legendary Leaders February Edition

S H O W C AS I N G T RA ILB L A Z E R S & T R E N D S E T T E R S

FEBRUA RY 2024

DR. JENNIFER MARCUS Break the bonds between an un-desirable past and the brighter future ahead of you MJ Mac

Mystery writer and bestselling author From corporate wizard to crime and cocktails, trading in her heels for flipflops.

Elizabeth Emory

Baker Extraordinaire Living the sweet life!

How a business selling baked goods emerged from a battle with multiple food allergies.

Monique McDonald

Teaching leaders to Vibrate the World with their voice and message

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A message from the editor Looking back at 2023 and moving forward into 2024 While ticking off the last days of 2023, I glanced backward and forward, checking the rear-view mirror while navigating the road ahead.

My word for the 2023 holiday season was introspection.

A time for a candid examination of what I do to serve this world, how I’d like to serve better, and what needs to be done to manifest it for the greater good. I believe in sharing stories, allowing our vulnerabilities to show up, being humble, and developing our strength of character, courage, passion, and drive by baring our souls a little. I’ve witnessed enough clients’ growth and gratitude to know I am right where I should be.

So often when the calendar turns over to the following number every year, it will be THE year for success. I don’t know if 2024 is MY year, but I am committed to bringing my best into the new year. I have a passion and drive to serve those who have a story burning inside them. Helping people reach deep into their core to shape, polish, and wrap it in a powerful message that shows the world who you are.

I decided to let go of distractions and big ideas hindering my true mission and path as a writing coach, author, and publisher.

I am heading into 2024 with clear intentions, a vital purpose, and a heart full of gratitude.

Legendary Leaders is a magazine created to shine the light on people who are on a mission to serve others. People who make a difference through their stories and life experiences.

This is our community let’s connect to make some lemonade!

Together, we establish the vibe, create resources, and lift each other to set the course to

make our dreams happen. If you’ve got a story to share click here and send it to me and we’ll see if we are a good fit.

Seek the Sweet Life,

Michelle Faust

Founder, Lemonade Legend hello@LemonadeLegend www.LemonadeLegend.com

DISCLAIMER: The information contained within the articles of Legendary Leaders Magazine are the opinions, experiences, and research of the individual authors. They are not intended to replace medical or other professional advice. © 2024 Legendary Leaders Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

Table of Contents Dr. Jennnifer Marcus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 Carolyn Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6 Elizabeth Emory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-8 Mj Mac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10 Monique Mcdonald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-12 Vickie R. Mudra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14 Lemonade Legend Library . . . . . . . . . . 15 Household Hacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 A Little Lemon Zest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

DR. JENNNIFER MARCUS

A Transformative Journey to Greatness

By Michelle Faust

“I want my legacy to be the people that I have helped, the lives that have been changed, and the programs I put in place to continue changing lives beyond me.”

– Dr. Jennifer Marcus.

Get ready to be impressed by the unstoppable force that is Dr. Jennifer Marcus! She is not just a youth and adult keynote speaker; she is an Empowerment Coach, Mindset Coach, TV Producer, and a thriving business owner. Jennifer’s remarkable journey is a testament to the indomitable human spirit, overcoming challenges that most could only imagine.

From an early age, Jennifer confronted racism, endured physical and emotional abuse, and faced heart-wrenching abandonment. These life-altering experiences could have easily broken her, but Jennifer refused to be defined by her circumstances. Instead, she turned her trials into triumphs, emerging as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others facing their own battles.

Imagine being a mere thirteen-year-old grappling with the daunting responsibility of finding employment to pay rent while simultaneously being a full-time student. It’s astounding how Jennifer navigated such complex demands at such a tender age. Still, she did not stop there; her mother’s drug addiction added yet another layer of adversity to their already challenging life, stretching a limited income to feed her drug habit.

At fifteen, Jennifer reached a life-altering crossroads when she moved to California with a few older friends. In a cruel twist of fate, she found herself caught in a random drive-by shooting, with an eight-ounce piece of lead alloy piercing her body at an astonishing 2,600 feet per second. Lying in that hospital bed, connected to monitoring devices, Jennifer made an unwavering decision – she deserved better, and she demanded it. At that moment, she promised herself that she would make a plan to achieve the future she dreamed of. After being released from the hospital on a bus back home, she planned to get involved in everything possible to keep her productive. From that day forward, she stayed focused and surrounded herself with people who supported her goals. From that moment on, she took charge of her life, embarking on a transformative journey towards self-improvement and empowerment. The decisions she made during that critical time paved the way for a remarkable array of achievements.

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Fueled by an unshakable resolve, Jennifer immersed herself in sports programs, clubs, and other constructive endeavors that honed her skills and bolstered her self-confidence. By staying focused on her unwavering pursuit of knowledge, she earned not just one (Masters of Human Resources Management), not two (Masters of Accounting and Finance), but three (Masters of Business Administration) master’s degrees, as well as a doctorate of business administration with a focus in leadership – a living testament to her thirst for learning and personal development.

Through all that, she has discovered her higher calling – to impact lives positively and empower everyone she encounters. So, in addition to her academic prowess, Jennifer’s entrepreneurial spirit ignited the spark in her to start twelve successful businesses, nine of which she still owns and operates today.

MARPALMS, the business that started it all, Began in 2014. Jennifer created Marpalms to help small business owners and entrepreneurs get help with the business services they need (bookkeeping, business start-up, training and development, and human resources) without breaking the budget.

BUILDING YOUR EMPIRE uses multiple strategies, including the glass ceiling and resiliency as a superpower, keynote speaking, workshops, individual and group coaching, and courses focused on leadership, developing a solid foundation, and building a business empire.

BREAKING THE BONDS / JENNIFER MARCUS LLC includes keynote speaking to youth about a variety of topics (choices and decisions, gun violence, motivation and development, resilience, and seeing the signs for teachers, administrators, and parents), youth coaching and mentorship programs, as well as her book titled Breaking the Bonds.

JEPRIV is an online clothing store offering women’s fashion from top department stores at a fraction of the price.

BEAU DIAMANTE is an online jewelry store that offers high-end fashion jewelry at an affordable price.

PAINT ME SASSY provides nail wraps and supplies at a significantly lower cost than the competition.

ONE WINGED STUDIOS is a podcast, video, and photography studio all under one roof. Users get access to the studio spaces and all the professional-grade equipment they need for a low monthly fee.

ONE WINGED STEEL is all about metal business cards. Choose from a variety of thicknesses: printed, etched, or engraved. They are made to give a professional impression of a top-level executive.

YOU CAN BE YOU is a nonprofit providing classes, workshops, mentoring, coaching, and programs for youth and adults.

Despite the odds stacked against her, Jennifer’s determination shone brightly as she charted her own path to success. Through her powerful presentations, Jennifer generously shares the strategies that propelled her to conquer obstacles and unleash her true potential. She passionately empowers her audience, equipping them with the tools to overcome their own challenges and seize every opportunity to fulfill their dreams.

One thing that sets Jennifer apart from others in the industry is her ability to think outside the box and understand the needs of others from all aspects. Jennifer’s top priorities with people are their glass ceiling and resiliency. Not a glass ceiling imposed by society or other forces but created by one’s fears and lack of knowledge. Teaching people how to build their empires helps them to gain understanding, knowledge, and confidence. It enables them to see their glass ceiling so they can break through it and continue 2

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to grow. Through her experiences, Jennifer has learned that resiliency is a badge of honor that gives people strength and should be used as a superpower. Unfortunately, many people do not know how to use resiliency as they should, so Jennifer has made it her mission to teach others how to unlock that potential in themselves. Her goal is to leave the people she works with knowing they can break the glass ceiling, build their empire, and achieve their dreams, regardless of roadblocks. Jennifer uses her passion, talent, focus, knowledge, drive, and understanding to grow her businesses, create solutions that feel like wins to everyone, and turn her into the brilliant businessperson she is today.

When asked if she could go back and change anything in her life, would she want to? She said, “I would not do anything differently as that might change who I am, what I do, or who I can help. Those are more important to me than changing something to make it different or perfect.”

While Jennifer wouldn’t change her past, she strives to make the path forward easier for future generations. Not only does Jennifer work with adults to build their dreams, but she also has a business focused on building up today’s youth. Jennifer aims to show kids how to reach success through her keynote speeches, book, mentorship, and coaching programs. Above all else, she wants them to walk away knowing they are not alone and their voice matters. Never be afraid to ask for help, seek advice, or tell their story. Every voice deserves to be heard.

Sharing her stories and experiences has helped not only others but also her in many ways. Through writing, Jennifer discovered there was so much she had been holding back and more she wanted to do. A few top things on her bucket list include skydiving, swimming with dolphins, seeing the pyramids in Egypt, speaking or teaching in every country, and teaching at least a million people how to build their business empire.

Jennifer Marcus is more than just a speaker, coach, and business owner. She is a dynamic force of nature, a true inspiration, and a guiding light for those seeking to rise above their circumstances.

Jennifer’s passion, enthusiasm, and boundless knowledge leave people feeling motivated, empowered, and eager to conquer their own challenges while embracing a life of limitless possibilities.

If you’re ready to join Jennifer on a transformative journey to greatness, contact her at jmarcus@marcusbrands.com or her website, www.marpalms.com.

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Legendary Leaders Magazine

“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside of you.”

Showcasing Trailblazers & Trendsetters

PUBLISHER Lemonade Legend

Editor-in-Chief

–Maya Angelou

Michelle Faust

Copy Editor Carolyn Smith

Graphic Designer Aaron Tutunick - 2TUcreative.com

Project Manager Carolyn Smith

Contributors Jennifer Marcus Vickie Mudra Michelle McCarragher Carolyn Smith Elizabeth Emory Monique McDonald

Media Consultant Angel Tuccy

CONTACT US AT: Hello@LemonadeLgend.com

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The WHY Behind Storytelling

By CAROLYN SMITH Storytelling is a powerful tool in the business world, as it is a compelling and relatable way to convey messages, build connections, and engage audiences. Effective business storytelling can enhance brand perception, build customer loyalty, and differentiate your company in a crowded market.

It’s a valuable skill for leaders, marketers, and communicators in the business world.

conveying complex business strategies, visions, or changes.

By framing information in a narrative format, businesses can make their messages more accessible and easier for the audience to absorb. This works the same as many other mnemonic devices. For example, imagine you need to run errands but don’t want to forget any stops. You have to go to the pet store, pick up your new glasses, mail a package, meet a friend for lunch, and stop at the bank. If you turn it into a funny sentence like When Rover put on his glasses, he saw a hungry package eating his lunch money., you are more likely to remember everything.

Storytelling is a critical element of building and maintaining a brand’s image. Unique narratives that highlight a company’s values, mission, or history can set it apart from its competitors in the minds of consumers. They can also contribute to the formation and reinforcement of company culture. Sharing stories about the company’s history, milestones, or team achievements can foster a sense of belonging among employees. Knowing the business was a dream your grandparents brought to life, or how you started out making products at your kitchen table in a tiny apartment, can motivate employees or investors to go that extra mile to keep those dreams alive.

Stories can also be used in marketing as a persuasive tool.

Whether influencing consumer choices or convincing investors, a well-told story can shape perceptions and drive decisionmaking. When you’re facing a market flooded with the same products and prices, a memorable story, relatable values, or a catchy jingle or slogan can be the deciding factor. Your story can be adapted to various mediums, such as written content, videos, social media, and presentations. This versatility allows businesses to reach diverse audiences across different platforms.

You can use Storytelling to provide context and structure to information, making it easier for the audience/customers to follow and understand. This is especially important in

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Good Storytelling starts at the beginning.

From the first sentence, you are trying to capture your audience’s attention.

Starting with a compelling hook that will grab people’s attention, such as a surprising fact, a relevant anecdote, or a thought-provoking question, creates a more engaging experience than dry facts or data.

Knowing your audience and adapting your storytelling approach to your target audience is essential. Different demographics may respond better to specific stories, so tailor your narratives accordingly. Make sure your message is clear.

Keep your message simple and to the point. Avoid jargon and technical language that might confuse your audience. Use language that resonates with your target audience. Visual Storytelling, especially on social media, makes your story more impactful and makes your brand more memorable. Use visuals, such as images, videos, or infographics, to enhance your narrative.

Stay consistent and ensure your stories align with your brand values and messaging.

Consistency in Storytelling helps reinforce your brand identity. End your story with a clear call to action. Whether it’s encouraging a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or sharing the story, guide your audience on the next steps. Humble yourself. Listen to what your audience has to say. Use the feedback to learn and improve. Continuous improvement is essential in refining your Storytelling and growing your business.

Always be authentic in your Storytelling. Sharing real stories from your company’s history, personal experiences, or customer testimonials makes your narrative more relatable.

Highlight challenges or obstacles your business faced and demonstrate how you overcame them. Be honest with the

In summary, Storytelling is a potent tool for businesses to connect with their audience, communicate effectively, and create a lasting impact. Whether used in marketing, internal communication, or brand building, compelling narratives contribute to a business’s overall success and sustainability.

emotions you went through along the way; this helps you connect with your audience emotionally. Whether through humor, empathy, or inspiration, evoke feelings that align with your message and brand. When businesses share genuine narratives about their challenges, successes, or values, it humanizes the brand and fosters trust among customers, employees, and the brand.

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Made With Love An interview with ELIZABETH EMORY Elizabeth Emory owns Heart and Soul Gluten Free Bakery, as Elizabeth says, “baked goods (and a business) that were created from a need, but stayed for the taste.” After struggling through college and grad school with unbearable pain, depressive episodes, doctor visits, and countless tests, Elizabeth received a few diagnoses, including multiple food allergies and sensitivities. After learning she was allergic to milk, wheat, and peanuts, with sensitivities to eggs, cinnamon, red meats, and squashes, Elizabeth quickly found out just how hard it can be to navigate her many food allergies. Finding allergy-friendly foods, especially sweets and treats, was a real challenge. Elizabeth set out on a quest to learn how to make them herself. While working as a graphic designer, Elizabeth spent her free time perfecting her recipes, often bringing treats to get feedback from her friends and co-workers. After catching COVID in September of 2022, her health began to decline again. The myriad of new symptoms and diagnoses ultimately led Elizabeth to leave her graphic design job. Out of work and worried about the future, Elizabeth decided to take a chance on the recipes she had spent the last few years perfecting and start Heart and Soul GF Bakery.

Legendary Leaders is proud to spotlight Elizabeth, who represents a new generation of entrepreneurs who know how to pivot and adjust to what life throws at them. There is no norm anymore. The rules of education, experience, and roadblocks are out the window.

Elizabeth recently discussed her journey with another young and talented entrepreneur, Carolyn Smith, a valued contributor to the magazine.

Tell us about your business.

Heart and Soul GF Bakery is a business dedicated to making delicious foods that are also gluten-free dairy-free, and can be made vegan upon request.

What sets you apart from others in your industry?

I have perfected gluten-free and dairy-free together without compromising the taste or texture of the food. The different flours used in gluten-free baking often can’t just be substituted cup for cup with all-purpose flour, and this often leads to a dry or grainy texture. Learning what flours need extra moisture or how to get a light, fluffy texture can be quite challenging. There are also very different flavor profiles in all of the different flour options, so mastering which flour, or combination of flours, to achieve the taste and texture you are looking for takes a lot of trial and error.

Is there a personal story behind your passion and or business?

Yes, I have a chronic illness that inspired me to create Heart and Soul. Five years ago, I needed to switch to dairy-free, and then a year later, gluten-free. It was a challenge because gluten-free wasn’t as readily available, and most stores did not offer what they now provide; if you are dairy-free, you know how hard it can be to find dairy-free products! Many gluten-free products can taste like cardboard. I have ALWAYS had a sweet tooth, and I decided if I couldn’t find what I wanted locally, I would learn to make it myself—food created from scratch with quality ingredients that taste delicious. I’m proud to be able to share my labor of love with others.

How has your story shaped your goals, purpose, and mission in life?

Heart and Soul has given me purpose when I felt there was nothing for me. When I was facing unemployment and an unstable future due to my rapidly declining health, Heart and Soul gave me back that stability; it became my WHY. I thoroughly enjoy baking for others and always have treats in my house! Most importantly, I know other people have food restrictions, which can reduce their quality of life. Heart and Soul is my way of giving back to a community facing similar challenges.

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If you could do anything over in your past, what would it be and why?

I would never do anything different because life is a gift, and I try to spend it in the present. Everything in the past led to where I am today.

What is a common question you get asked?

A common question is, “Is this gluten and dairy-free?”. People with food allergies and sensitivities are naturally suspicious, especially if it tastes delicious. Everything that comes out of Heart and Soul is always gluten- and dairy-free and can be made vegan upon request.

What do you consider to be your key message or takeaway from your story?

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade! Or just throw the lemons long enough out of anger until you hatch an idea.

What is your website URL? www.heartandsoulgfbakery.com

How should people contact you?

The easiest way to contact me is to email heartandsoulgfbakery@gmail.com

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One Size Does Not Fit All An interview with MJ MAC MJ Mac spent forty years working in various roles in corporate America. She was an expert at multitasking and juggling responsibilities while donning three-inch heels and lipstick. She had a knack for managing the behind-the-scenes work to make things happen seamlessly.

In 2021, while in a board room, MJ’s creative mind conceived a story about a cruise director, her colleagues, and their eccentric passengers. Trading in her corporate attire for flip-flops, MJ dove into writing full-time and hasn’t looked back since. MJ has authored four books in the Kennedy Reeves series, with a 5th coming this fall.

Tell us about your business.

I write light mysteries and facilitate bi-monthly writer meetings that cover everything from the mechanics of writing to what happens after you’ve written the book (finding an editor, self-publishing, marketing). I also facilitate an annual workshop for in-depth writing, critiques, and mentoring.

What sets you apart from others in your industry?

On my books: I intended to create a humorous mystery series without the smut and gore—a book my mom could read and enjoy.

But I needed something to set me apart from the others, and while other authors include recipes (I don’t cook or bake), I decided on cocktail recipes (because who doesn’t like those?) and the tagline, “Do you like a little CRIME with your cocktail?” was born. On my workshops and retreats: John F. Kennedy is credited with the quote, “A rising tide lifts all boats,” and that is what I think comes across in the workshops and retreats I am a part of. We’re all learning together, sharing best practices. If there is an avenue where you are stuck, on the writing side or the business side, let’s figure out a solution together because it may be something I need to try, too!

Is there a personal story behind your passion and or business?

I was a “Jill of all trades” in corporate America for forty years. From construction and interior design to hospitality and event planning, I pulled the ropes from behind the curtain to make magic happen. Whatever was needed, if I didn’t know how to do it, I learned. In December 2020, I had just completed a 1,300-room hotel renovation and was mentally and creatively exhausted from the 70-hour work weeks. There was no snap left in my rubber band. But one day, in a meeting, Kennedy Reeves, the main character in my series, popped into my head with her story. I had heard people talk about that flash of creativity, but now I was experiencing it sitting at a board table. I wasn’t an author. I was a reader. I wrote great memos, press releases, and speeches, but I didn’t know a thing about writing a book, but Kennedy wasn’t going away. She became persistent, waking me up at night with one-liners, descriptions, and dialogue. So, I sat down on New Year’s Day of 2021 and began writing. I wrote whenever I had a spare minute, usually from ten at night until two in the morning, and four months later, I typed “the end,” and the first Kennedy Reeves mystery, A Boat for a Goat, was completed. I had written a book and checked another box on my mental bucket list. I wasn’t sure what to do with it. But having penned it, I found I had a spring in my step that hadn’t been there for a long time, and I began to look at things from a writer’s point of view.

How has your story shaped your goals, purpose, and mission in life?

I tried to prove my value to others for years—to be Superwoman. I kept holding my breath, waiting for them to notice, and they did, but I didn’t get any satisfaction from it. When my corporate boss pulled the rug from under me, everything I believed was suddenly false, and I had let down the woman in the mirror. I hadn’t attended to her. So, that’s what I’m doing now. Taking care of her and hopefully helping others to stretch and grow. I love it when I meet someone and they say, “I want to be a writer, but I don’t know how.” That’s when I smile and say, “Just start writing; we’ll figure out the rest along the way.”

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If you could do anything over in your past, what would it be and why?

I’d be the smart girl in high school. I thought it was uncool to be her. But smart is sexy. I’d listen to the wise, wonderful women put directly in my path. I would have gone into the military like I wanted. I allowed the adults in my world to make decisions for me. I often wondered how my life would have turned out if I had served my country.

What advice would you give to a teen or young adult struggling with direction as they grow up?

Breathe. Remember, you don’t have to do it all at once. Try on different jobs for size and see what you like about this one or what you didn’t enjoy about that one. Mama Cass said it best, “Nobody can tell you there’s only one song worth singing.”

Tell us about a time when you found yourself at a crossroads.

I was standing on a ladder decorating a twelve-foot Christmas tree that graced the lobby of one of our hotels when my boss asked me to step into a meeting room with him for a discussion. His words sucked the air out of my lungs. I had clawed my way to the top, always putting the company first, making sacrifices, and promising myself I’d make up for it. What hurt the worst were the others who were happy to see my fall. So, head held high, I shook the dirt off my shoes, left the corporate world, and took a chance on giving my dream the same amount of time I had delivered to a corporate bottom line.

What have you discovered about yourself in the process of writing?

I’m funny! I can now let my characters say those zingers I would only voice in my head years ago. And while I’m still goaloriented, I’ve learned to allow myself grace when chiseling instead of flowing.

Is there a quote from one of your books that holds significant meaning for you?

“Some days are the merry-go-round, some days are the bumper cars, and some days are the roller coasters. You just have to buckle in and hold on for each ride.” Book Four, A Sleaze on the Seas.

These words knocked on my noggin one night and are scrawled in the notebook beside my bed. (When I become famous, I’m sure it will be preserved, and people will come worldwide to see the illegible handwriting that formed this quote.) Repeating this to myself would have saved me a lot of heartache (and some knee-jerk decisions).

What would you like your legacy to be?

I want to think my books, blogs, workshops, and interactions with people have brought them a little spot of sunshine.

What do you consider to be your key message or takeaway from your story?

One size does not fit all. Jobs come and go, just like relationships. Figure out what the takeaway is. Try on different jobs for size. Pay attention to your tribe. They are the people who get you over the humps. When the rug gets pulled out from under you, take a moment to look around while you are lying there. That little piece of inspiration that was tucked away might have been released.

What is your website? www.mjmacauthor.com

How should people contact you? mjmacauthor@gmail.com 10

The Voice that Vibrates the World An interview with MONIQUE MCDONALD Monique McDonald, a renowned opera singer, has always been passionate about music. Her mother, Betti McDonald, an internationally acclaimed soprano and master pedagogue, served as her devoted mentor.

Throughout her career, Monique has graced the stages of various opera houses, won many esteemed competitions, and garnered widespread recognition for her hard work and exceptional talent across the globe.

In addition to performing, Monique is now sharing her talents and gifts through teaching private sessions and masterclasses. Her programs aim to empower performers, public speakers, entrepreneurs, leaders, and coaches through the mastery of the human voice. By helping people align their voice with their passion, stand in their power, and use their authentic voice, they can attract more clients and have fun building their business.

Legendary Leaders recently had the chance to chat with Monique and learn a little more about her and The Magnetic Voice.

Tell us a little about your business.

I help leaders and speakers uncover their natural voice of power and speak from their soul so they are always heard. This helps them attract more clients, which in turn increases sales.

What sets you apart from others in your industry?

As a Grammy-nominated, award-winning opera singer, I can bring experience, expertise, and a unique perspective. I am one of twelve people in the world who practice an exceptional coaching system that permanently erases trauma.

What do you consider to be your zone of genius?

Unleashing a client’s authentic voice to speak from the heart enhances their stage presence so they can express their message to the world.

What is the motivation or reason for starting your business?

I think people need to hear about how important it is to vibrate the world with their voice and message. The world needs strong, authentic voices now more than ever.

How has your story shaped your goals, purpose, and mission in life?

It has shifted the trajectory of my entire life. I was the star of the show, and now I am the support and wind beneath the wings of my clients. I have moved from center stage to teaching others how to take charge of the stage.

If you could do anything over in your past, what would it be and why?

I would believe in myself and my ability to tap into the power of the universe more because I tried to do things all by myself instead of leaning in and trusting more.

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What advice would you give to a teen or young adult struggling with direction as they grow up?

To please speak your truth and talk about what is important to you. It’s essential to communicate your ideas, thoughts, and feelings. Share what matters to you and express yourself in a way that feels authentic and comfortable. Young people need to have a trusted adult they can communicate with openly and honestly to understand their voice matters.

Do you have any advice for people who find themselves at a crossroads in life.

Remember that our greatest guide is our wise, intuitive higher self. When we find ourselves at a crossroads, that is often when we stop trusting ourselves because it feels like everything we know is changing. This is usually a call to grow, expand, and learn to trust again. Trust yourself and lean into that growth.

What have you discovered about yourself through the process of writing?

I have discovered a new way of expressing myself that has really grown on me. For most of my life, I relied on the Spoken Word to articulate myself. I love the written word of others to discover new things. Lately, as I write more, I find myself learning new things and new ways to define myself.

What are two things you enjoy teaching your clients?

The Law of Vibration and how to reclaim your voice of power.

What would you like your legacy to be?

My goal is to help empower the voices of our next great leaders. My legacy would be future generations of confident, empowered, distinguished leaders.

What do you consider to be your key message or takeaway from your story?

No one can deliver your message as well as you can. Your voice is as unique as your thumbprint, and the world needs to hear your voice.

What are three things you would you would like people to know about you 1. Meeting new people is like opening presents.

2. Although I am an expert, I am still a person like you. I just have a little more practice and a few more tools to share my message even in the presence of fear and doubt..

3. Floating on water brings me to my happy place. LOL! Final thoughts?

Our life experiences create our unique ways of expressing ourselves. My life stories made me want to explore how to stay present even when life became extremely difficult to speak or sing. Now, I get to help others reclaim their powerful voices and speak their truth no matter what.

Do you have a title for a stage presentation?

What if Your Voice Could Vibrate the World?

What is your website? www.themagneticvoice.com How should people contact you? monique@themagneticvoice.com

Unleash Your Magnetic Voice.

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The Convergence of Self: Finding Your Purpose in Writing Your Story

By VICKIE R. MUDRA, MPH, ACC, CPC, ELI-MP Public Health Professional, Educator, Certified Energy Leadership and Happiness Coach and Author Courage and Connection is our strategy, Joy is Our Weapon.

I wanted to be an author since I was a child. I loved to write and had a great imagination however, I believed that there was some mysterious and unattainable level of talent that one needed to become a published author. I also did not believe that what I had to say was interesting enough for others to want to read.

Throughout my professional career, I wrote more and more and eventually became a published author and international speaker, primarily sharing healthcare-related research and educational outcomes. Even though I was technically an author, it didn’t feel like what I had imagined as a child who wanted to write a book. Over the years, I started outlines for books about topics that I was passionate about, attempting to give voice to things that mattered to me, but I always came up short, immobilized by fear and selfdoubt. I will never forget how liberating it was to see an op-ed piece I had sent to the local newspaper get printed the following week.

Say Yes! In early 2019, I was presented with an opportunity to participate in “The Lemonade Stand: From Sour to Sweet,” an anthology book that would ultimately consist of stories about 19 brave and amazing women, myself included. This project included a facilitator and a full support team in the group of other writers who were also penning stories about what mattered most to us, our lives. I saw this as an overdue invitation to explore the intersection of all my lives over the past fifty years. I found my courage and said yes.

By December of 2019, I could finally say I was a bestselling, published author, complete with my own Amazon author’s page and boxes of printed books in my possession. But I discovered that it wasn’t the lovely printed book that ended up being the greatest outcome for me.

Convergence: the fact that two or more things, ideas, etc. become similar or come together: a convergence of interests/ opinions/ideas.

Instead, I found it was the action of stepping into and through the convergence of my various past and present self child and adult, mother and daughter, wife, sister, friend, victim, survivor, nurturer, professional, leader, learner, teacher, and caregiver. The actual process of writing the story became the greatest gift I could ever have imagined.

Other than some college assignments, I had never really delved into who I was and why I was here. As I reflected on passing the half- century point of my life, I had a lot of data points on my timeline. Childhood memories and events, births and deaths, fears and failures, accomplishments, and successes. At times I was overwhelmed at all the “stuff” that I had “been through” and had to step back and take a breath. | started to refocus and reframe my childhood and my career and search for meaning in the events. I was able to appreciate the numerous personal and professional relationships made. Some of these relationships caused a few scars I wear bravely today as a reminder of life’s battles. Other relationships remind me of mentors and memories of those who provided encouragement and comfort to get me through the years. As I noticed patterns, I started to see my purpose and passions begin to unfold.

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It was as if writing my story allowed me to gaze into the face of each age and each version of myself. I was able to ask who needed to be forgiven, who needed to be loved, who had something to teach me. During the writing process, I was able to connect with others who were on the same journey; eighteen other women who had full, rich lives that weren’t perfect, but were beautiful examples of bravery, life choice, resilience, and fortitude.

Purpose and Identity I realize that I am here to provide love and care to others. I am here to teach those who also provide protection and care to others the importance of loving and caring for themselves.

Mark Twain is credited for saying “The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why” however the folks at the Center for Mark Twain Studies claim this is an apocryphal aphorism not originated by Twain.

Who actually said this famous quote doesn’t matter much to me, as I still believe it to be completely true. It took me fifty years to realize that I am an author both in my life and of my life; who reads my stories has become far less important to me than what it means to write them.

Have you ever thought about the story within you? How writing it could reveal a great convergence of your various selves throughout your lifetime? What might happen if you shared your story with the world? Consider saying yes if someone asks you to. Reach out to me if you want to chat about living in your purpose, on purpose. Let me know if you want to talk about anything. I am here to love and serve you and welcome you to my tribe. Visit my website InstituteforDeliberatePractice.com or check out my Facebook page.

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Legendary Library

Telling stories at the heart of our community., The world needs stories, almost as much as nourishment, shelter, and companionship.

imes our biggest ome to life —the is malignant, e going to prison, get that dreaded phone the middle of the night. the worst kind of news s it rocks your world. g that glimmer of hope n may seem impossible.

Book 3 in The Lemonade Stand series is about paths. A path can be many things, falling down the rabbit hole to the madness of Wonderland, following the yellow brick road searching for wisdom, courage, and love. A passage from one belief to another more insightful one. A path takes us physically, emotionally, spiritually, or intellectually from one place to another. Our stories aren’t about the beginning or the end but the journey. The bumps, detours, and cracks that swallow us up. The demons, creatures, and ghosts who challenge our beliefs and directions that sometimes stop us in our tracks.

ou’ve arrived at the right place. me to The Lemonade Stand, where en brave women share their stories to surround you with grace.

Imagine a tapestry with knots, frays, and disjointed patterns on one side. Turn it over, and you have a beautifully woven piece of art or a disco ball with a brilliant display of light produced from shattered glass. We are creators of our beauty if we believe in ourselves, God, and the goodness of the people we keep in our corner. What is your path? And what will it reveal to you? What purpose will you discover by understanding the journeyman in you?

monade Stand is a true-story anthology—a legacy we are proud to forward with a unique “twist.” Courage and vulnerability are at art of each story. Triumph waits at each story’s end.

– Jack Canfield, Author of Chicken Soup for the Soul Book Series

a Tomás-Keegan

cer & Host of Tips for the Transition ed Career & Life Coach for Women

The Lemonade Stand is an amazing and moving collection of stories from women who have had to endure and overcome unimaginable circumstances. The stories are inspiring and a testimony to the strength of the human spirit and determination.

Not pictured: John Weiman and Michelle Faust Photo Credit: Karianne Munstedt Photography and Tina Krebs. Unique Photo Illustrations

- Lauri Erickson, DEPTH Speaking

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By Michelle Faust and the Lemonade Leaders

“It’s beautiful, Michelle.

You are doing really good work in the world, and I’m glad I can support you.”

Lemonade Leaders

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To get your Lemonade Stand Heart Word t-shirt, see the order form in the back matter of the book.

not alone! The powerful stories in this book will prove that to you. In each chapter, urageous women transparently share a time when their world turned upside down, they turned themselves rig ht side up again, showing up with dig nity and grace. ccounts are shining examples of how you can turn lemons into lemonade.

Eleven authors have opened their hearts to you with a raw vulnerability of truth. Our authenticity sets us free. We believe that truth, love, and courage will change humanity and the world, one story at a time.

By Michelle Faust and The Lemonade Crew

er this book to be a beacon of light for those in the dark. No r how harrowing the ordeal, know that health, joy, and success do and are waiting on the other side of calamity.

The Path from Sour to Sweet

watch.zondratv.com

Writing Coach

Front Cover Design

Formating

Back Cover Blurb

Editing

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Lemon Zest A little

Baby it’s Cold Outside

Large parts of the country have been experiencing a frigid blanket of ice, snow, and temperature. Here is a delicious soup to warm up while getting a fresh zing of lemon INGREDIENTS • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided • 3/4 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed • 2 celery ribs, chopped • 2 medium carrots, chopped • 1 small onion, chopped • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano • 1/4 teaspoon pepper • 1/4 cup white wine or additional reducedsodium chicken broth

• 1 carton (32 ounces) reduced-sodium chicken broth • 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary • 1 bay leaf • 1 cup uncooked whole wheat orzo pasta • 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest • 1 tablespoon lemon juice • Minced fresh parsley, optional

DIRECTIONS 1. In a large saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook and stir 6-8 minutes or until no longer pink. Remove from pan.

2. In same pan, heat remaining oil over mediumhigh heat. Add vegetables, salt, oregano and pepper; cook and stir 4-6 minutes or until vegetables are crisp-tender. Add wine, stirring to loosen browned bits from pan. Stir in broth, rosemary and bay leaf; bring to a boil.

3. Add orzo. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, 15-18 minutes or until orzo is tender, stirring occasionally. Return chicken to pan; heat through. Stir in lemon zest and juice; remove bay leaf. If desired, top each serving with parsley.

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