The
Business Show & Magazine
Branding Insights from FASTSIGNS CEO,
CATHERINE MONSON Successful SALES 10 Best Businesses of 2016 Answering the BIG Questions About Your Mission Statement
JANUARY - FEBRUARY | 2017
OffBeatBusiness CONTENTS
F E AT U R E :
Best Businesses 4 10 of 2016
the BIG 18 Answering Questions About Your Mission Statement By Claire Billingsley
F E AT U R E :
9
Achieving Success in Direct Sales
New Year to 20 AGet It Right By Brenda Wakefield
By Scott Schilling F E AT U R E :
Does Your 15 What Brand Look Like on The Inside?
– It’s a Choice 26 K.O.K.O. By Melanie Murphy
Taylor’s Tips — ELECTION IS OVER 23 THE — NOW WHAT!? By Taylor Kay Stephens
Note from Dottie — Leak Detection: 29 Water Stop That Plumbing Leak By Dorothy Skinner
Susan Says — Incentives For 30 New Contributors And Guests! By Susan Hamilton
By Susan Hamilton
the Odds and 24 Playing Losing Big to Live Well By Clint Fuqua
32 Battle-Buddy Directory
ssMagazine OFFBEAT BUSINESS
SHOW & MAGAZINE
EDITOR’S NOTE
Susan Hamilton
Friends,
susan@offbeatbusiness.com
Happy New Year! Exciting to begin again, isn’t it? Inside these pages we’re unleashing the OffBeat Business Media 10 Best List of 2016 and content with perspective you need to make the most of 2017. Our cover model is the lovely Catherine Monson, CEO of FASTSIGNS International, Inc.. Her interview on The OffBeat Business Show January 3rd, 2017 was PACKED with great insight - and I share some of that with you inside. Our entire January lineup will accelerate you quickly into higher revenues and profits; we’ve listed them all or you. Welcome Scott Schilling, a newcomer to OffBeat Business Media. As a Performance Excellence Expert, what he’s sharing about sales will absolutely transform your business in the new year.
OffBeatBusinessMagazine
Editor-in-Chief Susan Hamilton
Art Director Scott Alberts
scottalberts.com
We talk branding, mission statements, plumbing disaster avoidance, health and healing through the eyes of your favorite contributors. I even unveil our new contributor and guest incentives!
Marketing
New Art Direction from Scott Alberts has allowed us to print our magazine for sponsors who enjoy monthly coffee table editions, and will play a big role in the growth of our organization this year. More announcements in the coming months.
Professional Photography
OffBeat Business Media offbeatbusiness.com
Scott Peek
scottpeekphotography.com
Hint: Share our content using the hashtag #offbeatbusiness frequently! As always, please send your comments and suggestions to info@OffBeatBusiness.com so we can continue to improve. Always supporting American small business initiatives, — Susan Hamilton
January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine 1
The
Audio, Video and Digital Media Redefining B2B Every Tuesday at 12 & 8 PM CST
The OffBeat Business Show January - February 2017 Podcast
Catherine Monson, CEO FASTSIGNS International, Inc. shares pearls of success wisdom for a recognizable, influential brand starting from the INSIDE of your organization.
Podcast
Bernadette Coleman, Advice Local talks local business buying trends and how you can capitalize on them when you understand hyper local strategies.
Podcast
John Bagwell, Bagwell Marketing, talks turkey about digital marketing strategies that keep you in front of your prospect - even if they search for your competitor!
Podcast
Scott Peek, Scott Peek Photography, drills down on core teaching you need to hear again and again.
2 January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine
Solutions for YOUR Strong Brand “Real American Business Conversation.”
OffBeatBusiness.com
Podcast
Earl Fisher, ImagiMedia, on websites and video branding yesterday and today.
Podcast
New Launch! What is The OffBeat Business Show doing now? Check out our new digs and production as Susan Hamilton talks with Scott Schilling about the vision for the future of OffBeat Business Media.
Podcast
Bill Brock, White Rock Films, on the significance and affordability of visual branding in the digital market space and how to love your clients when you show up BETTER.
Podcast
Rockie Marvel, top producer with Keller Williams Realty, on loving your prospects and connections. Discover how her follow through is taking customer service to a whole new level!proach to business.
Podcast
Melanie Murphy LOVES her business alliances, and it’s paid off. Find out why Melanie Murphy Voice Overs is attracting new business for her clients through improving the voice of the brand.
January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine 3
10 BEST
The
Business Media
Businesses of 2016
Every year OffBeat Business Media chooses 10 businesses to spotlight for the exceptional products and services they offer in the local and national micro to small business and lifestyle space. This is a unique qualifier, and is based on the fact that 80% of American micro to small businesses are family owned businesses of 9 employees or less, building their businesses while raising their children, caring for their parents, working or living with veterans and more than 30% have an addict in their family or work space. The following businesses have proven through direct experience by members of OffBeat Business Media to support local small businesses at a high level of excellence, and we are honored to spotlight them here. In keeping with our commitment to offer this majority the best of resources in the areas of:
Networking | Process Development | Continuing Education/Coaching | Digital Marketing Strategies We proudly unveil our 2016 10 Best Business List Clint Fuqua, Personal Fitness Consultant/Trainer - With over 20 years experience in the health and wellness industry, Clint’s understanding of supplements, physiology, legislative policy on health care, mental wellness, and criminal justice - he is uniquely qualified to engage in productive conversation and action to impact positive results. Kudos, Clint! ClintFuqua.com
Flipcat Consulting, LLC - Teresa Martin has been helping lawyers with their content and marketing development for over 25 years. Her extensive knowledge of the legal space and ethics requirements make her a vital asset for local, regional and international firms, and her aggressive approach to networking and communication make her team difference makers throughout DFW and beyond. Way to go, Teresa! FlipcatConsulting.com 4 January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine
Tres Coaching Services - For the second year in a row, John Carroll has made our list of exceptional businesses! Offering personal business coaching, Business Leaders Forum monthly masterminds (dates, times and contact information available on our event calendar), Facebook group, and Udemy courses, his insight and services are extensive and masterful for business growth. Accolades, John! TresCoach.com
10 BEST
Melanie Murphy Voice Overs - Melanie Murphy is represented by the Campbell Agency, and has done voice acting work for brands such as Frito Lay and Dr. Pepper - AND she’s the voice talent introducing The OffBeat Business Show each and every week. Melanie scripts, acts, consults, and produces audio for your company informational videos, apps, commercials, podcasts, phone trees and more. For excellent portrayal of the voice of your brand, go to MelanieMurphyVO.com. You’re crushin’ it, Melanie!
Pegasus Net Waves - Raul Enriquez and Robin Roberson are the producers behind talk radio and big band, 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s genre music. They’ve made the art of the discussion in studio a comfortable, simple, and affordable avenue to grow your burgeoning brand. Don’t produce your own audio! Get your candid, informative conversations professionally produced in the studio with the helpful, sage advice you need to have a successful show launch. Congratulations Robin and Raul! PegasusNetWaves.com
Masters of Taxation, LLC - Today’s tax law is riddled with nuances that need professional consideration. If you are doing your own taxes and you are not in the tax business, you are losing time and money better devoted to business growth. Jasmine DiLucci has grown up in the tax preparation business started by her father, John DiLucci, and as a national full-service firm, Masters of Taxation continues to bring financial counsel, extensive tax service and representation to local small businesses and corporations. A business you can trust, and one we’re proud to send people to! Masters-of-Tax.com
January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine 5
10 BEST
Rockie Marvel, Keller Williams Realty - When we think ‘customer service’ or ‘follow-through’, we think of Rockie Marvel. Her attitude about practical service, attention to detail, and bringing her A-game are impeccable. Rockie is a residential sales expert, but that’s because she never sells a thing. She looks for ways to support your vision and then comes alongside you to help you see it materialize. Rockie is a top producer with Keller Williams Realty, and a local networking maven, connecting business owners as she serves her community wherever she can. We love you, Rockie! RockieMarvel.com
Scott Peek Photography - Scott Peek is the consummate professional, and the principle photographer in his organization. Serving corporate and civic image needs for micro, small, medium, and large size businesses, Scott’s known nationwide as THE insider’s imagery consultant. Managing OffBeat Business Media’s sponsor, OBA, magazine cover and studio shots, we know when we work with Scott, we’re getting the best. Great work, Scott! ScottPeekPhotography.com
Hands of Choice Therapies, LLC - Brenda Wakefield is an U.S.A.F. Veteran with an extensive knowledge base and detailed understanding of the human body, nutrition, and how energy flows throughout organs, lymph nodes and soft tissue. Brenda’s office is comfortable and inviting, and her services are available on-location for the busy business owner or severely hurting individual. Her healing touch improves the health of babies to seniors, and she also dedicates herself to veteran care with many accolades to support her success. Brenda’s a visionary and one to watch for in 2017! HandsofChoice.com
Moran Cleaning Services - Gaby Moran immigrated to the United States over 10 years ago to start a new life with her family. She built her commercial cleaning company through sheer grit, determination to work with integrity, and a whole lot of faith. Gaby serves builders in Texas and Oklahoma, and restaurant and property managers throughout Texas with a commitment to be the sparkling interface between their company and the customers they serve. We’re proud to showcase Moran Cleaning Services and the cooperative teams in her organization that go the extra mile under her leadership. Way to go, Gaby! MoranCleaningServices.com 6 January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine
Business & Lifestyle Success Information B4B | Sales | Veterans | Family Health | Money | Fashion | Coaching
Redefining B2B for American Business Owners! The
Business Show
& Magazine
214-714-0495
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January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine 7
Achieving Success in Direct Sales
B
By Scott Schilling
Again, a dramatic statement, so let me share some proof. Have you ever been on a date? You MADE a SALE! Have you ever put a kid to bed? You MADE a SALE! Are you married? You are BETTER at this than you think!
ecoming involved in direct sales has been the answer for many people, especially women, these days. Here in the DFW Metroplex alone are several companies including Mary Kay, IDLife, Evolv, Mannetec and more. Many times, ‘New Distributors’ are hoping to make enough money to augment and add to their monthly budgets. In far too many cases, they sell a little bit of product to friends and family, and their prospect list is done. They quit the business before they even have a chance to learn the basics of presenting their offerings (in other words, learn how to sell). Their internal chatter says, “I’m simply not a salesperson.” The reality is that’s not true. Shocking, but NOT true!
The Webster’s definition of sales is “the exchange of products, goods or services for an amount of money, or its equivalent.” While the interpretation of that definition could be, “the delivery of a solution that makes everyone feel great.” Most people don’t, unfortunately, look at it that way without have the awareness that was just brought up.
Everyone is in sales every minute of every day. They just may not frame it that way in their mind. The fact is that “selling” is nothing more than presenting a position or potential solution to a problem to someone else. In other words, in every conversation, a “sale” is made.
To help more people through my trainings, I’ve created a Heart-Centered Selling definition of sales. It is this: “Education through Communication without Manipulation!” In other words, a true sales professional is a teacher that educates their potential customer on the features, advantages and benefits of their offering will supply. January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine 9
Everyone LOVES their teachers … especially the ones that take a true interest in solving a problem for them. Some say that no one is born a salesperson any more than one is born a doctor or a lawyer. We have ALL been born with the ability to communicate a message, starting immediately at birth. When a child cries, a message has been sent! Sales is a profession and like any profession, you must learn the basic techniques and how to apply those techniques. To be truly successful, you should use all the capabilities you’re born with plus all those that can be learned through education, study, experience and practical application. If you are looking for a career opportunity or “extra income” to help with the family budget, direct selling offers you dream-fulfilling possibilities. However, you must give yourself time to learn the techniques of sales. Ask yourself. “How long does a doctor study to be a doctor? How long does a lawyer study to be a lawyer?” Let’s not get ahead of ourselves … what is direct selling? Direct selling is the marketing of products, goods or services to a consumer in a more direct route without multiple “middlemen” (wholesalers, retailers, distribution centers, etc.). The company creates and supplies the product to you and you are the immediate conduit to the end user. The savings from this more direct route to customer can then be shared with you as commissions. Personally, I believe everyone should be involved in a direct selling business of some sort for a variety of
reasons. The benefits of having your own direct selling business include (and are not limited to): n
You can own your own business for little or no money investment.
n
By definition, a business can take advantage of favorable tax laws not allowed personally
n
You work for yourself and therefore are your own boss
n
You can set your own hours and work when it works for you
n
You can potentially experience an ever-increasing pay plan as your business continues to grow
n
You can take time off as needed and still have a revenue source work for you
These are only a few; there are many more reasons to consider your own direct sales business. That being said, there are people that are very excited in the beginning, and then do not continue the activities required to running a fruitful, ever-growing business. Just as in traditional business, if you quit doing the work, the business stands the potential to falter. To help you and your business be successful and continue to be sustainable, here are some tips, techniques and strategies to help your business prosper. Before you enroll into any program, ask yourself these simple questions: n
Am I willing to modify my life to improve my life?
n
Am I willing to designate a defined amount of time daily; weekly; and monthly to grow my business? n
Do I genuinely like people?
n
Am I willing to learn what is necessary from those who know what I don’t know? n Am I willing to put in the time and effort a business requires? n Do I believe in the products; goods or services I am representing? n
Do I believe in the company, management team and other associates I will be working with? 10 January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine
Here are 10 Steps to greater success:
1. Have a Positive Attitude: Attitude not aptitude determines your altitude! Success in sales, as in all areas of life is 90 percent attitude and 10 percent aptitude. All of us must work at developing habits of constructive thinking. I am proud to be a salesperson. Sales make the wheels of our economy turn. Bernard Baruch, advisor to several presidents, is quoted as saying, “If every salesperson sat down and took no orders for twenty-four hours, it would bankrupt our country!” Every company that manufactures any kind of product depends upon salespeople to move that product. Without salespeople, business would be paralyzed. Remember to re-frame salesperson as teacher and the sales presentation as education. Remember, sales is one of the highest paid of all professions. Statistics show that good salespeople enjoy incomes far above the average. Truly life-changing income can be available.
2. Set Goals and target achievements: What do you want to accomplish? Do you want to save for college education for your children? Buy a new car? Move into a new home? You can have whatever you want, but you must want it enough to do the things that are required to reach your goals. Whatever your goal, write it down and set a target date for reaching it. Be specific!
clients, repeat clients, and referrals, and keep it with you always. You will be referring to it and adding to it constantly.
4. Lead with Enthu-
ATTITUDE not APTITUDE determines your
ALTITUDE!
siasm: Enthusiasm comes from the Latin en-thos … of God’s spirit. Every time you are enthusiastic, you are closer to your higher source! Enthusiasm is the high-octane “fuel” that salespeople run on. Enthusiasm generates its own energy. Energy and good health are synonymous with busy, happy people, people who are achieving.
5. Engage fully and be involved: If you’re going to do this … DO THIS! Give yourself the best possible chance at success. Most sales organization offer contests to stimulate production. Include winning contests as part of your business goals. You are just as worthy and deserving as anyone else. Contests make your business fun as well as adding considerable dollar value to your income.
6. If you don’t ASK you don’t GET! In direct sales, don’t have to wait for business to come to you. You must create our own business by asking for it. Ask for appointments, then you can do business. Ask for business, then you will close sales. Ask for referrals, then you always have a full list of potential clients. As the legendary Zig Ziglar once said, “You can typically recognize the salespeople that don’t ask for the order … they’re the ones with the skinny kids!” Be quietly, yet firmly aggressive.
Chunk your goals down by dividing the time into blocks of achievement that are reachable. Work consistently toward accomplishing each day, each week, each month what you set out to do. Goal-setting is a must in every area of life. Little is ever accomplished without definite goals.
7. Hearing NO is part of the Process: Not everyone
3. Make To-Do Lists: Each evening list all the things you want to get done the following day. That gives you an organized approach to each day. As each task is finished, mark it off your list. It is amazing how much gets done when one works with a “things-to-do” list. Also, have a notebook listing appointments, potential
is going to be as excited about your products, goods, services and opportunity as you are, that’s just fine! Realize that no’s are not personal. In sales, as perhaps nowhere else, the law of averages works. Every NO gets you closer to a YES. Keep track of your ratio. It will help improve your techniques. Are you getting ten NO’s to one YES? Is your ratio five to one? Remember, the YES’s are your income. Also remember January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine 11
that “NO” does not necessarily mean “NO.” Often a “NO” is simply a stall for more time to think. It may be a request for more information about your product or your service. What your client is actually buying is assurance. Assure them by your helpful attitude and your complete honesty, that you want what is best for them. They will most likely respect you and do business with you.
8. Create an Office in your home: Remember, this is a business not a hobby. If you want to get paid like a business, you must treat it like a business! Most direct salespeople work from their own homes, but it is essential to have a place where you can work in an organized and efficient manner. An office plus a strict working schedule shows your discipline and gives you the dignity you deserve. Both are absolutely essential for efficient operation and accurate record keeping, so important to the success of any business.
9. Time is your ally, use it wisely: We all have the exact same 86,400 seconds in a day. The difference comes from how we choose to use it. A schedule is the roadmap by which salespeople travel. It takes the frustration out of the day. It assures that the necessary things get done and get done on time. Plan your work then work your plan. Make sure your activities are
productive and moving your towards your goals.
10. Money Management is important: Because this is your own business, money management is more critical than ever. A regular nine-to-five job usually means a paycheck at the end of the second week in most cases. Direct sales reps manage their money constantly. Direct sales can be instant income and constant income requiring a new and better level of expertise. This is a good thing, a skill that will ultimately transfer in all areas of life. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary to become an efficient money manager. You’ll be glad you did. Scott Schilling is The Significance Expert committed to providing Inspired Answers to Today’s Challenges through his TV Show, Podcasts, speaking, training, consulting and coaching. No matter where you are in your path from Survival to Success to Significance, Scott gives the guidance, direction and actions steps necessary to get from where you are to where you want to be! You can reach Scott by email at Scott@ScottSchilling.com or by phone at 972-659-8941.
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WHAT DOES YOUR BRAND LOOK LIKE ON THE INSIDE? By Susan Hamilton
I
of American micro to small businesses, is carried out through the team you employ and is likely a family member. This changes the conversation somewhat from what you might hear at a conference or on a coaching call. Our front line is probably not accountable to a sales manager or a team leader so much as they perceive they are working with Uncle Joe or Aunt Mary. Uncle Joe and Aunt Mary tend to look at the staff and technicians differently, too. Someone had a baby up all night, someone got a DWI, someone said something off the hip and the rest of the team is all abuzz because they must be getting on their ‘high horse’ and who do they think they are, really?
had the pleasure of speaking with Catherine Monson, CEO of FASTSIGNS International, Inc., for The OffBeat Business Show that aired January 3rd, 2017, and the whole time she shared with us, all I could think about was how desperately American businesses needed to revisit branding. We need an overhaul, people! But it’s not as daunting as you might think. OffBeat Business Media is undergoing a re-branding of sorts, and I think our journey — along with the valuable branding insights discussed throughout our January lineup — will give you some good touch points to consider. As you know by now, your brand is not simply your logo or color choices or tagline — though all of those things work together to create the customer experience from the very first exposure people have with your brand. That customer experience is far more than those things, however, and while I believe wholeheartedly in playing a BIG game, I have learned that the art of the customer experience is in the follow-through. The follow-through, for the majority
This stuff goes on in larger corporations, too. We want to have a compassionate workplace and we want to give people the benefit of the doubt, but without some separation of work and home life, the company suffers in areas of productivity, process management and communication. Those areas all directly contribute to the customer experience.
January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine 15
One advantage (and I’m sure we can all agree on this) to having your own company, is to enjoy the flexibility it should offer. At the same time, without expectations regarding procedures, attitudes, and time management — follow through suffers, the customer experience suffers, and while word of mouth still makes the phone ring once and awhile … it won’t generate sufficient revenue.
The Brand Experience Begins With YOU Your team can be as effective, efficient, and productive as you lead them to be. Leadership is not about pushing people through hoops, but it is about creating an environment where your expectations are clear, incentives are clear, and your team is on fire to let others know how awesome your company is. Give your team opportunity to thrive — not merely with raises - but with their personal growth and willingness to let their great ideas masterfully re-shape your company’s future. The opposite of this is to allow space for grumbling and discontent, backbiting and poor communication, and many, many, many lost dollars you couldn’t possibly count. Catherine Monson suggests some very doable ways to instill and improve your company culture, all of which, I’ve begun to practice more thoroughly at OffBeat Business Media — and you WILL recognize the difference immediately! 16 January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine
Use Signage – Of course! As CEO of FASTSIGNS International you might expect this suggestion from Catherine, but I had the pleasure of hearing her speak at Success North Dallas and enjoyed conversation with her after that and can tell you she’s nailed it here no matter whose company she represents. Ms. Monson incorporates an ‘Inspiration Hall of Quotes’ that frame famous — and not-so-famous — wisdom for everyday business and personal life. Over one hundred of these line the hall. Her staff enjoys them, shares them, repeats them — and even notice if one is missing or if a new one is added, they’re that good. What a great way to use WORDS without speaking to encourage and grow the vision of your team! Here is a list of some of her favorites, very tweetable, I might add.
“ “ “ “
Everyone who has ever taken a shower has had an idea. It’s the person who gets out of the shower, dries off, and does something about it that makes a difference.” ~ Nolan Bushnell Successful people do the things unsuccessful people are unwilling to do.” ~ Unknown The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.” ~ John F. Kennedy A diamond is a piece of coal that took stress very well.” ~ Unknown
understand what they need to do every day to achieve those goals and objectives, and then instill that sense of urgency that drives them to do a little bit more every single day than any of your competitors do.
“If you, as the leader of the organization do not put great thought into what you want the company culture to be, and then create that culture, someone else is going to do that for you, and chances are that it will be a disgruntled employee or an underachieving employee.”
“
Take Care of The Customer — Let them know how much you appreciate them. Doing this consistently is what sets companies apart and ahead of the rest. “If you, as the leader of the organization do not put great thought into what you want the company culture to be, and then create that culture, someone else is going to do that for you, and chances are that it will be a disgruntled employee or an underachieving employee.
Failure is not fatal; but failure to change might be.” ~ John Wooden
Communicate What’s Going on in The Company Regularly – Equip your team. What are all the things
The key to having that great company culture is for the leader to decide what that’s going to be, and to describe it — to write down — those positive attributes about the culture and then inculcate the group with that and talk about it all the time.”
going on in marketing, sales? What are our goals, where are we on achieving them? FASTSIGNS shares that information with the team in monthly meetings, and even get a call from Catherine that every franchise can get on to learn the most recent factoids about the company. On top of that, these calls are archived in podcast and available for reference to every single employee. In this way, FASTSIGNS is constantly and continually communicating the company news.
For Maximum Brand Value — Revisit These Questions What do we stand for as a business? What do we believe in as a company about how we take care of customers?
“Tell them, and then tell them, and then tell them what you told them. Everything works together.”
What are our values as an organization? Communicate this and repeat it again and again.
Positive Mental Attitude – Keep your head in the game. Enthusiasm is contagious, and so is a bad attitude. You become what you think about.
Goal Directed Behavior – Says Catherine, “Goal directed behavior is the single biggest differentiator between people who achieve a lot and people who achieve a little, and if you want your company to achieve it’s goals, you gotta have a business plan. It doesn’t have to be long, it can be one sheet of paper. Two or three goals or objectives for the year, a handful of action plans and how you’re gonna implement them, and look at it every day. At the end of every week you ask, “Did I make any progress on these?” and at the end of every month you look at your financial statements pulled together and you compare your results to what you wanted to achieve in your business plan and your budget. And if you can have that discipline, it’s not just working in your business, it’s working ON your business — maybe only 3 hours a week — you will make amazing achievements in what you will become as a company.”
About That Business Plan — Make sure everyone in your business, even if there’s only a handful of people, know what your goals and objectives are, and
Everybody wants to be the best, and as a matter of fact, there is no marketing for “I’m almost as good as that guy.” I’ve actually been asked if it was legal to say you were the best! Of course you’re the best at something, or you wouldn’t have stepped out to do this thing BETTER than you had seen anyone else do it before you went into business. Best has a price, and that price is diligence. Diligence is a prerequisite for excellence, something that takes continual refinement. And you CAN be excellent in every single part of your operation every single day when your focus is on effective leadership and goal directed behavior. If it was easy, everyone would be doing it! For reliable, consistent revenue and increased profits, build your brand from the inside out. Susan Hamilton is the Chief Executive Officer at OffBeat Business Media, a business for business digital media resource for strong brand development. To learn how audio, video, digital magazine articles and ads can help you build a strong, influential brand, contact Susan@OffBeatBusiness.com or call 214-714-0495. January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine 17
BizBeat
Answering the BIG Questions About Your Mission Statement By Claire Billingsley Do you have a personal or professional Mission Statement? Do you have core value statements?
to be on the show, and suffer the consequences of someone not being congruent to my message.
Mission Statement is defined by Webster as “something that states the purpose or goal of a business or organization.” What is your purpose or goal?
The big questions around Mission Statements and Core Value Statements are:
For example, my Mission Statement for my TV show is to showcase entrepreneurs, people who give back to the community, and people who like to have fun all over the world. I know every guest I invite to be on Coffee with Claire fits that criterion. If they don’t, then they aren’t the right fit for me. But, if I didn’t have a Mission Statement defined, I could just ask anyone
18 January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine
Are your actions congruent with what you state are important to your organization? Or do you let things slide because it’s just easier to ignore?
Being a leader means being able to make unpopular decisions. Are you strong enough internally to lead your “troops?” The Military definition of being a leader is: “The process by which an individual determines direction and influences others to accomplish the mission of the organization.” By having clearly stated and observed Mission Statements and core values, you are setting everyone in your organization up for success, if they choose to follow the lead, AND if the leader chooses to follow the stated mission. In my experience, the strongest leaders are the ones who know what they stand for. Like Yogi Berra once said, “You need to know what you stand for, or you will fall for anything.” Think about that. I call these people “wandering generalities.” They have no specific mission, no path to follow, no course to chart, and they just bounce from one thing to the next. Now, I am also a big believer in flexibility, and being able to change your course if the first one didn’t work, but I do find that at least having a base plan to follow helps align energy in your organization, both to help you hire the right people, and to enable those who don’t fit the mission to self-eliminate. Families can have Mission Statements and Core Value
statements, too. You set your family up for success by clearly stating what your family values are, and what is appropriate behavior, then act with intention to show them what good looks like. It’s a great way to instill in your children a strong sense of self, as they grow older they will understand more clearly the values that are intertwined into your family messaging. Your homework for this month is this: Write out either your personal or professional Mission, and share it with those around you. Where are you heading? Do you like where you are heading? If so, your mission is serving you well. If not, refine and tune it up. There’s no right or wrong answer here, but if you take the time to really think about where you are spending your time and your energy, you can be much more focused and have a much better chance of creating self-satisfaction and goal achievement. Claire Billingsley is a professional speaker, published author, and edutrainer. She has been seen on CBS Channel 11 and recognized as one of the Top 25 Women to Watch by the Dallas Business Journal. You can reach Claire at 214-289-8802 , at www.billingsleyconsultinggroup.com, or at claire@billingsleyconsultinggroup.com.
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HealthBeat
A New Year to Get It Right By Brenda Wakefield, MS, LMT, LMTI, CEP
Blessings come day after day, month after month, year after year. In 2017, commit to step up and take better care of yourself. Live in the moment of self-care to be a blessing to yourself to ensure each day is great and feel well. To be sure this happens it will take the right plan for optimal health. Take steps to focus on you! No one step is the silver bullet, but a combination will address mind, body and soul. Each year the resolutions start and we’re off! For how long is a mystery to some and reality for others. You need a plan to decrease toxicity, stiffness, and pain, so you can undo the unhealthy lifestyle that adds weight and discomfort and depletes the body of energy.
Standard American Diet is SAD To know what you don’t want, I suggest a look at the Standard American Diet (S.A.D.) contribution to the current state of health in our country. Unfortunately, 20 January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine
it is SAD. The rate of obesity and sickness endured by many reflects the opposite of health. Add the junk food and fast food establishments where many eat daily as to relieve hunger quickly - and we’ve got a real problem. Nutrient dense, I think not. The proof is obvious, just look around. A new year, a new start to focus on adequate nutrients that provide vitamins and minerals for maximum performance and sustainability. Surprising research shows we need to balance our acid/alkaline levels. A ph balanced body provides protection from cancer, dis-ease, faster recovery from illness, enhanced immunity and so much more. There are different ways to achieve the goal of maximum health, power, strength and endurance - but the strongest delivery for the body is a vegan raw food diet. Strict adherence to fresh fruits and vegetables will get nutrients to the cellular level and provide absorbency your body will love.
Isn’t That Just Rabbit Food? Time and time again I hear people say there is no way they can survive on rabbit food. It’s a mindset that can be overcome when the focus is optimal health and wellness. A proactive approach with goals, guidelines and a dose of reality may tip the scale to encourage a hunger for the right foods laden with nutrients. This approach can increase of energy, decrease weight and healing the body. I enjoy the art of Qi (chi). Qigong is traditionally viewed as a practice to cultivate and balance qi, translated as life energy. A moment of “Oh my goodness!” and energy (chi) can be immediately available, and is only a chew away. It is now a movement I proudly share with everyone that will listen. Jeff Primack, author of Conquering Any Disease (CAD) is a must read. The book brings the wisdom of food-based healing as a true compliment to both eastern and western medicine. Hippocrates years ago believed we should “let food be thy medicine,” but that is a truth for anyone that follows the protocol to live and be well. The information is life-changing, and will encourage the body to heal with nutrients down to the cellular level. In addition to the CAD book, I recommend Jeff’s other books, Smoothie Formula and Food-Healing Cooking with Qi.
This is the best food-healing information I believe I can share to bring optimal health to everyone. Use a combination of food to heal the mind, body and soul along with meditation and exercise as the path to an awesome 2017 lived out in optimal health and wellness. Books available online - http://www.food-healing.com/ store/index.php?route=product/category&path=62 The truth, what a great 2017 solution for optimal health and wellness! Brenda Wakefield, MS, LMT, LMTI, CEP CEPoffers proactive massage and touch therapies and initiates the body’s natural healing ability after injury. Start feeling better today, call her office at 214-380-9700, or her mobile phone at 469-955-6530. Learn more about the therapies she provides at www.handsofchoice.com. Find her ad in The OffBeat Business Magazine. My goal is to provide services/products that are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. We make no medical claims and make no statements of validation. Always consult with your professional health care provider before beginning any health care regimen.
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TAYLOR’S TIPS
THE ELECTION IS OVER — NOW WHAT!? By Taylor Kay Stephens
My perspective; Having gone through extreme tragedy, adversity and many obstacles, all of which I experienced the full range of emotions. I didn’t like what was happening, I was desperate, scared, fearful and full of despair. In order to save myself, I had to find a way to get through it because no one was going to save me. I also had to get professional help. Hopefully this will give you a new way of looking at the aftermath of this election.
out of a pillow, write all my feelings down on paper, vent without attacking or making others wrong — all of which I have done before. I can take extra care of myself emotionally and physically, fill my mind with something positive, pause before I say or write something to others, be compassionate, kind and forgiving or do what I can to make a positive impact in this world, even if it’s on a small scale. What I have found in my past experiences is when I didn’t deal with things appropriately, I ended up dealing with them inappropriately, which made a path of destruction. Life isn’t always fair or the way we want it and there will be disappointments. There is also a gift in adversity, however it doesn’t come in a Tiffany’s box and sometimes we have to look for it!
Folks, I can’t control the outcome or other people — and things are going to happen the way they are going to happen. It doesn’t mean you have to like or be happy about it, and feelings aren’t right or wrong — they just are. It’s also okay to feel vulnerable — so many of us are scared and fearful. For me, I have a choice; I can exit life or move to another country. I can also go through this, taking out my frustration, spew my negative feelings onto others, behave in a destructive manner, say or do things that I regret later, keep my negative feelings bottled up inside and dwell on them — all of which are detrimental and very non-productive as well, taking a toll on my mental and physical health. It would also keep me stuck and unable to move forward! Finally, I can choose to deal with my feelings appropriately. If I’m sad, I can let myself cry, because it’s very healthy to cry. If I’m angry, I can beat the crap
Taylor Kay Stephens, speaker, author and transformational life coach, is no stranger to tragedy, adversity and obstacles. She teaches people how to get out of overwhelm, change their bad habits and stop self-defeating behaviors. What makes Taylor different? She challenges the status quo and thinks outside the box. She’s developed her own easy, practical techniques and systems so simple a child can do them. You may contact her at resolutionspeaking@sbcglobal.net and discover more at TaylorKayStephens.com. January 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine 23
HealthBeat
Playing the Odds and Losing Big to Live Well By Clint Fuqua The odds my friend, are sadly not in your favor. In fact they are very much stacked against you, and there is absolutely nothing you can do about that. I don’t write this to belittle your efforts, or stop your resolution to get healthy (as you intended on January 1 as you and many others do every year.) I write this to help you realize and accept this fact for your own benefit. Back in October you would have had a 90% chance of success, followed by 75% in November, and 50% chance in December. In January, this drops to a spirit and dream crushing a 1% chance. By January 15th (aka Resolution Dump Day) 50% of the people that started a health program will quit, and by Jan 31 another 30% will hang their hopes up until next year. February puts a candy covered stake through the heart of another 10% leaving only a meager 10% to March forth with half of them washed out in April showers. By the end of April, only 5% of people who started with the best of intentions have survived, with the benefit of a slightly better summer body that might melt away another 4% by July 4th. The problem is that the resolutions were only the best of intentions, rather than realistic, well-planned solutions with resolute willful intentions. The only way to gain the life and good health you want is to lose the life and bad health you have.
Change is tough, and improving or progressing is even tougher because you can’t and won’t be the same person you were and neither will your life.
24 January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine
Movement is life. Sitting through life makes it a movie watched rather than an experience lived. You MUST be willing to lose big - and face all the distress of it - when playing the odds to be a part of the 1% in health and in life. Failing to plan is just planning to fail, or at least giving yourself an out so you don’t have to change or improve. Fear of change and progress are the two things that hold 99% of people back. Change is tough, and improving or progressing is even tougher because you can’t and won’t be the same person you were and neither will your life. Make plans to improve your life through small simple steps that will solve the problems you face on a daily basis. Make plans to move a little bit each day by scheduling time to do it. Make plans to eat better meals every day by making them. Make plans to treat yourself better each day by feeling it. Make plans to treat those you care about better each day by voicing it. Make plans for a better life and follow them through. Find others that will help you hold yourself accountable to those plans and stay away from those that trash your plans. Stack the odds in your favor to lose big in the beginning and live better in the end. Movement is life. Everything in life is in constant motion creating changes we must deal with or the changes we live with. Sitting through life makes it a movie watched rather than an experience lived. The only way to experience life is by having the ability to walk, play, dance, and climb your way through it. Exercise is the means of enhancing these abilities to get the most enjoyment out of the adventures we seek and find in life.
Walking is the most basic form of exercise and by far still the most beneficial for maintaining good health in as little as 30 minutes a day. Lifting and stretching keep your muscles strong and pliable for hours of play when done every other day. Dancing keeps your sense of balance on the level so you stay on your feet and off the floor when done just once a week. Climbing helps you stay coordinated and able to keep a grip on life even when if feels like you are on a ledge when done as little as once a month. Keep on moving so you can keep on progressing and living, or watch life pass you by as you sit still. Energy can not be created or destroyed, only transferred, and in some cases stored. The meals we eat and snacks we munch should be made up of energy that came from nature, though often it now comes from a lab. The problem with getting your foods from a lab is that much of the energy in them has already been transferred before it ever gets to you. The small amount left leads to eating more and more as your body, feeling starved, works to store and store. Processing and packaging has a price with the debt often felt in your pocket and seen on your waist. Getting your foods from nature gives you a full transfer of energy so less is wanted and extra storage is not needed. We are made of the things from the Earth that no lab can mimic, copy, or create and to transfer those energy deficient fakes in to a true miracle of nature is to destroy yourself with every bite. Eat meals and snacks of pure energy and watch your world expand as your waist contracts.
Action Steps: 1. Planning can be a great motivator, and even better measure of success when using it to improve your life. Be the minority that uses planning to be a positive influence in the lives of others by letting it show through your healthy life, body, and attitude. 2. Move your body every day for success in all
aspects of life. The more you start to move your body the better it will be able to move and the more you will want to move it.
3. Eat well and learn how to do it to keep your energy and strength up as life can get harder and harder the further you move into improving yourself and your health. This one thing will feed your health just as it will starve out disease and protect your wealth. Visit me at www.ClintFuqua.com and contact me with any questions, comments, requests, recommendations, proposals, fan mail, or hate mail at Clint@ClintFuqua.com. January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine 25
K.O.K.O. – It’s a Choice By Melanie Murphy
Are we still saying “Happy New Year!?!” January 1st makes for a nice shiny start to everything… except when it doesn’t. Most people start the New Year with fresh goals, and if you’re a business owner you hopefully have projections for your company and team. But what happens when the flip of the calendar doesn’t produce that fresh happy feeling? What if last year finished on fumes and you’re struggling to see hope for the months ahead? You’re not throwing in the towel, you’re just trying to figure out how to whip this year into something good. You have a choice. I have a choice. My January 2017 looked a lot like January 2016. A whole year with not much identifiable change felt like a set back before I even got started. There were some great moments in business and marriage last year, but I’ll confess, there were some tough mo26 January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine
ments too. Between natural growing pains in my company, health challenges for my husband, and some delayed plans that still seem out of reach at times, 2016 wins no prizes as the best year. Really, that feeling of lackluster can set in at any time – and the choice is the same.
Are you going to give up or are you going to Keep On Keeping On? If you are where you’re supposed to be, doing what you’re supposed to do, then the resistance is part of the journey and you’re not done. So what do you do? Here’s what I’ve done for the past year, and it works.
1. Set your mind to succeed.
2. Surround yourself with truth and life giving people 3. Be honest and keep going
Set your mind to succeed. You’ve decided you’re moving forward, so don’t entertain thoughts of what flopped in the past. Pity, shame and regret get you nowhere. Could you have done it better? Yes, and you will next time. Now is the time to change your mind and focus on how you will do it better and then take action. A strategy is key. A nutritious meal plan doesn’t make me healthier, but it definitely helps me take steps in the right direction. If your business or life plan seems shaky, meet with someone you trust and hash out a blueprint for moving toward your goals. If you’re business is young, resources such as SCORE may be available in your community at no charge. “Repeat after me, ‘I CAN DO THIS!’”
Be honest and keep going
Surround yourself with truth and life giving people Do you need to adjust who and what you’re surrounded by? You can’t line up and agree with truth if you’re believing a lie and you can’t get stronger being influenced by weak people. There will always be challenges in business and life that can set you back, but choosing to agree with truth, not just facts, makes a big difference. Another area that impacts our strength is choosing to be grateful. No matter what we face, there is always something to be thankful for. Always.
Life is hard and you don’t have to fake it. Acknowledge what’s difficult, be kind to yourself when you encounter a setback and be determined to adjust and take the next steps. One of my favorite musicians is Texas artist Jack Ingram. His lyrics in the song Keep on Keepin’ On remind me often to just keep going. “Sometimes you get beat up good Drive yourself crazy being misunderstood Sometimes you want to throw the towel in But you come out swinging like you just might win You gotta keep on, keep on keepin’ on” Having a like minded professional that you can be accountable to allows you to share when things are hard, get encouragement when you need it and celebrate the victories along the way. Staying motivated and choosing hope as you face what’s ahead is a choice. No matter what last year looked like, you get to decide your attitude, your relationships and your next step. For me, great things are ahead. For you too, if you so choose. Could professional voice over benefit your business as you grow, change and face new challenges? Melanie Murphy is a Dallas based voice actor who specializes in commercials, videos for media, corporate projects, eLearning, phone messaging and more. She’d love to hear from you through her website at http://www.MelanieMurphyVO.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram at the handle MelanieMurphyVO.
January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine 27
Note
Water Leak Detection: Stop That Plumbing Leak
From
Dottie
By Dorothy Skinner
Some leaks are obvious and show themselves readily; other plumbing leaks aren’t apparent unless you know what to look for. The leaks that are harder to find can do far more damage than those that are easily noticed.
possible because they are often problematic behind the wall for some time before a leak is evident. What could have been a simple repair can then become more costly.
Many homeowners don’t realize that many of the faucets and handles available today consist of plastic parts that easily crack under frequent use, and replacement washers aren’t helpful in the newer washerless designs. When that is the case, water leaks can end up puddling in an area that may not be readily visible, and you’re going to have to look a little harder to see if damage is evident.
Protecting your home or property from a significant plumbing leak will save you money. It’s better to take care of those types of problems before they get out of control. If you notice rust around your drain, fixtures, or valves, that is also a clue that moisture is going where it shouldn’t be going. Take a closer look around your home for plumbing leaks in the laundry room behind or under the washer, under the kitchen sink, below the dishwasher, around all your bathroom fixtures, and outside at your hose bib.
Look for: Bulging drywall
Don’t be embarrassed if you end up over your head in a do-it-yourself repair! But get the help you need immediately to avoid further damage.
Peeling paint Mineral deposits
Dorothy Skinner is the owner of Gary’s Quality Plumbing, serving the north Dallas area, Wylie, McKinney, and Allen, Texas. Dorothy and her husband, Gary, raised six children in the plumbing service industry and have built their company of almost 50 years on customer service and fair pricing. Find their ad in The OffBeat Business Magazine. GarysQualityPlumbing.com
Sagging wood beneath the sink or the wall behind Mold or mildew, especially in an area that should be entirely dry Buckling or loose floor tiles or New insect populations Sometimes those leaks aren’t originating from the sink faucets or drains, sometimes they are due to old shutoff valves that are located under and behind the sink. Those need to be repaired, usually replaced, as soon as
January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine 29
Susan Says...
New Incentives For Contributors And Guests! By Susan Hamilton
O
ffBeat Business Media continues to offer game-changing strategies in entirely different ways to encourage American local small business to grow strong, influential brands using information marketing through digital media. It’s no small vision, we’re building to reach local hubs all over America. Our production facilities have improved greatly and with a new team on board, we’re able to do more in audio, video and magazine production than ever before. It’s a thrill to see ideas become reality! As The OffBeat Business Magazine evolves to become a premier local small business resource in digital and print, we want to encourage more contributors to write for us. Each year we award OBA members with certificates and acknowledgement, but now — we’re adding cold, hard cash.
2017 Viewer’s Choice Poll Winners 1st Prize – $300 | 2nd Prize – $150 | 3rd Prize – $75 Voted out of a selection of 5 most viewed articles of the year and 5 highest rated shows. Subscribers are asked to vote their favorites out of those articles and shows and we award the top 3. Eligibility: • Monthly article contributions between Feb 5, 2017 & Dec 5, 2017*, including bio and professional, correctly sized bio pic • Fully completed OBA profile in Membership Directory
Contributor of The Year - $1000 Eligibility:
• • • •
Fully completed OBA profile in our Membership Directory Monthly articles, including bio and correctly sized professional pic, sent in on time between Feb 5 & December 5 Well-written, relevant, error-free content Most shared on social media using hashtag #offbeatbusiness
Final decision is made by me, Susan Hamilton, Chief Executive Officer at OffBeat Business Media Each year I acknowledge one person on our team whose excellence in service greatly contributed to the success of the organization. In 2017, our OffBeat Business Media MVP will receive a full PR package valued at $2500. Last year, we were proud to award Daphne Anderson, owner of Always Assisting U!, the OffBeat Business Media MVP 2016 Award. 30 January - February 2017 | OffBeat Business Magazine
Viewer’s Choice Poll Recipients 2016 Melanie Murphy, Melanie Murphy VO – Contributor of The Year Clint Fuqua, Personal Fitness Reform – Most Popular Column of The Year George Hendley, The Speakers Academy – Most Popular Guest
*It is important to note that the Viewer’s Choice Poll selection is based on Get Clicky stats and based on those selections, voters had 10 days to decide the outcome in 2016. We will release the poll on November 26th in 2017, so be sure your December content is sent in early! Content due December 5th is required to be eligible. Winners announced at our Christmas Party December 12th. Our poll is shared on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and the OffBeat Business Media Newsletter. If you have not subscribed to our newsletter, you can do that here:
Want The OffBeat Business Newsletter? FB/BizBeatRadio Are YOU an OffBeat Business Alliance Member? Start Contributing TODAY! http://OffBeatBusiness.com/sign-up Susan Hamilton is the Chief Executive Officer at OffBeat Business Media, a business for business digital media resource for strong brand development. Contact Susan at Susan@OffBeatBusiness.com or call 214-714-0495 to discover how an influential brand can improve the world.
When You Own a Business, Family Law Issues Can Get Out of Hand Don’t Wait Another Minute Call (972) 331-8896 TODAY Lisa Zahn, Family Attorney, is on your side, helping you to see the risks BEFORE they hurt your business or destroy relationships.
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“Not having the information you need when you need it leaves you wanting. Not knowing where to look for that information leaves you powerless. In a society where information is king, none of us can afford that.” Lois Horowitz Our nation’s veterans are dying by their own hand at a rate of 22 per day! One of the issues contributing to that factor is the inability to access resources available to assist our military and their families when they are facing a myriad of issues transitioning to civilian life. Our website began as a solution to the problem confronting transitioning military personnel, spouses, and caregivers. Our focus and goal is to “push” out the information on valid and valuable organizations, resources, peer support networks, both locally and nationally, to the community that needs to access them in quick and efficient manner.
What makes Battle-Buddy Info unique among Resource Directories:
Attitudes & Attire: Boots to Battle-Buddy Info resources are teria for assistance, they can link Heels Program pre-vetted for inclusion into the Directory. Our Users have accessed, and/or research the organizations and many have received services from the listed providers and consider them to be viable sources providing assistance DIRECTLY to a service member or their family. 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 cri-
to the Application Form from our site, eliminating the need to read through pages of content provided by an organization.
Equest The Equest Hooves for Heroes program offers current service members, honorably-discharged veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces, and adult military family members the Hooves for Heroes program free of charge. http://equest.org/veterans/
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. http://www.attitudesandattire.org
WE ARE YOUR RESOURCE FOR RESOURCES Stay in Touch on Social Media:
www.facebook.com/BattleBuddyInfo
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info@battle-buddy.info
Recovery Resource Council 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. https://alliesinservice.org
Combat Faith For all warriors needing healing there are some key factors that apply universally. Combat PTSD stems from dangerous situations 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. http://www.combatfaith.com
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. http://www.graceafterfire.org
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. https://www.veteran.me
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. http://www.k9sforfreedom.org
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. https://www.instagram.com/ movement22_
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. http://logansfive.blogspot.com
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. http://www.hopeforthewarriors .org
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. http://iava.org
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 original productions. Weekly Podcast features veterans in the Arts. http://www.veteranartistprogram .org
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