of Social Media Tags Weekly Newsletter Includes Listed on Event Site Speaker Opportunity Press Release Includes Radio Sponsorship 2-Page/Spread Magazine Ad

Platinum Package $5,000 90 Days of Social Media Tags Weekly Newsletter Includes Radio Sponsorship 2-Page/Spread Magazine Ad Listed on Event Site Speaker Opportunity Press Release Includes Event Ambassador Table 5x5 setup

If interested in becoming a sponsor send email to media@icemediaent.com.

Thank you to our wonderful sponsors

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Special Features On the Cover 22 Business Spotlight

Featuring Toccara Nicole

24 Warrior Women

Featuring Tamron Little

28 Man of the Hour

Featuring Robert Conqueror Roberts

36 Mind+Body+ Soul

Featuring Andrea Ramirez - Fortuna Living

42 Cover Feature

Featuring Hafsa Munir

54 Women on the Move

Featuring Serenity Chambers

60 Women on a Mission Featuring Lyss Stern

62 Women in Business

Featuring Lina Duque

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Credits: Photographer: @onpointfotography MUA: @artistmaker Studio: @aimanicano

Contents

30

38

34

08 Letter from the Publisher

28 Man of the Hour

56 Girl Power

10 Editor’s Note

30 Men We Love

60 Women on a Mission

12 Company Info

34 Girls Night Out

62 Women in Business

14 Our Peeps

35 Life’s Survival Guide: 4 Guilt Free

16 WQ Online

36 Mind + Body + Soul

18 Q&A- Ask the Experts

Dr. Elizabeth Fedrick

20 What’s Next &

Publisher’s Choice

21 Blogger Spotlight

Stacey Wallenstein

22 Business Spotlight Toccara Nicole

24 Warrior Women

Annette Pearson

26 Warrior Women Tamron Little

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Robert Conqueror Roberts

Pysa Noël

Lyss Stern

Lina Duque

Rules to Living Your Best Life

Andrea Ramírez - Fortuna Living

38 Stars and Entertainment Mandy Capristo

40 Stars and Entertainment

Celebraties We Lost in 2021

42 Cover Feature Hafsa Munir

52 EvolveMe

Judy Schoenberg and Linda Lautenberg

54 Women on the Move Serenity Chambers

Page 30 photo credit of Morris D. Small: Norman E Jones Photography

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Letter from the Publisher

The Best of You

Let’s do a check-in! Have you been taking care of YOU? When you are taking care of your responsibilities and everyone else, it is easy to lose sight of your own needs.

Taking care of yourself is not a selfish act, it is a loving one. Caring for our needs allows us to reset and come back refreshed which ultimately leads to us being kinder not only to ourselves, but to those around us.

Benefits of self-care: Reduce stress. Be more productive. Boost creativity.

Strengthen relationships. Make you feel refreshed.

Boost self-esteem.

Here are some suggestions of activities to add into your schedule to take time out for yourself: Get active – just go for a walk and get some fresh air and sun.

Take a nap – schedule some power naps for 10-20 minutes, no more than that.

Connect with WQ We want to give women a voice to share and tell their stories that will inspire and pave the way forward for others on their journey.

We are advocates for living a full circle healthy lifestyle - mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually and financially. Our readers will find practical advice, good common sense and savvy on various topics that women encounter from everyday living.

Get a hobby – having a hobby helps you to switch your brain off from problems due to life, home, work.

Depending on the hobby – it allows you to meet and interact with other people.

Pamper yourself – schedule a massage, manicure, pedicure or a facial.

Let me know your thoughts. #selfcare Peace and Blessings, xoxo

Ilene Carol

www.instagram.com/womensquarterly

www.facebook.com/womensquarterly

www.twitter.com/womensquarterly www.linkedin.com/company/women-s-quarterly

Follow @ilene.carol Follow @ilenecarol Follow @ilenecarol

Email: ilene.carol@icemediaent.com

SUBSCRIBE TO WOMEN’S QUARTERLY WQ Magazine is quarterly and available for digital download, print via subscription and print on demand. We can be found on ISSUU, Magzter and Blurb.

www.wQmagazine.com/subscribe 8 WQMagazine.com

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Editor’s Pick Wow! I can’t believe half of 2022 is gone. Here are a few highlights from my favorite submitted article.

12 Steps to Transform Yourself in the New Year by Dean McMurray •

Disconnect to reconnect - We are bombarded by electronic devices and information at every turn.

By disconnecting from the electronic and physical world, you can reconnect to your soul-self. Ram Das once said, “The quieter we become, the more we can hear.”

•

Finding your WHY - Our why drives us every day from why we do what we do to what motivates us.

For some it’s money or fame and others it’s family and friends. If you’re not clear on your why, now is the time to explore and discover your motivations and passions.

•

Become self-aware - Self-awareness is more about how people, places, and things are making you react, feel, or perform. If you can identify what elements are holding you back, you can navigate the “zigs and zags” in life and greatly enhance your emotional and physical state of being.

•

Give back - This one is an oldie but a goodie.

Remember, it doesn’t always have to be financially, it can simply be a compliment, a kind word, or smile.

Giving back can come in all forms.

Sign up for our Newsletter At Women’s Quarterly, we are advocates for living a full circle healthy lifestyle - mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually and financially. Our readers will find practical advice, good common sense and savvy on various topics that women encounter from everyday living.

wQmagazine.com/blog

Jenna Ross

wQmagazine.com/newsletter

Email: editors@wQmagazine.com

Write for Us WQ is currently building a network of talented and eager contributors. This would be especially ideal for entrepreneurs, mompreneurs, experts, authors and bloggers. We would love to read a sample of your work. Introduce yourself to our editors with links to your work and social media profiles. Use the link below to submit your request.

www.wQmagazine.com/write-for-us 10 WQMagazine.com

Quotes to Live By: Self Love

“Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.”

-Coco Channel

“Don’t forget to tell yourself positive things daily! You must love yourself internally to glow externally.”

-Hannah Bronfman

“If you have no confidence in self, you are twice defeated in the race of life.”

-Marcus Garvey

“Love yourself enough to set boundaries. Your time and energy are precious. You get to choose how you use it. You teach people how to treat you by deciding what you will and won’t accept.”

-Anna Taylor

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“Gain INsight. + Be INspired. + Get INnovation = EMPOWERMENT”

www.wQmagazine.com Contact Us!

General: contact@wQmagazine.com Magazine: editors@wQmagazine.com

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Our mission is to help individuals and businesses throughout the world reach their goals by providing the necessary resources, inspiration and innovative ideas.

Visit icemediaent.com to learn more.

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Legal Statement Women’s Quarterly Magazine, (WQ), is a quarterly publication and collaboration of and for women supporting women. This is not a peer-reviewed journal or a sponsored publication. We make no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability, or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis.

The views and opinions expressed in this journal are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organization, employer, or company. Assumptions made in the analysis are not reflective of the position of any entity other than the author(s) – these views are always subject to change, revision, and rethinking at any time.

The authors, WQ Magazine, it’s owners, publishers, and employees will be held harmless against any and all liability, loss or expense arising out of any claims for liable, unfair trade names, patents, copyrights and property rights, and all violations of the right of privacy or other violations resulting from this publication.

WQ participates in various affiliate marketing programs, that we may get paid commissions on products purchased through links. We also may include advertisements and endorsements from partners and subsidiary brands. © ICE MEDIA ENTERTAINMENT LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 12 WQMagazine.com

What are you listening to?

Tea Time With The Psychos Grab some tea and get ready to get psycho about mental health. KK and Liz are two women in the mental health field that are working toward breaking the stigma on mental health. In the podcast these women weave together their personal stories and experiences, clinical expertise all while correlating each topic to mental health. Breaking the stigma on mental health also means breaking some rules-which these two do! You don’t want to miss this podcast. Tune in monthly and check out their website, subscribe to their newsletter, follow them on social media, and get psycho about mental health.

Follow Tea Time With The Psychos on: kaitlynkenealy.mykajabi.com Tea Time With The Psychos @teatimewiththepsychos

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Our Peeps Contributors AMBER GREENUP Marketing Assistant

I recently graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Humanities. As Marketing Assistant for WQ, I have dealt with obstacles and creativity blocks, but in the end, I am always proud of my work no matter what I had to overcome to get to the final result.

Working for WQ has been an amazing experience, it is always a fun, friendly, and motivating environment.

MARIA VIOLA

Social Media Manager My name is Maria Viola, and I am a sophomore at Delaware Valley University. In my free time, I enjoy crocheting, jewelry making, and drawing. Pretty much anything creative I enjoy. I am constantly finding new creative projects to work on. When it’s not a pandemic, I enjoy going to local art festivals and restaurants. I also have a cat named Fiona who I love spending time with.

STARR TURNER

Graphic Designer Hello My name is Starr Turner. As a single mother from Chicago who has always been creative I have had a knack for solving problems as well as helping people. Which made a career as a Graphic Designer the perfect fit for me. I strive to create designs that are not only colorful and beautiful but that also have an impact in making the world a little bit better and brighter.

MADISON PARK

Graphic Designer Madison Park is a senior at Boise State University in Idaho. She is pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design. Madison has worked with several clients for branding and logo design. She also enjoys photography and works for Boise State University as a student photographer. Madison has contributed design and marketing material to Women’s Quarterly and ICE Media.

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NIYAH COLES

Public Relations My name is Niyah Coles and I am a Marketing Team member for ICE Media Entertainment. I just recently graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Bachelors in Broadcast Journalism and minor in Psychology.

As a marketing member, I love working on the WQ Brand. It allows me to express creativity all while gaining marketing experience. It also allows me to gain insight into some of the lessons taught within the brand.

SHAMRIN YASEER

Creative Team Shamrin Yaseer is a social activist, public speaker, YouTuber, writer and a student. Shamrin is well-known for her resilient presence and involvement in social issues especially that of which involves women and youth. Her polished opinions and her keen interest on the well-being of the community is highly noticed and appreciated making her one of the most inspiring women personalities in Sri Lanka.

Marisa DeRoma

Graphic Designer My name is Marisa DeRoma. I recently graduated from Kent State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Visual Communication Design. In addition to being a graphic designer I also do photography on the side. My personal goals are to keep getting better and better with each passing project as I enjoy challenging myself. I have contributed designs to Women’s Quarterly.

TEHYA MOORE

Graphic Designer Hi! My name is Tehya Moore and I am a senior at James Madison University, studying Media Arts and Design with a concentration in Interactive Design. As a member of this team, I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute I have spent creating content for WQ Magazine. I have contributed design and marketing material to Women’s Quarterly and ICE Media.

LINDSAY THOMAN

Journalist Lindsey, an undergraduate student at James Madison University, is studying Communication Studies with a minor in Writing, Rhetoric and Technical Communication. She has experience in writing, editing, & digital marketing practices.

“Writing and editing is one way that I know how to best serve others.I believe that what we say and how we say it, goes a long way in making an impact”.

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Women’s Quarterly Online

Spring fling must-haves One more use for your tax refund: Take control of your debt

Spring provides the perfect opportunity to host a party and show off all of the hard work you’ve put into your lawn and garden. For the rest of the article visit wQmagazine.com.

If you’re anticipating a tax refund this year, chances are you’ve already thought about how you’ll spend the money. Maybe you’ll pay bills, fund your summer vacation or treat yourself to something nice. For the rest of the article visit wQmagazine.com.

Don’t let spring cleaning weigh you down: Here’s how to spring forward Spring is the time to shed your winter layers, dust off the cobwebs, open the windows and embrace the beginning of a new season. For the rest of the article visit wQmagazine.com.

How to freshen up your spring cuisine For food fanatics, spring is the perfect time of year to add fresh produce back into your recipes and meals. For the rest of the article visit wQmagazine.com.

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Women: Life-changing tips for better health and energy Moms, career women, singles enjoying life with close friends and family, and even women approaching their retirement years – women at every life stage can benefit from adding simple activities to improve their happiness and health. For the rest of the article visit wQmagazine.com.

What are you listening to?

Kylie Montigney

On her first ever podcast, Kylie Montigney sits down with a wide range of guests and some of her celebrity friends who inspire her and who do extraordinary things . Kylie shines a light on people and issues that are important to her and the world at large . Talk of Fame hosts weekly conversations with so many special people throughout the industry and athletes as well.

About Kylie Kylie Montigney is a Host/ Reporter/Athlete and activist from Scranton, Pennsylvania. She has gained well deserved attention as a Podcast Host. Kylie started a podcast on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcast in April 2021 as a 14-year-old. Today she has over 2,000 listeners on her podcast and a worldwide fan base. What sets Kylie apart from different hosts is that she is open about her experience with anxiety and depression and she also works hard for her dreams. Kylie releases episodes every week on her podcast and has had over 60 guests on her show. She hopes to inspire younger generations that they can be anything in the world and no one can stop them. She is very passionate about ending Gender Bias in the media, so she hopes to bring awareness and give people more opportunities on her podcast. Besides being a Host Kylie has loved sports since she was a little girl. She would often go to Professional Baseball Games, Football Games and much more with her father. As of 2022 Kylie is training for Volleyball Season as she hopes to play for her school’s team this fall.

Follow Kylie on:

kyliesworld62.wixsite.com @officalkyliemontigney

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Q &A Ask the Experts

Relational Programming: Your Patterns in Relationships By: Dr. Elizabeth Fedrick-PhD, LPC

Why do I keep ending up in relationships with the same type of person?

If you were to stop and truly assess the history of your relationships, you will likely recognize a pattern in choosing the same or a very similar type of person. And while many of us might tend to think, “hmmm this is an interesting (and frustrating!) coincidence.” The reality is that it is not actually a coincidence at all, and rather it is what we call relational programming.

Relational programming is a term used to describe the impact of our upbringing and childhood experiences on our patterns of relationships into adulthood. The way that our primary caregivers (mothers, fathers, grandparents, etc.) treated us during our upbringings sets the stage for what we come to expect, and are willing to tolerate, in our romantic relationships as adults.

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For example, if we had caregivers who were warm, attentive, and nurturing, we will then look for partners who exhibit these similar traits and often will not settle for less.

However, for many who grew up with parents who were rather dismissive, neglectful, emotionally unavailable, or even abusive, this then becomes the norm for what we not only expect but are willing to tolerate as adults.

Though our upbringings certainly do impact our relational programming in adulthood, rest assured that even if you had a less than ideal upbringing, there is hope and the ability to engage in “reprogramming” in order to allow yourself to start choosing healthier relational patterns.

The key here is to start with self-awareness.

You must be willing to reflect on your childhood experiences and be honest with yourself about how they have influenced your present-day relational patterns and behaviors.

Then the next step is to start identifying what you want out of relationships, this includes identifying your wants, needs, and boundaries.

The third step is to be aware of when you are starting to fall into previous patterns and refuse to allow yourself to accept less than you deserve. And finally, it is crucial to give yourself time to adapt to these new patterns and to be willing to sit in the discomfort of choosing new and different behaviors.

Keep in mind that changing your relational programming is hard, and sometimes painful, work. However, staying stuck in the same dysfunctional patterns of relational behaviors will ultimately be much harder and much more painful in the long run. You have the ability to reprogram, but you must demonstrate self-awareness and willingness to do so.

Elizabeth Fedrick Dr. Elizabeth Fedrick is a Licensed Professional Counselor and owns two group private practices in Arizona. Dr. Fedrick has a doctoral degree in Psychology, as well as a master’s degree in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. She is trained in various therapeutic modalities, and specializes in relationships, trauma, depression, and anxiety. In addition to providing therapeutic services, Dr. Fedrick teaches psychology courses for Grand Canyon University. She also hosts a mental health talk show and podcast (Calm, Cool, and Connected), which airs through Cox Communications and on all major podcast platforms.

Dr. Fedrick presents mental health talks throughout her community and is seen on AZTV7, as well as authors mental health articles for various media outlets.

Follow Elizabeth on: www.evolvecounselingaz.com

@drelizabethfedric

What’s Next?

Find Inspiration The Summer issue is a celebration of womanhood in its purest sense. This will often include health as a secondary focus. From original artistic expressions to real stories, women will find inspiration on every page.

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Eat, Pray, Love trips on a budget

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Effective skin care regimens

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“Why I shaved my head”, “Why I became a single foster parent” (Features from women who did something daring yet incredibly rewarding)

Original artwork that celebrates women by female artists

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What “healthy” really looks like (body-posi)

Publisher’s Choice

Overcome Your Villains

Have you ever felt down, defeated, or discouraged?

Ever been unsure of your next move or felt your confidence slipped just when you needed it the most? Whether you’re facing the glass ceiling, a toxic work environment, or anything in between, Heather Monahan’s 3 Step BAK process will teach you how to eliminate any outside or self -defeating blockers between where you are and where you deserve to be.

About Heather: Heather Monahan is a best-selling author X2, Top 50 Keynote Speaker in the World 2022, Podcast Host of Creating Confidence, TedX speaker and has most recently been appointed to the Board of Directors of Healthlynked Corp.

Having successfully climbed the corporate ladder for nearly 20 years, Heather Monahan is one of the few women to break the glass ceiling and claim her spot in the C-suite.

Link: https://linktr.ee/heathermonahan

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BLOGGER SPOTLIGHT Hi! I’m Stacey Wallenstein, founder of The Mint Chip Mama – a super fun lifestyle and mom blog!

I have three awesome (99% of the time) kids ages 5, 8, & 12 and an awesome (86% of the time) husband.

We used to live in Manhattan, but in 2014, we gave in to suburbia and moved to Long Island. Now I chronical my family’s adventures in the New York area.

We love parks, playgrounds, history, and chocolate. We are so excited to get back into traveling after a two-year hiatus.

When I’m not blogging, you can find me eating tacos, pizza, or lemon ricotta pancakes or drinking a lemon drop martini.

Besides food – which I talk about all day - I love Broadway shows, yoga, the beach, traveling, gardening, reading, hikes, binge watching tv shows at 3am and everything from the 80s and 90s (especially Clueless and 90210). You’ll find me saying “Alexa, play 80s pop on Pandora” several times a day, and often dressing up for an 80s/90s dance party.

Recently, I started making funny Instagram reels. They are so much fun to make and even more fun to watch.

Before I was a super cool mom blogger, I spent a decade as a high-end customer relationship management (CRM) professional working for companies like Harrah’s Entertainment, Chanel and Christian Dior, Inc. My closet is filled with beautiful things I don’t wear anymore but like to look at and sigh…

I also used to create award winning social media strategies for a span of industries and retail locations. Now I coordinate getting three kids to different sports at the same

time. In my free time – at 2am – I’m also the PTA President and a Girls Scout leader.

Some of my favorite blog posts are: Exploring Long Island, 80s & 90s family movies, and what I’m thinking about right.

I’m so grateful for the wonderful press I’ve received including: The New York Post, Psychology Today, NY Metro Parents, New York Family, Parents Magazine, Newsday, News 12, NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt: Kids, NerdWallet, Big Apple Kids Guide, and more!

The Mint Chip Mama was also nominated as The Best Blog On Long Island for 2022, one of the Top 20 New York Mom Blogs & Websites, and one of the Top 100 Mom Lifestyle Blogs on the web.

I also should add I’m a proud University of Michigan grad – Go Blue!

Find Stacey on: themintchipmama.com @themintchipmama

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Toccara Nicole 22 WQMagazine.com

Meet Toccara Nicole: The Identity Architect I don’t know about you but when people would ask me “who I am,” I would struggle something serious. Oh, but now… after some pruning and digging, it’s an honor to share with all of you who I am, yet most of all, how did I arrive to embrace who I am. It takes digging and hard work to understand who you are. It’s a decision which comes with more decisions and even more decisions. The key word is DECISION. I had to do some hard work to make the decision to uncover elements of me that I didn’t like yet tolerated. I had to make the decision to say “No” to elements that made me feel good yet weren’t for my good. I had to do some digging in seasons alone to understand and to rebuild a foundation I could truly build from!

I have been a creative as long as I can remember. As a child, I remember creating books, plays and even businesses. To make my lunch every day, I pretended I had my own cooking show as I hated the task of making a lunch. I loved making friendship bracelets, so I started selling them at the end of my driveway. I remember using my creativity to build buildings out of blocks and Legos. One of the elements I learned as a child was that I had the gift to build. As an adult, I learned to embrace my differences and treasures to own my “Identity Blueprint!”

I am Toccara Nicole, AKA “The Identity Architect,” as I work with Christian female entrepreneurs to build books, businesses, brands, and themselves to discover what’s in their vault to unlock their personal and marketplace identity. This is done by using powerful insight, discernment, and sensitivity! I love standing strong in my superpower of being a midwife by igniting the fire within my clients. As they own the gems within their vaults it allows them to give birth to their many gifts.

As being the architect to authors, VOS Consulting and Publishing International creates, cultivates, and launches authors and entrepreneurs into position to monetize their genius. I equip my clients to shift the “ship” by introducing authorship as a form of entrepreneurship!

I urge you to be D.O.P.E. (Directed On Purpose Everyday) as it changes your life!

Follow Toccara on: @ 2cara_nicole www.yourauthorsauthority.com toccaranicole.com

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W

arrior Featuring omen Annette Pearson

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“

In the dark of each of these life defining moments I made the conscious choice to keep going.

My name is Annette Pearson and I am a warrior. I am a warrior because I have fought for my life and I survived. I have had to find my strength in the dark over and over but regardless of how dark my world got; I never gave up. I am a warrior because despite the challenges, the heartbreak, the hurt, I held on tight and kept going.

My journey began as a young adult; I was in love and engaged to the man I believed to be my soul mate. I was so blinded by love that every time he hit or cheated on me, I stayed.

I stayed and took the blame on myself. My first miscarriage, was at 20 years old, the night I told this him that I was pregnant; he responded by hitting me so hard that I flew across the room, over a table and into a wall.

From that night on he controlled me, my actions, my voice, and the abuse got worse. I still have headaches to this day. I survived this physically and sexually abusive relationship and willingly became homeless to do so. I made the choice to do what I needed to do, to survive. I found my inner warrior.

As life continued, I endured ten years of infertility treatments, rheumatoid arthritis, six knee surgeries, including two total knee replacements, a stroke, five miscarriages, and a second trimester loss of my daughter, which resulted in life saving surgery.

In January 2020, when I lost my daughter, MaryGrace, and I found myself making memorial arrangements from pre-op, everything went dark, and then the world shut down from the pandemic. I didn’t know if the lights would ever go on again. I had to dig deep to find my strength because in my heart I knew that this could not end me, I knew I was loved and needed.

the conscious choice to keep going. It was hard and I broke but I kept going. One step, one breath, one minute at a time.

Often people will ask me, ‘how are you still walking, talking and smiling, how do you do it?’, and my response is always the same, “because I choose to do so”.

About Annette Writing a book has been on Annette’s bucket list since before bucket lists were cool. Eventually Annette’s dream became a reality with her first book, Finding Strength in the Dark. When not working or writing, Annette can be found taking care of her family, in the car with her husband Tom driving back and forth to her daughter’s dance school, making family schedules, soaking in the hot tub, and influencing a healthy lifestyle.

Annette currently resides in Simi Valley, California with her husband, Tom, her daughter Faith (11), and three dogs, Toby Jr., Bill Jo No No and Crazy Daisy. Living in California is perfect for Annette as she makes every effort to get a minimum of ten minutes a day in the sun, which she refers to as “recharging solar cells.”

Annette can be found on Instagram and Tik Tok as ‘That Warrior Annette’ and Facebook at ‘Finding Strength in the Dark’. Annette’s blog will be live in May at, www.thatwarriorannette.com.

Links: @thatwarriorannette Finding Strength in the Dark ThatWarriorAnnette Launching this May: www.thatwarriorannette.com.

I survived and I continue to survive. In the dark of each of these life defining moments I made

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W

arrior Featuring omennTamron Little Coming Out Stronger We often predetermine what we will do if, or when something happens. I will do this when I get married, or I will do that when I have kids. But what about when you are diagnosed with cancer? I wasn’t ready for what was going to come my way. I was a sophomore in college living my best life as they say and found out I was pregnant.

Fast forward to month four of my pregnancy I was diagnosed with a fibroid tumor. January 2007 I gave birth to a healthy baby boy I named Caleb.

My doctor decided to place me on birth control soon after to shrink the tumor.

Months passed and an ultrasound showed that the tumor had grown to the size of a ping pong ball. Months after Caleb was born I was scheduled to have surgery to remove the fibroid tumor. I remember that day like it was yesterday, when the surgeon came into the recovery room and told me, “you have cancer, peritoneal mesothelioma to be exact.” What? Hun? I didn’t really comprehend what he was saying, at the same time I was looking at the shocking faces of my husband and my mom. I didn’t know the first thing about peritoneal mesothelioma. The medical staff couldn’t give me any answers to my questions. In fact, I was told I had 18 months to live and a poor prognosis.

I was later referred to an oncologist who monitored me for weeks, without having a plan in place to tackle the cancer. My faith kicked into overdrive, and I clung on to the little hope that I had left.

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Miracles Still Happen My mom worked at another hospital in the area and one of her co-workers told her about a specialist that could help me. I was referred to a Mesothelioma Specialist right in my hometown. He approved me for a surgery called HIPEC. This surgery involves a special heated chemotherapy and radiation that washes out the abdominal cavity. It took about 10 hours, and I was in the hospital for a week Thriving Fifteen years later I not only have Caleb, but I have also added three more children.

I like to refer to Caleb as my lifesaver and my other children as my miracle babies.

I was told that due to the severity of the HIPEC that I wouldn’t be able to have any more children. So having more babies was a shock to me as well as my doctors. I am on a mission to share my story with others who may be battling cancer or loved ones who are caregivers as well. I wish to spread hope and inspiration to others.

Tamron Little’s Bio Tamron can be best described as a southern millennial wife, and mom of four living her best life as a thriving peritoneal mesothelioma cancer survivor!

She’s known for inspiring the everyday woman through her faith, writing, lifestyle, and passion for fashion.

Tamron shares her life and light while dishing out doses of inspiration each step of the way!

Tamronlittle.com All other social media outlets: @tamronlittle @tamron_little Email: Hello@Tamronlittle.com

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Man of the Hour Robert Conqueror Roberts is a certified life coach, speaker, and personal trainer.

With his mind, body, and spirit approach, Rob teaches women how to have a conqueror mindset and he shows them how to overcome obstacles.

Rob provides a new and effective perspective on mental health and awareness that often challenges conventional practices.

Rob’s connect in love, before you become direct approach has allowed him to assist women from all walks of life in overcoming stumbling blocks that have hindered them from becoming their best selves.

He has been a counselor and coach in the private, public, and government sectors where he has counseled young girls and women for years.

in college and graduated from Liberty University with a degree in Criminal Justice.

He has specialized training and experience in the field of mental health, intelligence, and interpersonal relationships.

Rob has been married since October 2008 and is a faithful husband and a father.

Because of his extensive training, education and experience, Rob provides women with an inside look and a unique perspective that allows women to better understand specific nuances within the male and female dynamic.

Besides just working in the field of mental health, education, and business, Rob is a published writer, motivational speaker, and personal development expert that assists women internationally to know their worth as it relates to mental health, and relationships.

Rob is an entrepreneur, mentor, and lecturer.

Rob created a social media challenge that had participants in over 15 countries that was designed to uplift and inspire people around the world to never give up despite any circumstance or situation.

He has been featured in television commercials, talk shows, podcasts, radio, magazines, news articles, and other social media communications.

Rob teaches us how to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and walk in love.

Follow Rob at: www.neverstumble.com. @muscletobonefitness

Rob received several academic awards INSIGHT 2022 29

MEN WE LOVE Celebrating the men we featured in 2021

Tyler Sash (1988-2015)

I.P R.

Ty

le r.

We m

iss yo u

.

The Man of the Hour for our Women’s Quarterly launch edition is in memory of Tyler Sash. Tyler was an American football safety for the University of Iowa Hawkeyes and the New York Giants of the National Football League (NFL). He was drafted by the Giants in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL Draft. Tyler died on September 8, 2015, at 27 years old due to an accidental overdose of pain medications.

A recent shoulder dislocation and a history of chronic shoulder pain were also significant conditions. Additional tests would also reveal that he was suffering from stage 2 chronic traumatic encephalopathy, (CTE), a degenerative brain disease caused by head injuries, at the time of his death. We will always remember Tyler for his kindness, sense of humor and willingness to help and support others.

Morris D. Small The Nation’s Capital accredited award-winning actor & filmmaker Morris D. Small. Morris is an experienced, highly skilled professional that has been trained across the board in many facets of the entertainment industry. Namely his talents make him a solid yet diverse actor, comedy, fight choreographer, mentor, radio personality, voice over talent, writer, director, and overall philanthropist. He has been acting since childhood and commenced professionally for over 15 years as a featured, support, and lead roles in television, film, and industrial.

Eric Ramsey Eric B. Ramsey was born in Birmingham, AL. He is the middle child of nine children. After High School, Eric began his career as a College football player at Auburn University. He obtained a degree in Criminology. Subsequently he was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 1991. After football he began modeling professionally, later came acting in the television and film industry. His focus soon turned to writing, producing and directing. His film credits include - Unspeakable Indiscretions, CainAbel, and OLE B.R.Y.C.E. He is currently in production of “In the Company of Assassins.” Eric is also the president/CEO of Ramsey Security.

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Daron Jones Daron “DGame” Jones founder and CEO of DPS Productions is a singer, songwriter, producer, performer and beat maker. He is also a member of the R&B group 112. Daron took an interest in music very early in life as he would sit and play songs by ear on his grandmother’s piano. An extremely multifaceted beat maker and songwriter Daron has worked with the likes of P Diddy, The Notorious B.I.G, Jamie Foxx, Usher, Pink, Keyshia Cole and Gucci Mane. In Feb of 2019 Daron released his solo Human which has been streamed over 70,000 times. Daron is currently in the studio working on a new album entitled Pleasur

Travis Hopkins Travis is the host “This Side Of Country” airing Monday - Friday 10am to noon (CST) on 95.9 KRFF heard throughout the Fargo/Moorhead area, also streaming everywhere at radiofreefargo.org The show was voted “Best Local Radio Show Of The Red River Valley” 2021! It spotlights the music from midwest country artists, new indie country from around the world, and celebrates the legends of country! Featuring in studio guests and interviews! Travis’ side project is “The Side Stage Show’ radio program airing Thursdays 1pm to 3pm (CST) on 95.9 KRFF. It spotlights new rock from new artists to new rock from classic artists and dives into the deep cuts! Featuring in studio guests and interviews!

Dean McMurray Dean was not always aware of his abilities to communicate with spirits. It wasn’t until after an overseas deployment with the Army that his spirit guides decided it was time for him to step into his gifts and they paid him a visit! Although it was a shocking immersion into this new part of his life, he hasn’t looked back.

Everyday he is guided to receive and share the love, light and healing that comes through spirit.

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Embrace life,

mind,

body and soul.

Self-care and self-love is taking caring of yourself and loving yourself for you.

www.juicybabyllc.com

Girls night out

Espresso Martini 1 1/2 ounces vodka 3/ 4 ounces coffee liqueur 1/4 ounces crème de cacao liqueur, optional 1 ounce chilled espresso 3 coffee beans, for garnish

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4

Life’s survival guide:

Guilt Guilt free free rules rules to to living living your your best best life life The Fabulous Lady Rules to Living your best life

(The following suggestions for stress management apply to both men and women) By: Maria Willis

yes

Don’t try to be everything for everybody. Set limits for yourself. Trying to meet everyone’s expectations of you is impossible. When needed, learn to say no tactfully, but firmly. Saying yes when you’re already overly committed just sets you up for high levels of stress and possibly failure.

Ask for help from family members and coworkers.

Ask for help before your resentment builds up to the point at which you’re so upset and frustrated that you lose your cool. Delegate some household tasks to other family members.

Pe r f ec t

Give up perfectionism. When time is limited and you have multiple responsibilities, don’t expect to do everything perfectly. Decide what doesn’t have to be done perfectly, what can be postponed, and what may not have to be done at all.

Get rid of guilt. Feeling guilty about what you haven’t done uses up energy that could be used more productively. People feel guilty when what they do isn’t consistent with what they’ve been taught to believe is the right thing to do. If you’ve grown up with the belief that you’re totally responsible for the household work, or that you’re a failure if your child doesn’t do well in school, or that you must solve other people’s problems, you will eat yourself alive with guilt. Reevaluate your expectations. Are they realistic for your present circumstances? If it’s causing you too much stress, modify it to fit your life.

INSIGHT 2022 35

Mind+Body+Soul Andrea Ramirez-Fortuna Living

Success and Mindfulness, achieving goals holistically When setting the path to achieving a goal several things happen.

First, we start looking at everything else wrapped around the way between us and our goal: how other people are doing it to achieve their goals or goals similar to ours.

When we do this, wé re telling ourselves wé re gathering all the information possible from our environment to get the best tools, techniques, and tricks to achieve the desired goal. But most of the time, what we are doing is cluttering our minds with other people’s techniques, thoughts, ideas, and ways of doing things. As if one size fits all.

Being mindful is not being mind-full.

When we are standing on the path towards our goal, we must practice mindfulness every step of the way as if we were walking on a narrow path in a forest, where we can only see the next step we are making.

Walking towards a goal is a path of selfdiscovery and discovering how others can influence us positively or negatively.

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Let’s make a promise to ourselves to mindfully learn to flow, act on the situations instead of reacting.

So by the time we reach our goal, we will have the strength and the wisdom to manage that success, creating wealth for us and our collaborators, creating happiness and fulfillment in our life and the life of the people we love and care about.

To get to the desired goal, walking one step at a time will allow us to create a strong and defined path towards our achievements, just like a sculptor creates their art one chisel strike at a time, step by step, not rushing towards the final form.

Mindfulness is growing in strength, in understanding.For most of our lives, we run towards a goal or an achievement with our eyes closed. Not wanting to mindfully look at the finer detail in everything.

We might achieve success, but maybe at a very high cost: our mental health, physical health, emotional health, or the health of the people around us, collaborators, friends, and family.

When we mindfully move towards our goal we see ourselves growing and becoming stronger. Creating meaning and value every step of the way, so by the time we reach the goal, it will stand the test of time. It will bring value, happiness, and fulfillment to our lives.

About Andrea: Andrea Ramírez is a spiritual coach, channeler, and energy healer. @fortunalivingspirit @fortunaliving.org

Credits (photo above) Photographer: Make-up: Hair:

@robsonstudiosportimao

@algarveuniqueandchicmakeup

@hairstyles_made_by_sisters

Clothes: HM

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Stars & Entertainment Mandy Capristo

Who is Mandy Capristo?

By: Karina Kurani

vision to help everyone feel happier.

Mandy Capristo is a successful singer, public figure and entrepreneur from Germany. Her breakout into the music industry came at age of 16, after winning a singing contest that was televised across the country. As a result, the gifted singer became a part of a pop band called Monrose. Without exaggeration, this victory was life changing for Mandy. Monrose was not only wildly popular in Germany.

The trio also released albums in Austria and Switzerland. It’s safe to say that Monrose is one of most successful girl bands in Europe.

Not many people know that the song “ Hot Summer ” sung by popular Korean band f(x) was originally sung by Monrose.

The goal with FELICE is to convey positive values, and well-being. It is a German platform that aims to bring people together and take away their loneliness. Felice supports people in strengthening their self-esteem, providing a safe and welcoming environment for people of all backgrounds. Felice offers unique mental health content that is accessible to everyone.

In one short year Mandy has created a podcast called “ Hey, Felice” Interviewing mental health professionals on various issues.

After four years of hits with the band, Mandy Capristo has established herself as a solo artist. The singer is often referred to as the “ German Beyoncé ” due to her outstanding vocal abilities. The German -Italian beauty remains to be one of the leading artists in the German pop scene today.

Goodbye depression , Hello FELICE !

Fame and recognition also came with pressure and an emotional roller coaster of highs and lows. This sparked Mandy’s interest towards everything surrounding mental health. This interest and curiosity gave Mandy an idea to start a new platform.

FELICE is the Italian word for happiness. This is a perfect name for a community united by

The Felice community stands by the values ​​of self-reflection, respect and inner balance. In order to spread the message, the Felice team organizes events that give people a sense of belonging. The latest addition to the platform is an educational self - help course that covers all components needed in order to heal. This course was developed in cooperation with life coaches and professionals in the field, offering a simple step by step guide to recovery.

Mandy Capristo is on the mission to change the negative stigma around Mental Health.

She is an excellent role model for the young generation. We would like to wish Mandy lots of creative endeavors, happiness and success!

For latest from updates from Mandy, follow her on Instagram: @mandycapristo INSIGHT 2022 39

Stars & Entertainment Celebrities we lost in 2021 By: Maria Willis

Cicely Tyson Cicely Louise Tyson

Michael Kenneth Williams

Cicely Tyson Cicely Louise Tyson (December 19, 1924 – January 28, 2021) was an American actress and Model.

In a career which spanned more than seven decades, she became known for her portrayal of strong AfricanAmerican women. Tyson received three Primetime Emmy Awards, four Black Reel Awards, one Screen Actors Guild Award, one Tony Award, an honorary Academy Award, a Peabody Award and a Lifetime Achievement Award. Ms. Tyson passed away at the age of 96 years old.

Michael Kenneth Williams (November 22, 1966 – September 6, 2021) was an American actor and model. He played Omar Little on the HBO series The Wire from 2002 to 2008 and Albert “Chalky” White on the HBO series Boardwalk Empire from 2010 to 2014. He was also featured in the 2014 GAP fall collection. He later starred in Sundance TV’s Hap and Leonard. Mr. Williams passed away in his Brooklyn apartment.

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Larry King Larry King (born Lawrence Harvey Zeiger; November 19, 1933 – January 23, 2021) was an American television and radio host, whose awards included two Peabodys, an Emmy and ten Cable ACE Awards.

Over his career, he hosted over 50,000 interviews most of them on his latenight talk show Larry King Live which aired from 1985 to 2010 on CNN.

DMX Earl Simmons

Dustin Neil Diamond

DMX Earl Simmons (December 18, 1970 – April 9, 2021), known by his stage name DMX (“Dark Man X”), was an American rapper and actor. He began rapping in the early 1990s and released his debut album It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot in 1998, selling 251,000 copies within its first week of release. DMX released his best-selling album, ...

And Then There Was X, in 1999, which included the hit club anthem “Party Up “. His 2003 singles “Where the Hood At? “ and “X Gon’ Give It to Ya” were also successful. He was the first artist to debut an album at No. 1 five times in a row on the Billboard 200 charts.

DMX died in April of 2021 of multiple organ failure due to a heart attack.

Dustin Neil Diamond (January 7, 1977 – February 1, 2021) was an American actor, best known for his role as Screech throughout the Saved by the Bell franchise a role he played for 13 years.

He was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer and died shortly after.

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Cover Story

Hafsa A Munir

“

In a world such as ours, I believe what a woman should hold or have regardless of their age is their self-confidence which has to never waver in face of anything and their mental and physical health where both are fundamental to a person’s well-being.

s a child, the world of the glittering entertainment industry always filled me with awe. It still does. Getting to where I am now was not easy, getting into a whole new world which I had no experience in. For me modeling and acting started off as a part-time gig which I juggled with while going to Uni. I finally became invested after I had completed my degree. It took me 5 years of continuous working, and many days of being close to giving up. There were many challenges and obstacles I faced. But the support I received from my family and friends were tremendous.

Fast Forward to now, I am living a childhood fantasy I would have never thought I would be able to accomplish, I still have a long way to go, however, to make it to where I am now, I am very grateful. I am now a model and an actor, I have a self-managed talent agency. As I am still learning, I look forward to acquiring more experience and knowledge and hope to get a hand in other entertainment industries. What I am trying to accomplish with my story and journey is to inspire young minds to not see the sky as their limit and to wish and dream and truly give in their best to conquer their dreams. In a world such as ours, I believe what a woman should hold or have regardless of their age is their self-confidence which has to never waver in face of anything and their mental and physical health where both are fundamental to a person’s wellbeing.

INSIGHT 2022 43

What is your greatest accomplishment yet?

Winning the title of Ms Supermodel Universe Malaysia and the title of Ms Supermodel Universe International as the 4th runner-up.

Where do you want to be in 5 years?

I want to be modeling and acting up to an international level and expand my talent agency business.

Who are Your bio reads your biggest that you finished inspirations?

University. Where Angelina Jolie and Elon did you attend?

Musk. To me they serve as What is your degree a reminder that there are no boundaries to success and of study? to always get back up when I attended Help University and completed my degree a few years back in Business Management.

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circumstances push me down. Also to help whenever I can to whomever in need.

That’s how I adopted volunteering for causes as my hobby.

What would be your fantasy come true?

Honestly speaking, I am already living my fantasy and childhood dream. But it would be a dream to be recognized on an international level and act and model in leading brands and entertainments.

What is your favorite quote and why?

The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall by Nelson Mandela. I remember seeing this quote while scrolling through Instagram many years back. Since I was in a bad place then, the quote resonated deeply with me and clicked something in me which helped me to get my affairs in order with a clear mind. Since then, whenever I’m in a bad place, I look at this quote.

Follow Hafsa on: @hafsamunirofficial

Credits Photographer: @onpointfotography MUA: @artistmaker_ Stylist: @aimanicano

Unwrap the sexiest part of you…confidence.

You are UNIQUE. BEAUTIFUL. STRONG. STUNNING. You are OH. SO. LOVELY.

Own it. Live it. Embrace it. Love it.

www.lalovelyphotography.com

@lalovelyboudoir

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Get Promote Your Your Business Business Get Featured Featured Promote

Promote Your Book

Sponsor a Contest

Podcast Guest

Instagram Promo

Video Spotlight

Magazine Feature Contact Contact us! us! contact@icemediaent.com INSIGHT 2022 47

Model: Kathryn Starke Photographer: LaLovely Photography

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What are you listening to?

EvolveMe Host - Christa Lauri

Listen in to this week’s episode of Bucket List Careers to hear valuable, actionable career advice and learn how women over 40 can make the leap to return to the workforce or find a more fulfilling career.

Link to Podcast: www.bucketlistcareerspodcast.com

EvolveMe About Judy and Linda Judy Schoenberg and Linda Lautenberg are the co-founders of EvolveMe, a career development company for women in midlife.

Judy Schoenberg and Linda Lautenberg founded EvolveMe to give women in midlife the program they wish they’d had when they were transitioning careers.

EvolveMe provides the structure, accountability, and tools needed for professional reinvention. Women do the inner work to figure out what’s next for them - building confidence and honing transferable skills – all within a supportive community.

Links:

Through EvolveMe’s proprietary DARE© method of career reinvention, Judy and Linda help cohorts of high achieving women find clarity, gain confidence, and launch the best chapter of their professional life.

EvolveMe also curates workshops and programming for women employees in companies across industries including finance, tech, nonprofit, and more.

Judy Schoenberg is a graduate of Harvard University and a former national executive for Girl Scouts of the USA. Linda Lautenberg is a Harvard Business School MBA and a Chartered Financial Analyst. Prior to her own professional reinvention, she led a successful finance career at Prudential and Nomura.

https://www.evolveme.work @ evolveme.work Photo Credit: Alyssa Peek - Peek Photography INSIGHT 2022 53

Women on the Move Career // Money // Business

Serenity Chambers

M

y name is Serenity and I am the creator and owner of The Serene Corner, which is a space dedicated to social media consulting,

coaching, and management services for people looking to build an online presence that is longlasting and passively growing online. I started this business in 2021 when I realized all the knowledge I had on the social media space and how to cultivate strategies that allow brands to reach their online goals with ease.

One thing I have grown to love about the business I am creating is the support and appreciation my community has for the information I continue to offer them on social media and building a strong digital footprint.

I specialize in organic strategy building, trend tracking social platforms, and online community building tactics that teach my clients how to create an online space that is authentically engaging and continuously growing.

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As I enter my second year of business, I plan to focus on continuing to provide valuable social media information and services for those looking to see the benefits of consistent social media habits.

Coaching business owners, influencers, bloggers, and content creators has offered a fulfilling experience for me. I look forward to seeing where this service will lead me in my own business journey. I plan to continue increasing my personal knowledge and certifications in the realm of social media and begin discussing more in-depth ways people can increase their online presence.

I want people to come to the platforms I create and walk away learning one new thing about social media that can assist them with their online journey.

Hearing people tell me the amount of value they see in my information only further motivates me to continue offering information and services to relieve the stress social media can cause for so many people nowadays. My expertise in social media marketing, branding, and community building will only advance as my experience grows. I welcome anyone into this space that is ready to learn the value of their digital footprint.

Follow Serenity at: www.theserenecorner.com @theserenecornerllc

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Girl Power Hasina Rahman

Pysa Noël

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The Pysa Noël Show The Pysa Noël Show #PNS is a talk show and podcast based in L.A., CA, where most of the guests reside. Pysa is a former professional dancer turned talk show creator whom, throughout her journey, has met fascinating people with incredible stories.

These PNS guests share their inspiring journeys that include how they “overcame the odds and pursued passion!” This passion driven show aims to motivate the listeners, named “PNS Passion Propellers and Bold Beauties,” to go for that dream of theirs!

Lastly, on PNS we will “always find that laugh!”

Follow The Pysa Noël Show on: linktr.ee/pysanoelshow @PysaNoelShow Image Credits Photographer: Lindsay Rosenberg Graphic Designer/ Photoshop: Ashley Shifflett INSIGHT 2022 57

We are a vegan Beauty line inspired by motherhood. We provide cosmetics and accessories to women and girls.

Our goal is promote self-love and build self-esteem through our products.

VISIT STORE: kecosmetics.com

Affordable handcrafted bath and beauty products made by us...Just for you. Rejuvenate the skin you’re in.

www.etsy.com/shop/rrsoapcompany

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Women on a Mission Lyss Stern

Mom Time Out Camp 2020…the year from hell. Every mom on the planet was ready to throw in the towel. Amidst the tears and tirades of quarantine emerged a brilliant idea: take a summer sleepaway camp struggling to stay afloat thanks to the pandemic and give fellow females a place to bond and blow off steam. The Moms Time Out Getaway was born in Sept. 2020 and has its latest weekend escape set for May 20-22. The campers (more than 50 women from assorted walks of life and menopausal stages) will let loose, explore their passions and possibilities, unplug and find themselves—with both funny and surprising results .

The brainchild of Lyss Stern, 48, and Wendy Siegel, 53, the camp is situated at Camp Tyler Hill, a 220-acre campus two hours from New York City in the Poconos. Siegel and her husband Andy owns the camp which hosts children throughout the summer months. The mom’s weekend, however, is entirely familyfree. “It’s moms, just moms, getting three solid days off for good behavior,” Stern explains.

“Mothers’ mental health is in crisis—we’re all on the verge of nervous breakdowns. This is what happens when frazzled, fed up women are let loose in the wild for a long weekend.”

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“ The sad reality is that moms are so

busy caring for everyone else, they neglect themselves. We are expected to be caregivers and nurturers, but it’s taking a toll on our mental and physical health.

regard to mental health and 72 percent say they “just need to take a break”.

“How many times do we need to hear it to do something?” Stern asks. “The sad reality is that moms are so busy caring for everyone else, they neglect themselves. We are expected to be caregivers and nurturers, but it’s taking a toll on our mental and physical health.”

The goal is to provide mothers a chance to kick back and just be—sans kids, spouses, work and life obligations. The adventure is eyeopening: new friends, new experiences, new attitudes emerge in a setting that allows these women to meditate, vent, and of course, party.

“We sit around a campfire at night roasting smores,” Stern explains. “There are energy healing sessions, yoga, wine and tie dying classes.

I’m constantly amazed at how cathartic it is, how many women need this. Last camp, a group of us was literally howling at the moon, channeling our inner she-wolves!”

Aside from the fun and games, the camp takes their mission very seriously. The media has continued to sound the alarm that moms are not okay; The New York Times even created an online series, “The Primal Scream,” for women to vent their fears and frustrations. The statistics are sobering: a recent study in The Journal of Women’s Health found that women had “alarming high rates” of depression and anxiety postpandemic (cite:https://apcoworldwide.com/ blog/covid-19s-unending-impact-on-thematernal-mental-health-crisis/)

Stern believes that the camp not only provides that much-needed time-out but sets moms on a new track. “When they leave, they’re not the same people who checked into their bunks on Friday. They’re empowered and recharged, and they feel heard and validated. The idea is to give women the tools to continue down this path. One weekend of peace can change their lives and literally save them.”

Learn more about Lyss’ get-away weekend at: https://express.adobe.com/

Also follow her on: @diva_moms

A new national survey reveals that four in ten women are reaching their breaking point with

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Women in Business Lina Duque

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Why You Should SelfPromote - and How to Use Social Media to Raise Your Visibility By: Lina Duque, MBA If you’re hesitant to promote yourself in your career, you’re potentially missing out on a job opportunity or promotion at work.

Women are less likely to promote themselves than men. In a paper quoted by the Harvard Gazette, women gave themselves a lower score on their performance than men when both groups actually had the same score average.

Men gave themselves on average 61 out of 100 while women gave themselves 46 out of 100.

The study shows that women continue to selfpromote less than men even when told that an employer would use their self-evaluation to decide whether to hire them and how much to pay them. The same study also shows that workers who rated their performance more highly were more likely to be hired and offered higher pay.

So promoting yourself impacts your livelihood.

Luckily, with social media available today, you have many avenues at your disposal to share your accomplishments and showcase your expertise.

Here are 3 tips to help you use social media to self-promote: Raise your profile on LinkedIn Create a compelling profile on LinkedIn, which remains the number 1 networking site for professionals. Make sure to turn on your LinkedIn profile’s ‘Creator mode’ as that will provide you with extra benefits including being able to create and disburse a newsletter that your connections can subscribe to hence providing you with more visibility before your audience. Add value in your posts by sharing best practices, lessons learned etc. This way you stay top of mind with your peers and

potential future employers.

Be your own PR person Seek opportunities to contribute articles to media outlets (like this article you’re reading) where you can share your thought leadership about topics within your area of expertise. Contact magazines, blogs and podcasts and ask to be featured. Prepare your bio and a list of topics that you can speak/ write on.

Share your accomplishments Whether it’s LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram, share your accomplishments and talk about your professional activity. Let’s say you are speaking at an upcoming event. Promote your speaking engagement by creating a graphic with a photo of yourself and event info and post it to your social media platforms. Nudge the event organizers to circulate the graphic as well.

Make it a habit to celebrate yourself and your achievements with your network. This translates into higher visibility and higher chances to get hired and received higher pay.

About Lina Lina Duque, MBA, is a personal branding coach, university instructor and international speaker. She is an advisor to C-suite executives on building and managing their social media presence.

Her analysis has appeared in the Harvard Business Review and Forbes, among others.

Lina is a frequent speaker at top universities and conferences on the topics of personal branding and women’s empowerment. www.linaduqueconsulting.com @linaduquemba INSIGHT 2022 63

The Perfect Blend is a Valentine’s themed romance novel that celebrates family, community, and the power of love.

She has no time to date. He has no desire to date. Nevertheless, one sweet treat blends the perfect match. This contemporary romance reminds readers of the power of a variety of relationships in life. You never know what could be brewing right under your nose!

Buy Perfect Blend Now! https://www.amazon.com/Perfect-Blend-Kathryn-Starke/