Off BeatMagazine
Off BeatMa CONTENTS
06-09 24-26 Insights From 2015 Event 2016 Reboot - Care For Marketing By Shari Voigt Yourself 12-17 What Does Diversity Mean To Your Business 18-19 Are Hot Flashes Interupting Your Work Day? By Kathryn E. White, M.D. 20-21 Unmake, Remake, Make More By Clint Fuqua 22 Is Exposure To Fluoride Safe? By Dorothy Skinner
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By Brenda Wakefield
34-36 ROI Reimagined: No More New Year’s Resolutions By Candy Barone
28-29 Setting Up A YouTube Channel
34-36 5 Steps To Make Money From Your App
By Byron Ingraham
By Jonathan Bodnar
30-31 Protecting Your Assets - Business Owner’s Divorce Guide By Lisa Zahn
40 Susan Says
32-33 How to Create a Winning Culture By John Carroll
By Susan Hamilton
42-43 BattleBuddy Info
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EDITOR’S NOTE New Year - New Opportunities! Friends,
How exciting to get another opportunity to elevate our success in business and life yet again. Until I breathe my last breath, I hope I always connect the resources and insights American business needs to the people that benefit from it. We have a WONDERFUL breakdown of 2015 for you inside, helpful if you are marketing at events - but also superior insight for any social marketing you intend to pursue this year.
Off BeatMagazine Editor
Susan Hamilton
Art Director
Jonathan Bodnar Here’s to YOU. Inside you’ll find controversial subject matter, as I talk openly about my own journey through the labyrinth of racism. Racism is evil, but it can only be overcome when we truly connect with what what we’re afraid of. Today more than ever, racism is a discussion we simply MUST have - openly, peacefully, painfully - tear off the bandage and let your raw truth be told, because only then can it be dealt with. I invite your comments to Info@OffBeatBusiness.com. January has the highest divorce rates, did you know that? Our family law Legal Beat contributor offers helpful advice for business owners going through this difficult time. But life is stressful, and stress ages us and impairs our immunity. We can’t afford to be down. Our Health Beat contributors, Clint Fuqua, Brenda Wakefield and Dr. Kathryn E. White steer you the right direction, so you can get back to successful LIFE in business as quickly as possible.
Manager
Susan Hamilton
Marketing
The OffBeat Business Show
Designer
Jonathan Bodnar
Publisher
Robin Roberson
Producer
Roberson Squared
Discover what’s hot in digital and mobile marketing today, and get your YouTube channel set up correctly. Create a winning culture in your business - starting NOW! And learn what it takes to finally let go of New Year’s resolutions so you actually take those steps you’ve had on your to-do list. We couldn’t bring this level of content to you without our sponsors. Know that everyone who advertises in The OffBeat Business Magazine operates at an extremely high caliber, and we strive to only work with the best so we only bring the best to you month after month. Happy New Year! Be sure to reach out to us with your comments and suggestions with an email, we love to hear from you. ~ Susan
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January Lineup
Expert American Business Owners Share Their Tactics & Mindsets With YOU! January 5th - Kisha L. Allen, motivational teacher, talks with Susan Hamilton about relationships what it will take to really impact our communities this year. Listen in to a discussion about leadership on personal and professional levels. 20 minutes will have you looking at life in business with a fresh, highly motivating perspective! January 12 - January has the highest divorce rates of the year. Susan Hamilton talks with Family Law Attorney, Lisa Zahn, about what that means for business owners who are facing those circumstances. January 19 - Latino Radio Personality Luis Morgan talks with Susan Hamilton about the differences between our business cultures and how we can improve communication to take advantage of global commerce to strengthen American business. Don’t miss! January 26 - Bill Brooks, Area Director For Insperity Human Resources, talks with Susan Hamilton about the danger of the ‘do-it-yourself’ mantra many business owners hold today. Can our businesses really grow if the owner wears all the hats? Listen in, 20 minutes could change your life.
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INSIGHTS FROM 2015EVENT MARKETING By Shari Voigt
We’ve traveled about 10,000 miles in 2015, exhibited at nine events, and met with 31 retail hobby store owners. Working all sides of this industry has given us a rather unique perspective into what’s working, what’s not, and why. We’ve traveled about 10,000 miles in 2015,
exhibited at nine events, and met with 31 retail hobby store owners. It’s been an interesting year, to say the very least. We’ve had the opportunity to interact with manufacturers, retailers, and the consumers who purchase their products. Working all sides of this industry has given us a rather unique perspective into what’s working, what’s not, and why. Here’s what we learned about event marketing in 2015. No matter what industry you’re in, you’re sure to find a few useful tidbits. The expected ‘gate’ of an event is not a good indicator of sales, but high sales are also not necessarily the only indicator of a successful event. Also consider how many people were introduced to your business or your product for the first time, and how many people now know about your warranty, your customer service, your entire product line as a result of visiting your booth. And remember that the expected ‘gate’ of an event is a body count, not a market count. How many of the people who will walk through that door would you consider to be part of your market audience?
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The enthusiasm of the vendor is contagious, and engagement with each person who visits your booth opens the door to multiple sales. You can’t sell what you don’t display. Seems obvious, right? But, keep your visible inventory limited. The illusion of scarcity creates a sense of urgency, and many times that moves the buyer to purchase now, rather than later. Bring plenty of change for cash transactions AND be prepared to receive credit card transactions. There will be buyers that only use cash, few will have exact change, and other buyers that will only purchase if you accept plastic. Bring props that are appropriate for your market. My husband and I are brand ambassadors, so that means bringing appropriate props for a variety of markets, depending on the venue. These might be parts for model railroading, plastic scale models, miniatures, or even taxidermy. Know your products. A good display
and enthusiasm go a long way, but a good understanding of your products means you can solve problems, make recommendations, and most importantly, educate the consumer before and after the sale. Expect curious children and treat them with respect, but also supervise. In our case, young children and sharp tools and/or airbrushes don’t mix without close adult supervision. At the same time, we want to encourage a child’s curiosity and creativity, if for no other reason than to nurture a potential hobbyist as he/she grows up. If you have two comparable products, display them side-by-side, and demonstrate the differences. Those shoppers looking for a lower price point item will focus on the savings of purchasing the lower priced product, and those looking for the best will focus on the higher priced item. Both buyers are satisfied and more sales will result. What we’ve learned from the stores we’ve called on The passion/enthusiasm of the store owner is a big indicator of the success of the store. We’ve been in large stores that are struggling and small stores that are packed with customers. It’s not the size of the store
though, but the attitude of the store owner that makes all the difference. You can feel it when you talk with them and their enthusiasm is contagious. They inspire their staff and their customers. Their store is the hub of a small community of hobbyists. Product placement is so important. Customers will never see a product on display at just above floor level. We found a product that was so old it had been out of production for over 20 years at one store we visited, on the lowest level of a spinner rack that was sitting on the floor. Which brings me to the next point: Dead inventory is costly! Not only have you paid for an item that hasn’t sold, but you’ve not replaced it with current inventory that would sell in greater quantities and at higher margins. There is a time and place for ‘blowout’ pricing to move slow inventory. The same store mentioned above had yellowed (from age) art pads, piles of dusty books, and staff that was not permitted or empowered to make any decisions regarding inventory or sales. Just as with events, an opportunity for the consumer to demo products is an opportunity for a sale. This can take the Continued on page 9.
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What we’ve learned from working with manufacturers Products can be produced, advertised, and in-demand by the end consumer, but sometimes there’s a bottleneck that the manufacturer isn’t aware of. A bottleneck in the distribution pipeline for one of our clients became apparent after only a few visits with retailers. This manufacturer only sells through distributors. We had to bridge the gap between manufacturer and retailer to identify the problem. Once identified, the process to solve it could begin. Manufacturers need feedback from distributors, retailers, and the end consumer. It’s the basis for development of new products and improvement of sales of existing inventory.
Our 2016 travel schedule looks like it will be every bit as busy and as many miles traveled as we did in 2015. Our goal this year is to diversify into even more markets. In addition to scale modeling and model railroading events, you might find us at high-end auto auctions, gaming conventions, taxidermy conventions and/or cake decorating events. We will continue to call on retailers, but again, spread the net wider and diversify by working with additional manufacturers and new markets. I’m very excited about what our marketing insights will be by the end of the year!
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form of a demo area at a staffed counter with a trained associate, or setting aside certain days of the year for in-store product demos. Higher end products are best sold by getting the product into the hands of the consumer.
Shari Voigt and her husband Gerald took their marketing business on the road and never looked back. Now seasoned RVers, they work with companies ranging from manufacturers to brick and mortar stores to help them sell more products through improved techniques, demonstrations and event participation. Discover more about their experiences on USA-RVNomads.com, and connect with them on Facebook/RV-Nomads. Hire Shari and Gerald Voigt for your team training, marketing materials or product sales at 920-2574944.
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What Does Diversity Mean To YOUR Small Business? A White Woman’s Racism Confessional By Susan Hamilton
I
Black people hate me and don’t want to work.
Many of us wouldn’t admit it, but for the sake of Martin Luther King Day this month, I’m gonna go there. I’ve had racist thoughts. Some rational, some irrational.
I said it. I grew up in Wisconsin and there was only one black girl I knew of in our entire school district. When my family moved south, black people treated me like a piece of meat. The girls laughed at me and spoke AT me using a dialect I didn’t understand, and the boys pushed me into lockers and felt me up. I felt harassed and alone, and the news media would talk about racism as though black people were discriminated against. It made me furious to feel hated by blacks because I was white with blonde hair. I spent years cringing when I was around them, and feeling like they should just shut up already about racism. They were big babies with bad manners willing to live a disgusting life in the worst of places. I knew where they lived, because we all rode the same bus. I was FINE with them being on the ‘other side of the tracks.’ Frankly, they were all bigger than I was and they scared me because they were always trying to touch me. It was scary. I never saw myself working with a black person, having a heart to heart conversation with one or encouraging one who couldn’t even speak ‘decent English’.
f you get the opportunity to make big things happen, you should take it. One thing I learned right out of the gate was to embrace change, consider other points of view, and realize that as a white, blonde woman - I might actually be wrong about many of the knee-jerk opinions I naturally gravitate to. I’ve come a long way, but the people who ‘knew me when’ wonder if I haven’t gone the other extreme - basically accepting everything, good or unsavory, about races and genders and nationalities and criminal history. No, I haven’t. We’ve got our heads in the sand if we think there are no real issues between all of these groups. That being said, if we don’t ALL decide to find commonalities and learn to work together in spite of our differences, we’re sunk. In business and in life, our differences make our journeys rich with diversity, and I don’t want a boring vanilla life with nothing new to discover.
Here is my short list of things I’ve learned over the years were WRONG with my thinking. If you’re easily offended, you might want to skip to the end of this article.
And then I met and befriended a black girl from church. We both got into trouble as teenagers, and she was easy to like. We laughed a lot, and she made it easy for me to share with her how I felt. She was experiencing A LOT of racism, stuff I had never seen, and I would tell her my
Then, also through church, my parents became friends with a black family. To this day, I enjoy a personal and professional friendship with them that I’m truly blessed to be a part of. As I grew up, those ‘church relationships’ still stayed in a box. It wasn’t until I realized that I didn’t have any black friends that I was challenged by someone to look more closely at the general opinions I was subconsciously holding. Well, maybe I was just holding those opinions privately … So I put myself out there, and decided I would never let race intimidate me or inspire my inability to hold a conversation ever again. Which was a good decision, because over the years I’ve worked as a volunteer in the Texas prison system. What if I had gone into those environments holding those same destructive thought patterns? I might have believed, like many do, that so many black people belonged in there. If I hadn’t changed my point of view, I would never have learned about the very real racism still in place today by both sides, and the very real opportunity we have to change that. Behind the walls, it’s not easy for them to trust a white woman, either. I do believe it starts with one conversation and a sincere desire to learn about another person’s person.
But Does This Stuff Get Into Our Lives In Business??
level. I fully support the Ban The Box initiative*, because I know firsthand that people with no reportable criminal background history may have never been arrested, but that doesn’t mean they’re any less guilty of the same crimes that keep people from getting back on their feet after they’ve done time. Fatherless homes have high incarceration rates. Children from homes where the parents have been incarcerated are expected to consider incarceration ‘normal’ as they grow up, and the cycle can start before they’re double digits. Mexican people take advantage of us. Of America. I mention the connection between incarceration rates and hiring black people because I know firsthand that there are significantly more black people in jail, which means there must be more black people with criminal background histories, and I know that if we will put them back to work at positions they are qualified to hold with opportunities for advancement, we can change the revolving doors. We are sentencing people of all races to lives of crime if we refuse to rehabilitate, employ them or rent them places to live. I am NOT insinuating that black people are criminals, I urge you not to read into this any more than I have stated. I want you to recognize TRUE opportunity for improved communities through your compassionate efforts and willingness to take on risk. I’ve never thought that Mexican people take our jobs, though I’ve heard that. I’ve always thought they worked very hard to support their families doing work Americans won’t do. But like you, I’ve waited in line and driven behind Mexican women driving expensive new trucks without observing common decencies. It’s annoying. They hog the fast lane and drive super slow. They get in the drop off lane at public schools with no concern for anyone else in line. They don’t speak English and hang out in large groups, making it difficult to consider having a conversation or making small talk.
My life is rich with relationships that have taught me so much, and SO much about strong women - because some of the best parents, volunteers, and business owners I’ve ever known are black women who have had to be strong to change generations of dysfunction due to the absence of their men. Men in our criminal justice system unjustly incarcerated or were relegated to jobs that were a dead end. A desperate man of any color will often silently disappear or sink into the comfort of addiction. In your hiring practices, I do believe it’s important to know that two-thirds of black families are raised without a father. That fact should inspire us to hire ANY person based on their attitude, aptitude, and willingness to perform at an excellent - not perfect - but excellent
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experiences, and instead of getting hurt about each other’s opinions, we decided to work on how we could enjoy our relationship even though both of our families were intensely different. We grew apart when I moved in with a boy and quit attending. She became a star, singing all over the world. We’re friends on Facebook, and I love her like we were teenagers yesterday. Her family was NOT like the others I had seen and kept at a distance.
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What Does Diversity Mean To YOUR Small Business? And I’ve gone with family members to social services when help was needed to buy groceries for kids, and white people had to wait several weeks to be granted an interview, but if you don’t speak English, you can get in right away with no wait. At least that was our experience. They come to our country illegally, we assume, and suck up our indigent care services and act like they don’t have any responsibility. They laugh at the idea that they have to register their business, be certified in anything or pay taxes. It’s a problem. But I’ve learned about the Hispanic Chamber Of Commerce. I’ve learned that not all Mexicans go through their lives in business with no desire to conform to our laws, and many just want to know how our systems work so they can trade with us. The 1st Annual Celebration of American Business this April has sponsors from the hispanic business sector, including a latino radio station that will be providing salsa dancers and a Mariachi band who will entertain us when the British invasion genre rock isn’t playing. I’m determined to learn how to work with the Hispanic business community and discover the nuances of all the things I’m quite sure I don’t understand. I want those healthy relationships.
Racism Runs So Much Deeper Than We Think I’ve spent a lot of time in the juvenile justice courtrooms over the years as I pay off an exorbitant fine I was held accountable for when my 15 year old destroyed a neighborhood property. He was in prison by 17, so I’m required to pay it. I see Latino parents of rebellious teenagers they cannot control standing in front of the judge. I see their parents’ fear because they don’t understand how to protect their child or what on earth has really happened to them. They’ll pay and pay and pay - and we’ll let them. Because criminal justice is more about money than it is about due process or rehabilitation or correction. I thank God for the bilingual judges in the courtroom. Public defenders are only after a plea deal, because that guilty verdict is revenue. What a terrible situation, to have your child in trouble with the law and not understand how, why or what to do to protect them. I wish we’d all come together to take a hatchet to current criminal justice legislation - until anyone who reads it could understand it and understand how to defend themselves or their loved ones. The way it’s written today is garbage.
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I’m always the only white woman in the courtroom, by the way, even though the state of Texas reports that white kids make up 75% of juvenile crime. Once a kid gets in the juvy system, they expect them to re-offend most of their lives - and it’s BIG money the longer they can keep them in. That’s why probation and parole are so overused. They know no jobs will be available to these kids, but the parents will pay. This creates a very savvy young criminal, hanging with the wrong crowd and getting into more trouble. So I’ve seen both sides of this predatory situation. Mexicans will vote for the party that pays out as long as no ID is required, and private corporations will make money off the incarceration of their children for years and years and years. By the way, prisons and jails are paid for through taxes. I feel this is the biggest danger Mexicans face in America today. I don’t have the answers, but maybe some REAL conversations would help us love each other better than this. Muslims want Americans dead. I’m not alone here. This may be an over-generalization, but we’ve all seen video footage showing them chanting hate speech and violently hurting EVERYONE who opposes them. They hate us, they hate themselves - it’s a miserable time to be confronted with such evil. Still, I’m told that this is not all Muslims, only a few tribal sects. I don’t know enough about this. I know I don’t trust the news media, they spin anything and everything to shore up policy and public opinion in whatever slant the ‘establishment’ wants it to go. Evidently radical Islamists can live right next to you and be peaceful as can be as they strap on their guns and bombs. They call themselves Muslim, from what I understand. When I walk in my neighborhood, women with heads covered won’t make eye contact with me as they pass, and men who seem to be dressed the way we understand Muslims to dress walk with a fixed gaze before them, as though it’s nasty to have to pass me. I think it’s disrespectful. I’m friendly. I say “Hi” or “Good morning!” to anyone, so I don’t get why they would be in my country and not respond - especially if it would quell the growing opinion by Americans that Muslims hate us. But I have yet to work with any, and just the other day a family passed me at the park - woman in full garb - and both the woman and the man smiled big and responded. Maybe they are getting used to us, too. Maybe we need
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to spend more time trying to be outgoing and see if it doesn’t help build a bridge between our cultures. I’ve learned that I have concerns, some legitimate, some not, about other nationalities. I’ve been down this road before. I’ve held one opinion very tightly only to learn later that there is more than meets the eye. Diversity should mean that we ALL embrace the different. I don’t think it should mean our American policies should cater to any specific nationality, gender, race or anything else, but we should be hiring each other and learning from each other and finding out what we don’t understand about successful commerce between our cultures. I think diversity should include that Mexican companies should speak English at their American places of work, so hiring from the white community would be more common, too. I love the diversity of The OffBeat Business Show & Magazine. I love learning how each of us thinks differently based on our unique backgrounds and I love how I can share with you the words I’ve shared with you in this article. We ALL struggle with this. The Solution? I Don’t Have One, But ... Christians should hire and do commerce with Jews, Muslims and any person who is qualified to be hired or do business with them - regardless of nationality or race. They should do it when they get the opportunity, not because someone made them do it. Muslims should hire and do commerce with Christians, Jews and other nationalities and races. They should do it when they get the opportunity, not because someone made them do it. Jews should hire and do commerce with Muslims, Christians and other nationalities. They should do it when they get the opportunity, not because someone made them do it. Hispanics should hire and do commerce with Anglos and other nationalities and races, Muslims and Jews. They should do it when they get the opportunity, not because someone made them do it. What Rights Do We Need To Preserve? If we DON’T find that the applicant, regardless of race, nationality, gender or religion is qualified for or fit for a particular position, it should be our right - on the basis of those things ALONE - to hire a more qualified or fit applicant. By ‘fit’ I’m talking about being fit for the job. We
all know that not everyone is fit for the position they’re in (emotionally, physically, relationally) and it’s about time we can deny an application or terminate employment at will when that is realized. In AMERICA, we should be speaking English, our laws should be written in English, and to vote or drive, English should be mandatory. Because less than that destroys the fabric of our nation by alienating entire people groups from understanding the real issues and protecting themselves. Bilingual legislation is a slippery slope. American lives were lost and continue to be put on the line for the greatest nation on earth, to preserve our way of life. If you can come here illegally, vote and we actually pay - through taxes - someone to write our policies, procedures and laws in another language, the whole situation defies common sense. Those who are here legally have gone to the trouble of following our procedures to do so. It wasn’t easy. I have a lot of respect for that. My prayer for our nation is that we grow to be truly united, and determine to get over our hang ups. I pray we keep evil out, but help those fleeing from evil to safely build new lives within our borders, respecting our country as we do. And I pray our American business owners enjoy a diverse staff with diverse ideas and unending potential because of it. *Legislation against criminal background disclosure by the applicant. It doesn’t mean a background check can’t be done, but when the box is checked as it is today, many employers never look further or request an interview. Ban The Box would give rehabilitated ex-offenders a chance to be seen and discuss criminal background issues rather than just be discarded.
Susan Hamilton is the founder, host and editor-inchief for The OffBeat Business Show & Magazine. She believes the re-emergence of a strong American small business sector will result in an excess of much needed money and hands-on community support necessary to improve the American experience today. Susan is redefining business to business, and invites you to download The OffBeat Business Show app to stay connected with our efforts.
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What Does Diversity Mean To YOUR Small Business?
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Are Hot Flashes Interrupting Your Work Day? Hot flashes or night sweats Fatigue
By Kathryn E. White, M.D.
Hair loss
Hormone therapy is the most effective way to manage the myriad of symptoms related to menopause. It’s hard enough to focus on the tasks at hand every day with your business - add hot flashes to the mix, and it can be hard to get anything done. Today, women can use pellet hormone therapy to manage those symptoms.
Insomnia
There are traditional forms of hormone therapy but also more bio-identical forms. This simply means the products used are chemically similar to what the body produces naturally.
Recurrent bladder infections or urinary urgency
First, there are many symptoms which may indicate declining hormone levels. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it may be a good idea to have your levels tested:
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Decreased libido Decreased sexual function Headaches Brain fog/concentration issues Irritability/mood swings
Vaginal dryness or burning/pain during intercourse
Pellet therapy has actually been around for more than 60 years. This type of treatment became less popular in the US with the emergence of typical drug therapies, but is making a resurgence over the past several years. This is still a very common form
and is therefore considered ‘off label.’
What are pellets? They are compounded, fused, bio-identical forms of estrogen, testosterone, progesterone and even DHEA. The most commonly used pellets are estrogen and testosterone. Advantages of pellet therapy are ease of use, enhanced blood levels and more consistent absorption. They do not metabolize in the liver which is favorable for a variety of reasons. Pellets are generally placed in the hip during a very simple 2-3 minute inoffice procedure and will last an average of 3-5 months.
Also not all physicians offer bio-identical hormone treatment or pellet therapy, so you should check with your physician regarding this as well.
Pellets may even be appropriate to use prior to menopause. Many women in their 40’s will often have a decline in their testosterone levels several years before actual menopause. Treatment will often restore not only their libido but also their energy levels and an enhanced sense of well-being. Hormone therapy may not be appropriate for all women so it is important to discuss options with your physician. Testosterone therapy is also not FDA approved for women at this time,
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of treatment in Europe and other countries.
Here in Texas, summers are HOT - but it’s usually pretty warm all year. Menopause is a time of transition in our lives but doesn’t have to be miserable. If you’re experiencing these discomforts today, I strongly advise you to look into this before our days get long again and the temperature rises. Azure Med Spa is under the experienced direction of Kathryn E White MD. A leading physician in North Dallas since 2008, Dr. White specializes in gynecology, gynecological surgery, bio-identical hormone therapy, weight loss and aesthetic medicine. Azure Med Spa offers a wide range of aesthetic, laser treatments, body sculpting and skin rejuvenation. Get your life back, call 972-294-6992 today or email AzureMedSpa@Gmail.com to learn more. Look for her ad in The OffBeat Business Magazine.
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UnMake, ReMake, The season of revolving resolutions is here and will return with the same results for many; year after year after year after year. Magic pills, potions, and programs will be sold at record pace with many to choose from shoved in your face. Beware the magic beans that come at the price of hungry giants to rob you of everything, including your life, just to keep you from doing the work and facing a little strife. “Unlearn what you have learned,” to quote a very wise 900 year‐old being. The main reason a resolution is in constant yearly revolution has to do with the things in your mind that keep you in a bind. The very thoughts and way of thinking that have put your current situation are the same ones that will keep you from getting out of
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it. You clean out the pantry, and fridge, and house, and take out the trash to get rid of it and make space for new things ‐ and this must be done in your mind as well. A counselor or therapist can help with this as you will have years and decades of trash to sort through and toss out before filling up your mind with new ways of seeing your past, your present, and your future. Unlearn all the trashing thinking and then stay out of the places where you first picked them up. The best way to appreciate the good things you have is to make them like new again. No matter how old a car is when you wash, wax and polish that thing the better it looks and the better you feel cruising around in it. This goes with both your
thoughts and the useful tools already in your possession to make those once yearly resolutions a daily reality for the rest of your life. Grab those shoes and gym clothes you only wore a few times last year, clean them up, throw them on, and get your mind right for doing that every day. Use that gym membership you put on hold, and take advantage of the session(s) you never used to get you started on the right foot so you won’t trip up and fall off the plan again. An old thing never used is always new and the good things you have never go bad and always take care of you when you taken care of them. After you clean out the junk and fix up the best things in your life, the next thing is to add a little extra excitement and newness to fill the open space and move forward.
Good thoughts, feelings, and things are just one step away from disappearing if you take your focus off of the blessings. Good things can also be spoiled and spoil everything if they are the only focus in your life at the expense of the things that have always been there to support your good fortune. Find one or two new things that can help you improve and make better use of the things and mindsets that have served you in health and life. This may be a new app or device to keep track of your progress or a new way of thinking to keep you motivated through all the trials of each day. The newest additions should work hand in hand with the oldest tools to help you
Haven’t You Suffered Enough? Menopause
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do the work that only real lasting health and success will come from.
Action Steps: 1. Unmake the things in life and the thoughts in your mind that hold you back and push you down. Dump all the trash in your home, business, life, and mind so you can be open for new better things and thoughts.
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Make More
3. Make more things in life and thoughts in your mind that raise you to new heights and keep you from failing or falling. Add a little fuel to your fire to help it burn bright but not so much that you blow up and burn out. Visit me at www.ClintFuqua.com and contact me with any questions, comments, request, recommendation, proposals, fan mail, or hate mail at Clint@ClintFuqua.com.
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IS EXPOSURE TO FLUORIDE
Many countries are opting out or banning fluoride use in their public water supplies. In 2014, Israel banned it altogether. One reason is that fluoride is considered and classified as a drug by many regulatory agencies. In America, fluoride fits the description of a drug laid out by the FDA. But like a bad football game, where no team actually scores any points, no regulatory agencies such as the CDC, EPA or any others have to take responsibility for any negative consequence of using such a drug in mass, unmeasurable quantities. While many cities have now lowered the allowable fluoride in water to 7 ppm, by the time baby formula is mixed, toothpaste is used or many other fluoride containing items are actually ingested, the compounded
SAFE?
fluoride level is much higher. Some studies suggest this is having an impact on the IQ of children all over the world.
Fluoride exists in: infant formula, processed foods, soups, soda and beer made with fluoridated water, food grown with fluoride containing pesticides and fumigated in warehouses with sulfuryl fluoride (buy organic!), iced tea, raisins, fruit juices, wine, mechanically deboned chicken, and pharmaceuticals and fluoridated anaesthetics that metabolizes to yield a free fluoride ion. The argument here is quite animated, and I bring this to your attention because our family business has longheld
Dorothy Skinner is the owner of Gary’s Quality Plumbing, serving the north Dallas area. Read the Ask The Plumber Blog to learn how to protect your home or place of business, and find beautiful fixture options for your next remodel. Contact Info@GarysQualityPlumbing.com or call 972‐424‐6479 for your gas or water plumbing needs.
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By Dorothy Skinner
that fluoride and chlorine in the water are a danger to your family, and getting them out of your water supply through reverse osmosis or water purification can be done. Originally, fluoride was an experiment to prevent tooth decay in the 1940s. More and more communities since that time have exposed themselves to elevated fluoride in water supplies and food and other products, and what this can mean for the overall health of a child today has not yet been explored in the last 60 years.
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Start Feeling Better TODAY MS | Licensed Massage Therapist | Licensed Massage Instructor Continuing Education Provider http://www.handsofchoice.abmp.com Every Body Needs Body Work Infants, Children, Teens, Adults ‌ Every Body!
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2016 | REBOOT
CARE FOR YOURSELF By Brenda Wakefield, MS, LMT, LMTI, CEP Touch is one of the most primitive senses we have and the body craves it. There are many benefits associated with touch to soothe the mental, physical and spiritual components of life. It is therapeutic, relaxing and healing with so many options available. My soapbox for this article is a new year, new you for 2016 with a plea to take time to create a better you with bodywork maintenance. Reboot for 2016 to feel better and get relief from injury, pain, stress, discomfort and bodily dysfunctions. Maintenance can decrease dis ‘ease’ using the body’s inherent ability to heal itself. Who wins when your body stays in 24
optimal performance mode? It’s a win win for ALL the relationships in your life, but first and foremost self is the winner. Next is spouse, significant other, family, friends, employer, coworker and the list goes on. Your health is your wealth rings true every day. Think about the last time you cancelled the day’s activities because of not feeling well. Now multiply by several days to understand the impact on quality of life. At the very least, you lose money. Sick days create a situation of no work, no pay. Worst case scenario is a chronic condition that keeps work days to a minimum, which could lead to unemployment. Give yourself the
ultimate in 2016 commit to “First, Take Care of You!” Feel good inside and out.
What is bodywork? Touch therapy helps the body relax and release tension within the body. Bodywork is available in many, many modalities from light touch, to deep tissue work, yoga, meditation and so much more. Thanks to today’s technology, the search for a licensed professional with a specific touch can be found with the click of a mouse. But I invite you to experience light touch therapy, my specialty of CranioSacral Therapy (CST) or Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (LDT). To the novice, these therapies provide a more conservative approach, especially for those who are apprehensive to remove clothing during a massage session. CST/LDT are done while fully dressed minus shoes/belt and lying down on a massage table. Though conservative as far as being dressed, the techniques provide a deep relaxation and balance to the body to assist the body systems to function at top notch functionality.
Who needs bodywork? As stated in a previous article, Everyone Deserves Bodywork (Nov 2015), every man, woman and child needs bodywork. Birth is traumatic and the stress of life continues throughout a lifetime. Don’t subscribe to the myth that massage is a luxury for the extravagantly rich. Schedule bodywork maintenance and experience the benefits toward optimal health.
Why? Massage provides for integral healing at the cellular level, and blossoms into wellness and optimal health. To maintain vitality and wellbeing, use healing therapies to address health issues that are not effectively resolved by conventional health care. Massage techniques are alternative wellness options to maintain a proactive healthy lifestyle. Be knowledgeable of total well being for optimal therapeutic renewal. Massage releases the tension deep within. You will feel like a new person after a session. You owe it to yourself to escape and let go of the physical and emotional roadblocks 25
to your wellness. Stop suffering from needless headaches, migraines, back/ neck/shoulder pain, gastrointestinal issues, birthing trauma, colicky baby, falls, accidents, whiplash, recovery from surgery, TMJ, PTSD, fibromyalgia, muscle ache/pain and the list goes on and on. Get educated about bodywork to provide relaxation and healing. There are many ways to share this information while you learn, too. Schedule a lunch and learn, Employers can sponsor an event for employees, and on a personal note, Host a wellness home party. Ask yourself, “Now, how do I feel?” It’s true the body speaks, and we should listen. Sometimes it speaks louder as the subtle hints go ignored. Learn to appreciate and value your body. Reconnect with yourself. Enjoy touch to release physical and mental patterns of tension – enhance the ability to experience a more positive feeling. Conditions that may be debilitating physical or emotional create discomfort and disease within, and may drain the body. Information is 26
key to know how to handle stress and pain, the source or reason for discomfort. Understanding the trigger physically and mentally may save hours, days, weeks, months or even years of discomfort. For the sake of comparison, a computer gets a virus and being infected, it may be able to return to its original state. Hmmm … that inside programming to reboot and start over … Surely your health is much more than a computer.
WIIFM (What’s in it for me?) Relief, relief, relief!!! Feel better, it just may be the best money spent all year. Stay in touch with your body and enjoy a better you in 2016. Brenda Wakefield, MS, LMT, LMTI, CEP offers proactive massage and touch therapies and initiates the body’s natural healing ability after injury. Start feeling better today, call her office at 2143809700, or her mobile phone at 4699556530. Learn more about the therapies she provides at www.handsofchoice.abmp.com.
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SETTING UP A YOUTUBE CHANNEL
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BY BYRON INGRAHAM
YouTube is a powerful tool to leverage in your business to attract clients and customers. With video you can demonstrate your expertise in your profession. However, it is important to setup YouTube properly so that you are positioned for success with your video marketing efforts. First and foremost, it is imperative that you create a separate YouTube channel for your business. Most individuals simply sign into YouTube.com and go straight to their account. However when you are setting yourself up for success in your business you need to take an extra step. You have to create an additional channel for your business efforts. The reason for doing this is security and privacy. If you do not take this step, you have to give out your email and password to someone to access your YouTube account. This same information allows someone to access everything you have connected to Google. Your emails, social media platforms, etc. Essentially you are leaving yourself open for someone to impersonate you with your information.
To create a separate channel you simply need to perform the following steps.
1
CLICK ON THE IMAGE IN THE TOP RIGHT HAND CORNER OF THE SCREEN
3
CLICK ON CREATE A NEW CHANNEL OR SEE ALL MY CHANNELS
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2
CLICK ON THE GEAR ICON THAT SAYS YOUTUBE SETTINGS
4
CLICK ON CREATE NEW CHANNEL
Off BeatMagazine These steps will allow you to create a separate channel in which you can add managers who can perform administrative duties on your YouTube Channel and its Connected Google+ Page. To add a manager, on the settings screen simply click on Add or Remove Managers. By following these steps you will have created a new channel for your business, as well as increased the security of your account. Always remember that you have to treat your social media channels at property of your business and protect it as such.
Byron Ingraham is a United States Marine Corp Veteran with a passion for physical health and wellness. An expert marketing strategist, Byron has a handle on what it takes to get your message in front of the people who buy. Discover more about YouTube and other digital marketing at ByronIngraham.com.
Remember to subscribe to The OffBeat Business Show and Byron Ingraham when you’re set up!
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The Power Of
A Business Owner’s Divorce Guide Protecting Your Assets By Lisa Zahn
January has the highest divorce rate of any month of the year. Marriages that have been suffering through the holidays tend to hold on, for the sake of children and family, until the new year when it may be a little less stressful. When there’s a business involved it gets even more complex. A collaborative law solution is available for couples who wish to dissolve their marriage amicably. The collaborative approach is best when both parties are in agreement, and the nuances of the situation need to be specialized for their unique circumstance regarding child visitation, health care, finances or more. Attorneys for both parties, trained in collaborative law, come together at the table with the divorcing couple, along with specialists for the various areas that will be dissolved. The team asks supportive and protective 30
questions and together an agreement is reached that may look quite different than what a judge may agree to outside of the collaborative process. An agreement reached in this manner is simply handed to the judge to sign. To do this, both parties must agree to enter collaboratively, and the risk is that if one pulls out the process is over regardless of the fees paid or due up until that point. Even so, north Texans are finding the collaborative process a positive alternative to traditional divorce. But what if the parties don’t agree? When a business is involved, there is much more to this subject. The best advice I can give you is to keep very good financial records and get a good attorney who is willing to TALK with you. This is a big consideration. If communication is not coming easy with your attorney, the resulting stress will be great.
Off BeatMagazine Business and personal financial records must be kept separate. Is your spouse working with or working for the company? If you have run the company together, a judge may order it to be valuated to help decide if a payout is necessary or if the company must be sold in order to divide assets. Great records will help this process, and save money. In the event of a divorce, amicable or otherwise, do not attempt to hide assets. If you suspect your ex is hiding assets from you, keep records of your suspicions so your attorney has as much to work with as possible. Try to keep lines of communication open. As hard as it may be, do everything in your power to remain conversational, regardless of how the other party receives your efforts. Hostility during a divorce proceeding does nothing to help reach a conclusion, and a judge may frown on the inability to keep a cool head.
is ending, resolve to take the high road at every opportunity, and get an attorney who is specialized by the state board where you reside. Choose an attorney who is easy to converse with, willing to speak the hard truth to you, is concerned for and protective of the well足being of your children, business and assets. Lisa Zahn is a family law attorney who protects your best interests and works hard to ensure you, your family, and your business are prepared for whatever journey lies ahead. A partner at Mackoy, Hernandez, Qualls, Brown & Zahn and Board Certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, Lisa is a recognized expert in the family law arena. If you need family law services in Denton, Dallas and Collin counties, wait no longer. Call 214足387足9056 today. http://www.hqattorneys.com/ lisa足zahn. Look for her ad in The OffBeat Business Magazine.
Divorce is never a pretty subject, but the reality is, they happen. If your relationship 31
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How to Create a
WINNING CULTURE By John Carroll
Do you believe that creating a winning culture is important to the success of your business? If no, skip to the next article. If yes, what steps have you taken to build a winning culture within your organization?
If you were to make a list of the essential ingredients of a winning culture for your business, what would the list include? Here is my Top 9 list of the basic tenets for creating a winning culture:
Each year Fortune and Forbes magazines’ complete extensive employee surveys and publish their respective lists of the “100 Best Companies to Work For”. These surveys rank these top companies in a broad range of categories including job satisfaction, pay and benefit programs, attitudes about management, internal communication, hiring practices, training, and diversity efforts.
Vision. The company’s vision is important because it aligns leadership and employees around a common purpose, set of priorities and best practices that serve to shape the organization.
What makes these businesses great companies to work for and recognized leaders in their industries?
Whether your business is a startup or has been around a while, it’s important to recognize that everyone wants to be a part of building something special a great company. And culture is an undeniable part of the fabric of any great company. A lot has been written about culture and its importance, but do we really understand what goes into creating a winning culture?
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Clarity. In order to create a climate for success, people must understand not only the vision and direction for the company, but also what is expected of them. Be clear on expectations and get “buyin” from everyone involved. Values. Core Values are the company’s guiding principles. Values define who you are, what you believe, and what you want to be in the future. The Vision and Core Values together are also a vital part of the company’s future legacy. Leadership. Winning cultures are determined by the daily activities with the business. Leaders at all levels, therefore, must set a positive tone through their interaction with others and leading by example.
Accountability. Establishing goals, measuring performance and holding employees and all other stakeholders accountable for results is a must if you want to create a winning culture. Everyone needs to have an ownership mentality and “skin in the game”. Communication. Communication must be consistent, open, honest and direct at all levels within the organization. Trust and respect should also be evident so employees are comfortable sharing their thoughts openly without fear of reprisal. Innovation. Innovation is a competitive advantage and critical to growth. Embrace change and foster an environment that encourages risk taking, creativity, continuous learning and improvement.
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People. Employees (Team Members) are your greatest asset. Hire great people, train them, challenge them, support them and ensure they are properly motivated for their continued growth and development.
through purposeful actions on the part of all invested stakeholders. If you want your business to be recognized as a great company that everyone wants to work for, then think about the culture you are creating and how it can become an ever increasing part of your future success story.
John Carroll is a business and leadership strategist who works with business leaders to help them ‘achieve the results to move beyond their vision.’ He is a bestselling author, educator, blogger and speaker. Email John at john@trescoach.com or learn more at http://www.trescoach.com/.
Discover YOUR Formula for Success: https://www.udemy.com/discoveryour formulaforsuccess
Fun. Happy, engaged employees are productive employees. Find ways to put fun into the work. Otherwise it becomes drudgery and productivity, attendance, team morale and retention suffers. Great companies set the standards of excellence by combining strong values with great vision, people, products, leadership and a winning culture. A winning culture isn’t something you just dream about or hope will occur naturally. It’s something that is created and evolves over time 33
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ROI ReImagined: No More New Year’s Resolutions! By Candy Barone Every year people feel this need to reset the clock, to start anew, to create momentum for great success. Of course, most of our culture does this by setting New Year’s resolutions. In fact, many make a big production around establishing their resolutions, as if out of habit or as an annual ritual to ground themselves for the approaching year. The irony is that by setting these New Year’s resolutions, they are, in turn, actually setting themselves up for failure instead. Often their resolutions are based on lofty or unrealistic and unattainable goals. Very little clarity goes into stating these resolutions, and most tend to bite off more than they can chew. The result is a plate full of wishful thinking. For instance, let’s look back on 2015. How many “resolutions” did you set for yourself 34
at the start ofthe year? How many of those “resolutions” did you actually accomplish? And, for those resolutions you did manage to achieve, how many were done so by sheer luck or through massive amounts of pain and turmoil? How many of those resolutions were actually obtained through constructive, focused work, discipline, and small consistent breakthroughs that set the stage for BIG growth and sustainable progress? My guess is not many were accomplished, and if they were, are not now positioned for leveraging ongoing success. How many of last year’s resolutions are on your list again this year? How many years have the same resolutions (e.g., get healthy and fit, make more money, serve your community
Off BeatMagazine more, be a better person, etc.) been on your list? You see, it’s an ongoing cycle that never ends, and we never fully win. So, STOP the madness and STOP wasting precious time setting New Year’s resolutions for you and your team! Instead, set clear SMART goals: ● Specific ● Measurable ● Achievable ● Realistic ● TimeBound Set S.M.A.R.T. goals with purpose, intentional activities to take action, and daily discipline for explosive growth. The more you break down your lofty ‘wish’ list into clear, actionable and
measurable goals, the more you can create a system and rhythm for long term success. For starters, say you have a desire to increase sales for your organization. You must first specifically address what it is you want to improve. Is it: ● ● ● ●
Actual growth Number of clients Market position Rankings against competition, or something else?
Next, break this goal down into manageable strategies, then down to a tangible result: ● What percentage of growth? ● How many new clients? 35
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ROI ReImagined Finally, determine how you will measure the incremental efforts in your progress along the way. You must get clear on the specific outcomes you want, and how you will measure those outcomes, both quantitatively and qualitatively. The only way to truly ensure the results you want is to employ discipline, consistency and accountability at every turn. When you start to think about discipline, consistency and accountability, we tend to think of the words ‘resolve’ or ‘commitment’. Resolve is the firm determination to do something; in other words, a commitment to yourself or others. This is energy and conviction you create to tell yourself you “will do” something. That something is a non negotiable, and you “get to” show up in order to bring it to fruition. When you create and commit to resolve, you create a clear path of intention to set out and make that goal a reality. It becomes a decision, an agreement you make to yourself. And, like any other agreement you make with others, there is a sense of value, of purpose, of follow through, and of consequences if you breach that agreement.
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After all, “Where there is a will, there is not a way … there’s YOU!” You are the only one who can determine your success. And, as a leader you influence others by walking your own talk first. A resolve is a promise to yourself, and your team. A promise that demonstrates commitment, conviction and courage. If you are someone who walks your talk … a promise is your word. Which means, your word is only as good as the walk you take. Resolve to get clear about your objectives and goals for 2016. Keep your list small and purposeful. Set milestones and ways to measure progress along the way. Understand the value of the desired outcome and the return you are looking for. Then, create the discipline and accountability to make it happen. If you do, your returns will be powerful, and your success will be sustainable. Here’s to an explosive and wildly successful 2016. Resolve to make it so! Because, remember … ROI is a return on investment, not a return on intention. Candy Barone, CEO & Founder, You Empowered Strong “Your PullNo Punches Accountability Powerhouse” International Speaker, Business Strategist, Executive Coach & Trainer, Bestselling Author candybarone@youempoweredstrong. com www.youempoweredstrong.com (512) 6939732
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5 STEPS TO
MAKE MONEY FROM YOUR APP By Jonathan Bodnar
W
hen I show people my app, they ask me, “Can you make money from your app?” It’s the first question you should always ask before a business purchase, “Can it make me money?” People can be hesitant about using an app for their business because they don’t really understand what it can do for them. I’m here to tell you, yes, when used correctly, apps will make you as much money as you’ll let them. What tools can you get on your app that would benefit your company? Well, that’s best answered by your industry, but a few common features are push notifications, content (articles, podcasts and videos), booking and appointment calendars and of course a mobile store! Your social networks can also be integrated directly into your app so your customers can engage with you without ever leaving your app.
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Make Money From Your App, Or From Your Website - Which Is More Profitable? The biggest difference between a website and an app is that an app is on someone’s phone, instantly accessible, and always available for business. Also, an app is built natively for your phone, unlike a website that can be mobile responsive, but still limited by the browser. Websites are a must for all businesses, but they present just a few major limitations when compared to the app’s value. Most notably, email is the only form of “alerts” that a website can have. Which might not look like a big problem initially, but when you learn emails have an average open rate of 22% and an even smaller profitable action rate it doesn’t sound so great. Push notifications solve that problem in a game changing way. Their open rate is 87% on average and a user is about 40% more likely to purchase something or book an appointment through your app then they are on your
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Here’s 5 steps to make money from your app 1. Put your content on your app. Any articles, podcasts or videos you have that can help your client either maintain your product or better understand what you do. The best thing you can do is create content that the client REALLY needs in regards to your industry. 2. Be sure to have either a form, your store or an appointment calendar on your app so your readers can become quick conversions. 3. Here’s the secret: send a push notification every week, or
even every day for some industries, with an informative or helpful title. For example, if you’re a chef you can send a notification out daily because people eat daily. Your notification could be something like “Don’t know what to make for dinner? Swipe here to get an easy dinner recipe.”
4. Attach that push notification to a resourceful article, your clients need to see your app as valuable to their cause otherwise you’ll be the first to go when they run out of space.
Most any business will benefit from app design. As a matter of fact, our clients see an average increase of 31% in sales and conversions when using the apps we develop for them. As people become increasingly busy and particular about what they’re looking for, it’s never been more important to make it as easy as possible to do business with you. A great designer will make it easy to manage your push notifications and stay in front of your customer base. Now that you know how to make money from your app, let’s take 2016 beyond your current sales goals and expectations.
Jonathan Bodnar is the CEO of Apollo, an app design company with the customer in mind. Discover what an app can do for your small business when you call 214-628-6518. For more information, go to ApolloApps.co
5. Market your app to your social networks and current clients, apps have an amazing knack for creating return clientele because your branding is visible to them multiple times a day, and if your app is resourceful enough, your company will be the first they think of when they need the service you offer.
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SUSANSAYS Great Opportunities In New Media For YOUR Business! page ad for our magazine By Susan Hamilton
Too many American businesses are not taking advantage of the leverage digital media provides. People think it’s too expensive, they think the learning curve is too great, and they don’t REALLY understand why it’s such an enormous step in the right direction. Regrettably, some companies WILL miss out on these options. But the business owners who recognize how influential it can be to make their brand strong through digital marketing will dip a toe in the water now and then. Some will even go so far as to hire or train to produce exceptional media for their services and yes, that IS expensive. And it might be the right choice, too. You simply must be available in digital content arenas. That’s what makes The OffBeat Business Show & Magazine a completely different animal. We come alongside you to help you develop an effective marketing message for an entire year taking into account your sales goals and special offers. Then we create your full or half 40
and produce your 30 second or 1 minute ad spot for our show. Those ads and and ad spots reach audiences on iTunes, Spreaker, SoundCloud, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio and Pegasus Net Waves over and above their reach from The OffBeat Business Show. Then we circulate it all through our social media channels. All YOU do is like, comment and share!
But that’s not all. Our biggest advantage is our business for business audience. We recognize the makeup of American business today, and speak to actual reallife needs for successful life in business. Each of us brings something uniquely genius to the table. We show you how to capitalize on YOURS. When you’re known for leading other business owners to success your brand is elevated, strengthened, and you have an opportunity to make a much bigger impact than you do when you merely ‘dabble’ in social media. Contributing monthly articles to our magazine -fully edited for your best possible presentation - gives you additional content
suited for LinkedIn Pulse, Medium, FlipBoard, Google News and your website blog. This content, over the course of a year, can be used to map your book leading to additional opportunities for business growth and attracting a much higher paying customer. Download our app and subscribe to our weekly updates. Discover the success mindsets, trends and tactics our business showcases use that make them amazing, and consider how YOU could benefit from sponsoring The OffBeat Business Show & Magazine. Not only will your reputation improve, but you’ll be joining the voice of thousands who are saying ‘enough is enough!’ when it comes to legislation that directly impacts our lives in business taxation, health care, criminal justice and the inability of the Veterans Administration to truly support our national heroes. WE the people, people. Build a strong brand, develop your skills for influence and be heard. In God we trust, ~ Susan
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Attitudes & Attire: Boots to Heels Program
We provide eligibility information as listed on the Resource’s website (i.e. Branch of Service, Disability level, seasonal resource, Branch Specific, geographical, etc.) From Battle-Buddy Info, once the User has determined they meet the criteria for assistance, they can link to the Application Form from our site, eliminating the need to read through pages of content provided by an organization.
A customized program designed exclusively for female veterans giving them the camaraderie of being with peers who understand the experiences and challenges they face when returning home. We provide a four part program to assist female veterans with their transition from military to civilian life. After participating in our workshops on self-esteem and interview skills, each veteran is invited to select professional attire and accessories from our upscale boutique.
Equest
Recovery Resource Council
The Equest Hooves for Heroes program offers current service members, hon-
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Recovery Resource Council offers FREE and confidential counseling services
through the Enduring Women and Enduring Families Veterans’ Services grant. Enduring Women provides group counseling and peer support for various issues including, but not limited to, post traumatic stress, military sexual trauma, reintegration issues, substance abuse or parenting difficulties.
Allies in Service
Allies in Service’s mission is to identify and support Dallas area veterans who need assistance in the areas of employment, housing, education, and health care. We partner with veterans, employers, community and other veteran support organizations to educate and enhance the quality of life of our veterans.
Combat Faith
For all warriors needing healing there are some key factors that apply universally. Combat PTSD stems from dangerous situ-
Off BeatMagazine
ations where their or their comrades’ lives/ health were at stake. Most combat veterans with PTSD had multi-traumas rather than just one traumatic incident. The following information on PTSD anecdotes was provided to me by a fellow Vietnam veteran who was wounded in Vietnam as a Navy Corpsman assigned to the Marines. After the case study for each war, there will be suggestions for a spiritual approach to the issues affecting veterans.
Grace After Fire
Grace After Fire was created by women to provide an online resource for women veterans – women helping women. Here you can truly be yourself, laugh, cry, share – and safely gather to identify. You’ll find resources, experts, and fellow women vets around the world that understand where you’re coming from.
Honor Courage and Commitment
Honor Courage Commitment is a nonprofit organization that recruits, educates, mentors, and guides transitioning military veterans into becoming socially responsible entrepreneurs and community leaders.
K9s for Freedom and Independence
We specialize in PTSD and /or TBI Service
Dogs. Our focus is on those persons that have served our country as a US Military Member, Law Enforcement Officer, Fire Fighter, EMS Worker.
Suicide Prevention 22tooMany
22toomany Instagram page is for Veterans in dark places. Call anyone listed on the site 24/7. Committed to being available for ALL before a permanent irreversible step is taken.
Logan’s 5
In December of 2013, a request was made by a retired Marine. “Give me five reasons to live each day.” Author and Battle-Buddy Info Founder, responded with a quick, “I can do that!” This is the chronicle of those encouragements, inspirations, and facts of friendship. We can all use a little remembrance and recounting of five reasons to fight, five reasons to stay alive, five reasons to make it through another day.
National Resources Hope for the Warriors
The mission of Hope For The Warriors® is to enhance the
quality of life for post-9/11 service members, their families, and families of the fallen who have sustained physical and psychological wounds in the line of duty. Hope For The Warriors® is dedicated to restoring a sense of self, restoring the family unit, and restoring hope for our service members and our military families.
IAVA The mission of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) is to improve the lives of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans and their families. Rapid Response Referral Program, assigns a case manager to help IAVA members navigate through a variety of resources available to them. The Career Pathfinder program includes resume builder, military skills translator, and career mapping tool.
Veteran Artist Program (VAP) VAP, a 501c3 nonprofit, takes artists who are also veterans, and propels their works and careers into the mainstream creative arts community through networking, mentorships, collaborations with professional artists, and
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