P.O.W.E.R. Magazine Spring 2020 by Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized

jewelrybysusan@susancatherinecollectons

Lifetime

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Author, Motivational Speaker, Entrepreneur BelieveInspire

Charlotte L. Murphy

higher calling, which led to my current career pursuing my true passion and purpose as an ‘empowerment whisperer’ for women. I use my experiences and hard-earned life wisdom to give hope, empower, inspire, and motivate others through my books, magazine articles, speaking, and teaching. My greatest joy is helping women re-discover who they are after an illness, divorce, death of a loved one, or any traumatic loss.” Char is an altruist, and encourager of others. She occasionally writes inspirational blogs which are published harlotte (Char) L. Murphy the height of her career, Char became on her website Believeinspire.us. Having successfully branded and is an inspirational author, suddenly ill. marketed herself for years, she teachspeaker, breast cancer surAfter four breast cancer diagnoses vivor, attorney, entrepreneur, and and a radical mastectomy, she was told es others how to become and live as their authentic selves. founder of BelieveInspire. she could never practice law again. In addition to her own motivaAs a single mother, Char put This led to years of confusion, pain, tional speaking engagements, Char herself through law school at the age and loss of her identity as an attorney. has been a speaker for the Komen of 32. She earned undergraduate She lost her business and career, and Foundation, volunteer for Heifer degrees in Psychology and English lost her marriage to divorce. Literally International, board member and and later her J.D. at the University everything she owned and worked so of Arkansas School of Law in 1990. hard for was stripped away. Char says, contributor to the A.L.S. Association, and a board member of the After practicing law and running her “My life being miraculously spared, I Salvation Army. She remains an own successful law firm for 15 years view my illness and resulting losses as active member and contributor to and being named “Best Lawyer” at a blessing in disguise. I knew I had a many nonprofit organizations. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your Her published works include the career? book “Power Up, Super Women” The biggest challenges I have faced are recurrent breast cancer forcing and her latest article in Breast Cancer me from my legal career into “recreating myself ” in a totally new light. I Wellness Magazine was published in had to find me again, in the ashes of my past. January 2020. She is working on her What advice would you give to other women in your field or profession soon-to-be-released series of inspiring to help them succeed? books for people looking to find and Know your passion and purpose. Set your goals, keeping the standards live their true purpose and passions, for yourself high. Make a plan and just start. Love and believe in yourthe first of which is scheduled to be reself; be persistent, patient, and positive no matter what. Keep going. leased this year, entitled “Unshakeable What does the word empowerment mean to you? Power: Through Seasons of the Soul.” Empowerment is helping others be the best they can possibly be. It is In her spare time, she enjoys giving the guidance and encouragement necessary to access their inner powfishing, fine arts, acting, photography, er, to dig up the ‘gemstones of truth’ which are buried deep within and bring painting, travel, animal rescue, and them into the light to shine. Believeinspire.us volunteering with nonprofits. 4 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

Suzie Dault

CEO, CDA, RDAEF, OMSAA, BS

Founder and CEO Dental Specialties Institute, Inc.

Award

uzie Dault is the founder of Dental Specialties Institute, Inc. which has been open for the past 20 years. She received a B.S. in Career and Technical Studies from California State University with honors. She has been involved in aiding the state of California standard setting for her profession. Suzie worked for over 30 years in the dental field as a CDA, RDAEF, and OMSAA before retiring chairside to dedicate her energy and passion to educating the next generation. She has provided the highest quality and one of the most comprehensive dental assisting certification programs in the area. She oversees the daily operations, trains and supervises faculty and instructors, creates curriculum, provides continuing education, and is responsible for licensing dental auxiliaries. Suzie has numerous publications related to curriculum and dentistry. Among her numerous awards, Suzie is very proud to have received the San Jose Business Hall of Fame award for seven consecutive years, Best of San Jose Award 2009-2018, and was voted 2015 Best of Silicon Valley in the Educational Services - Dental Professionals category by the San Jose Award Program. She enjoys working with her students to give them the feeling of accomplishment that they have always wanted. Suzie has a special interest in cosmetic and restorative dentistry and enjoys attending continuing education courses with her husband Scott, who is a periodontist. Suzie’s professional affiliations include the Santa Clara and Monterey Bay Dental Society, California Dental Association, CALSae-California Society of Association Executives, Dental Assisting National Board, the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. Outside of school, Suzie enjoys spending time with her family.

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Balancing a career and having a family. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Being in control of your words and actions. Feeling rewarded and accomplished and knowing you have choices is empowering. What advice would you give your younger self? Life is too short to just “accept.” Believe in the goals and choices that we make happen. In order to be successful, we must follow through and never just blindly accept things. People make choices and those choices are what make people learn to believe in yourself. What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why? I am currently writing a book called “Born Hitting Bottom: a Child of a Gypsy Junkie.” I have overcome great odds to become the successful businesswoman I am today, and by sharing my story I intend to offer hope to others whose circumstances may be as dire as mine once were. I want anyone suffering from living with an addict to know that they, too, can start to live a fulfilling life. I have cried many tears in my life, most recently from writing these words. These recent tears are tears of release; they are tears of letting go. Perhaps one day, when this book has taken its place in the world, I will be able to finally move on emotionally from the pain of my childhood. What is one habit that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur? I personally call back every caller ID number in my phone log. A call that is overlooked is potentially one less student in a class who I can help guide with their career path. www.dental-specialties.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 5

Lifetime

ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Denise A. Irons

Director, Laboratory Information Systems Baystate Health, Inc.

How did you get started in your field/industry? After gaining experience in all the key areas of the laboratory, I saw Lab IT was a natural progression and how vital lab computer systems were in healthcare. In fact, they say that over 70% of decisions made regarding a patients’ treatment are based on lab results. It’s those computer systems that allow the technologists in the lab to perform testing and to transmit those results to downstream systems so providers can make those critical treatment decisions. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Women have a strong sense of empathy. That trait can certainly work to your advantage in the workplace. However, too many times I see that empathy get in the way of doing the “right thing” as it pertains to managing staff effectively. Women must balance the concept of what feels right in the heart with the strength and need to do what is right for the organization. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Possessing the esteem, power, right, and authority to enise A. Irons is the director of Laboratory participate in decision-making, policy formulation, and Information Systems (LIS) with Baystate Health, managing difficult situations with confidence. Inc. With over 36 years experience, she has a How do you achieve work/life balance? broad knowledge of the clinical lab industry and is experiWork/life “balance” is a concept I always strugenced in commercial, vendor, and hospital diagnostic setgle with. My new “2020 Vision” is to achieve better tings, especially labs with large outreach businesses. Denise balance. I’ve committed to running another marathon is a key member of the laboratory and IT executive teams, this year - in order to do that I have to keep my eye on focused on supporting the systems’ growth and increased balance. market share across the region. What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a Previously, Denise worked for two of the largest LIS few hours? vendors in the world, served as the LIS director at a large No matter how stressful my workday is, coming health system in central Massachusetts, managed a hospital home and creating a meal is my way of unwinding laboratory, and worked as a medical technologist in hosand escaping from the outside world. Cooking totally pital laboratories in Connecticut. She also worked with a satisfies the creative side of me. vendor of laboratory instrumentation, managed a national What advice has helped you get to the next level? reference laboratory’s client service department, and was a “Honesty is the best policy” are words I live by. Being successful lab sales executive for a regional reference laborahonest with myself and those around me has helped tory, all in Dallas, Texas. me develop a strong reputation for trustworthiness and Denise earned her B.S. in Zoology from the University of integrity in my personal and professional lives. Rhode Island in 1982, her M.T. (ASCP) Certification from What book is on your bedside table right now and the Rhode Island Hospital School of Medical Technology why? in 1983, and her M.B.A. with a focus in Marketing/Mar“Insight: The Surprising Truth About How Others keting Management from the University of New Haven in See Us, How We See Ourselves, and Why the An1990. She is a member of the Healthcare Information and swers Matter More Than We Think,” by Tasha Eurich. Management Systems Society, a board member of Sunquest Self-awareness is the foundation for high performance – User Group, Inc., and chair of Sunquest Molecular Special I work hard on eliminating any perceived blind spots. Interest Group. In her spare time, Denise enjoys cooking, www.baystatehealth.org world travel, running, and hiking. 6 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Elizabeth Santiago

lizabeth Santiago is an artist, baker and the owner of Exquisite Cake Art, based in The Bronx, New York City for over seven years. She studied at Katherine Gibbs for Fashion Marketing. Elizabeeth has applied her artistic skills into her passion for baking which helps her create visually stunning, delectable works of art. The secret to her success is very simple – there are no shortcuts. Elizabeth takes pride in her creations. Every piece is handcrafted and made of the finest ingredients to ensure that every client receives not only the freshest cake but also a delicious one. She offers fully personalized services to fulfill her clients’ wishes and themes and provide them with the cake of their dreams.

Baker and Owner Exquisite Cake Art

Elizabeth is recognized for her artistic vision, 3-D animation designs and broad imagination. Her approach is simple. She embraces challenges and never says “Never.” She enjoys creating novelty cakes that customers struggle to identify as a cake since it looks so much like a piece of art. Exquisite Cake Art caters to all types of clients from weddings, sweet sixteens, birthdays, holiday parties, to celebrities like Dellin Betances of the New York Yankees, 20th Century Fox Films, Tia Maria Events, catering halls like Jimmy’s Grand Cafe and much more. www.ExquisiteCakeArt.com

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 7

Table

OF CONTENTS

Robin McGraw Cover Story Robin McGraw is a television personality, podcast host, entrepreneur, best-selling author, philanthropist, and matriarch of her family. A daily presence on Dr. Phil since its inception, viewers worldwide have embraced Robinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s contributions to the show, whether sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s discussing her experiences as a woman, wife, mother, and grandmother, or dealing with issues that women encounter in every phase of their lives. Read more about her.

Women Issues I Learned the Hard Way By Julie Owens

8 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Menopause

The age of By Dr. Maria Levada menopause has not significantly changed since Ancient Greece and occurs at a mean age of 51 years.

44 62

Tonia’s Talk We are all born with a gift. It’s the thing you do at your absolute best with the least amount of effort.

18 Regular Features

P.O.W.E.R. Publicity

78 Empowered Women’s List 84 Book Corner

Robyn Levy

20 25 Mentor of the Year

Rising Star

Lifetime Achievement Award

Charlotte R. Murphy Suzie Dault | Denise Irons

Women of Distinction

Women of the Month

Dr. Mary Gallant Anita Latin | Michele Briscoe

Women of P.O.W.E.R.

Debra Newell

Cat Cora

Lidia Szczepanowski

Swing into Spring!

42 50

Celeb Recipes

Fried chicken for breakfast? Also, gravity weighted sleep mask, flex bikes, boozy book clubs and silent discos.

Elizabeth Wagmeister Chimene Van Gundy

P.O.W.E.R. VIP List

Denise Austin

Sara Anne’s Trends

Cat Cora’s lettuce gyros with spicy halibut, Denise Austin’s shrimp & soba stir fry and Elizabeth Wagmeister’s crust-less frittata.

Laura Posada

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Here are some spring cleaning tips to help wash away those winter blues. P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 9

Woman

ary J. Gallant is an associate professor of Sociology at Rowan University since 1992. She teaches classical social theory in the core of the sociology major. From 2007-2012 she served as chair of Sociology and from 2013-2015 as chair of the combined department of Sociology and Anthropology. Dr. Gallant earned her Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Minnesota in 1985. Dr. Gallant’s research in the professions and social network analysis updates earlier research on medical school socialization. In 2013, she wrote her first book in this area, “Friendship Networks in Medical School: A Network Analytic Approach to the Study of Social Solidarity.” In 2018, she prepared for new research with an article under review in one of sociology’s mainstream journals. The focus now is on the role of social support from medical student social networks. This research is expected to confirm our knowledge of the importance of informal relationships to medical student success. In the second part of her research agenda on Holocaust and genocide, Dr. Gallant continues to

focus on conflict worldwide and the role of international relations in law and world trade in the aftermath of conflagration. The Holocaust was a turning point in the lives of millions of European Jews and in the post-Holocaust years vitalizes helpful intervention to end genocide. In 2002, Dr. Gallant published her first book in this area, “Coming of Age in the Holocaust: The Last Survivors Remember” and is working on a new edition and will prepare presentations for two international conferences, the first on tikkun olam in the aftermath of the 1990s genocide in the former Yugoslavia and the other on the present human rights approach to genocide and healing.

Dr. Mary J. Gallant How did you get started in your field/industry? My mentor, Dr. Robert W. Habenstein, famously helped some of our leading sociologists get their careers underway. My undergraduate work received high praise and I completed a Masters with a fellowship in the area of family, kinship and community in the North Atlantic. His own training at the University of Chicago connected me to his colleague Dr. Gregory Prentiss Stone, and after Dr. Stone’s untimely death, Dr. Joseph J. Galaskiewicz, --both were then at the University of Minnesota where I completed my PhD. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? Throughout my career I have been aware that women are up against a 10 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

different pattern of irrationalities of prejudice and detraction, envy and hatred than male colleagues. Gender scripts that guide our lives in many areas still need to be fine-tuned to make career paths smooth. In the worst of times, finding surprising alliances were as important as self-discipline and critical self-examination to gaining the higher ground. What is some advice that has helped you juggle your career and family life successfully? Stay organized. Learn to laugh and love life together. Always encourage the best in everyone with whom you work. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Women have overcome a lack of social support in career goals and

Distinction

WOMAN OF

OF THE MONTH

Sociology Faculty Rowan University follow-through. Often, having a supportive social and fiscal infrastructure for career goals is out of their reach. What advice would you give to women starting out in your industry? Integrity and ethics matter. Respecting the dignity of the other is very important and as an academic, I teach this to my students. Especially when the going gets tough, keep a realistic sense of humor, an ability to think clearly and strategically, and, carry a great vocabulary! Name one outstanding quality that you think people should know about you or remember you by. Hope and hard work. Miracles happen; be ready when they come. academics.rowan.edu/chss/ departments/sociology/ facultystaff/marygallant.html

ith 12 years experience, Anita Latin serves as the visionary of Abounding Love Bible Ministry. Anita hosts a weekly prayer cluster joined by men and women in the San Francisco Bay Area and across the United States. She is responsible for in-home bible study, leading weekly prayer meetings, and working with women in transition. In August 2014, Anita hosted her first annual women’s conference, entitled “Take Me to the King!” This conference has become an annual spiritual renewal for women of all walks of life. After being inspired by the movie “War Room,” she began a monthly bible study for women in her home. Anita received an A.S. in Secretarial Training from San Francisco City College, a B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix, a M.Th. from Fuller Theological Seminary, and is a Candidate for her D.Min. from the American Baptist Seminary of the West, which she expects to receive in 2020. She is the past musician and chaplain of the California State Baptist Convention Women’s Department. She presently serves as executive pastor of The House of Prayer Everywhere in Oakland, California. She is the proud mother of two adult children - Andre’ R. Cloud, II and Aiesha R. Cloud. In her spare time, Anita enjoys reading, creative writing, dining out, family activities, interior design, graphic design, and serving as a Traci Lynn Fashion Jewelry consultant.

Visionary Abounding Love Bible Ministry

Distinction

WOMAN OF

Anita Latin

What advice would you give your younger self? Stay focused and be true to thine self. Know your value and worth, regardless of the negative chatter that comes at you. The negative that you experience in life is never wasted. Your environment and your experiences help shape you into the person you will become. What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why? My number one choice is the Bible. The answer to every situation you encounter in this life can be found in the living word of God. What is one habit that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur? Organization is the one habit and key to my success. I do not function well in a cluttered environment or an

environment that lacks peace. When my busy schedule causes me to get behind, once I’ve cleaned and organized my office, I’m good to go. What is the best $100 you recently spent? What did you buy and why? The best $100 plus I recently spent was to sponsor The National Prayer Call 21-Hour Prayer and Share Marathon hosted by my pastor, Partners of Prayer Everywhere and my church, The House of Prayer Everywhere. I’m proud to say that this year, partners from Abounding Love Bible Ministry Weekly Power Hour also participated in the marathon. How do you use social media as a helpful tool in your ministry? I use social media to post upcoming events and share inspirational words and exhortations from Abounding Love Bible Ministry

weekly Power Hour, live streaming of sermons I have preached. I also share key thoughts from the powerful and anointed teaching and preaching of my pastor, mentor, and spiritual father in this season of ministry, Bishop Sean Teal. How do you keep your bible study groups contemporary? What inspires your topics? I write my own study guide about spiritual life experiences. I research topics that are relevant now and I purchase materials with topics that speak to me and inspire me. I have no doubt that whatever situation or circumstance someone has gone through in life, there is certainly someone else who has gone through a very similar journey. Our life mission should be to help each other. albministry.org P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 11

Woman

OF DISTINCTION

Owner | Briscoe Investment Enterprises

Michele Briscoe

ichele Briscoe is the owner of Briscoe Investment Enterprises, a relatively new real estate investment company based in Brooklyn, New York. As the owner, Michele is responsible for investing in real estate properties. She received a B.S. in Banking and Money Management from Adelphi University in 1988. Michele has served as an MTA NYC Transit Authority station agent since 1997 and continues to do so while running her own business. Currently, she is also a distributor for VASAYO. Previously, she worked for the Realize Food Company. Michele is a member of Delta Sigma Pi. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and relaxing.

How did you get started in your field/industry? I got started in my field by watching TV and reading books about entrepreneurship. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? The biggest challenges that I faced were learning how to start a business and get mentorship from someone who knew the business. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? The biggest challenge that women face today is in believing they can accomplish what other women before them were unable to because of societal biases. What does the word empowerment mean to you? 12 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Empowerment means having the ability to help yourself and others achieve their goals. What advice would you give your younger self? I would advise my younger self to believe in yourself no matter what others may say. Have faith in God. Continue to seek wisdom and understanding. Work towards your goals until you accomplish them. Have patience and be grateful to God for all things that you perceive to be good or bad because all of your experiences will develop who you will become. What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why? The book I would recommend

would be, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Higher is Waitingâ&#x20AC;? by Tyler Perry. It gives you an example of how anyone can accomplish their destiny no matter where you started from or how lofty your dreams are. What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur? One habit that makes me more productive as an entrepreneur is to schedule personal downtime daily to rest, pray, and recoup. How do you bring ideas to life? To bring ideas to life, I picture the vision, speak aloud the idea, pray about the idea, and then take action on the small steps to get there. Fortuneseeker82.vasayo.com

or over 30 years, June Jacobs has been a world-renowned spa visionary and beauty and wellness expert. June has created three global skincare lines. Continuing her commitment to innovation and quality, June set out to alter the skincare landscape within the spa market through the creation of her namesake brand, June Jacobs. In 2018, she expanded her expertise to create Naturally Serious, an all-natural skincare line that is cleanly made, ethically developed, and clinically tested. To maintain the highest levels of quality and standards in manufacturing, June also opened an independent laboratory, June Jacobs Labs, where all of her products are manufactured.

tered on highly-efficacious, natural ingredients formulated to deliver immediate, impactful results with longterm benefits. All of her products feature cutting-edge botanical extracts, high quality actives and a 20-year U.S. patented anti-oxidant blend of white, red, and green tea extracts combined with goji berry, pomegranate, and grape Growing up in the Mediterranean, seed extracts to help prevent the June was captivated as a child by the visible signs of premature aging. The exclusive June Jacobs collection can use of ingredients local to the coast be found at the most prestigious spas, of the Caspian Sea. She learned the importance of science, practical appli- resorts, and select specialty retailers cation, and technological innovation worldwide. June resides in New York City and and began working as a consultant works alongside her daughter, Roin the offices of several esteemed chelle Jacobs. As an avid cyclist, June dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Together with her daughter Rochelle, can be seen routinely riding her bike June then created a skincare line cen- to and from her Park Avenue office.

JUNE JACOBS What motivated you to open the June Jacobs Lab? After several years of working with outside facilities, it was too hard to control our inventory while having it in so many different places. Thus, we started June Jacobs Labs so that we could maintain our own quality control and innovate with a faster turnaround time. How did your childhood in the Mediterranean inspire the ingredients used in your skincare line? Tell us about the exclusive patented antioxidant blend that makes your products unique. My grandmother would use all the ingredients that I have now patented in my antioxidant blend, which includes pomegranate, goji berry, grape seed, green tea, red tea, and white tea. We understand you created a product to help inspire fellow breast cancer patients undergoing chemo. When I was undergoing radiation treatments for breast cancer, I had my chemist create a product to help with radiation dermatitis for my personal use. After seeing how well

Beauty and Wellness Expert Naturally Serious

the cream treated my radiation dermatitis, my oncologist told me to produce the product to help others. It’s an amazing cream called Rapid Repair Healing Cream. What are some of the pros and cons of launching a business with a family member? Because we are family, it is easy for us to constantly have an open line of communication. This is great because we always have each other’s back. However, just because we are family does not mean that we always agree with each other. What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours? After a stressful day, I love to go for a massage or exercise on the equipment in my home. When I have a few days to relax, I love to escape to the Bahamas, especially Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, where my products are showcased in all of the guestrooms. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means waking up every day, loving what you’re doing and who you’re doing it with.

junejacobs.com

P.O.W.E.R. Recognizes Kari R. Wilson

14 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Kari R. Wilson Director The Eudora Wilson House

ari R. Wilson is the director of The Eudora Wilson House, named for her mother-in-law, which is an assisted living facility in Pilot Rock, Oregon. In October of 2018, Kari bought a local old Baptist church and an adjacent building. She is working to renovate and reopen the two structures as the Eudora Wilson House. The Pilot Rock City Council has approved a conditional use permit to operate the facility, which would be the only one of its kind in the town of about 1,500. The home will add 12-15 jobs, including kitchen and care staff and is going to provide employees with on-site day care. Kari is responsible for general oversight of the facility. She also oversees fundraising efforts, community outreach, hiring, marketing, problem solving, and providing basic caring for seniors. The center will house up to 14 people, including couples. Much of the renovation is taking place in the building next to the church, where contractors are erecting bedroom walls, walk-in showers, and are working on a kitchen complete with a commercial gas stove. The church next door has an old stage which will serve as performance space or to display movies from a digital projector. The biggest part of the project is the construction of a hall to connect the church to the building. With over 20 years experience, Kari began her career in healthcare in 1995 when she worked for Umatilla Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s detoxification program. From there, she served with the long-closed state psychiatric center in Pendleton and the former Blue Mountain Recovery Center, the Pendleton facility that treated addicts and the mentally ill. Since June 2015, Kari has cared for her mother-in-law, Eudora Wilson. Once the new facility opens, Kari has been assured that her mother-in-law wants to move right in. In her spare time, Kari enjoys playing golf and travel.

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 15

Caroll Lee

Founder and CEO Provenance Meals

aroll Lee is an avid cook, mother of two, Board Certified health counselor, and the founder of Provenance Meals. Her passion in life is to feed people real food; food that is raised, grown, and prepared in traditional ways that are good for your health and good for the planet. Caroll practices holistic nutrition, understanding that a healthy diet must be combined with other sources of nourishment—loving relationships, enjoyable physical activity, meaningful work, and spiritual connectedness—to reach true health and happiness. Caroll’s nutrient-dense meals are 100% gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar free. Available in New York City, Provenance Meals offers 2-7 day meal programs of prepared meals from their weekly rotating menu, or one of their cleanse programs, designed to kick start weight loss and reset your digestive system for a healthier gut.

What does holistic nutrition mean to you? Holistic nutrition means looking at all the ways in which we nourish ourselves. It’s not just the food we eat, but also the way we move our bodies, the way we connect with others, and even our mindset and how we think. All these things play a role in nourishing ourselves and affect our physical and emotional well-being. That said, when helping others find their balance, I always start with food because I believe it’s so fundamental in achieving better health. Why is a healthy diet so important for women? Women are natural caregivers. We tend to take responsibility not just for ourselves but also for our loved ones – from children to partners, to family

members and friends. If a woman is not taking good care of herself, it’s going to be harder for her to support anyone else who may be depending on her. Once we start having cracks in the foundation, it’s too easy for the whole house to fall. That’s why I put such a strong emphasis on self-care for women. Men carry their own burdens too of course, but women in particular have been sent such mixed societal messages on how to feed ourselves, that often we need extra support around what a healthy diet means. What makes Provenance Meals different than other meal service companies on the market today? Provenance is a company founded by a woman, with an all-female management team, that understands what wom-

Probiotic Raspberry Rose Truffles Ingredients: 1/2 cup cocoa butter, melted 2/3 cups cashews 1/2 cup coconut yogurt 1/2 cup freeze-dried raspberry 3 Tbsp. maple syrup Directions:

Yield: 29 truffles

1 Tbsp. rosewater 1 tspn. vanilla extract 1/16 tsp. salt 1/2 cup pistachios, toasted and chopped

Blend melted cocoa butter, cashews, coconut yogurt, freeze-dried raspberry, maple syrup, rosewater, vanilla extract, and salt in a blender until completely smooth. Fold in pistachios, and refrigerate overnight. Using a tablespoon, scoop up one tablespoon at a time and roll into truffles. Refrigerate promptly.

Wellness Notes: Antioxidant-rich raspberries and rosewater fight aging and help satisfy those sweet cravings. The coconut yogurt contributes beneficial probiotics while cashew and pistachio provide healthy fats for lasting energy.

16 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

en want and need. We give our clients the ability to discover their best possible self when they’re fueled with the best possible ingredients. We all want to look and feel our best and are often encouraged to deprive ourselves to reach those goals. Simply by eating our meals, our clients report losing weight and feeling happier and more confident. How do you find time for important selfcare while juggling your busy life as a wife, mother of two and business woman? It’s always a challenge, but honestly my business allows me to juggle my work-life balance by providing me with three delicious, clean meals a day to feed myself and my family. Because I’m not thinking about what to eat and where to get it all the time, I have more headspace to focus on my business and my family. What’s next on the horizon for Provenance Meals? Right now we’re exclusively available in New York City, but we’re working hard to make our incredible meals available across the country. We’re also developing resources to help our clients achieve their wellness goals by providing additional support they might need, beyond the food delivery. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment is all about your selfworth. When you have high self-worth, and believe in yourself, you don’t need permission from anyone else to go after what you want. www.provenancemeals.com

ith over 40 years in the publishing industry, Sandi Mendelson has established Hilsinger-Mendelson as the nation’s preeminent literary public relations firm. Sandi is responsible for orchestrating publicity and PR campaigns that create bestsellers, build images, and build brands. She is responsible for a significant number of national and New York Times bestsellers. With a unique gift for finding new voices, she has been instrumental in growing established authors into worldwide franchises. Sandi is the recipient of the Harry Scherman Service Award and the LMP Award for Advertising, Promotion & Publicity.

Sandi Mendelson

CEO Hilsinger -Mendelson

What gave you the motivation and courage to leave Bantam Books and move to the west coast to join forces with Judy Hilsinger. A sense of adventure! I spent my formative college years and early work life on the East Coast, and I wanted to explore more. I was starting to feel like I might have an entrepreneurial streak, and being in my early 20s, it felt like anything was possible. Judy was just setting up the company a few months before I arrived in San Francisco, representing all of Bantam’s west coast authors that needed PR representation. The Bay area had a burgeoning publishing scene and we were positioned to have an important presence in the community and grow to influence the media landscape on the west coast. It was a perfect alignment of our talents for me to join her business. How do you select the authors you represent? I’ve always been moved by the power of the printed word and energized by the idea of bringing forth new voices into the cultural conversation. I’m inspired and excited by

writers who make an impact with beautiful storytelling. Who is one of your favorite authors or celebrities you have worked with? There are way too many to name names. I enjoy working with journalists who dig into subjects and stay ahead of the fast-paced news cycle. Being a part of political stories that break news is also a thrill. Memoirists that can go deep into their inner souls and expose their private lives have also always been a pleasure, and so have the celebrities I’ve worked with over the years. Tell us about the Byron Preiss Children’s Fund. After the sudden tragic death of my husband, Byron Preiss, I knew I wanted to honor his life’s mission of supporting the potential of all children. He was the co-chair of the UJA Federation’s Publishing Executive Committee, and I felt compelled to create The BPCF as his living legacy. The fund was established to enhance children’s lives with educational and humanitarian services. I now sit as the co-chair of

this division, continuing his commitment to service. What advice would you give to young people looking to enter the literary field? I tell any young person that asks me for advice that they must show up every day to be ready to do whatever is asked of them. There is always something to be learned. Find a mentor. You need to have a genuine love of books, determination, and patience. When I first started out in publishing, it was very cut and dry. If you wanted to be an editor or a publicist, you followed a track and rose through the ranks. Now, you need to wear many hats and be creative in figuring out new strategies to help authors develop real connections with readers. You must be patient and understand how to be collaborative. If you have an independent spirit and have a respect and love for books, there is huge opportunity for success. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Grace, integrity, discretion, and respect. hilsingermendelson.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 17

TJA PUBLISHING, LLC

PRESIDENT AND EDITOR IN CHIEF Tonia DeCosimo DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Syndi Reibman SENIOR EDITOR Susan Koop EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Ellen Gold PUBLIC RELATIONS Alison Swerdloff MEDIA DIRECTOR Jeremy Felber WEB DESIGNER & IT Chris Ziminski CREATIVE DIRECTOR Cris Bell CONTROLLER Maureen Meagher EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Nicole Crumb ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Carol Barnett Shari Brozinsky Anna Rose Cameron Helene Kaye Sari Meyer Renee Rosenfeld Jacalyn Winters Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized/P.O.W.E.R. magazine is published quarterly by TJA Publishing, LLC. All biographical information and photographs submitted by members, as well as questions and answers may be altered as necessary to fit our format. While every effort has been made to ensure that information is correct, errors may occur. There is no guarantee of accuracy, timeliness, and completeness. We are not responsible for other’s opinions or views as expressed herein. P.O.W.E.R. magazine does not assume any responsibility for unsolicited materials. Advertisements do not constitute an endorsement of the product or services by P.O.W.E.R. Magazine. Copyright 2020 by P.O.W.E.R. magazine. All rights reserved. Content may not be reprinted or reproduced without permission from P.O.W.E.R. magazine.

18 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

e are all born with a gift. Steve Harvey says your gift is “the thing you do at your absolute best with the least amount of effort.” Many women find it early in life, while others don’t discover it until much later. Some find a way to translate their gift into a successful career. Their unique blend of capabilities and expertise puts them way ahead in finding or succeeding at their life’s work. Our spring issue highlights many women who have done just that!

Our cover girl, Robin McGraw, found her gift to inspire women to choose to live their lives with passion and purpose. We chose her to be on our cover because she inspires women through every aspect of her life, whether it is through her podcast, foundation, skincare line, marriage or her books. Tune into Robin’s new podcast, I’ve Got a Secret!, to feel empowered and informed to live your happiest and healthiest life. She created her original skincare line, Revelation, to encourage women to believe that it is not selfish to put themselves first, to understand that they deserve to embrace their own beauty, health and happiness, and to know they must take care of themselves in order to take care of those they love. Read more about Robin’s accomplishments in our article. Denise Austin has known her gift for 40 years. She has been a champion for women who aspire to be healthy, active and vital at every stage of life. Denise has published 12 books, sold more than 24 million exercise videos, and her TV show, “Denise Austin’s Daily Workout,” was the #1 fitness show on TV for 24 years. Currently, she’s helping women create a lifestyle that fits their goals with her website programs on DeniseAustin.com. Debra Newell knew her gift from the age of five. She launched Ambrosia Interior Design, Inc., an award winning international interior design firm. Some of you may know Debra from her hit Bravo TV series, “Dirty John.” Moving on to the next chapter of her life, Newell opened her new company, Ambrosia Home, Inc., and

devotes much of her time as an advocate helping women caught up in coercive controlling relationships. Elizabeth Santiago is the artist, baker and owner of Exquisite Cake Art, based in The Bronx, New York City for over seven years. She began finding her gift by studying fashion marketing and later turned her passion to baking. Elizabeth creates visually stunning, delectable cakes that are works of art. Cat Cora, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, knew that cooking was her gift. She has shattered the glass ceiling as one of the first females to dominate the historically male culinary industry. Today, Cat is a world-renowned chef, author, restaurateur, contributing editor, television host and personality, actress, avid philanthropist, health and fitness expert, lifestyle entrepreneur and proud mother of six. Named as one of Forbes 30 Under 30, Elizabeth Wagmeister is an award-winning multimedia entertainment

Talk

TONIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

journalist. Her journalistic gift has brought her many awards at a young age, going back to her college years. She has established herself as a leading voice in entertainment news by breaking highly influential stories and her journalistic work is frequently recognized by the industry. Elizabeth currently hosts, writes, and produces digital videos for Variety.com and is a staple on the New York red carpet scene. The profiles and biographies of our members in this issue highlight women who have found their gifts and have made them resonate in their careers. If you are still struggling to find your gift or figuring out how to use it to enhance your career, try writing down your successes in both your personal and career life and see if there is a common theme. If you see one talent or skill that runs through most of your achievements, there is a good chance that is your gift. You can always call us to connect you with a mentor to help you on this journey. We are women of P.O.W.E.R.

Tonia DeCosimo EDITOR-IN-CHIEF @Toniadecosimo @power_woe

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 19

Rising

Elizabeth

STAR Entertainment Journalist, Senior Correspondent Variety

20 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Wagmeister E

lizabeth Wagmeister is an award-winning multimedia entertainment journalist. She is senior correspondent at Variety, and former co-host of the nationally syndicated newsmagazine Page Six TV. She balances many roles as a broadcaster, red carpet reporter, investigative and print journalist. In 2019, she was named as one of Forbes 30 Under 30. Elizabeth has established herself as a leading voice in entertainment news by breaking highly influential stories, including the bombshell Matt Lauer investigation, which dominated the global news cycle and resulted in swift impact. Through her integrity, trustworthiness, and professionalism, she puts interview subjects at ease. This ability enabled her to land exclusive interviews with alleged victims of Harvey Weinstein and R. Kelly. She is currently covering Weinstein’s criminal trial at the New York City courthouse for Variety. During her five years at Variety, Elizabeth has written cover stories for the Power of Women and Young Hollywood issues. She has also been part of the team for the magazine’s Emmy-winning PBS series, “Variety’s Actors on Actors.” Elizabeth’s journalistic work is frequently recognized by the industry. She has been nominated for multiple LA Press Club awards, including a nomination for her sit-down interview with Leah Remini about her decision to leave the Church of Scientology. In 2019, she was nominated for a Webby Award for the Best News and Politics Video for her exclusive interview with an accuser of Tom Brokaw. In 2018, Elizabeth, along with her Variety editor, won the National Arts and Entertainment Journalism award for best celebrity investigative piece for their Matt Lauer reporting. As one of three hosts of the nightly entertainment news series, “Page Six TV,” Elizabeth served as the expert on the “business of

show-business,” bringing credibility, reporting, and journalistic skills to a celebrity gossip show. After initially being cast as a panelist, Elizabeth was promoted to official co-host, six months after the series debuted. Elizabeth began her broadcast career with frequent guest spots across national and local news, serving as an entertainment expert, representing the esteemed publications where she was on staff. In 2016, she landed a weekly segment on “Good Day LA,” and since, has been seen on “Good Morning America,” “The Talk,” “Wendy Williams,” “Access Hollywood,” “Entertainment Tonight,” “Extra,” “Today,” “The Tamron Hall Show,” “CBS This Morning,” “ABC Nightline,” Fox News, Fox Business, CNN and more. In 2019, when Wendy Williams took a hiatus from her daytime talk show, Elizabeth was asked to sit in as one of the first guest co-hosts. In February 2020, she was asked to be part of ABC’s Academy Awards pre-show, featured as a special contributor on ABC’s “Oscars Countdown: The Red Carpet Live.” With more than 20 million unique viewers per month, Elizabeth currently hosts, writes, and produces digital videos for Variety.com. She also regularly moderates live panels with major celebrities, producers, executives, and newsmakers. Known for asking smart and tough questions, Elizabeth is a staple on the New York red carpet scene and knows how to nab a newsworthy soundbite in high-pressure scenarios with limited time – not to mention, talent enjoys talking to her and seeks her out on the red carpet for an interview. Her red carpet coverage and interviews often go viral on Variety’s social media. She also covers major festivals from Sundance to SXSW and is an award season expert from the Oscars to Emmys to Teen Choice Awards and VMA’s. Prior to Variety, Elizabeth was the senior entertainment editor at Bonnie Fuller’s HollywoodLife.com where, at 24-yearsold, Fuller hand-picked her to run the site’s TV and film vertical for an audience of 35+ million unique visitors. Her YouTube videos amassed more than 30 million views during her eight months at the company before she was recruited to move across the country for Variety. Elizabeth started her career at TV Guide Magazine as the assistant to the editor-in-chief and rose the ranks as a writer and reporter. During her junior year of college, she was one of 25 students and the only representative from California selected for the prestigious Associated Society of Magazine Editors (ASME) internship program, before graduating from the University of California- Santa Barbara with dual degrees in communication and multimedia writing. While she was a student at UCSB, Elizabeth held many internships, including working the assignment desk at Fox 11 KTTV. She launched her university’s HerCampus chapter, becoming one of the first ten college journalists in the country to work for Her Campus Media, which is now in more than 400 universities in the United States. Elizabeth was born and raised in the Los Angeles area, and has resided in both Los Angeles and New York City. P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 21

What inspired you to choose a career in entertainment news? I didn’t know I would end up in entertainment, but I knew I wanted to be a journalist from a very young age. I always loved storytelling, which is the root of journalism. My favorite subject in school was writing. I was also a competitive dancer, so I grew up on the stage and never had a fear of public speaking, which certainly helps with live TV. One of my first internships was with the Associated Society of Magazine Editors which randomly places you at a magazine. I was placed at TV Guide Magazine, and suddenly my job was watching TV shows at my desk and being thrust onto red carpets in New York City as a 20-year-old. That’s when I fell in love with the entertainment industry. How did it feel to be named as one of ‘Forbes 30 Under 30’ for the media category for 2019? I am the type of girl who goes to the Oscars and just focuses on the work. I never consider anything about my job to be glamourous – I truly just think of it as work and I know I have a job to do. I’ve interviewed hundreds of celebrities, but I never get star-struck because it’s my job. I must admit, I was pretty excited when I was named in Forbes 30 Under 30 list! I always read that list in college and would then conduct tons of research to see how I could possibly emulate the career paths of those young leaders. Making the list was on my mental vision board. I am still blown away and honored. Let’s just say, both of my grandmas have it on their fridge. Who is one of your favorite interviews and why? It’s so tough to choose a favorite interview because I feel very for22 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

no matter the subject. One of my pet peeves of being an entertainment journalist is that people sometimes assume you only report on celebrity gossip. The Me Too movement has blurred the lines between entertainment news and hard news, so that’s been a very welcome challenge. I’m looking forward to reporting on more stories that are outside my comfort zone. What advice can you give to women looking to enter tunate to speak to actors, writers, the entertainment news field? executives, and producers who are all My number one piece of advice leaders in the entertainment field. A to women is to support each othrecent interview that was really special er. The entertainment industry is was sitting down with the legendary insanely competitive. There should journalist, Ken Auletta. I met Ken be no reason for women to compete my first day in court covering the with each other. Women supportHarvey Weinstein trial. He was also ing women is crucial for everyone’s in court every day, since he’s writing success and having a female support a biography on Weinstein. I asked system makes the inevitably tough if I could interview him for a minitimes easier to get through. The endoc I was producing and hosting for tertainment industry is unfortunately Variety, and Ken graciously invited me based on a good amount of luck, but to his home to interview him. He is I always say, you have to work hard an encyclopedia of knowledge. I was to get lucky. completely in awe, listening to his sto- Where do you see yourself five years ry about pursuing the same story for from now? two decades. I learned so much about Since I was a little girl, my dream focus, persistence, and commitment to job was being on morning TV or a a story from him. daytime talk show. I love the wide How has becoming a leading voice range of stories you can cover in one of the Me Too movement affected hour from light and fluffy to serious your career? and somber. However, the landscape I’ve always been passionate about is changing so rapidly, I don’t think women’s issues and have always cham- anyone knows what content will look pioned women in the workplace, but like in five years, so I never want to I never imagined I would be reporting put myself into a box. Five years ago, on the most monumental women’s I was reporting on Justin Bieber’s datmovement that the entertainment ing life for a gossip site, and now, I’m industry has ever seen. Witnessing the covering the trial of the decade with real-life impact and change has been Harvey Weinstein – and somewhere incredible. I had no experience with in between, I went deep-sea fishing investigative reporting before breakfor a story and caught a 700-pound ing the Matt Lauer story. As I began tuna (seriously). I’d like to continue reporting, I realized that if you have growing as a journalist, and make strong journalistic skills and ethics, sure that my skills are constantly you can investigate any story properly, evolving.

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CLEANSING, LLC HUNTINGTON, NY

Mentor

WOMAN OF THE

Chimene M. Van Gundy Real Estate Investor and Entrepreneur Outstanding Real Estate Solutions, Inc. and Mobile Home Millions, LLC

Month

OF THE YEAR

himene Van Gundy is a real estate investor and entrepreneur with Outstanding Real Estate Solutions, Inc. and Mobile Home Millions, LLC, who invests in mobile homes and mobile home parks, which provide affordable housing to people across the U.S. After completing her B.A. Magna Cum Laude in Criminal Justice from the University of Texas at San Antonio in 2006, she worked multiple jobs in the corporate world and served as the lead paralegal for several different law firms. After being laid off in 2015, Chimene decided that rather than working for another corporation she would be her own boss. She read the novel “Rich Dad Poor Dad” which became a wakeup call for her and

changed her life. Having spent time in and out of the foster care system, no one taught her about money, credit, or budgets. So, after hearing her husband say “I believe in you” she took some real estate education classes, found a mentor and the rest is history. A true entrepreneur, Chimene runs and manages five different companies. She is known as the “The Mobile Home Millionaire” and “Queen of Mobile Homes” because she has fixed, flipped, and wholesaled

What is the one book you recommend our community should read and why? “The ONE Thing,” which talks about how we all have our own “genius” zone and should improve and refine it. Once done, we can become wealthy using it. What is the best $100 you recently spent? What did you buy and why? I got a massage. I am all about self-care. This is vital when you are building a business or organization. What advice would you give your younger self? To not worry about what other people think. It is none of my business what others’ opinions are of me. I will continue to always pursue my dreams. How did you get started in your field or industry? I read “Rich Dad Poor Dad” which changed my perspective on money and assets. I quickly noticed the

more than 500 units to date, all in four years. She does business in 11 states and has taken her business international as well, rehabbing mobile homes in Ireland where they are called “Holiday Homes.” She is a member of W.R.E.N. Chimene serves as a featured writer for Think Realty magazine, where she educates others on the mobile home asset class. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her five children, horseback riding, dancing, musicals, ballet, theater, and animals.

need for mobile homes and affording housing. I forged my way through this. What are some of the biggest challenges or obstacles you faced in your industry? Real estate is primarily dominated by men. I am constantly educating others that manufactured housing or mobile homes are not trailer trash. What advice would you give to other women in your field or profession to help them succeed? Stay laser focused and communicate well. If you do this, success will follow. In this area, we beat men hands down. Form relationships because your network is your net worth. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means having the freedom to choose what you do and dictate your worth and value, instead of someone else. www.mobilehomemillions.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 25

obyn Levy’s career in entertainment and the arts has evolved from post-production within the moving image space to pre-production, production, casting, and development. Robyn is the CEO of Famed Entertainment LLC, a production company which now partners with some of the largest entertainment companies in the country. She hosts countless red carpet and charity events under her media/events company, Velocity 1 Media. Robyn’s entrepreneurial spirit and determination has led her to a world of giving back, television production, and business development, both domestic and international. She is the creator and executive producer of “The Facts of Wife,” which is a raw, unfiltered lesbian ensemble docu-series that picks up where “The L Word” and “Modern Family” left off. “The Facts of Wife” will showcase dynamic couples and single women navigating the chaotic and judgment-filled world of life in lesbian-run families as they struggle with issues that plague us all: independence, career, drama, friendship, baby-making, work/life balance, stress, betrayal, and love. Through this series, we will have an inside look at how these unique and charismatic women attack their specific issues, while traveling around the country helping other LGBTQ face theirs. Robyn has partnered with Larry Meistrich, founder of 13th Man Foundation, a charity dedicated to funding arts, entertainment, and sports for underprivileged youth. Larry produced “Sling Blade,” with Billy Bob Thornton, which won the Academy Award for Best Writing, Adapted Screenplay. He won an Independent Spirit Award for producing “You Can Count on Me,” in 2001. The film was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Screenplay. Larry and Robyn are producing “The Facts of Wife” and have big plans for the future of TV. Robyn is also the founder and creator of Tushy Brand, Inc., a funky and fun fashion line for infants and toddlers. She has combined her creative entrepreneurial talents with her passion for giving back to those in need. The measure of success for Robyn is that her unique products are created in a loving atmosphere that not 26 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

ROBYN LEVY CEO | Famed Entertainment LLC

Adrienne Long Photography

only provides fashion and comfort for customers, but also provides help for the community at large. For this reason, customers will not only be dressing their little ones, but will also be helping children in need. A portion of Tushy Brand’s proceeds is donated to helping children and in turn, helping their families. Lastly, DenimSOUL, a personal passion project for Robyn, began organically in the living room of her home. She was inspired to make something personal and creative for her sister Cari’s 40th birthday so she created a personalized custom jacket for her. Cari had recently been diagnosed with breast cancer and Robyn wanted her “soul sister” to have something she could wear that could fill her with love and keep her warm. After Robyn posted pictures online, she received an influx of requests wanting jackets with everyone’s own special flare. DenimSOUL has taken off and Robyn has been creating personalized custom jackets ever since. DenimSOUL is exclusive to Levi’s. Her jackets can be seen worn by the latest celebrities. Robyn received a B.A. in Media, Production, Fine Art, and Business from Monmouth University in 2003. Previously, she owned DiningOut Magazine, New Jersey, and was the executive vice president of Hero Media Group. All of Robyn’s ventures are full of life, positivity, and creativity. We can be assured that her future ventures will be full of love, philanthropy, and plenty of soul.

Drew Noel Photography

Part of the mission of your infant/toddler clothing line, Tushy Brand Inc. is to give a portion of the proceeds to help children with cancer. Why is this important to you? When I was a junior and senior in high school, I worked with children that had disabilities. I fell in love with a six-month old girl named Heather who had Down syndrome and was diagnosed with leukemia. She went through remission and then was diagnosed again at the age of four. She passed away shortly after her second diagnosis. She was my absolute best friend in the world! She trained me to become a mother, a better friend, a nurturer, a softer soul and at the end, she is the reason I am extremely passionate about children as well as those with cancer. I give her credit for who I am today... at least the good parts. “The Facts of Wife” showcases issues related to the LGBTQ community. How did this project begin? What is your role? This project began more than two years ago, after I was on the Real Housewives of New Jersey. I did not feel I was the right fit to be on the Housewives, but I was able to use my degree in TV & Film to use and achieve something great that I can be proud of. I want to reach people and help change lives. I want to raise awareness for the LGBTQ community, and I want the world to know we are just like you, you, and you. I am the creator, executive producer, and a cast member. What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur? I am extremely relentless. I never give up on my dreams and I am so passionate that my dreams of success are not realistic... which is why it feels so good when they come to fruition! What does the word power mean to you? Power is letting go of what others think of you. Power is failure. Power is going against the grain and feeling confident to make your own decisions. Power is within us all. I am powerful. What do you and your family do in your spare time for fun? My family and I do not have spare time, but we make time to create memories. Spending time with family is one of my wife’s and my biggest pleasures on earth. We love to love, love to laugh and love to have “tickle fights.” We especially love going on vacation with our extended family and we try to make something “special” out of each day, big or small... it does not matter. To us, family is everything... without that, all the above would be much harder to accomplish. www.tushybrand.com denimsoul.net P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 27

Women

OF THE MONTH

Sarah K. Terrible

arah K. Terrible is a rehab manager and occupational therapist with COG Restore which provides outpatient care for patients experiencing orthopedic conditions. With eight years experience, Sarah is responsible for managing rehabilitation care, patient care, providing administrative duties, and overseeing the rehabilitation services, staff, and community outreach for St. Thomas and St. Croix. She earned her M.O.T. from Temple University in 2011, and is a member of A.O.T.A. and N.B.C.O.T. In her spare time, Sarah enjoys spending time at the beach, snorkeling, tennis, and family activities.

Rehab Manager | Occupational Therapist COG Restore

How did you get started in your field/ industry? I first was exposed to therapy/rehab services through my sister Jennifer who had Trisomy 13. In spite of her not being able to see, hear, walk, or talk, she was able to live much more independently and with a significant improvement in her quality of life through physical and occupational therapy. What are some of the biggest challenges/ obstacles you faced in your career? Finding therapists to stay and live in the Virgin Islands long term has been a challenge. Clients benefit from seeing a familiar face when they come for therapy services. Regular turnover is challenging for our company and for patients. Stressing patient compliance/accountability with their home exercises can also be very challenging in any therapy setting and location.

Cricket Lora Webb

ricket Lora Webb is an author, freelance writer, and motivational speaker. She is self-employed with her company Luminare of Words. Retired after 40 years in the medical arena, Cricket currently enjoys writing nonfiction, magazine articles, content writing, blogging, and motivational speaking. She is a freelance medical writer and a freelance eBook writer for book publishers at Cricket Lora Clark Freelancer.

Accountant | Donna McDaneld Tax Service

onna E. McDaneld is an accountant with 25 years experience. She specializes in tax preparation and general accounting. Donna oversees the operations of the service from start to finish. She received a B.A. from Purdue University and has taken additional accounting courses. In her spare time, Donna enjoys golf, hiking, and bike riding.

28 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Author, Freelance Writer | Motivational Speaker Luminare of Words

Cricket has written one book, “Death, the Art of Dying, & What Lies Beyond.” She has a new book in the works entitled “Hurry Walter! There is a Possum in the Hen House!” Cricket earned a B.S. in Medical Laboratory Science from St. Louis School of Medical Technology and attended Southern New Hampshire University and Three Rivers Community College. She is also an infection control practitioner. Previously, she worked at

Donna E. McDaneld

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? I feel like women still have to show and prove their abilities more so than men, even in 2020. Women have to advocate for themselves for equal financial compensation. I think we bring a lot to the table with our keen sense of awareness and intuition. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means leading by example and motivating others to be their best selves. It means holding yourself as well as others accountable. cogvi.com

Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center. In her spare time, Cricket enjoys cooking, travel, reading, writing, and spending time with her grandchildren. How did you get started in your field/ industry? When in school, I loved assignments on writing. Over the years I kept journals on the odd family things that happened to us, since there always seemed to be something happening every day on the farm. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? I never felt there were obstacles or challenges. I am a blessed woman. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? I feel that women still suffer from being treated unequally to men. Maybe in strength, they are unequal on the whole, but I would put a woman’s brain (some women’s brains) up against a man’s mind anytime. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means being given the strength and encouragement for the power that is needed to get a job done well.

Brittnee L. Crouell

rittnee L. Crouell is the co-owner of Embrace Your Effort LLC, an athletic clothing store based in Bowie, Maryland, which she recently started. The store sells athletic and sportswear, baseball hats, headwear, hoodies, jackets, overcoats, pants, polo and other shirts, shorts, socks, underwear, and streetwear. Brittnee is responsible for overseeing the general operations and management. She earned her M.S.W. from Howard University and is a Licensed Master Social Worker in the state of Maryland. She is a member of the

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. In 2017, Brittnee was hit by a drunk driver and almost lost her left arm. She has undergone many surgeries, but rather than allowing the trauma to bring her down, she feels that the experience has made her resilient, determined and unbreakable. In 2019, Brittnee founded the Double M Foundation which helps aid and support children and families with an incarcerated parent. Through this foundation, she is able to give back to her community and inspires others. Brittnee is also a high school cheerleading coach.

K. Kristy Deegan

Co-Owner Embrace Your Effort LLC What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? Some of the challenges I have in my business are probably not having enough time to dedicate 100% to Embrace Your Efforts. I am a high school cheerleading coach, studying to take my social work exam, have a full-time job, and am also trying to become an entrepreneur. I find myself not delegating enough and trying to complete too much for my brand on my own. I feel like nobody will do as good of a job as I can or have the work ethic I have. I don’t go to sleep until I get things done, but always have things to do so I’m always up. However, I do have a few select individuals I trust who are willing to hustle and make the brand successful.

Speaker, Mentor, Author, Life and Business Coach Kristy Deegan I believe the normalizing of It was a natural proristy Deegan is a life, business, and misogyny is a huge challenge. personal evolution coach with nearly gression. Previously, I This leads to not enough women was a psychiatric nurse 30 years of helping others achieve at the table in corporations, their highest goals. She brings clarity to any which helped me undercourts, and political leaders. I stand how people tick. I situation, helps clients resolve issues, and also think the underlying issue is excelled in sales, computer leaves them with a feeling of worthiness, that women need the confidence installation, and managefulfillment and gratitude. Kristy coaches and community to have the ment roles. her individual and business clients with a courage to use their voice. This What are some of the bigvast amount of personal experience, trial, is the work I do. I give voice to gest challenges/obstacles and growth. She guides them through the voiceless. you faced in your career? life changing experiences and helps them What does the word empowerment I created a successful construction with transformation and paradigm shifts. mean to you? management company in Mexico. I Kristy earned a M.S. in Management and Empowerment means freedom to Telecommunications from Marylhurst Uni- spoke Spanish and was a woman in a choose, to be who you are, and to go versity in 1991. She conducts seminars and man’s world in a foreign country and knew nothing about construction. When where you want. It is having confidence mentors. She is a life member of W.R.S. to speak up, having high self-esteem, and I returned to the States, I restarted my and E.W.N. In her spare time, Kristy enhaving the courage to show up as you coaching business. joys oil painting, cooking, and reading. What do you feel are some of the biggest truly are. How did you get started in your field/ www.kristydeegan.com challenges that women face today? industry?

Linder B. Washington

inder B. Washington is the president of Be Washington Maintenance, a commercial and industrial cleaning service based in the Bronx, New York. Linder oversees the daily operations of the company and is responsible for marketing, hiring, training employees, giving estimates, and customer service. In her spare time, she enjoys music and singing. How did you get started in your field/ industry? One of my brothers worked as a janitor through a work force program. I was very interested in the opportunity to do the same. I was hired in 2001 as maintenance

President Be Washington Maintenance working at Fedcap Rehabil- gest challenges that women face today? Being a woman in a predominantly itation. In 2007, I obtained male industry, you constantly have to my business license in the prove you have what it takes to succeed same field and left Fedcap. and excel. Sometimes you have to go I started my own janitorial above and beyond to show the world company in 2010. you’re assertive and deserving of the spot What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you’ve obtained. What does the word empowerment you faced in your career? mean to you? In this line of business Empowerment is an uplifting word. it’s always tough bidding on contracts It gives individuals a sense of courage and actually winning against other and strength. Empowerment is bringing competitive companies providing the same services as you. Another obstacle is people together through common goals, similar backgrounds and similar strugfinding good workers to represent your gles. Empowerment is rising, striving, brand in a productive and professional and succeeding to become great. manner. be-washington-maintenance.business.site What do you feel are some of the big-

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Donna L. Perkins

onna L. Perkins is a credit expert and consumer advocate with almost 30 years experience in the credit industry. She specializes in credit repair and restoration, credit reporting, credit scoring, and debt restoration. As a credit expert, Donna has appeared numerous times on news programs broadcast with ABC, NBC, Fox, and others. Donna is the president of Kansas City Credit Services, a credit repair organization based in Kansas City, Missouri since 1991. Under her leadership, they have helped over 110,000 nationwide customers restore their lives by improving their credit profiles. Donna oversees the operations and is frequently asked to speak at credit education events hosted by the

Eram S. Ahmed

ram S. Ahmed is the senior director of finance for the Jackson West Medical Center, which is part of the Jackson Health System, a nonprofit academic medical system. In this capacity, she is responsible for the overall financial aspects of the company. Eram specializes in finance, accounting, troubleshooting, change management, operational development, improvement, and audits. She is experienced in researching and identifying process flows and inefficiencies, financial and operational

Selena J. Thiele

elena J. Thiele is the owner of Office Mercenary Services. With almost 15 years experience in office administration, Selena oversees the operations and administration of the virtual assistance company she has owned for three years. She is an expert in virtual assistance services, bookkeeping and business services, and prides herself on connecting small businesses with the help, support, and expertise they need. She and her staff provide a variety of services to businesses to ensure that each project they support is finished properly and followed through with a backup plan in case further assistance is needed.

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President | Kansas City Credit Services

company and others. She stays in touch with the needs of her clients by advising them on credit repair matters and assisting with judgement resolutions. She also teaches consumers how to establish new credit and how to prepare for real estate purchases. Along with her team, Donna trains attorneys nationwide on various consumer protection statutes such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, and Telephone Consumer Protection Act. She teaches attorneys how to leverage these laws to help consumers whose rights have been

violated by credit reporting agencies, debt collectors, creditors, and more. Donna also provides strategic business consulting services to companies in the financial arena, where she assists with planning and sales strategy development. Donna is a member of the American Fair Credit Council, and the vice president of the local chapter of the National Association of Credit Repair Advisors. How did you get started in your field/ industry? Decades ago, as I considered the opportunity to buy KC Credit Services, I met a father and daughter who had been through tough times. I knew then that I wanted to spend my career helping people recover from financial setbacks. www.kccreditservices.com

Senior Director of Finance | Jackson West Medical Center auditing, risk and control assessment, policy/procedure and internal control recommendations, and Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance. Previously, she served as the director of finance with the Lennar Foundation Medical Center from 2016 through 2019. Eram earned a B.S. in Accounting from the University of Louisville, a M.S. in Management from Sullivan Universi-

ty, and a M.A. in Communication Studies from the University of Miami. She is a member of the Institute of Internal Auditors and The Healthcare Financial Management Association. Eram speaks Hindi, Urdu and English. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, music, playing the flute, the arts, travel, and spending time with her family. jacksonhealth.org

Owner and Virtual Assistant | Office Mercenary Services Selena never finished her degree, but after working in offices for over ten years, she was consistently the â&#x20AC;&#x153;go toâ&#x20AC;? person to find creative solutions. This inspired her to open her own company. In her spare time, she enjoys travel, fostering and rescuing animals, video games, and gardening. How did you get started in your field/ industry? Mostly by accident. I helped run my parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; business for years, when a friend desperately needed office help. I offered to fill in for a bit and ended up staying there for two years. What are some of the biggest challenges/

obstacles you faced in your career? Two big challenges were the crash of 2008 and a serious car accident that included a concussion in 2014. I went through lots of reassessment and finding ways to get through the moment. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Studies have shown that women are less likely to be believed regarding pain levels and symptoms and have a higher rate of misdiagnosis with our health. We must be healthy to thrive in the world. What does the word empowerment mean to you? It means feeling strong and supported in a way that allows you to take that next step forward, whatever that step may be.

Director of Customer Success/CMIO Ceras Health r. Melita Ellis King is the director of customer success and CMIO with Ceras Health. In this capacity, she serves as a liaison between patients, doctors, and healthcare organizations. She oversees various healthcare programs, and the patient services EMR software. Dr. King earned an M.A. in Organizational Development from Fielding University and her M.D. in Internal Medicine from Xavier University. She is an experienced medical doctor working in the information technology and healthcare services industry. She is skilled in managed care, clinical informatics and process improvement. Dr. King belongs to the American College of Healthcare Executives, The American Medical Informatics Association, and The American Health Information Management Association. In her spare time, she enjoys travelling and writing poems. Dr. King is a published poet How did you get started in your field/ industry? I got started with medical informatics and the informatics industry in medical school while going into my residency. What are some of the biggest challenges/ obstacles you faced in your career?

WOMEN OF THE

as being male dominated roles. At times, some women fear taking riskswhich in some cases can stifle career growth and advancements. I also think women often feel that they are expected to manage and balance several roles, which can have competing priorities. What does the word emSome of the biggest challenges I faced in my career were managing the ever-chang- powerment mean to you? Empowerment means ing and evolving demands of healthcare that not only do you feel, and technology while simultaneously but you know that you providing great healthcare to patients. have the ability and the What do you feel are some of the bigpower to accomplish and gest challenges that women face today? achieve whatever you set Some challenges I think women face your mind to do. today are gender stereotypes where there cerashealth.com are some roles that are still considered

Rhonda Renae Jones

Month

Melita Ellis King, M.D.

Travel Nurse TravelCare USA

honda Renae Jones is a travel nurse with TravelCare USA. With almost 25 years nursing experience, Rhonda is responsible for traveling to different hospitals and providing general and acute care nursing where she is needed. She provides long term care and specializes in acute care nursing. Rhonda received her L.P.N. in 1998. In her spare time, she enjoys football and travel.

Dr. Patricia A. Broderick

r. Patricia A. Broderick is a medical professor with CUNY School of Medicine, CCNY and a staunch researcher. Dr. Broderick is the founder of The Broderick Brain Foundation, which is dedicated to funding training for medical, doctoral, masters, undergraduate, and high school students, as well as professors, doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers in the quest to discover how the brain works. As the inventor of The BRODERICK PROBE® nanobiosensors, she developed and patented this series of nanobiosensors to direct the sensing work of the nanobiosensor. Eazysense Nanotechnologies Inc. holds unlimited franchisee rights to the

Founder, The Broderick Brain Foundation and Medical Professor, CUNY School of Medicine earned her B.S. from St. Thomas Aquinas BRODERICK PROBE® via College in 1963, her M.S. from Fordthe Indian Dept of Franchise ham University in 1970, and her Ph.D. while Japan’s franchisee holds from St. John’s University in 1979. She market rights for the BRODhas written numerous book chapters, ERICK PROBE®. and peer reviewed articles in the neuroThe BRODERICK degenerative and psychiatric as well as PROBE® nanobiosensors sensor journals. She is a member of the image dynamic changes in American Society for Pharmacology and neurotransmitters in vivo and Experimental Therapeutics, The Society in real time, on-line. Neufor Neuroscience, The Association for romolecular Imaging during successful intraoperative surgery in the brain of the Women in Science, The Electrochemiepilepsy patient with New York Universi- cal Society, and The American Epilepsy ty Institutional Review Board Approval is Society. Dr. Broderick enjoys her family the first translational nanobiotechnology and her work. www.eazysensenanotechnology.com for the millennium and beyond. www.eazysensationalbrainimaging.com With a broad educational background www.eazysense.com including post-doctoral positions at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Cornell Medical Center, Dr. Broderick

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Karen J. Tenenbaum, Esq. Tax Attorney and CPA Tenenbaum Law, P.C. | Tax Attorneys

n attorney for over 35 years, Karen Tenenbaum and her team represent taxpayers in IRS and New York State tax matters. Karen is a frequent speaker on IRS and NYS tax issues for numerous professional groups on topics such as New York State residency, IRS and NYS Tax Collection and more. Her knowledge and leadership have established her as a leading tax attorney in the New York area. She developed an interest in promoting financial literacy from her first-hand experience helping others with tax problems. In addition to her tax practice, Karen is the founder of Money Masters, Inc. and the co-creator of Walter the Vault, which is an animated character who promotes financial literacy for children. He focuses on how to save reasonably, spend responsibly, invest wisely, give appropriately, and budget regularly. Karen’s ultimate goal is to teach children how to make responsible and informed decisions about money. As an advocate of financial literacy for all ages, Karen is also the co-founder and served as chair of the board of directors for Commerce Plaza, Inc., a nonprofit promoting financial literacy that is now part of the YES Community Counseling Center. Commerce Plaza introduces children to the business community in order to prepare students for employment and a successful future. The Children’s Business Center teaches elementary students about the free enterprise system, careers, economics, citizenship, and the general skills needed in the work-world. Through a hands-on and simulated work environment, students receive paychecks, make bank deposits, write checks, operate businesses, prepare cost sheets, think critically, and work as a team. 32 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Karen has been featured in news articles and on local cable television shows and radio programs, including the WCBS 880 Radio Small Business Spotlight with Joe Connolly, Fox5, Money Magazine, Toy Museum of NY, Tower Talk Radio, Law You Should Know, Long Island Business News, The New York Times, Newsday, The Trusted Professional, Channel 12 News, Channel 12 Job Line, Bloomberg Radio, Telecare “Family Comes First,” Bonnie D. Graham’s “Something to Talk About,” the Kidz Expo at the Long Island Children’s Museum and Govs Radio. In addition, she has given multiple presentations for the Girl Scouts and the Boy Scouts and created a Family Financial Literacy Fair for the NYS Society of CPAs, Nassau Chapter. Active in the legal and accounting professions, Karen is past chair of

the Nassau County Bar Association Tax Law Committee and a past executive board member of the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants, Nassau Chapter. She is also the past chair of the Financial Literacy Committee of the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants, Nassau Chapter. Karen remains an active member of all of these organizations. For many years, Karen has been selected as a New York Metro Area Super Lawyer as a practitioner of Tax Law. She received her J.D. from Brooklyn Law School and her LL.M. in Taxation from New York University School of Law. She is admitted to the State Bar of New York and the U.S. Tax Court. She is also a Certified Public Accountant. www.litaxattorney.com www.walterthevault.com

Kim DePaola

Owner | Posche and Posche Mind and Body Spa

im DePaola is known from “The Real Housewives of NJ” where she debuted from 2010 – 2016 and was considered The Housewives’ villain. She has also appeared on “Face the Truth” with Vivica Fox, “The Tomorrow Show,” which debuted in 2016, and on the well-known show, “Botched.” Kim is the sole owner and proprietor of the boutique, Posche in New Jersey. The store sells high-end clothing, handbags, shoes, and jewelry for wealthy women in the New Jersey suburbs. She has been draping The Housewives in sparkles and leopard print for years. Posche has served as a meeting ground for The Housewives several times on the show. Kim also owns the Posche Mind and Body Spa where women can go to unwind, de-stress and feel pampered. www.poschebykimd.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 33

Marjorie A. Graf Vice President and Chairman of the Board of Directors | Graf & Sons Inc.

arjorie Graf is the president and chairman of the board of directors of Graf & Sons Inc. which is a wholesale sporting goods store based in Mexico, Missouri. They sell sporting goods, hunting products, ammunition, shooting, and reloading materials on a national scale. Graf & Sons, Inc. was founded in 1957 by Arnold Graf, his wife Velma, their two sons Bob and Howard, and their spouses. What has become known as “The Reloading Authority” first started as a gasoline service station in Mexico, Missouri that sold boats, motors, hunting, and fishing merchandise. Bob and Marjorie Graf became sole owners of the business after the passing of co-founder Arnold Graf in 1972 and the retirement of Howard Graf in 1981. In 1986, Bob and Marjorie started to advertise across the board and began to sell internationally. In the beginning they shipped just 1,000-2,000 products a year but with the creation of their website, www.grafs.com, in 2001, the product lines expanded to fit the need. Today, Graf & Sons stocks over 20,000 products and ships both nationally and internationally by mail order, phone sales, and internet sales. The company has many extremely competent employees including Marjorie’s two sons

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who are also involved with the business. Marjorie specializes in finance and the overall operations. She also oversees the exporting side of the business, customer service, and sales. Previously, Marjorie served in sales and service at Mexico Refractories and Kaiser Refractories for over 16 years. In 2013, Graf and Sons Inc. was recognized by the Mexico Chamber of Commerce for their leadership in business, their retail business, and their philanthropy, and was honored at the 29th annual Commerce & Industry Appreciation Dinner. In January 2019, Marjorie received the

Mexico Chamber of Commerce Presidential Award. Recently, she was the 2019 inductee “as an individual” into the Missouri Trapshooting Association Hall of Fame on May 17, 2019 at Linn Creek, Missouri. This was quite an honor as she has always enjoyed the shooting and hunting sports. Sadly, Marjorie’s husband Bob passed away in 2018. In her spare time, she enjoys family activities with her four children, five grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren. Marjorie also enjoys shooting, camping, hunting, fishing, cooking, and church activities. www.grafs.com

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enise Austin is a renowned fitness expert, author and columnist. For 40 years, she has been a champion for women who aspire to be healthy, active, and vital at every stage of life. Denise’s positive outlook and attitude have endeared her to millions of fans nationwide and helped make her an established and recognized leader in the fitness industry. She is as active as ever and working to help women of all ages and background reach their goals. Over the years, Denise has worked with millions of women, helping them reach their fitness goals in ways that fit their lifestyle. She has published 12 books, sold more than 24 million exercise videos, and her TV show, “Denise Austin’s Daily Workout,” aired every day on ESPN and Lifetime TV, and was the #1 fitness show on TV for 24 years. Currently, she’s helping women create a lifestyle that fits their goals with her website programs on DeniseAustin.com, which are founded on the philosophy of exercise and moving every day, proper nutrient balance for daily nourishment, and community support for a sense of well-being. Over the past 40 years, Denise has avoided fitness and nutrition fads in favor of a more constant, positive approach to balanced living. She has helped motivate millions of people by emphasizing balanced nutrition, regular exercise, focusing on healthy foods and putting well-being first and foremost. Denise has used the concept of “whole body” thinking since the 80’s and continues to do so today. An acknowledged giant in her field, she proudly dedicates her time to many worthy, fitness-related projects. Denise has served two terms as a member of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports and helped launch the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s food pyramid guidance system. Denise continues to talk about the importance of keeping fit, eating right, and staying balanced. She has been married to her husband Jeff since 1983 and has two daughters, Kelly and Katie.

Health and Fitness Tips

Strength training improves the body’s ability to regulate insulin levels, reducing the odds of getting diabetes - a major risk factor for heart disease. Strength training also reduces cholesterol, especially the “bad” LDL cholesterol.

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Walking Fundamentals • Feet should be hip- width apart, toes point ed forward. • With each step, plant your heel and roll through to the ball of your foot, then push off with your toes. • Squeeze your buttocks as if you were trying to hold a dime between them.

Fitness Expert, Author, Columnist What does staying fit naturally mean? Staying fit naturally means eating healthy (clean, lean and green), exercising regularly, drinking enough water, sleeping, mixing up workouts, and making sure you’re getting all three components of well-balanced workout: Cardio, toning and flexibility. As a woman over the age of 60, how have you changed your exercise routine and nutritional regimen to accommodate the changes in your body? Because I’ve stayed fit all my life, I’ve continued my workouts. I’ve added more body toning, as it’s important to stay toned and to keep muscles and bones healthy. As we age, we lose muscle tone, so muscle conditioning exercises are key. My Stop the Clock program includes moves to strengthen the body. Using a resistance band and fitness ball, like in my new guide, “Shape, Strengthen and Sculpt,” is easy on my joints as well. With your website, you obviously keep up with the ever-changing field of technology. How do you feel technology helps you the most with your clients? I love my membership plan, because I can customize it for different people who have different workout needs. My site allows members to be “on-demand with Denise.” I talk to people daily about what they want more of so I can adjust what I share online.

The site features all my TV shows, as well as new yoga and Pilates workouts, at deniseaustin.com. What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen in 40 years as a fitness expert? When I first started, TV was my life – I was a regular on the “Jack LaLanne Show,” was the first fitness expert on NBC’s “TODAY Show,” had my daily weekday show, “Denise’s Daily Workout” on Lifetime and was featured on ESPN, spending more than 24 consecutive years on TV nationwide. Now everything is online and social media has opened up a whole new audience. While the medium has changed, fitness has stayed universal. How do you develop new ideas for workouts to keep your followers engaged? I travel globally, learning different things about different cultures. I also keep in touch with lots of friends in the industry to share ideas. I’m part of several councils and organizations. With my daughter Katie following in my fitness footsteps, I am tapping into her insights to continue resonating with the younger generation. What are the components of your 10week whole body plan? The best part of this plan is that the average woman loses up to 22 pounds in ten weeks. The plan offers structure so that it eventually becomes a natural part of your lifestyle. Through the ten weeks of progression, it gives participants a sense of accomplishment. The plan features 16 types of workouts (most under 30 minutes) and customizable meal plans (based on your chosen diets)

that provides grocery lists (featuring foods without spending a fortune). The dinners take about 20 minutes to make. They are quick, easy and simple to follow. I worked with top nutritionists to compile meals, so you’ll know exactly what you’re eating. I check in with members so there’s an element of accountability to keep you on track as well. What was it like to do a mother/ daughter workout together with your daughter Katie on her YouTube fitness channel? Working out with Katie has been a dream come true for me. I have two daughters, but Katie has always loved being on camera with me. Katie is a natural – she played D1 Lacrosse in college and has great discipline. To see her shine on her own is wonderful. She is bringing a fresh, positive outlook on the business. Not only is it great to have her in the business, it’s also bonded us tremendously. Americans are living longer – what are the three most important tips you would give the older generation? 1. Practice good posture. It keeps your tummy flat and helps you breathe better. Oxygen is the best fuel. 2. Walk at least a mile every day. 3. Try not to sit throughout the day. Standing burns more calories. Get out of the chair and incorporate fidget-cisers into your routine. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means positivity, confidence, good attitude, self-worth, and self-care. www.deniseaustin.com

• Walk tall, keeping your head and chest up, shoulders back and abdominals tight; don’t arch your back. • Pump your arms. • Inhale and exhale deeply and rhythmically. Tips For Strength Training Success • Lift the weights in a slow, controlled manner. • Squeeze your target muscle as you do each move. • Focus your thoughts on the muscle you’re working, you’ll get better results. • Use proper form - don’t get sloppy! • Muscles need 48 hours to repair themselves; skip a day between strength training sessions. • If you can do all the reps easily, it’s time to add weight. • Stretch after each exercise or at the end of your workout. Flexibility and Balance Benefits • Minimizes aches and stiffness • Increases your agility • Improves your posture so you look taller and thinner

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Women

OF THE MONTH

Judy L. Perry

President | Network Directions

udy L. Perry is the president of Network Directions, a legal consulting company based in Huntsville, Alabama. With 12 years experience, Judy oversees the daily operations of the company, and assists individuals and companies with networking and legal consulting. She also lectures and consults in the soft mortgage industry, specializing in reverse mortgages. Judy received a M.Ed. in

Educational and Biological Research from Milligan College in 1991, and her B.S. in Psychology and Biology from Eastern Tennessee State University in 1970. Previously, Judy served as a case manager with the state of Tennessee from 2007 - 2012. She started her career in pharmaceutical sales with Ventiv from 2001 – 2004. In her spare time, she enjoys walking, jogging, and travel.

Wendy Mayer, DDS

Dentist | Mayer Dental Care

r. Wendy Mayer is a cosmetic and general dentist with over 30 years experience. Her practice is located in Midtown West, New York City. Dr. Mayer provides dental care for all ages and teaches the fundamentals of oral hygiene to her patients to help them stay healthy and feel confident with beautiful smiles. She is responsible for cosmetic and general dentistry, bridges, crowns, dental bonding, implants, and fillings. Dr. Mayer stays up-to-date on the latest advancements in dentistry. She received her B.S. and D.D.S. from New York University, and performed her residency at Jersey City Medical Center in New Jersey. She has taken many courses in cosmetic dentistry and rotary endodontics to keep up on her knowledge.

How did you get started in your field/ industry? As a child, I spent a great deal of time as a dental patient. I was always curious about what my dentist was doing to my teeth. Since I was there frequently, my dentist took the time to explain and show

Christina R. Riddle Christina R. Riddle is the owner of Golden Rule Printing. Her aunt started the company over 30 years ago. Christina has been a part of the business her entire life, “helping out” in the shop since she was young. With the knowledge that her aunt wanted to keep the business in the family, whenever Christina was able, she would spend time at the shop and learn something new, whether it was binding, collating, making small notepads, or watching her uncle work the printing presses. She always found the printing business intriguing. Christina took over the business about 5 years ago. As a local

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me what was being done. I think this is what sparked my interest. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? One of the biggest obstacles of becoming a female dentist in the 1980’s was to be taken seriously by older male dentists. I think as women, we had to work harder to prove our value and our competence. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? One of the biggest challenges for women today is balancing family life with work life. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment is a process by which we become stronger and more self-confident. Owner | Golden Rule Printing

business serving the immediate community, she offers various print products to meet all budgets. She oversees the daily operations and management of the business, provides estimates, and is responsible for the marketing and customer service. Christina is a member of the Printers Union and S.A.M. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? I believe the biggest challenges women face in the workplace today are lack of women in positions of power, sexism, racism, and economic inequality. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means that not only do you have a voice, but that your voice is heard. It means that you are strong and confident with decisions made that not only affect you but the people around you.

Sue Sharp

Adjunct Professor | Lindenwood University Independent Stylist ! ColorStreet Nails

r. Sue Sharp has served as an adjunct professor of education at Lindenwood University of St. Charles, Missouri since 2011. She is also an independent stylist with ColorStreet Nails, where she helps women feel beautiful while maximizing their time. Dr. Sharp is passionate about educating her clients, promoting and marketing the nail product, and training her clients on how to use dry nail polish strips. She uses her background in education continuously, as she was the principal of the Fairmount Elementary School for 24 years. Dr. Sharp earned her M.A. and Administration Certificate in Education from Linwood University in 2003, and her Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Administration from Maryville University of St. Louis in 2010. She is a member of the Devel-

opmental Disabilities Resource Board of St. Charles County, Missouri. In her spare time, Dr. Sharp enjoys reading, playing the flute, her dogs, and spending time with her son. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? One of my biggest challenges was balancing being a wife, mother, and a career woman. I have always believed family comes first and when my son was born with an intellectual disability, I continued to work, but put my aspirations on hold. I am fortunate to have an extremely supportive husband. Once my son entered school, I was able to resume my path to leadership. My son is now 26 and is still at home with us, but my time is much more flexible and I have been able to incorporate ColorStreet into my life. Now I am working on continuing that path to leadership within the ColorStreet Nails Organization. I could not have found a more inspiring, collaborative, and powerful group of independent women. They challenge and support me to grow every day. www.lindenwood.edu

Diane E. Legion Hurt

s the Owner of Inspections Galore Roofing, Construction & Plumbing, Diane E. Legion Hurt provides homeowners, realtors, and investors with honest resolutions for their property needs. As a native Texan woman-owned small business with almost a decade of experience, it is important to Diane to uphold integrity in all areas of the business. Whether clients need roofing, construction, foundation, or plumbing assistance, she ensures that the company’s initial inspections are always free and always honest. Diane oversees the daily operations and provides inspection services to the construction industry. She is responsible for management, marketing, staff oversight, and ensuring that all inspections are performed within state and federal guidelines. She specializes in roofing, foundations, kitchen and bath designs, remodeling, general construction, and foundation repair. In her spare time, Diane enjoys playing golf and spending time with her family. How did you get started in your field/ industry? I was a mom and needed a way to be able to participate in all my kid’s activities

Owner Inspections Galore Roofing, Construction & Plumbing have some kind of sanity and rely on my and school functions, and spirituality. still provide a comfortable life for my family. My entre- What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? preneurial spirit drove me to My day doesn’t stop when I clock out. get out from my desk. I still have the kids and family to cook What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles for, homework to check, extracurricular events to attend, and it is very difficult you faced in your career? to find time for self-love and self-care It’s a challenge being a mentally, physically, and spiritually. mom, wife, sister, daughWhat does the word empowerment ter, and grandma, on top mean to you? of being the founder and Being connected to my family, my being involved in the daily operation of faith and myself. 4 family owned businesses. I still try to www.inspectionsgalore.com

Dottie Keisler

Pastor and Founder | Begin a New Life Ministry International Inc. | A New Beginning Christian Life Center

ev. Dottie Keisler is a pastor and the founder of Begin a New Life Ministry International Inc./A New Beginning Christian Life Center. With 20 years experience, she is responsible for the overall operations of the nonprofit ministry and center, which is a Christ-centered recovery program focusing on alcohol and drug abuse, depression, anxiety, family restoration, job training, and homelessness. Dottie is responsible for counseling those in the prison system, public speaking, and community outreach. She received her A.A. from the University of Southern California. In her spare time, she enjoys walking.

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 39

Cass’andra F. Jackman

ass’andra F. Jackman is a co-founder and a consultant with Quad Consulting Service L.L.C. She has certifications in paralegal, motivation and mentoring, conflict resolution and negotiations, inspirational speaking, ethics and business conduct, managing conflict, contract specialist, process server, and life coaching. She earned her B.S. in Business Management in 2007, and her M.B.A. in 2008, both from the University of Phoenix- Dallas Campus. She earned her M.S.M.

Lisa C. Darby

Co-Founder, Consultant Quad Consulting Service L.L.C.

in Criminal Justice and Public Services from Colorado Technical University in 2011. Cass’andra is responsible for business consulting, paralegal services, legal research, financial advisement, conflict management, mentoring, inspirational speaking, and is a process server. She specializes in motivational speaking, credit restoration and rebuilding your worth. She is also a certified notary, a background screened notary agent for various title companies, and holds a TABC. Owner One In All Coder, LLC

isa C. Darby is the owner of One In All Coder, LLC, a medical coding and billing service. With some college, Lisa oversees the operations, management, and administration of the company which provides physician billing, medical coding for doctors and hospitals, and assistance for denials and appeals. With over 20 years experience, she ensures that the business complies with CMS, OIG, local, and national regulations, and is HIPAA compliant. Lisa personally oversees the medical coding and billing for physicians and has restructured many companies’ billing practices to increase revenue for physicians and hospitals. Lisa is a member of the A.A.P.C. In her spare time, she enjoys travel and sports. oiac.healthcare

Angela Jones

ngela Jones is a supervisor with the United States Postal Service. She is responsible for overseeing the daily responsibilities of the branch, scheduling, staff monitoring, and managing the building on weekends. She directs multiple mail processing operations and ensures safety compliance throughout the facility. Angela also serves as a tax and business consultant. Angela earned a B.S. in Technical Management with a concentration

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Cass’andra has written many poems in “Forever Spoken” published by the International Library of Poetry. She has self-published “The Bitter-Sweet of a Woman,” and has an upcoming book entitled “Inadequate.” She has written processes and procedures for Fortune 500 companies. Cass’andra is the host of the Podcast, Let’s Sip Tea, and is a member of the National Notary Association, and Eastern Star, Ivory Grand Chapter #4. In her spare time, she enjoys writing and travel. How did you get started in your field/ industry? I started when I was laid off and decided I needed a change. I went back to school and acquired the education needed to help people and their businesses. After 16 years, I have increased my portfolio greatly. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? Some obstacles were being a woman with a multi-racial background and being taken seriously. Challenges are getting the business I deserved but being underbid. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? It is still a struggle to be paid as an equal. quadconsultingservice.site123.me

Supervisor | United States Postal Service in Accounting from DeVry University in 2019. She earned an A.S. in Executive Accounting from Northwestern College, holds a certification in Accounts Payable Management, a certification as an Accounts Payable Specialist, is a certified Notary Signing Agent, and a certified Illinois Notary Public. She is a member of the National Association of Black Accountants, Sigma Alpha Pi, The National Society of Leadership and Success, the W.Y.C.A., and the N.A.A.C.P. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and fitness. How did you get started in your field/ industry? From my earliest positions as a bank teller, I knew I eventually wanted to acquire a senior-level position in accounting and finance management in the private or federal sector. Due to recent promotional opportunities, I have reached that goal.

What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? My biggest challenges have been the full acceptance of ideas for implementation from male counterparts at work. It has been an obstacle to not have a series of mentors who could provide consultation and career awareness advice. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Women do not have equal pay for performing the same duties as their male counterparts, especially at the senior and executive levels. We are also typically omitted from decision-making positions. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means being able to create, develop, and influence innovative ideas and formulate positive results without restrictions from established regulations and policies.

WOMEN OF THE

Dale Lynn Chambers

ale Lynn Chambers is a realtor with ReMax Realty Advantage. She sells commercial and residential properties in the Ocean City, Maryland area and specializes in beach homes. Dale received her A.A. in Business from Catonsville Community College. She has been in the industry for seven years. She is a member of the Elks Lodge, the Maryland Real Estate Association, and the Delaware Real Estate Association.

Angela Amazin Tate

ngela Amazin Tate is a visionary specialist coach with A. Amazing Enterprises LLC. In this role, Angela helps her clients to create vision boards to encourage their goals and bring their dreams to fruition. She assists clients with business development and growth. She also conducts seminars and classes. As a retired master barber/stylist of over 33 years, Angela felt that writing her visions down was very important. After retiring, she used her own vision boards to achieve her goals and dreams of having her own service targeting women’s empowerment. Angela is the founder of the Amazing Vision Board Power and the Amazingly Taking Your Power Back movement. Currently, she is self-publishing her first book, “Amazingly Taking Your Power Back.” She hopes that it will empower others toward self-fulfillment. In her spare

Visionary Specialist Coach A. Amazing Enterprises LLC

time, Angela enjoys community service, walking, nature, and bowling. How did you get started in your field/ industry? I got started as a visionary specialist and Certified Life Coach in 2015 after retiring as a master barber/stylist. That profession allowed me to connect with people and uncover my passion which is to help others on life’s journey. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? The biggest challenge in my newfound career has been re-introducing myself to family, friends,

Marie Rennison

arie Rennison is the owner of The Auto Shop LLC. She enjoys running the family owned business with her two sons, daughter, and grandson. The automotive repair shop has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and is the only independent repair shop which is AAA approved in the Southern Illinois area. Marie received an A.A.S. in Business Data Processing from John A. Logan College in 1983. She oversees all of the daily operations and manages the shop. Marie has a great team. One of her sons is a Master ASE Certified Technician who is training her grandson to be a technician as well. Her oldest son is a Certified Service Advisor and her daughter is being trained by her to do all the financial, marketing, and overall running of the business. Marie is a member of the ATI, AAA, BBB, BNI and the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce. They will be going to Las Vegas for the Expo 2020 as the

Month

Real Estate Agent ReMax Realty Advantage

former associates, and foes, as a woman that is God-led and purpose filled. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? The biggest challenges are wearing so many labels and having so many responsibilities that we feel we are powerless and forget that we are amazingly powerful. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means helping others succeed through caring and sharing along with motivation and movement. You must care enough to share information and resources to motivate people to become stronger and move their lives in positive directions. www.aamazingpower.com Owner | The Auto Shop LLC

only Gold Certified business. In her spare time, she enjoys her family, grandchildren and travel. How did you get started in your field/industry? We decided to open our own shop after being in the automotive industry for over 13 years. What are some of the biggest challenges/obstacles you faced in your career? Cash flow, finding qualified technicians, and training. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? Being taken seriously. I have a good team, but some women do not. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means applying good common sense and values that encourage good things; it’s knowing you’ve done a good job. It’s being willing to do the work that is required to get the result that you need and going the extra mile. We empower our customers by giving them needed information to make a well-informed decision. www.theautoshopcarbondale.com

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 41

Founder and President | Ambrosia Home, Inc. Founder | Ambrosia Interior Design, Inc.

Top Interior Designer

Debra Newell D

ebra Newell is the founder and president of Ambrosia Home, Inc. as well as the founder and former president of the multimillion-dollar company, Ambrosia Interior Design, Inc. Known for creating beautiful interior spaces, Debra relies on her ability to clearly understand each clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision, aspirations and lifestyle. She then creates a harmonious environment that is not only functional but reflects each clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s individual personality and taste. Debra launched Ambrosia Interior Design, Inc. in 1984, creating a full service, award winning interior design firm that specialized in nationally and internationally customized model homes, residential homes, country clubs, club houses and office spaces. Her work took her all over the world including designing a development called Orange County outside of Beijing, China, two textile ventures in Egypt, and a hotel in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. Currently, Debra has expanded her career ventures with a retail store in Las Vegas, Nevada called Ambrosia Home, Inc. and an outlet store in Henderson, Nevada under the same name. Her oldest daughter took over Ambrosia Interior Design in Irvine, California, freeing up her time to focus on residential interior design,

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another one of her passions. In addition to the retail store and outlet, an online e-commerce store called Ambrosia Home Store is in the works. Recently, Debra did staging work for the HGTV series “Property Brothers” and has teamed up with Madison Hildebrand from Bravo’s “Million Dollar Listings.” On October 1, 2017 the Los Angeles Times launched a six-part article series and accompanying Podcast created by Wondery titled Dirty John. Dirty John is a story of love, deceit, denial, revenge and ruin, ultimately leading to survival that chronicled a time in Debra’s life between October 2014 and August 2016. The story was adapted into a miniseries which premiered on Bravo on November 25, 2018 and on Netflix on February 14, 2019. Moving on to the next chapter of her life, Debra devotes much of her time as an advocate for change and awareness, helping women who are caught up in coercive controlling relationships. She has been featured in People, US Magazine, Harper Bazaar, Forbes, The New Yorker, Vulture, Refinery29, and Bustle to name a few. She has also made appearances on “Dateline NBC,” “Dr. Phil,” “Dr. Oz,” “Megan Kelly Today,” “Inside Evil with Chris Cuomo,” “Fox News,” and Oxygen’s “Dirty John: The Dirty Truth,” amongst many other media outlets. Debra was a speaker at CrimeCon 2019 alongside Laura Richards discussing coercive control and her relationship with John Meehan. She is currently writing her story in her own words to be published this winter.

You’re an internationally known interior designer. How did you know at the young age of five that this was your calling? At the age of five, I would draw a floor plan of a home, and then look for items all over the house to create the home I designed with my furniture and dolls. When I was seven my mom took a course in interior design. I couldn’t wait until the assignment came every week. My mom said I actually did every one of her assignments and passed with straight A’s. What is one of your most memorable projects? That’s a hard one. I loved creating an Orange County community in China. It was such an incredible experience to bring the look and design of America to China. I also collaborated on a hotel off the coast of Egypt with a French designer which was pretty memorable. What influenced you to open up Ambrosia Home at Town Square in Las Vegas? I am very passionate about design and there is a desire for my creative vision in Las Vegas. A lot of local residents reach out looking for our style of design at Ambrosia Home. Some people may know you from your story and the series “Dirty John.” Following this experience, you are using your voice in a positive way to create awareness for coercive control. Please elaborate. It is my deepest passion to help as many women as possible while raising awareness for coercive control. I am working with Mayor Eric Garcetti and Pallavi Dhawan at the Los Angeles city attorney’s office to protect women who are suffering. What advice would you give to those looking for Mr. Right? Before you even go on a date make sure to get a man’s first and last name so you can do a background check. They are fairly inexpensive and easy to get nowadays. I would stress the importance of taking your time to truly get to know someone. If you see red flags, take them seriously and don’t jump in too quickly. What exciting projects do you have in the works? I am currently working on my book titled “Lived to Tell” with M. William Phelps which I’m incredibly excited about. What does the word power mean to you? To me power means owning your passion and making a difference. I’d like to take it a step further and state that the word empower means lifting others up and helping as many people as possible. www.ambrosiahomesinc.com www.ambrosiahomelv.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 43

I Learned it the Hard Way A Controlling Partner Can Literally Make You Sick By Julie Owens

Violence Against Women Expert Consultant

’m a survivor of domestic violence that escalated to attempted murder. I didn’t know it was domestic violence, though, because my husband never physically hurt me. Even the marriage counselors, pastors, and his addictions counselors missed it. Their focus wasn’t on the danger I was in or my need for safety. They were working on trying to fix my husband or save my marriage. That’s how I almost got killed. When I married, I was an intelligent, educated 31-year old professional. My groom turned out to be a Jekyll-Hyde when on our wedding night he became someone I didn’t recognize. For some reason he got the ridiculous notion that I’d previously stayed at our honeymoon hotel with another man. From that night on, most days were filled with horrible name-calling, jealous accusations, isolation, sleep deprivation, and inexplicable rages. He tried to control every aspect of my life. I couldn’t understand it but chalked it up to damage caused by his abusive, alcoholic father. I utterly despised his ill treatment of me, but sometimes I felt sorry for him, too. I didn’t think he was dangerous, or realize the abuse was steadily escalating. I didn’t notice the toll it was taking on my physical and emotional health. After just three months, though, I was so confused and exhausted that I left one day after he’d gone to work. Several months later I agreed to a trial reconciliation because I’d learned I was pregnant. The baby came and a new round of threats began. Now he threatened actual violence and described what he’d do to me and my family if I ever left him. But the marriage counseling failed to produce the promised changes, and I felt I had to file for divorce. I was shocked when a week later he actually followed through on his threats and did exactly what he’d threatened. I arrived home at my parents’ empty home with the baby and was suddenly ambushed. He beat me and held me at knifepoint, waiting for my father to arrive. When Dad walked through the door, he was also attacked. As we struggled, he stabbed us both. Several months later I learned that what I had experienced all along was domestic violence. Now I know, too, that my hostage-like treatment was a dynamic called coercive control. After recovering, I made it my mission to train counselors, pastors and healthcare

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professionals to identify victims. Next, I started a crisis team that responded to provide confidential support and safe referrals to those victims. For many years now I have studied domestic violence and its affects. Looking back, I can name a number of physical and emotional problems I experienced that resulted from abuse. After meeting thousands of other victims, I’ve seen how they have been impacted, too. When I was young, I thought only weak women became victims. I’m now convinced that literally anyone, no matter how smart, can be fooled by a slick “wolf in sheep’s clothing” and find themselves suddenly entrapped by abuse. The statistics are staggering, and so is the impact it has on victim’s lives. It’s mind-boggling to know that one in three women in the world will be victims of domestic violence (United Nations). It may not include physical or sexual abuse, but it always involves disrespect, control and intimidation. Did you know that psychological abuse alone is as harmful as physical abuse? Often survivors say it was the worst abuse of all. Injuries can be severe and range from bruises to burns to stab or gunshot wounds, or broken bones. Traumatic

brain injury is commonly caused by strangulation, suffocation or beatings, but it is rarely identified. So many health problems can develop but never be associated with abuse (Black, 2011; Breiding et al 2008). These include cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and endocrine and immune system problems. Others include asthma, UTIs, STDs, circulatory conditions, heart disease, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic pain, lupus, GI disorders and headaches. Pre-existing conditions like arthritis or diabetes are often made worse by chronic abuse (Black, 2011; Crofford, 2007; Leserman and Drossman, 2007), and pregnancy related risks include pre-term birth, low birth weight and birth defects. Even when abuse isn’t physical, the health effects can be devastating (Black, 2011; Coker et al. 2002; Heise and Garcia-Moreno 2002; Roberts, Klein, and Fisher 2003; Warshaw et al., 2009). Common symptoms include anxiety, depression, panic attacks, traumatic stress disorders, substance use, suicidality, eating and sleeping disorders. Unfortunately, most victims aren’t identified because they don’t disclose the abuse out of fear or embarrassment. When they do, providers may not recognize domestic

violence as the cause of their problems. The symptoms may be treated, but the abuse will continue to worsen over time, and a victim’s health can deteriorate as long as the abuse occurs and continues. Victims of abuse may be any age or ethnicity, married or single, straight or LQBTQ, female or male. If you know a victim, be sure to maintain their confidentiality and not confront their abuser. This could escalate the danger. Tell victims that free, confidential services are available, including safe shelters, support groups and legal help, and that they can be connected to them by calling 1-800-799-SAFE. If a victim plans to leave their abuser, caution them to do it secretly, and to avoid staying with family or friends if possible. Abuse often escalates dangerously during or after a separation. Victims should know they can create a personalized safety plan on-line via www.thehotline.org. Just by believing, supporting and referring victims to appropriate resources, you can make a huge difference to them. Many times, I have wondered how differently my story might have ended had any one of the many people I confided in done that for me. www.domesticviolenceexpert.org

Julie Owens is an expert consultant in violence against women. She has developed anti-domestic violence programs including an ER crisis team, advocate certification courses, and a transitional shelter. She directed trauma therapy research projects at the National Center for PTSD, and for nine years oversaw numerous victim service agencies for the state of North Carolina. Julie consults and trains on issues such as violence against women, trauma, human trafficking, and survivor-centered advocacy for numerous entities including governments, nonprofits, law enforcement agencies, corporations, and religious organizations.

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 45

Robin McGraw

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obin McGraw is a television personality, podcast host, entrepreneur, best-selling author, philanthropist, and matriarch of her family. A daily presence on Dr. Phil since its inception, viewers worldwide have embraced Robin’s contributions to the show, whether she’s discussing her experiences as a woman, wife, mother, and grandmother, or dealing with issues that women encounter in every phase of their lives. Robin has been to every taping of more than 3,000 shows. Most recently, Robin is hosting a new podcast with Stitcher, called “I’ve Got a Secret! with Robin McGraw,” which is making big waves in the Lifestyle category. It has even been featured on Apple’s Top 100 podcasts. Robin created “I’ve Got a Secret!” to make listeners feel motivated, informed, and excited to live their fullest lives. Episodes are available wherever podcasts can be downloaded. As the founder of When Georgia Smiled, Robin supports organizations and programs that build awareness, offer solutions, and address the needs of victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. WGS’s Aspire app allows victims of abuse to discretely call for help and has been named in the top two “best apps for domestic violence prevention.” The app has been downloaded over 500,000 times to date and has helped countless individuals. Among numerous honors and accolades, Robin is the national spokesperson for Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (C.A.S.A.), the national celebrity spokesperson for the Girl Scouts of the USA, and a member of the American Red Cross National Celebrity Cabinet. She was the 2015 America’s Mother of Achievement Awardee presented by American Mothers, Inc., recipient of the 2015 Crystal Award from Laura’s House, 21st Annual Knock Out Abuse Gala hosted by CNN’s Wolf Blitzer honoree, Heart of Gold by the Starlight Foundation honoree, Big Heart Award by the Westside Children’s Center honoree, 2014 Woman of Distinction honoree by the Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles and more. She is responsible for raising over $100 million in cash and volunteer services. Robin is also the CEO of the Lifestyle brand Robin McGraw Revelation, founded in 2014. Her products have been featured in The New York Times, Redbook, Allure, Los Angeles Times, and more. Products from Robin’s line were named Beauty O-Ward winners in O, The Oprah Magazine. She founded the brand to encourage women to believe that it is not selfish to put themselves first, to understand that they deserve to embrace their own beauty, health, and happiness, and to know they must take care of themselves in order to take care of those they love. Robin and Dr. Phil have been married for 43 years and have two sons, Jay and Jordan. Robin continues to make her family- which now includes daughter-in-law Erica and two grandchildren, Avery and London- the priority in her life. P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 47

COVER

Story

TV Personality | Podcast Host Entrepreneur | Author | Philanthropist

How did you come up with the concept for your exciting new podcast, “I’ve Got a Secret”? It was Phillip’s idea that I do a podcast. He’s been doing a podcast for about a year and he loves it. He says it’s a completely different format than doing his talk show. He told me to just come up with a name and decide what I wanted to talk about. I spoke to my staff here and we got excited. One evening while Phillip and I were having dinner I came up with the name for the podcast: “I’ve got a secret.” I explained that “It’s like a secret, but we’re going to tell secrets.” That was what I really wanted to do. I’ve got a secret because I feel women across the board all have secrets that we’ve learned from our grandmothers, and our mothers. We have secrets that we’ve learned throughout life that we can share with other women and men so they can possibly change their lives, better their lives, or allow them to have more fun in their lives. When I say “secrets,” it’s just things we’ve learned throughout our life that we can share. Someone might think, “Oh my gosh, I never would have thought of that.” That is what this is about. It’s sharing the secrets we’ve learned from our families and from our friends throughout our lives that really have helped us. You can now have a place to come and share them with others. That’s the number one reason I’m doing it. Also, the bottom line is it’s all about having fun. You’re a best-selling author. Out of your many books, which one is your favorite and why? The first one has always been my favorite, because it’s more of a written journal of my life, who I am, and how I have become who I am. It’s just my story. Why did you choose to start When Georgia Smiled, the Robin McGraw Revelation Foundation, to help victims of domestic violence? I named it after my mother, Georgia, because my mother was an angel 48 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

on earth. She was a strong woman. I always say and truly believe that I am the woman I am today because of my mother. I am the wife, mother, grandmother, and friend because of her. I grew up very poor and didn’t really realize it at the time. I knew that sometimes the lights weren’t on and we didn’t have a lot of food. My mother was such a phenomenal cook that I didn’t realize that we were going without as much as we were. My father was an alcoholic, but he would never drink around us. He was such a wonderful, loving father. He had an addiction, a disease which he couldn’t conquer. When my father didn’t come home, we never knew how long the binge would last and how long he would be away. This caused me to have a life of uncertainty. But the one thing that was constant in my life was my mother’s smile. Her smile gave us a sense of peace and comfort. It was because of her smile that I wanted to name the foundation When Georgia Smiled. I wanted to give the victims of domestic violence and sexual assault that same sense of peace, strength, and comfort that my mother’s smile gave to me. Understand, my mother was not a victim of domestic violence and sexual assault. My father adored her. I picked the focus of domestic violence and sexual assault because every time they are the topic of the Dr. Phil show, those are the shows that have moved me the most. I sit there in

the audience and I have chills because of those stories. You can’t help but have compassion for anyone who is struggling. When Phillip and his team focus on the topics of domestic violence and sexual assault, you can’t help but be moved. I wanted to create my foundation to focus on those topics. Why did you name your skincare line “Revelation?” What makes that meaningful to you? When my mom died of a massive heart attack at an early age after never being sick a day in her lifeand having never been to the doctor for herself - at that moment I had a revelation. She’d never been to the doctor because she never put herself first. She always put her five children and husband first. At the very moment she passed, I thought, I will not perpetuate her legacy of self-neglect. I wanted to emulate everything else about her, and I wanted to be just like her. I am the woman I am today because of my mother. But the one thing she taught me was to take care of myself so I can take care of those I love. I will not neglect myself. I will take care of myself. And I will be here with my family and everyone I love for as long as I can. So that’s why I called it “Revelation.” Let’s talk relationships. As you know, there have been rumors circulating that you and your husband Dr. Phil, are calling it quits

after 43 years of marriage. Are these rumors true? They’ve never been true. It’s almost become a joke. We laugh about it because they just keep saying it, and we just keep staying happily married. The tabloids know they’re going to make a fortune by printing that on the headline of their rag magazines. They put it out there and everyone races over and pays for it because they think, “Well, what is it this time?” We are still happily married and have never even spoken the word divorce. But there are people that think, “Well, maybe this time it’s true.” So, they just keep printing it and selling it, and people keep buying it. We will never get divorced. What are the keys to a successful marriage? Can you share some of your negotiation tips? Phillip and I have been married 43 years, but we’ve been together almost 47. Part of the process of preparing for our marriage is that we had lots of conversations about the things that we needed from each other. I needed him to know what I could and couldn’t tolerate. For example, I couldn’t marry a man who was an alcoholic. I can’t live with someone who drinks too much. I was lucky because Phillip didn’t drink at all because his father was an alcoholic, and he was also allergic to alcohol. It’s those kinds of questions and those kinds of details you must share

expensive at all. It’s hard to find things that you don’t have to spend a fortune on having altered when you’re short and petite. Reformation fits every time. So those are my three favorites. What’s next for you? I’m having a lot of fun right now. Phillip and I are really enjoying our time with our children and grandchildren. Of course, I’m enjoying the podcast. I love the Foundation. We are always thinking of something new, but right now there is nothing in the works. and discuss with your partner. We How do you stay so young looking? had very serious conversations about The age number doesn’t bother what we could and could not accept me. It never has. I just turned 66 in a relationship. He told me the in December and I really stay young buttons I could push essentially, at heart. If you can’t have fun, then although he didn’t say it as such. But what good is it? I have this attitude I knew the buttons I could push to that life is fun and exciting, and it’s upset him. I choose not to do that. all what you make it. He told me the buttons I could push You are such an empowering and to make him happy. I choose to do powerful woman between your podthat. So, it’s just that kind of inforcast, your foundation, your skincare mation you need to discuss. You find line, your marriage, and everything out what’s going to work and what’s you do. What does the word power going to make you both happy before mean to you? you get married. To this day, we Power means that you have the continue to have those kinds of con- ability to change someone else’s life versations, because people change, in any way you choose. Power is and relationships change. We’re not a gift. It is a privilege whether it’s perfect. We don’t have the perfect small, medium, or big. Whenever marriage. We continue to work on it you have the opportunity to take and have those conversations. And power, you can change someone else’s we don’t take each other for granted. life. You always look beautiful and How do you find balance in your well-dressed. Who are some of your life as an entrepreneur, philanthrofavorite designers? pist, author, public speaker, daily They’ve changed over the years. I guest on Dr. Phil, wife, mother and really love fashion. I think a lot of grandmother? that comes from the fact that we did It’s not easy! It’s normal for womgrow up poor. I have three older en to feel like they are always slipping sisters and I wore a lot of hand-mein one area. We are all doing the downs. My mother made everything best we can with what we have. My we wore. She was a phenomenal advice would be to make time to seamstress. I can remember getting care for your health and happiness. my first job and spending everything When you do, everything else will I made on clothing. Today, I’m feel more in-reach. going to say my favorite designers https://www.ivegotasecretwith are Alexander McQueen, Dior, and robinmcgraw.com my go to is Reformation. I love that store and their designs. They’re not P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 49

Chef, Author, Restaurateur, TV Host

at Cora is a world-renowned chef, author, restaurateur, contributing editor, television host and personality, actress, avid philanthropist, health and fitness expert, lifestyle entrepreneur and proud mother of six. The Jackson, Mississippi native, who trained at the Culinary Institute of America and went on to cook at two 3-star Michelin restaurants in France, has been captivating audiences since she made her TV debut in 1999 as co-host of Food Network’s “Melting Pot” with Rocco Di Spirito. She went on to host “My Country My Kitchen: Greece, Date Plate,” and was one of the featured hosts on Fine Living’s “Simplify Your Life.” Cat is also a woman who holds a series of “firsts” for women in the culinary industry. In 2005, Cat made television history when she became the first-ever female Iron Chef on Food Network’s hit show, “Iron Chef America.” Since then, she has shattered the glass ceiling as one of the first females to dominate the historically male culinary industry. After her Iron Chef debut, she was featured extensively on numerous TV shows, most recently as co-host on Bravo’s “Around the World in 80 Plates” as well as FOX’s “My Kitchen Rules.” In 2006, Cat was awarded Bon

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Appetit Magazine’s “Teacher of the Year Award” and was named the executive chef of the magazine. Since then, she has blazed her own trail through the culinary world, becoming the first female inducted into The American Academy of Chefs Culinary Hall of Fame. Cat has opened more than 18 restaurants across the United States and globally, highlighting her platform on health, wellness and sustainability. They include: Cat Cora’s Kitchen, and Cat Cora’s Gourmet Market, located in numerous airport locations throughout the U.S., Cat Cora’s Taproom located in the Detroit Metro Airport, Ocean by Cat Cora- an award-winning restaurant in Singapore, Kouzzina by Cat Cora at Disney World, CCQ at Macy’s, Postino in San Francisco’s East Bay, Mesa Burger which can be found in Santa Barbara, Goleta and Montecito. Olilo by Cat Cora and Wicked Eats by Cat Cora have over 500 pop-ups across the country. In 2018, Cat was proud to be featured in the permanent collection of the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Museum’s Kitchen Table exhibit in Meridian, Mississippi. In 2019, she served as a judge on ABC’s competition series “Family Food Fight” and founded Little Kitchen

Academy, a Montessori-style culinary school for ages three-teen. She continues to be a leader in her industry as she synchronizes her award-winning talents with mainstream accessibility. Cat is also a prominent published author of three successful cookbooks, one children’s book and her memoir called “Cooking as Fast as I Can: A Chef ’s Story of Food, Family and Forgiveness.” She is the president and founder of Chefs for Humanity, a nonprofit dedicated to reducing hunger worldwide. In 2018, Cat launched her Women’s Empowerment Culinary Internship Program to mentor, give back and help women succeed in the culinary arts. Each year, she and her family will host a female student in culinary school for a week in Santa Barbara, California. The candidate will be given hands-on experience in both the back and front of the house at Cat’s restaurant, Mesa Burger. President Barak Obama awarded Cat the President’s Volunteer Service Award for helping to address the most pressing needs in her community and our country, and The President’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Currently, Cat resides in California with her wife Nicole and their six boys.

As the first ever female Iron Chef, what advice you would give to young women pursuing this career? Women face challenges like media bias, access to capital, sexual harassment, and a lack of affordable and accessible childcare, among other things. The restaurant business has been a male dominated industry for so long that the culture surrounding it isn’t welcoming to women. When I went to France early in my career, I received ten rejection letters in a row saying: “We don’t allow females in our kitchen.” That was just a little over 20 years ago. I definitely believe the scene is changing as more and more female chefs are rising to the top and gaining success, but it’s taken a few trailblazers to get us to where we are now, and we need more! I challenge myself and other women in the industry to excel in whatever we do. We should continue to set a good example for young chefs out there, female as well as male. My advice to young chefs and anyone with a dream is to stay the course, never give up, always pay it forward and don’t be afraid to take risks. Nothing great comes easy, so work your ass off! Did the honor of spending the day with Julia Child when you were just starting out as a chef influence your career? Julia Child was my mentor before and while I was in cooking school. She was really the one who inspired me to go (along with my mom) in the first place. After I met her at a book signing in Natchez, Mississippi, she told me if I wanted to be a chef I should go to CIA, the Culinary Institute of America, and I went very soon after. I graduated with

Cat Cora’s Feta-Mint Tzatziki

Ingredients:

1 cup plain yogurt, strained (see note below) 2 Tbsp. crumbled feta cheese 1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice 2 Tbsp. good extra-virgin olive oil 1 tspn. minced garlic (about 1 large clove) 1 tspn. kosher salt 2 tspn. finely chopped mint 1 medium cucumber, peeled Directions:

• In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients except the cucumber. Using an oldfashioned box grater, grate the cucumber directly over the yogurt mixture. Cover the bowl, put it in the refrigerator, and chill for at least an hour or overnight. Cat’s note: Greek yogurt is so thick you can place a spoon in the middle, walk away, and the spoon will remain standing right where you left it. American yogurt is much thinner. If you don’t have time to strain, don’t worry; you can use the yogurt right out of the carton and the flavor will still be just fine. honors two and a half years later and was able to spend time with Julia again, and visit with her and tell her I had done it. Do you have a favorite recipe you love to make for your family and do any of your children like to cook? I love to cook my mom’s cinnamon stewed chicken, “Kota Kapama,” for my family, and the boys love to help. I give them all different tasks and they all work together as a team. I’m so happy that I get to share my family’s recipe with my boys. How have you incorporated your Greek and Southern heritage into your recipes? I come from a big family in Mississippi. Cooking and spending time in the kitchen together was a big part of my childhood. I grew up Greek Orthodox. My father was Greek American and

my mother was an Air Force daughter whose family lived all over the world. My mother, father, grandmother and my godparents were all great cooks. My father smoked meats and was a grillmeister. My mother and grandmother taught me global cooking, making foods from various regions and of course Greek/ Mediterranean cuisine. All of this influenced how I approached any cuisine, allowing me to make healthier swaps in Southern food with Greek influences, but also being influenced by my training in France. All my experiences influence my recipes. Between being a celebrity chef, author, running your restaurants, hosting TV shows, and being a mother of six, how do you create a work/life balance? My wife Nicole and I always make time for family. Whether it’s going on a walk through the neighborhood (yes all eight of us), surfing, camping, or spending time in nature, we love to do things together and fit it in where we can. It’s hard traveling and being away from your family, but we make the most of the time we have when we are together. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means having a voice. It means being able to know what you want and having a path to achieve it. I want all young chefs to feel empowered. It’s so inspiring to see ambitious youth achieve their dreams. catcora.com

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 51

Recipes

Lettuce “Gyros” Filled with Spicy Halibut, Tomato Salad and Tzatziki

Serves 4-6

by Cat Cora

Ingredients: 2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil (Plus more to sear the fish and oil the baking dish) 4 Tbsp. fresh lime juice 1 tspn. chili powder 1 Tbsp. ground cumin 1 tspn. cayenne pepper 1½ tspn. sea salt ¼ tspn. black pepper (freshly ground) 1½ lb. halibut fillets 5 Roma tomatoes (diced) 1 medium red onion (thinly sliced) ½ cup Kalamata olives (pitted & halved) 1 Tbsp. fresh oregano (finely chopped) 2 Tbsp. fresh flat leaf parsley (coarsely chopped) 2 Tbsp. olive oil (preferably extra virgin) 2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice 1 head butter lettuce 1 head radicchio

Directions: • Preheat the grill to medium-hot or the oven to 350F. • For the halibut: In a baking dish big enough to hold the fillets in a single layer, combine the two tablespoons olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, cayenne, salt and pepper. Add the halibut fillets and turn to coat thoroughly with the marinade. Let the fillets marinate for ten minutes to absorb the flavors while you make the tomato salad. • For the tomato salad: In a medium bowl, mix the tomatoes, onion, olives, oregano, parsley, olive oil, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well. Set aside. • To grill the halibut: To prevent the fish from sticking, brush the fillets

Shrimp and Soba Noodle Stir Fry

with a little olive oil before placing them on the grill. Cook the fillets until they begin to turn opaque on top, three - six minutes. (For halibut steaks, grill a few minutes longer, five – seven minutes.) Using a long-handled spatula, turn the fish carefully and grill on the second side for three - six minutes until the fish is opaque throughout. • To bake the halibut: Pour one tablespoon olive oil into a large skillet over high heat and sear the fish for one minute on each side. Bake the fish in an oiled Pyrex baking dish in the oven until it is firm to the touch and flakes easily when separated with the tines of a fork, ten - 12 minutes for fillets and 12-15 minutes for steaks. When the fish is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest in the pan while you set up the lettuce cups on a large serving platter. • For the lettuce cups: Form the lettuce cups by gently separating the heads of butter lettuce and radicchio. Make a cup by lining a whole leaf of butter lettuce with a radicchio leaf. Flake a generous portion of fish into each lettuce cup or cut the fish into small chunks and divide evenly among the lettuce cups. • Top with the tomato salad. Drizzle with feta-mint tzatziki (see separate recipe), if desired, and garnish with pepperoncini and scallions.

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees. • Meanwhile, saute onion in a bit of

by Denise Austin

olive oil. • If using frozen veggies, microwave them; if using fresh veggies, saute them with the onion. • Whisk eggs together with a splash of milk, which makes the eggs fluffier, and by Elizabeth Wagmeister add a pinch of salt and pepper. Ingredients: • Put cooked veggies and onion in the 1 dozen eggs (I use six full eggs and six casserole dish/baking pan. Directions: egg whites) • Sprinkle spices on top of the veggies Cook soba noodles according to Any type of milk and onion. package (note that soba noodles ¼ onion or a full shallot take less time to cook than other • Pour whisked eggs on top of the veggies. Any other veggies you have on hand, types of pasta). Sauté shrimp in • If you have fresh tomatoes, I like to frozen or fresh olive oil with minced garlic until slice them and put on top of the eggs; Olive oil pink. Add shrimp and steamed Spices (I use dried basil, lemon pepper, they look pretty, add color and taste good. broccoli to the pasta. Drizzle with chili flakes) • Bake for about 20 minutes or until eggs soy sauce. Serve piping hot! Salt and pepper are cooked through. Ingredients: 1 ½ cups soba noodles 3 oz. shrimp 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil ½ tspn. minced garlic 1 cup steamed broccoli 1 tspn. soy sauce

52 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Crust-less Frittata

Jennifer Geisser

s Executive Vice President, Communications and Talent Relations, Lifestyle Networks, NBCUniversal, Jennifer Geisser is the chief spokesperson for Bravo, E!, Oxygen, and Universal Kids. Jennifer spearheads all communications for the four networks, including all corporate initiatives, program publicity, talent relations, awards, and external affairs. Jennifer joined Bravo Communications in 2011, leading Bravo’s successful scripted, unscripted and competition series including, “Vanderpump Rules,” “Below Deck,” “Southern Charm,” “Million Dollar Listing,” and “The Real Housewives” franchise as well as the critically acclaimed “Dirty John,” the Emmy Award-winning “Top Chef,” and “Project Runway.” Most recently, Jennifer has expanded her role to include oversight of communications across all platforms for E!,

including E! News, E! Online, primetime series such as “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” “Very Cavallari,” and “Botched” as well as the network’s popular live events coverage “Live from the Red Carpet,” “E! People’s Choice Awards,” New York Fashion Week, and the Met Gala. In 2018, she was charged with leading Universal Kids communications as well, overseeing series such as “American Ninja Warrior Junior,” and a fresh mix of content including exclusives like “DreamWorks Where’s Waldo?” Before joining Bravo, Jennifer was the senior vice president, communications for Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movie Channel where she developed and executed strategic public relations campaigns targeting both trade and consumer media. Her counsel was instrumental in growing the brand where she oversaw communications for the network’s ad sales, marketing, distribution, and programming divisions. Previously, Jennifer served as the senior vice president of communications for Court TV where she spearheaded publicity efforts for trade, business, and consumer press and played a pivotal role in extending and communicating the brand’s key attributes. Her responsibilities included talent relations, special events, and publicity efforts in support of original and acquired programming, as well as daytime trial coverage. She has also held positions with WEtv, AMC, CBS Television, and Dan Klores Associates. Jennifer graduated from SUNY Albany with a B.A. in Communications and Business. Additionally, she sits on the board of NephCure Kidney International which raises awareness and funds for two chronic kidney diseases – Nephrotic Syndrome and FSGS.

Executive Vice President, Communications and Talent Relations Lifestyle Networks, NBCUniversal As a high-profile Executive Vice President of Communications for major TV networks, what would you say are some of the biggest challenges that you have faced in your career? As a working mom, you feel judgement from others who presume you won’t be as great at your job as before kids, and you feel guilty continuing your career. There is no reason you can’t be successful at both. How did you adjust your communications strategies when you transitioned from the Hallmark Channel to Bravo? Whether at Hallmark Channel or Bravo, I apply my previous experience and skillset to have the most strategic approach and results. I keep a level head and pivot as necessary. Tell us about your efforts to raise awareness and funds for two chronic kidney diseases – Nephrotic Syndrome and FSGS. Why is this important to you? My son suffers from Nephrotic Kidney Syndrome so it is my biggest priority in life to help find a cure for this disease to help him and other children. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment is the process of becoming stronger and more confident. It means being in a position where you’re able to provide opportunity for others and foster growth. Is there something you haven’t accomplished yet that you still want to do? Finding a cure for kidney disease. We’re expanding our NephCure events’ initiatives. We’re having our first Los Angeles fundraiser this year, where patients, their families, and friends come together to show support and donate to the cause. P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 53

eghan FitzGerald is a global healthcare operator, strategist and academic. She has worked in every domain of healthcare from front line care in the emergency room through the Fortune 500 as an executive and board member. Currently Meghan serves as a managing partner at L1 Private Equity, an international investment firm. She leads L1’s Health’s investment vehicle focused on long-term value creation in the biopharma and healthcare services space. Previously, Meghan was the executive vice president of strategy, M&A, and health policy at Cardinal Health and a member of the executive committee. Prior to this role she was the president of Cardinal Health Specialty Solutions, a business that offers services for healthcare providers, payers, and the biopharma industry. Specialty Solutions is one of the fastest growing businesses at Cardinal Health. Meghan was responsible for leading a team that took this underperforming business from under $700 million USD to over $8 billion USD in four years. Before joining Cardinal Health, she was senior vice president of new markets and business development at Medco Health Solutions, Inc. She previously held positions in strategy and marketing at Pfizer, Merck, and Sanofi-Synthelabo. Meghan is a member of the board of directors at Tenet Healthcare, Seniorlink, and at the life science fund

K2HealthVentures, where she is chairman of the board and founding partner. She also volunteers, on the ground, for TrekMedics, a global nonprofit dedicated to bringing emergency care to remote locations in crisis from Haiti to Tanzania. Currently, Meghan serves as an adjunct associate professor teaching the Business of Healthcare at Columbia University in New York. Meghan obtained a Dr.PH. degree at New York Medical College, focusing on health policy and public health. She earned a M.P.H. from Columbia University, and a B.S.N. from Fairfield University. She authored a groundbreaking study on the health of executive women in the Fortune 500 which was featured in a Harvard Business Review article, “The More Women Earn, the Less Healthy They Feel.” This past January, her book “Ascending Davos: A Career Journey from the Emergency Room to the Board Room” was launched by Forbes books. In her spare time, Meghan enjoys running, extreme sports and mixed martial arts. She resides in the West Village of New York and in Naples, Florida with her husband Michael Darda and their rescue Weimaraner dogs.

MEGHAN FITZGERALD Managing Partner | L1 Private Equity

Having worked in every aspect of healthcare, what led you to move into investments? I started out on the front lines taking care of individual patients but have always been interested in population health. Investing and building healthcare companies is an effective way to help many patients at scale. Your groundbreaking study about the health of executive women in Fortune 500 companies is concerning. What can women do to put themselves and their health first despite their demanding careers? Health is your wealth. Learn that early. Probe deeply on whether your job affects your general health, sleep, exercise, medication use, and psychosocial elements of your life. View it as a component of your compensation package. Distance yourself from “sick” bosses and com54 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

panies early. Don’t wait until things are so bad that you can’t construct an effective exit strategy. Tell us about your book, “Ascending Davos: A Career Journey from the Emergency Room to the Board Room.” My book is a reflection on my 20 years in corporate America, and the lessons I learned along the way. I put a premium on education, connections and compensation, later learning the value that personal health has in your choices. I share my learnings and strategies to help individuals navigate their own careers and ascend their own metaphorical mountain in life. www.letterone.com

WOMEN OF THE

Respiratory Therapist | Knox Community Hospital orn into a family of nurses, Rachel ship and Success. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, crafting, cross stitching, Jean Samuels always felt that and spending time with her family. the medical field was somewhat How did you get started in your field/ miraculous. As a respiratory therapist industry? with Knox Community Hospital, she I grew up around the medical field. enjoys helping her patients and feels that My grandmother was an LPN, my it is a blessing to enable them to breathe mother is an RN, and I was in awe of better and have a better quality of life. the medical profession. I started with Rachel earned an A.A. in Early Childchildcare, which evolved into an STNA. hood Education from The Ohio State I chose respiratory therapy due to all the University in 2008, an A.S. in Respimedical advances in the world today. I ratory Care from North Central State want to be able to be there with each College in 2019, and earned her License as a Photographer through the New York advance and help the patient in need. What are some of the biggest challengInstitute of Photography in 2012. She es/obstacles you faced in your career? currently provides respiratory neonatal It took ten years for me to complete my care and assists with endoscopy proceeducation, due to being a full-time stay-atdures. She specializes in bronchoscopy, home mom. I am also a licensed phomechanical ventilation, critical care, and tographer. It can be done, with patience, end of life care. Rachel is a member of humility, hunger, and perseverance. the National Honor Society of Leader-

Month

Rachel Jean Samuels

What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? I believe both men and women face challenges every day. Anyone’s biggest challenges are themselves. What does the word empowerment mean to you? The word empowerment means strength, perseverance, integrity, and growth. www.kch.org

Denise B. Gibson

Human Resources Analyst/Recruitment Omnitrans enise B. Gibson B.S./B.M. from the University What are some of the biggest challenges/ has over 25 years of Phoenix and a Personnel obstacles you faced in your career? experience in human Management and Labor ReLike many women, I worked full-time, resources. Currently, she lations Certification from the went to school to obtain my degree, and serves as Omnitrans’ human University of California- Rivwas a single mother. resources analyst, recruiterside. Denise also holds FTA What do you feel are some of the biggest er, and drug and alcohol Drug/Alcohol Certifications. challenges that women face today? program manager. As such, She is a member of S.H.R.M. I believe that keeping the home stable she is responsible for impleIn her spare time, Denise for your children, continuing your edumenting the agency’s drug enjoys walking with her four cation, and working full time in a very free workplace policy and dogs, kayaking, and spending competitive workforce are some of our FTA regulated drug/alcohol time with her family. biggest challenges. program. Denise has developed and coHow did you get started in your field/ What does the word empowerment ordinated training programs that are FTA industry? mean to you? regulated as well as trained employees in I started my career with the City of Empowerment is the process of the areas of sexual harassment, diversity, Hemet as a HR clerk in the Human becoming stronger and more confident, and office ergonomics. She is responsible Resource Department when I was a especially in pursuing one’s goals and for recruiting, training, drug and alcohol young lady. I reported to the assistant claiming one’s rights. It means accepting program management, and oversees all city manager, Pamela Easter who was the the challenges a woman faces in life. aspects of human resources. She earned a most amazing mentor. Omnitrans.org Owner and Substance Abuse Counselor The Women Half Way Home Foundation elanie Cheatham-Witt is the owner and a substance Previously, Melanie worked in the Ohio Department of Reabuse counselor at the Women Half Way Home habilitations and Corrections as a correctional officer in both Foundation, which was founded in July of 2016. The men’s and women’s correctional facilities and saw the need to foundation is a highly structured residential drug and alcohol further rehabilitate prisoners due to the number of repeat oftreatment center for adult women residing in Ohio suffering fenders coming back to the prison system. People would often from substance use disorders. They utilize core programs of be re-incarcerated because they had no structure in their lives cognitive-behavioral, experiential and 12 step approaches and had never been taught to be self-sufficient, due to drug along with life skills training. Melanie is responsible for over- or alcohol use, and breaking the law to support their habits. seeing the daily operations, running the ten-bed facility, coun- Melanie has also been a foster care provider, adult developseling, hiring, training and supervising the staff, marketing, mental disabilities provider, and has adopted three children of insurance billing and guiding patients to the next level. She her own. In her spare time, she enjoys playing cards, travel, is a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor and is Certified in and spending time with her family. Purchasing. womenhalfwayhome.org

Melanie Cheatham-Witt

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 55

Women

OF THE MONTH Caroline A. Tinaz

Owner Gate Embroidery NY How did you get started in your field/industry? aroline A. Tinaz is the owner of Gate Gate Embroidery was founded in 1996 by my late husband, Embroidery NY, which is an international Berkant Tinaz. He died of a sudden massive heart attack at the full-service contract decoration, embroiage of 51. After experiencing trauma in my life, I decided to dery, and screen-printing company founded on take the torch and run this company. At first, I didn’t know the concept of continually exceeding customer how to run it because he never taught me the business. It was expectations. They are equipped with the most overwhelming initially, but fortunately I found the right people advanced machines and staffed with an elite to help me run the business. team of highly skilled operators. Over the years, Gate Embroidery NY has become one of What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? the largest drop ship locations for garment disThe industry I work in is predominantly male. There aren’t tributors in the North East. They decorate over too many female owners in this type of industry. The biggest 1.5 million garments a year and are an authochallenge I face is sometimes I am overlooked and not taken serirized decorator for North Face, Under Armour, ously. Because I am a woman, people tend to think that I don’t and Puma brand apparel. know the industry and try to take advantage of that. Slowly Caroline is responsible for overseeing the daily operations, people are changing their minds and respecting me. quality oversight, customer service and satisfaction, screen What does the word empowerment mean to you? printing, and embroidery services. She received an M.F.A. Empowerment means self-control, leadership, and confifrom Pratt University in 2001. In her spare time, she enjoys dence to go and make a difference in this world today. travel, visiting art museums, and painting. www.gatenewyork.com Director, Account Services, North America Iron Mountain Entertainment Services motivate and mentor top-perAfter rising into oshan N. Kindred is the director forming talent to produce global leadership, I realized of account services, North America results. She received her M.B.A. there were no women with Iron Mountain Entertainment in Strategic Marketing from the at the table and none of Services, which specializes in preserving, University of Phoenix in 2001. color. That is the day I archiving, and restoring some of the Roshan is the founder and chair decided to become the world’s greatest recorded musical works. of the Black Colleagues of ERG, difference. I became a With 11 years experience, Roshan is the vice president of the Pamona change agent. responsible for developing customer Valley Chapter of Delta Sigma What are some of the engagement strategies, overseeing orgaTheta, a member of the Nationbiggest challenges/obnizational and development strategies, al Black Business Association, and the stacles you faced in your career? and serving as a liaison for marketing B.W.B.O. In her spare time, she enjoys Educating individuals on the value of and advertising strategies, along with water sports, winter sports, and spending diversity, equity, and inclusion when they development and training. She is also time with her family. are comfortable in the established viewresponsible for archiving, sales, and How did you get started in your field/ point has been a challenge. I overcome developing customer relations. industry? this obstacle by showcasing the value and As an innovative and strategic business I started in entertainment as a senior innovation that comes from diversity. leader, Roshan utilizes her ability to marketing manager for DIRECTV. www.ironmountain.com

Roshan N. Kindred

Malula B. Arias

alula B. Arias is the manager of Arias Law Offices. With over 15 years experience, Malula is responsible for managing the law office and is a marketing, advertising, and public relations specialist. She earned a B.A. in International Marketing and Advertising from the Instituto Universitario de Nuevas Profesiones in 1988. She is experienced in radio, television, and print media. Currently the host of her own weekly show “Malula con la Comunidad” (Malula with the Community) on MiraTV Orlando, she showcases a wide variety of local and national personalities. Malula has had the show for a decade and offers valuable information to listeners on topics

56 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Manager | Arias Law Offices that range from legal issues, immigration, health, civil rights and community services, and additionally offers a variety of interesting interviews on social and civic matters. Devoted to performing good deeds, particularly those that benefit the Hispanic community, Malula participates in events, fairs, and activities in Central Florida, actively engaging and lending support through her radio program. She has received numerous commendations and awards for her commitment and contributions to the community as well as for her support of civil rights for Latinos and immigrants in general. In her spare time, Malula enjoys yoga and spending time with her family. abogadoarias.com

Ankita Patel

Professional Instructor and Owner | Kumon Math and Reading Center of Forney

nkita Patel is the owner and an instructor at the Kumon Math and Reading Center of Forney, which provides supplemental math and reading education for Pre-k through 12th grade students. As an extensively trained and certified professional instructor, and the proud parent of a Kumon Dual Program completer, she serves as a mentor who guides children through their work while also providing direction, support, and encouragement. Ankita creates an at-home study plan in addition to monitoring classroom assignments. She emphasizes the importance of accurately completing each assignment within a designated time frame. This helps many of her students increase their self-confidence and become more self-reliant. She received her B.B.A. from the University of Texas at

Arlington and is Certified in Kumon. Ankita has a true passion for education and an earnest desire to help children succeed. Ankita was motivated to open her own Kumon Center in Forney because she used to travel over 45 minutes each way to take her own son to a Kumon Center. Luckily, there was an expansion area available locally and her dream of opening her own center came true. Helping children excel and do well in school has always been her dream. Now she can bring the individualized benefits of the Kumon Program to children within her own community and know that she has a direct impact on their future. In her spare time, Ankita enjoys cooking, Indian singing, and dancing. www.kumon.com/forney

Sandra K. Sullivan

andra K. Sullivan is an independent beauty consultant with Mary Kay. She is responsible for consulting with customers regarding their skincare routine, educating them regarding which products best suit their skin, and serves as a color consultant. Sandra sells a variety of beauty products and oversees a team of three. She also gives classes for businesses and individuals. She attended college. In her spare time, Sandra enjoys cooking and needlecrafts. How did you get started in your field/ industry?

I have used Mary Kay products since I was 14 years old. I love the products and believe that all women should have the opportunity to try them, use them and love them as well. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? The biggest challenge that women face today is themselves. Many women do not understand or believe that they are

Alberta S. Cotner

s a small child, Alberta Cotner and her family traveled throughout the nation, as her father aspired to be a Country Western singer. This experience became integral to her innate ability of making up stories about the places they visited and the people they met. After taking a creative writing course in high school, she embraced writing and journaling as a hobby and joined the U.S. Navy, serving as a welder, a firefighter, an instructor, and a corrections specialist among many other roles before having a serious accident, which severed her naval career.

Alberta moved back to the Midwest and started a new life, fought and survived cancer and the devastating loss of her son, and started writing again. She now serves as an author, ghost writer, counselor, and inspirational speaker. Alberta is a member of the Authors Independent Alliance. She is currently working on a novel, “Charley’s Breaking Point,” regarding obstacles faced in life, due this year. In her spare time, she enjoys horses, Mini Australian Shepherds, reading, writing, working with young adults in a local youth program, working with a local elderly center, shar-

Independent Beauty Consultant Mary Kay truly beautiful. We are our own worst critic and that needs to change. Beauty comes from within and when we love ourselves that inner beauty shines through. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment is becoming stronger and more confident by taking control of your own thoughts and actions. It’s never missing an opportunity to elevate others to greater heights.

Author and Ghost Writer ing her stories, and bringing the residents happiness. How did you get started in your field/ industry? I have always journaled since taking a creative writing class in high school. Journaling allowed me a place to express my thoughts and feelings. After the death of my son, journaling helped me to really express my emotions. After that, I began writing to share myself and my experiences with others. What do you feel are some of the biggest challenges that women face today? I feel the most common challenge is having the support of our peers… no matter what position, job or title they may have in their business. We, as women, need to be proud and be there for each other. albertacotner.net

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 57

Lidia Szczepanowski

President & CEO Sculptura Fashions Everything Lidia, Inc.

idia Szczepanowski, Esq. exemplifies the real-life embodiment of success, independence, entrepreneurship, and glamour. She has acquired a plethora of knowledge over the years as a litigation attorney, businesswoman, media producer and host, keynote speaker, black belt in karate, and beauty queen. Her latest achievement, the creation of her patented Sculptura® figure enhancing and body contouring premium dress system, is a physical manifestation of the decades of unique experiences and useful information she picked up along the way. Sculptura Fashions incorporates innovative body sculpting technology and tools that let women customize their desired body silhouette instantly. According to several industry experts, the Sculptura figure enhancing dress system may change the landscape of the fashion industry. Lidia began her journey as the child of working-class Polish immigrants. Overcoming many economic and personal challenges, including a sexual assault as a young teen, she refused to accept adversity as an excuse to settle for second best. She received a B.B.A. in International Business from Hofstra University and a J.D. from St. John’s University School of Law. She interned in the U.S. District Court for the E.D.N.Y. and the New York State Appellate Division and ran her own law firm for over two decades. Although Lidia has recently chosen to focus her attention exclusively on developing and growing her Sculptura fashions brand, she continues to maintain an “of counsel” relationship with several law firms. Despite her extraordinarily busy schedule, Lidia is passionate about giving back through proactive hands-on participation in philanthropy and charitable activities. In 2007, she founded the National Organization for Women’s Safety Awareness (NOWSA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that raises awareness about the prevalence of sexual assault and other forms of violence and harassment against women and teens in our society. NOWSA focuses on prevention, risk reduction, and avoidance through its educational programs, initiatives, and events. In addition to her winning record as a lawyer, women’s lifestyle and personal safety expert, and businesswoman, Lidia has also managed to incorporate some glamour into her life. She holds the titles of Mrs. New York America 2006, Mrs. New York International 2009, Mrs. Corporate America 2013 and Ms. World Elite 2017-18. Although Lidia’s pageant platform is women’s safety awareness, she has also promoted the ideology that there are no limits to what women in our country can achieve. She encourages women to celebrate their achievements, accomplishments, and contributions to their families, careers, and communities. Her mission continues to be to make a positive difference in the lives of women by helping them realize their true self-worth and reach their maximum potential. Lidia formed Everything Lidia Inc., a multi-media lifestyle enterprise that celebrates smart, stylish, stiletto clad women who are passionate about designing a meaningful, fulfilling, successful, and fabulous life, so she can continue to build on her inspirational message that is directed at women of all ages who believe in “Getting, Having & Enjoying It All™.” Among many accolades, Lidia was selected twice by Long Island Business News as one of Long Island’s Top 50 Most Influential Women in Business and was awarded a prestigious Folio Award for being “Best Corporate Communicator” by The Fair Media Council. During her free time, she enjoys dirt bike riding, fitness training, martial arts, playing tennis, skiing, windsurfing, boating, and jumping waves on her jet ski with her husband and three adult children.

How has competing in beauty pageants changed your life? I competed in my first pageant when I was 41 years old and I had absolutely no idea what I was doing. Back then I didn’t realize that competing in a pageant was like participating in a competitive sport. Most contestants hire a pageant coach and personal trainer, a hair, makeup and wardrobe professional, an interview consultant, and the list goes on. I had no idea how complicated pageantry could be and I certainly received a phenomenal education in fashion and beauty. Despite me “winging it,” I am proud to say that I won my first pageant and the title of Mrs. NY America 2006, which changed my life forever. During my pageant journey I learned that you can add extensions to your hair, glue on false lashes, add silicone “chicken cutlets” to your bust and booty, and even spray tan a six-pack on your abs, but you can’t fake who you are inside. I became an instant role model for women of all ages and a spokesperson for my pageant platform, women’s safety awareness. I was also given the occasion to share the ideology that there are no limits to what women in our country can achieve. Today, although I am no longer a reigning queen, I continue to encourage women to celebrate and honor everything about themselves including their achievements, contributions to their families and communities, careers, and their bodies. Pageants have changed my life in many extraordinary ways, but the most important is that they have given me the opportunity to meet so many remarkable women from all over the world- many of whom are now lifelong friends. I wouldn’t be the person I am today had I not been a part of that world. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment is a multi-dimensional movement that helps people continue to develop their sense of self-worth, their right to equality, and having equal access to opportunities and resources. It embodies their right to have power and control over choices about their lives. Empowerment promotes the improvement of a person’s social, economic, political, and health status. www.everythinglidia.com www.sculpturafashions.com

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WHAT’S WITH

Trending

Sara Anne

Sara.Fingerman@ powerwoe.com Find me on Instagram: @ Saraanne122883

By Sara Anne Huenke Contributing Writer

Gravity Weighted Sleep Mask I don’t know about you but I need a pitch black room for a pitch perfect sleep. I tried the Manta Sleep Mask. It fits like a glove, is comfortable and blocks out 100% of light. $29.99 MantaSleep.com

Fashion Trends Cropped Pants Bermuda-style long shorts, culottes, wide-leg styles and short hems were all over the runways for Spring 2020. Pair them with kneehigh boots, flipflops or strappy sandals this season.

Exercise Trend Fitnation Flex Bikes Working out at home doesn’t have to be expensive. With thousand’s of online classes and equipment that begins under $250 you can maintain a beach body on your own time. I take the On Demand Classes and saw results after two weeks! Fitnation.com Photo: buyfitnation.com

Fried Chicken for Breakfast? My favorite binge is a classic Egg McMuffin from McDonald’s. Now other popular food chains are jumping on the breakfast band wagon. Wendy’s is offering a “Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit.” This sandwich is a buttermilk biscuit with fried chicken topped with whipped honey butter. Would you try it?

Photo: Agatha Silva Pexels

Silent Disco Celebrity Cruise’s, Onmi Hotel’s and Resorts and other hospitality companies are opting for silent dance parties to add to their itineraries. Silent disco is an event where people dance to music using wireless headphones. You choose your own music! Enjoy dancing to your own beat while mixing with others.

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Boozy Book Clubs Sometimes the book . . . Actually the book is ALWAYS better then the movie. This spring, gather your girlfriends and pair wine with the book of the month! Please refer to page 78 for our recommendations. Ladies are opting for boozy Book Club gatherings over dinner with friends.

Photo: celebritycruisesentertainment.com

Jennifer Gibson Real Estate Agent Waterfront Realty

Jennifer Gibson

ennifer Gibson is an entrepreneur, top-performing real estate agent, and residential designer in Southwest Florida. Jennifer began her journey in business at the age of six working in her family’s gas station and car wash. She was raised to have integrity and a good work ethic. Her parents have always had their own businesses, so she is following in their footsteps. Jennifer is a licensed real estate agent with The Waterfront Realty group, the owner of Rita’s Italian Ice in Naples, and an awarded operator of Lowdermilk Beach, which is one of the best beaches in Naples. She is also a member of the National Association of Realtors. With close ties to the business community in Naples, Jennifer specializes in point-to-point customer care from retirees to high profile executives relocating to Florida. Her entrepreneurial and business background gives her a birds-eye view to match the supply of housing with a steadily growing demand for it. Jennifer strives to provide services for her clients that goes above and beyond finding them the perfect home. She has occasionally acted as her clients’ contractor, personal shopper, and allaround information consultant. In her spare time, Jennifer enjoys rollerblading, taking long bike rides along the coast, and working out at the YMCA. She believes we have all been placed on this earth to help people and that’s how she operates. She tries to do everything with JOY (J-Jesus O-others Y-yourself ) and in that order. Jennifer aspires to make her clients’ transition to Naples a pleasant experience. She has developed close friendships with many of her customers and has always tried to transcend the standard realtor experience. www.waterfrontrealtygroup. com/ourteam/jennifergibson/ P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 61

By Dr. Maria Levada

Medical Director, Prism Med Spa

enopause is primary ovarian failure causing permanent cessation of menstruation. It is defined as the time of the last period followed by 12 consecutive months of amenorrhea (no periods). Menopause transition or perimenopause begins with variability of menstrual cycle length and ends with the final menstrual period. Postmenopause is the period of life after the final menses.

The age of menopause has not significantly changed since Ancient Greece and occurs at a mean age of 51 years. This remains constant despite a great increase in life expectancy. We can now expect to grow old! In 1900, life expectancy in the United States reached only 49 years. In 2005, the average life expectancy for women was 80.7 years and for men 75.4 years. Today, once women reach the age of 65, we can then expect to live to reach 85. This means that most women can expect to live 30 plus years in the postmenopausal state. Attitude and expectations about menopause are very important. Menopause is a “normal” physiologic event, not a disease state. The symptoms that women report are related to many variables within their lives and are conditioned by sociocultural factors. Sometimes it is hard to determine biologic versus cultural variability. For instance, in Japanese, Chinese, and Mayan, there is no word to describe “hot flash.” Medical intervention by a healthcare professional should be sought for at this point in life. It is an opportunity to address the principle health concerns of postmenopausal women by providing and reinforcing a program of preventive health care. Maintaining health is much easier than regaining it. DNA analysis and “epigenetics” have revolutionized medicine so that “one size does not 62 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

fit all” thus enabling a shift away from treatment by medication or surgery toward prevention (of illness) and postponement (of the aging process) of the “whole” individual. The principle health concerns of postmenopausal women include: • Vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats)

These affect up to 75% of women and usually last for 1-2 years but may continue for ten years or longer. Although there are many herbal supplements available for mild to moderate symptoms, systemic estrogen therapy is the most effective for severe, disruptive symptoms, and the only therapy currently FDA approved for this indication. • Cardiovascular disease

Diseases of the heart are the leading cause of death for women followed by cerebrovascular disease and malignancy. In 2005, one in six female deaths was from coronary heart disease compared to one in 30 for breast cancer. Most cardiovascular disease results from atherosclerosis in major vessels and the risk factors are the same for men and women. However, men prior to age 40 have two times the risk of developing coronary heart disease than women. This is due to the protective effects of estrogen on our blood vessel walls (direct anti-atherosclerotic effects, coronary artery vasodilator, protects endothelial cells that line the blood

vessels,) and our lipids (an antioxidant that inhibits bad cholesterol [LDL] and increases good cholesterol [HDL] levels). The important role of estrogen in maintaining good cardiovascular health should not be ignored as primary prevention (in addition to smoking cessation, and weight reduction, if applicable). • Osteoporosis

Bone is an active organ in a continuous process of “remodeling” involving resorption (osteoclastic activity) and formation (osteoblastic activity). Age-related changes in vitamin D and calcium metabolism, and a loss of estrogen both lead to excessive resorption (osteoclastic activity). Osteoporosis is the most prevalent bone problem in the elderly and a major global public health problem. It is epidemic in the U.S., affecting over 10 million Americans (four times more women than men). Hormone therapy at the time of menopause effectively prevents and treats osteoporosis and reduces the number of all osteoporotic fractures. • Urogenital atrophy

With extremely low estrogen production in post-menopause, atrophy (thinning) of the vaginal mucosal surfaces takes place accompanied by vaginal dryness, pruritis (itching), dyspareunia (painful intercourse), stenosis (narrowing of entry), urgency incontinence, urinary frequency, urethritis (inflammation

of urethra), and recurrent urinary tract infections. All of these symptoms can effectively be prevented by postmenopausal intravaginal estrogen treatment. Additionally, a decline in skin collagen content, elasticity, and skin thickness that occurs with aging can be considerably avoided by postmenopausal estrogen therapy. • Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality in American men and women (87% of deaths occur in smokers and twice as many deaths in women than breast cancer). Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and second leading cause of cancer death. About 95% of all breast cancers occur after age 40 and are a prominent factor in clinical decision-making regarding postmenopausal hormone therapy. The facts are that estrogen has not been found to initiate malignant growth. Women who are on hormone therapy at the time of diagnosis of breast cancer do better and live longer than those who were not on hormone therapy at time of diagnosis. Colon cancer ranks third in both incidence and mortality and is more prevalent than cancers of the uterus or ovary. Studies have shown a reduction (by 30% or more) of colorectal cancer

incidence and mortality rates in current hormone therapy users with increased effect the longer the duration of use. • Cognitive decline

Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia. Elevated homocysteine levels with decreases in folic acid and hormone levels may predict risk for Alzheimer’s disease. The favorable effects of hormone therapy on cognition and the risk of Alzheimer’s disease are limited to women who initiate treatment close to their menopause, and to those who initiated at least ten years before the symptoms of dementia appear. One trial conducted by the National Institute of Health between 1965 and 1993 reported that higher midlife tofu (soy) consumption is associated with poor cognitive test performance, and other subsequent randomized trials have detected no effects (positive or negative) of soy protein, red clover or black cohosh on memory, cognition, executive function or measures of quality of life.

• Sexual problems

The decline in sexual activity with aging is influenced more by culture and attitudes (influenced by stress, anxiety, depression, fatigue, and medications) than by nature and physiology (or hormones). However, a significant component of this decline can be attributed to menopausal symptoms associated with decreasing estrogen levels (vaginal dryness, atrophy and elasticity) that can easily be ameliorated by estrogen treatment. Prior level of sexual activity, partner status, and relationship are more important factors than hormone levels in determining sexual function during the perimenopausal and menopausal transition. In conclusion, menopause should not be a signal of impending decline but a physiologic event that should bring clinicians and patients together and provide an opportunity for education in health care and health maintenance. Medical intervention at this point in life offers women years of benefit from primary preventive healthy lifestyle changes.

Dr. Maria E. Levada is the medical director for Prism MedSpa in Roslyn, New York. She is on the Medical Advisory Board and is a consultant for Integrated Genetic Solutions. Dr. Levada is a graduate of New York University and SUNY Downstate College of Medicine, Board-Certified in OB/GYN and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, American College of Surgeons and the Nassau Academy of Medicine. She is currently an assistant professor teaching at NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine in Old Westbury, Long Island and is a preceptor at her active practice, and for the Molloy College and Long Island University Graduate Program of Nurse Practitioners.

www.prismmedspa.com

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Tiffany Castillo

iffany Castillo is a New York based choreographer, director and entrepreneur who has always pushed the limits in the entertainment and media industry. She utilized her talents to create a mega entertainment brand and bring forth an independent stream of new talent. Her company, Trademark Talent NY, is a talent resource, casting, celebrity booking and artist development company, representing hundreds of dancers, models, musicians, music artists, and many other various talents. Trademark Talent NY has worked on major cross-country tours, mega amphitheaters and stages, music videos for some of the biggest celebrities of our time, international television commercials, and Tiffany’s own self-produced reality television series. She started her career on the iHeartRadio FM radio station. Her diligence and passion for the industry has enabled her work to be on display on some of the biggest networks and platforms. Tiffany refers to herself as a “selfmade” entrepreneur in a demanding industry, paving the way for future stars of tomorrow. Recently, Tiffany was named a Long Island Angel, receiving an Angel Award at their Gala commemorating the 4th year of honoring and recognizing empowering women in a diversity of areas, including business development, philanthropy and volunteerism.

Choreographer, Director, Entrepreneur, FM Radio Personality | Trademark Talent NY

Tiffany’s roots date back to gaining a reputation as a key choreographer. Trademark Talent started as a small dance company that performed with music artists on tours and music videos to help maximize their brand and projects. Soon after, she started expanding her brand as a casting manager and creative director to help push forth the talents of these dancers, models, and emerging artists. Locally she works with many Long Island entertainment movers and shakers and can be seen working on tons of events. On the national level, Tiffany has worked and or toured with MTV’s Justina Valentine, Real Housewives of New Jersey member Milania Giudice, Aaron Carter, The Chainsmokers, Jenna Rose, the Jonas Brothers, Camila Cabella, and NYFW. She has worked on national commercials, A-list showcases, hundreds of music videos, and more. Trademark Talent NY is now a major casting and brand development network. Tiffany books individuals both nationally and internationally with her development program. In addition to planning entertainment events, she continually plans benefits for both local charities like SASI Toys of Hope and countless large fundraising entities. In her spare time, she enjoys singing and dancing, finding new talent, and fundraising. www.trademarktalentny.com

Angela Lewis

ctress Angela Lewis is returning for a fourth season of FX’s hit crime drama “Snowfall” in 2020, which was one of legendary filmmaker John Singleton’s last projects before passing away. Angela, returning as ‘Aunt Louie Saint,’ a hardened and tough-asnails drug-addict with ambitious dreams to escape the world of South-Central Los Angeles, is set to showcase her dramatic acting chops. After announcing her pregnancy to the world via Instagram on Easter of 2019, Angela and her husband J. Mallory Cree proudly brought their new baby girl into the world. The first-time mom is excited to discuss her expectations vs the reality of being a working mom in the entertainment industry, as well as what it means to be a strong black woman and setting an example for her daughter to follow. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Angela credits her drive and success to the city of Detroit and the public-school education she received attending Cass Tech High School, where she was active

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in theater and found a role model in teacher Marilyn McCormick. At the age of three, she desired to be an actress and soon became the entertainer of the family. Her very supportive family had provided her with saxophone, dance, jazz, and tap lessons, which molded her into a performer. She received a degree in Theater Performing at the University of Michigan, and then moved to New York City to pursue her acting career. She was soon booking lead roles on the stage for Off-Broadway plays “History of the Word” and “Milk like Sugar,” which won the 2012 Obie Award for Playwriting and 2011 San Diego Critics Circle Craig Noel Award for Outstanding New Play. Angela landed

Actress her first television role on the HBO critically acclaimed drama series “The Big C” as the role of Laura Linney’s nurse. She quickly began working as a voice over and commercial talent for brands such as Verizon, AT&T Wireless, and McDonalds. With appearances in many popular hit TV shows, such as TNT’s “The Last Ship,” Nickelodeon’s “iCarly,” CBS’s “Code Black,” and ABC’s Emmy-award winning show “Ocean Mysteries with Jeff Corwin,” Angela has solidified herself as an in-demand talent. Currently, Angela resides in Los Angeles with her husband and fellow co-actor J. Mallory Cree. She spends her time between her film and TV projects by giving back to The Cancer Society of America, Black & Missing, and the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. She spends her spare time with yoga, weightlifting, and dance classes. Angela is vegan, which helps her in making fun food recipes. She loves to dabble in arts and crafts.

CHERYL Author

Cuccio

heryl A. Cuccio, wife, mother, incest and abuse survivor and aspiring author, has been married to her soul mate Robert Cuccio for 31 years. Unlike her own childhood horror, Cheryl is a mother who dedicates herself to being a role model for their two extremely intelligent, well-educated daughters. She takes great pride in the women they have become. Despite her early years, she is a strong, confident woman who aspires to be a best-selling author and motivational speaker. Throughout Cheryl’s life she has experienced many unbelievable trials and tribulations and intends to use her knowledge and experiences to help as many people as she can. She became a survivor through strength and perseverance. Her book is available on Amazon, Kindle and in ebook formats. Who should read this book: • Rape and abuse survivors • Women or men in crisis • Fans of true crime books and shows • Social workers • Teachers • Fans of spiritual and inspirational books • General population Cherylcuccio.com

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LAURA POSADA L

aura Posada is a woman of many talents. She is a mother, attorney, motivational speaker, author, certified master life coach, certified personal trainer, TV personality, philanthropic figure and creator of the 40 is the new 20 Movement. Through her social media messaging, weekend retreats and 21 day Transformation Course she provides a complete guide to wellness that includes exercise, nutrition, mindset, and motivation. She has a powerful online presence with more than 600,000 followers across her platforms. Laura was chosen by People en Español magazine as one of the Most Powerful Women of 2016 and also Vanidades Woman by the prestigious magazine in the same year. Currently, she is the brand ambassador for Wonderful Pistachios promoting healthy eating habits. She was the first Latina to work as a spokesperson for the brand. Her campaign received two Bravo awards for campaign of the year in the Health and Nutrition category and in the Food and Drink category as well. A proven, experienced life coach, Laura showcased her expertise as the life coach for the contestants on the TV show “Nuestra Belleza Latina” on Univision and as producer and host of the TV show “Manual de Supervivencia con Laura Posada” (Survival Guide with Laura Posada), which aired on Utilisima and FoxLife. She has also appeared as a regular contributor on NBC’s national morning program “The Today Show” to showcase her life coaching tips and makes regular appearances on Univision’s “Despierta América” amongst others. She has a Podcast discussing different topics of interest, all under the 40 is the new 20 theme. She discusses how you must change your state of mind, attitude, eating habits, and workout in your forties so that you can make this decade the best one of your life. Laura shares the best tips, tricks, and secrets that can make you feel and look like you’re just getting started. Laura has travelled around the United States and Latin America serving as a keynote and motivational speaker for audiences up to 9,000 attendees in destinations including New York, Miami, Atlanta, Las Vegas, Washington, San Juan, Mexico, Panama, Guatemala, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and Peru. Every day, she transforms the lives of those she touches inspiring them with her strength and fighting spirit. Additionally, she has appeared in many radio and TV shows such as: Discovery Channel’s “American Chopper,” ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” “The Doctors,” E! True Hollywood Stories’ “Baseball Wives,” “The Wendy Williams Show,” and HBO’s “Bryant Gumbel Real Stories.” 66 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Motivational Speaker, Life Coach, Attorney, TV Personality

Tell us about your 40 is the new 20 Movement. This movement comes from my own fear of turning 40 and thinking that everything would go downhill from then on. I realized that at 40 you can still be beautiful and fit, live a happy and full life, start new projects, and keep dreaming. I wanted to share this realization with all my followers, so I created the movement. As the first Latina spokesperson for Wonderful Pistachios, how have you been able to break through stereotypical barriers in your career? Sometimes, we Latinos sabotage ourselves, because many of the existing negative stereotypes arise from our own community. If we change our mindset about ourselves, celebrate diversity, take pride in our culture and achievements, and show what makes us special, we can free ourselves from all stereotypes and succeed anywhere. What are some key factors you use to inspire and motivate people as a speaker all over the U.S. and Latin America? My own personal history, an event that changed my life, related to my first childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health. I was able to overcome it, but during the process I learned a lot about life and the true meaning of happiness. I want to let people know that, no matter what situation they are facing, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. How has The Jorge Posada Foundation (co-founded with your husband in honor of your son) raised awareness of Craniosynostosis and helped others going through the same situation? We like to help by letting these people know that they are not alone, that although this can happen, their children still can have healthy and happy lives. Our foundation merged with a larger organization, called My Face Foundation, dedicated to transforming the lives of patients with all craniofacial conditions.

As an attorney, motivational speaker, author, certified master life coach, certified personal trainer, TV personality, philanthropic figure, wife and mother, how do you manage to juggle all these roles and still find time for yourself? I always find time for myself because I am convinced that if I want to be there for my family, my friends, my job, etc., first I must take care of myself. Only then will I have the health, the strength, and the energy I need to be helpful to others and be present when they need me. As a life coach, what are three of the most important things people should do to help themselves live a better life? Believe that every obstacle can become an opportunity; set your goals and identify failures as a normal part of the process of living; and be grateful for what you have. I must add a fourth recommendation that I consider really important: Always stay active (physically, mentally, spiritually, economically, etc.).

You founded the Puerto Rico Hurricane Relief Foundation in response to the devastation caused in Puerto Rico from Hurricane Maria which has raised over $1M. How have these funds been used to assist Puerto Rico? Along with partners like Derek Jeterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Turn 2 Foundation, FedEx and Foundation for Puerto Rico we focused first on transporting hundreds of patients with urgent medical needs to the United States to receive treatment here. We also distributed food, water, toiletries, and basic items in the areas of greatest need, among many other activities to promote tourism and boost the economy of the island. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment is the firm conviction that you have control over your life and the capacity, the strength, and anything you need to overcome the barriers to express and get what you want. An empowered person is never a victim. Instead, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s someone who takes responsibility for their own destiny. www.lauraposada.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 67

Katrina D’Onofrio

Q&A’s

atrina D’Onofrio is a professional makeup artist. She graduated from Long Island Nail and Skin Care Institute of New York in 2003. She then began her journey as a freelance makeup artist catering to brides and local professionals, working with all age groups. She specializes in creating the appearance of flawless skin and captivating eyes. Her work became recognized by some of the industry leaders in PR which then began her career in the celebrity world. Among others, Katrina’s work has been featured in Us Weekly, People Magazine, New York Fashion Week, BRAVO, MTV, and CBS. Katrina is passionate about making her client’s look and feel their very best. Her training and experience in the industry has made her an expert in creating a flawless look for any special day. She is well known for her attention to detail. With each client, she creates a customized look that will bring out their best features. Her warm and inviting nature creates an environment that keeps her clients coming back. www.makeupbykatrinanyc.com Facebook: MakeupbyKatrinanyc Instagram: @makeupbykatrinanyc

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Makeup Artist Makeup by Katrina NYC Corp. with Makeup Artist Katrina D’Onofrio

It seems that highlightBefore ing the face is the “in” thing. What parts of the face should be highlighted and what does this do? Fashion week this season is all about colorful sparkly eyes and dewy skin. Mix your favorite foundation with a liquid highlighter (from After BECCA Cosmetics, for example) and apply it all over your face to give you a healthy-looking glow. My eyebrows are very sparse, and I do not want to get microblading. Can you suggest a good eye pencil? Full brows are all the rage and never go out of style. I highly recommend going to Celebrity Brow Guru Sanias Brow Bar in NYC where the girls are trained on not only how to shape your brows, but personally advise you on how to grow and shape your brows with their personal eyebrow pencils. If that’s too far for you, another option is to visit a local Benefit Cosmetics Counter. They will shape your brows and provide you with the right shade to match from their own brow collection. I have very tired looking, small eyes. What can I do to make them look open and bigger? Add a natural beige eyeliner to your waterline (the area between your lower lashes and your actual eye). It will help open the eye, reduce redness, and make blue or green eyes more pronounced. Is black eyeliner a good color for everyone to use? Black is a universal shade that can be used on everyone. However, understand that if you place it on your waterline you will create an illusion of a smaller eye. So, if you look tired or have small eyes, you should refrain from using it. I tend to wear pale color lipsticks day and night. Are pale colors OK for all occasions? And what color lip liner should I wear with Before pale lipstick? There’s nothing wrong with a neutral tone. It never goes out of date. However, this spring season, trend is all about a bold lip. Try getting out of your comfort zone by filling in your brows, putting on some mascara and add a pop of After color on those lips.

Andrea Jones

communications professional with experience in both marketing and journalism, Andrea Jones is the marketing manager of Rivkin Radler LLP, a Uniondale, New York-based law firm with 200 attorneys across five offices and 21 practice groups. In her role at Rivkin, Andrea helps lead the firm’s marketing communications and business development activities. Her responsibilities include public relations, content development, award submissions, RFP responses, and overseeing the firm’s CRM program. She is also the firm’s resident editor, helping translate dense and scholarly legal articles into accessible items for the website and email campaigns. Andrea is the founder of On Target Marketing, which provides marketing communications planning, strategic counsel, and execution for professional services firms and B2B companies. Previously, Andrea served as the editor of Long Island Business News (LIBN), where she led an award-win-

Marketing Manager Rivkin Radler LLP

ten years. She also managed a group of technology accounts for a notable Manhattan advertising agency. In 2016, Andrea was honored with the Achievement in Communications Award from IABC’s Long Island Chapter, and in 2012 she received LISTnet’s Diamond Award for her support of the region’s tech sector. In 2011 the Long Island Women’s Agenda named her a Community Leader and NAWBO Long Island named Andrea a Businesswoman of Excellence. When not working, Andrea is busy rehearsing with the Greater Nassau Chorus, an internationally recognized chapter of Sweet Adening team of journalists covering one lines International, where she sings the bass part. For five years, Andrea of the most diverse business beats in was a mentor with the Moxxie Menthe nation. Under her leadership, LIBN received 18 awards in the New toring Foundation. Andrea holds an M.B.A. in MarYork Press Association’s Better Newsketing from the Anderson Graduate paper Contest in 2011 and 2012; Andrea personally received two. Prior School of Management at UCLA. She earned a B.A. in English, Phi to LIBN, Andrea was a copy editor Beta Kappa, magna cum laude, also at CMP Media and ran a profitable from UCLA. marketing communications firm for

Why did you choose a career in marketing? I’ve always made it my business to understand how people work. Marketing is all about understanding consumer behavior. I also enjoy the more creative aspects of marketing that involve the written word. What is one strategy that has helped you grow professionally? It’s more of a personality trait than a strategy: I have always stayed curious, which has allowed me to adapt to the changes in marketing technology over the years I’ve been doing this work. What advice would you give to women looking to work in the marketing field? Marketing is such a broad field spanning every industry imaginable. Find a specialization and/or industry focus that fuels your passion. Mine were writing and strategy development. The strategy is where it all starts; it provides the “why” for every marketing tactic.

Tell us about the Moxxie Mentoring Foundation, Inc. and its mission to mentor young women? For five years I mentored groups of young women in their twenties and early thirties. I watched the mentees grow in their confidence and acumen. Many have gotten raises and promotions. Some have moved on to more challenging situations. It was very rewarding. Do you have any hobbies or special interests? As a former classical pianist and choral singer, I missed having music in my life. After a 30-year break, I just joined the Greater Nassau Chorus, which is an a capella singing group and a chapter of the Sweet Adelines International. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means having the confidence, skills and resources to achieve personal and professional goals. www.rivkinradler.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 69

Susan Zemser Israel

Owner | 3 Lovebugs/dba Entrée Boutique

n experienced businesswoman, Susan Zemser Israel was the owner of 3 Lovebugs/dba Entrée Boutique, which was a fashion boutique in Port Washington, New York. The shop carried women’s and teenage girls’ clothing and accessories. Susan was a buyer and stylist. She was responsible for the overall shop operations, inventory, selling, marketing, management, and style decisions. With an impeccable sense of style and a love of fashion, Susan collaborated with her clients to help them attain just the right look, accessorizing and personalizing outfits to match each individual’s own sense of couture. From finding those special shoes, belts, jeans, or a blazer, she ensured that her store carried the current fashions that are in vogue, from timeless pieces to vacation wear and professional outfits. Customers often said that rather than feeling that

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they’d gone to a store to buy clothes, they felt as though they’d spent the afternoon with girlfriends having fun. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Susan received her B.A. in Accounting from Baruch College in 1985, and received her M.A. in Education and Psychology, and Early Childhood Education from New York University in 1996. She is a Board Member of the Business Improvement District, and a member of the Hudson River Sailing Foundation. Previously, Susan worked at Morgan Shareholder Services and the 92nd Street Y Nursery School, of New York City. Currently, Susan is starting a new apparel endeavor in California. She is very excited at the prospect of sharing her love of couture with new customers and establishing herself as a West Coast fashionista. Susan has three children. In her spare time, she enjoys family activities, sailing, and travel.

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Iris Allyn Klipp

Carolyn R. May Widdowson Freelancer

Dependent Tax Services Inc.

MENTAL HEALTH CARE Psychotherapist

PUBLISHING Author

CONSTRUCTION/BUILDING Contractor Estero, Florida

FINANCIAL SERVICES Tax Preparer

Polkton, North Carolina

Minda Burr

Stephanie E. Strawbridge

Elureka P. Osaseri

JEWELRY Jeweler

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Brooklyn, New York

La Jolla, California

Cassandra C. Hawkins

Minda Burr Jewelry

Child Evangelism Fellowship South Bay RELIGION Director

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Cynthia M. Williams

Purple Diamonds

Los Angeles, California

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Shareefah J. Waters

Soruba “Rani” Kuusto

Jacqueline A. Gates

Renita A. Duncan

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Betty A. Goldsmith

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Tammy Lou DeVenturi

DeVenturi Enterprises, Inc. PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENT Property Manager Pulaski, Tennessee

VIPs

Sarah Person

Person Psychotherapy

Saint Louis, Missouri

U.S. Air Force

Los Angeles, California

Beverly Harvey

Harvey Careers, LLC CONSULTING Executive Coaching Pierson, Florida

Kristine Vangalis

Moon Doggy Craft Supplies RETAIL Business Owner

Oak Creek. Wisconsin

Nancy J. Moro

Lincoln View Manor HEALTHCARE Nurse

Carbondale, Pennsylvania

Triolen G. Seward

Joanna R. Stagner

Freelancer

Presbyterian Rust Medical Center

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Claremont, Virginia

Albuquerque, New Mexico

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VIPs

Brynda E. Lattimore

Laketia T. Burgess Cody Bray Fashions

Professional Planners Legacy

Janice P. Tanno

Elizabeth Hamilton

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FASHION BUSINESS OWNER

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Walkright Knee Pads

Lincolnton, North Carolina

Lorie Ann Miller Balance Staffing

STAFFING/RECRUITING Senior Professional in Human Resources Ludlow, Massachusetts

Patricia M. Dixon

Las Vegas, Nevada

Pompano Beach, Florida

Devon Gagnon

Quality SOS, LLC

Hendersonville, Tennessee

Gorete P. Ferreira

Linda K. Bradley

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Insurance Associates Plus

University of Central Florida

Riverside, California

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Classy Lips with Bri

American Seating & Mobility

Pamela S. Gardner

Sherry L. Cox

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Joy M. Grande

Sabrina Dean Clayton, Ohio

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EG Spanish Interpreting/Eve Gomez

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Letitia Scott-Jackson

Theresa A. Akers

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NON-PROFIT/VOLUNTEERING Business Owner

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Rocklin, California

Eve Gomez

Destiny House

East Chicago, Indiana

Showhomes Tampa

Frisco, Texas

Spring Hill, Florida

Marlene Flowers

Patâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Auto & Truck Repair AUTOMOTIVE Automotive/Closed Circuit Teletypes Washington, Pennsylvania

Tiffany N. Manning

Tiffany Manning / Ghetto Queens Entertainment ENTERTAINMENT Entertainer/Model Chicago, Illinois

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Lex Anne R. Stroh

Sharon Robinson

Fountains by the Sea

BEMER Medical Device

RETAIL INDUSTRY

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT Independent Distributor

Designer

Port Orange, Florida

Scottsdale, Arizona

Cathy L. Conley

Darci Kropp

Anissa C. Ranier

Krystal R. Pasiliao

Nesco Resources

Darci’s Bacon Blues

High Quality Payroll Consulting Services

Department of Health & Human Services

ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC Designer

FOOD/BEVERAGES Chef

FINANCIAL SERVICES Consultant Rosenberg, Texas

HEALTH SERVICES Nurse

Chatsworth, California

Ponca City, Oklahoma

Cape Canaveral, Florida

Monica Marie 77, LLC

Perosphere Technologies Inc.

Amanda P. Rogers, Ph.D.

Mariam Kavukchyan

Lucia Chou

PUBLISHING Freelance Writing Consultant

RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT Scientist Naugatuck, Connecticut

FINANCIAL SERVICES Business Owner

Glendale, California

ADVERTISING/MARKETING Marketing/Advertising Specialist

Lisa Spurgis

Carol Shwery

Darlene R. Small

FINANCIAL SERVICES Business Owner

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE & NON-FORCE CHIROPRACTIC Functional Medicine Practitioner

Education Teacher

Monica Rush Lorain, Ohio

Synergy Pay Solutions Elkhorn, Nebraska

Dr. Shwery

MK Loan Consulting

Queens, New York

V. Lindsay SDA School

Capitola, California

Kansas City, Kansas

Mia Agency

Tanya Towne

The Sportsmans Den/D&D’s Pet Supplies RETAIL INDUSTRY Pet Supplies & Sporting Goods Fort Plain, New York

Freelancer

I Am Somebody Restoration Outreach

Shavell Rice

Maritza Unner

Ida L. Holmes

FINANCIAL SERVICES Notary Public

NONPROFIT/VOLUNTEERING Nonprofit Management

AEROSPACE/AVIATION FLIGHT ATTENDANT

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY/IT IT Specialist

Nancy A. Burrell Syracuse, Utah

Beverly Williams

Missouri Baptist Medical Center HEALTHCARE Educator

Florissant, Missouri

Katherine Riley

Katherine Jon Salon BEAUTY/COSMETICS Cosmetologist

Port Jefferson Station, New York

Starkville, Mississippi

Digital Works

United Airlines

Ridgefield, New Jersey

Moreno Valley, California

Rozana K. Reffit

Reffit Wholesale Lending FINANCIAL SERVICES VP/Regional Lending Manager Mandeville, Louisiana

Marguerite A. Thompson Marguerite Thompson Ltc. ACCOUNTING Tax Preparer

Vienna, Virginia

Vijaya Geetha Kothamasu

Global Certification Services LLC INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY/IT CMMI Lead Appraiser, ISO Auditor, Agile Coach & Safe Trainer Ellicot City, Maryland

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P.O.W.E.R. TALK RADIO Our podcasts are pre-recorded audio interviews which give our members the opportunity to convey a message or story. This is a great way to increase your exposure and market reach.

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For further information, call us at (516) 365-3222 Ext. 209 or (631) 393-6760 Email us at info@powerwoe.com. Follow us on social media FB: @POWERWOE Twitter: @powerwoe Instagram: @power_woe

Tatiane Nichols Owner Brow House Studio LLC

atiane Nichols is the owner of Brow House Studio LLC, of Woodland Park, New Jersey. Fifteen years ago, Tatiane came to the U.S. from Brazil. As much as she always wanted to visit the U.S., she quickly realized that starting a new life in a different country might not be the best idea. She knew very little English and also knew that she could not continue to be a physical therapist in America as she had been in Brazil, since there would be additional schooling, including English classes, and a great deal of expenses as well. Knowing the road ahead would be challenging, she settled down in Florida where she had several family members who lived nearby. Tatiane worked a variety of jobs in order to make ends meet and eventually took a course to become a licensed massage therapist, which turned into a lucrative career for many years. She got married and moved to her husband’s home state of New Jersey, where she continued practicing as a licensed massage therapist. However, she decided that she needed a career change, and became licensed in microblading (semi-permanent makeup) and as a permanent makeup artist. In 2017, Tatiane completed her training and in 2018, Brow House Studio LLC was fully operational. They specialize in permanent and semi-permanent (microblading) eyebrows, eyeliner, lips, and eyelash services. They launched their website, browhouse.net, which helped the business gain a great deal of momentum. Potential customers can learn more about microblading and permanent makeup, view photos, and book their appointment online. Tatiane uses social media outlets such as Instagram and Facebook as additional marketing tools along with client referrals. There are many reasons why people come to Brow House Studio, whether it’s for thicker, fuller looking eyebrows or to have permanent eyeliner or lipstick tattooed. Some clients just want a bolder look while others may have a medical condition which causes their eyebrows to get thin. Microblading can give clients the look of full, natural eyebrows. Many of their clients come back for new services or touch-ups. Tatiane welcomes them all and makes sure they get the best treatments possible. Tatiane states, “I wouldn’t change a thing; I am truly blessed. My clients are amazing! I use high quality products and extra care with every client and the results are beautiful. I see many tears of happiness. I know that I am helping people.” browhouse.net

Permanent Makeup Studio Before

After

Brow House specializes in permanent and semi-permanent (microblading) eyebrows, eyeliner, lips, and eyelash services.

Call or Text for an Appointment 973-506-8197

Passaic Valley Medical Center 1225 McBride Avenue Floor 2, Suite 222 Woodland Park, NJ 07424 P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 77

Jacqueline Gates Joelle’s Cry for Justice: Finding the Positive Side to Grief

Meghan FitzGerald Ascending Davos: A Career Journey from the Emergency Room to the Boardroom

Your health is your wealth. Trudging through the icy, mountain streets of Davos, Switzerland, at the World Economic Forum, Meghan FitzGerald realized this moment— among a select few experiences — was symbolic of a heavy climb to the top of an enduring healthcare career — but at what cost? Looking back, she realized she had put a premium on education, connections, and compensation... and would only later learn the important value that personal health should have in life choices and work benefits. In Ascending Davos: A Career Journey From the Emergency Room to the Boardroom, Meg shares valuable insights learned from her novel study about the impact of increased status on one’s personal health and during her ascent from caregiving roles to healthcare strategist to academic to dealmaker, including: • Be overprepared and have “content and connections.” • Have a long-term strategy but short-term goals. • Develop and deploy star sponsors to pull you up and beyond. • Maniacally cultivate and promote your brand. • Education and training, particularly in finance, are great equalizers. • Health is your wealth

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Her ten-year-old daughter, Joelle Rosebush, had been hit by a car as she crossed the street to come home with her two siblings, Heather and Keith. After a few days, the hospital couldn’t do anything else for Joelle, and a helicopter transferred her to a new hospital where she spent six months on a respirator in a pediatric intensive care unit. In this heartfelt account, the author shares the emotions she and her family navigated as Joelle spent 18 months in a vegetative state and the wrenching decision of taking her off life support after consulting with a medical bioethics committee, a social worker, family priest, and medical staff. At the time, there was no law in Michigan that allowed parents to remove a child from life support. Gates also shares numerous poems, Bible verses, educational resources on grief, and insights on how journaling, leaning on the Lord, and drawing on her faith helped her find a positive side to grief. Whether you’re struggling with a loved one’s poor health or illness or on your own grief journey, the author’s experience will show that you’re not alone.

Hilda Thomasine Wren A Plain Brown Wren: A Spiritual Journey of a Survivor of Childhood Sexual Abuse

What does it take to get over an abusive childhood? Can those who have been victimized ever be fully whole again? “Yes,” says Rev. Hilda Thomasine Wren in her stirring and inspirational memoir, “A Plain Brown Wren.” Hilda Wren was born into a severely dysfunctional family. Beaten and sexually abused as a child and denied the love and acceptance she so desperately needed, Wren ran away as a teenager. She soon was thrust into a life of prostitution, and began a series of damaging relationships with unavailable, brutal or uncaring men. At age 25, she began to realize that there was a higher power who might help her. With great courage and strong faith, Wren began to rebuild her life, becoming so successful that she started a foundation, Spiritual Connections, Inc. to help other women and children recover from the terrible tragedy of sexual abuse. This is a heartfelt, heart wrenching, and deeply inspirational book for anyone who has ever suffered abuse or known someone who has. Wren’s memoir proves that it is never too late to succeed and that where there is faith, there can always be hope.

BOOK

I believe we were put on this earth to enjoy lives of joy and abundance, and that is what I want for you and for me. It’s not my intention to give people advice on how to solve their problems (I leave that to my husband). But I’ve had my share of struggles over the years, and I know a thing or two about what has worked for me. I have chosen to be an active participant in my life rather than a spectator, and in so doing I have chosen how to be a woman, how to be a wife, and how to be a mother in ways that are uniquely my own. I offer the stories of these choices as evidence of the power of sheer determination, will, and faith in God. You’ve seen her on television with her husband, Dr. Phil. But now it’s time for a heart-to-heart conversation with Robin McGraw. In Inside My Heart, Robin speaks woman to woman, inspiring you to embrace and celebrate the many roles you play and encouraging you to make deliberate choices that lead to a richer, happier, and more meaningful life. She shares with you the life-changing moments of her childhood years, dating and marrying Dr. Phil McGraw, raising two sons, and asserting herself as a woman in a man’s world to show you that you have the power to make choices in your life. In fact, she’s convinced that you must choose to go after the life you want. With a deep and abiding faith in God, Robin McGraw shares her story so you too can make choices that reflect your own heart’s truest priorities and highest goals.

Cheryl Cuccio Incest, Murder and a Miracle: The True Story Behind the Cheryl Pierson Murder-For-Hire Headlines and the power of love

Corner

Robin McGraw Inside My Heart: Choosing to Live With Passion And Purpose

Love, Trust, Incest, Murder and a Real Miracle Shocking but inspirational true story that dominated the media The name Cheryl Pierson was in national media for years in articles and more filled with assumptions and fabrications surrounding the murder-for-hire of her father, but her side of the story was never truly covered from her perspective. The one interview she did give to a reporter was while she was still in shock from what had transpired. Now, after 30 years, Cheryl has come out of the shadows to tell her true story--what really happened behind the doors at 293 Magnolia Drive, and what the life she and Rob have shared has been like. As seen on Investigation Discovery Channel: I, Witness series. In 1986 Cheryl Pierson was a 16 year old abuse and incest victim. Day after day her father placed the fear in her no one would believe her if she revealed their dirty secret. But Cheryl had made a promise to her mother, as she lay in her coffin, to protect her eight year old sister from the monster Cheryl’s father had become. To honor this promise and end the daily hell she endured, the distraught teenager hired a classmate to murder her father. She is a strong survivor and hopes to inspire courage in those who walk in her shoes, and to promote abuse and incest awareness with this book. That strength was called into action in 2012 and the result was a miracle!

Teneshia Jackson Warner The Big Stretch: 90 Days to Expand Your Dreams, Crush Your Goals, and Create Your Own Success

From concept to reality in just 90 Days — The Big Stretch is a proven program for making your personal and professional dreams come true The Big Stretch delivers a four-tiered self-evaluation and empowerment program for jumpstarting a new business, new career, or new idea — and maintaining high levels of success long-term. One of today’s most effective coaches for entrepreneurs, Teneshia Jackson Warner walks you through a “career workout” routine designed to move you from idea to goal. First, you’ll learn what type of dreamer you are: Hobby, Career, Make-It-Happen, Activist, or CEO. Based on that, you will discover your Dreamer’s Risk Tolerance and understand your Dreamer’s Ancestry to help gauge how much time, support, and resources you can apply toward your Stretch goal. You’ll then create a One-Year Dream Projection to develop clear, realistic goals. Finally, you’ll begin your 90-Day STRETCH program involving weekly exercises to build and strengthen your “business physique.” Whether you want to escape the grind of a 9-to-5 job, improve an existing business, or simply get your dreams off the ground, The Big Stretch provides the knowledge and insight you need to turn your ideas into reality.

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Hamdia Mohamed Owner Victory Plus Housing

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orn in Ethiopia, Hamdia Mohamed is currently the owner of Victory Plus, based in Saint Cloud, Minnesota. Victory Plus is a sober living facility that assists people who are willing to get their life back on track. She aims to fulfill their needs to establish a safe and secure location where they can find financial security and have other basic needs met. Hamdia strives to accomplish her goal of helping individuals become independent, contributing members of society. She focuses on aiding all kinds of people, including serving veterans, the homeless, those who are exiting a former treatment program where they were seeking stability, and those who are facing true adversity with circumstances that vary from person to person. With Victory Plus providing TV, phone, internet, cleaning supplies, and more, she truly believes that she can make a difference in changing someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quality of life from drug and alcohol problems, to building human dignity and self-worth. Hamdia is looking to branch out and expand the company by opening new homes including one that focuses on women. Hamdia enjoys walking, family, cooking authentic Ethiopian cuisines, and watching Dateline News. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means the process of an individual striving to gain confidence, strength, and knowing oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s value. victoryplushousing.com

Teneshia Jackson Warner T

eneshia Jackson Warner is an award-winning multicultural marketing expert, entrepreneur, and author. She is the founder, CEO, and chief creative officer of EGAMI Group, a leading multicultural marketing and communications firm in Manhattan, New York. Since 2007, Teneshia has grown EGAMI Group from a dream concept into a thriving multi-million-dollar business. The firm made history with the eye-opening P&G campaign, “The Talk,” becoming the first black-woman-led company to win the Cannes Lion Grand Prix Award and earning a 2018 Emmy Award for Outstanding Commercial. EGAMI Group was recently named one of Adweek’s top 100 Fastest-Growing Agencies. In 2013, Teneshia founded The Dream Project Symposium, an annual empowerment conference that helps thousands of entrepreneurs achieve their goals. The Dream Project has hosted over 50 panel discussions, secured more than 10 Fortune 100 companies as partners, and presented nearly 200 business moguls, influencers, and celebrity speakers. Based on concepts from The Dream Project, Teneshia’s new book, “The Big Stretch: 90 Days to Expand Your Dreams, Crush Your Goals, and Create Your Own Success,” is a fully customizable self-evaluation and empowerment program for jumpstarting a new business, career or big idea. Teneshia shares her proven process for turning dreams into a reality. Her previous book, “Profit with Purpose: A Marketers Guide to Deliver Purpose-Driven Marketing Campaigns to Multicultural Audiences” was the first of its kind to focus on multicultural, purpose-driven marketing. Teneshia is a speaker at events such as Blogher, the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, the Essence Festival, Bishop T.D. Jakes’ MegaFest, Leading Women Defined, The Congressional Black Caucus Weekend, Steve Harvey’s Act Like a Success Conference, the National Urban League Conference, and others. Her awards include the Black Enterprises Forty Under 40, AdColor MVP, and The Network Journal’s Forty Under 40 Award. She has appeared in national media outlets such as Forbes, Fast Company, Entrepreneur, Adweek, Adage, Essence, Black Enterprise, and ABC News. A graduate of Alabama A&M University, Teneshia currently resides in New Jersey with her husband and business partner, Michael Warner, and their poodle, Tully.

CEO Chief Creative Officer EGAMI Group What is The Dream Project about? It is an empowerment platform featuring stories of extraordinary people who have successfully transformed their dreams into profitable business ventures. Tell us about your latest book, “The Big Stretch: 90 Days to Expand Your Dreams, Crush Your Goals, and Create Your Own Success.” “The Big Stretch: 90 Days to Expand Your Dreams, Crush Your Goals, and Create Your Own Success” is a life-transforming, 12week boot camp that reveals how to get from where you are to where you dream to be – in life and in business. It delivers an action-oriented, challenging “career workout.” How did it feel to be the first African American woman to walk across the stage of the Cannes Lions Grand Prix Awards for your campaign “The Talk” created for P&G? It was a high point of my career. That night represented over a decade of following my dreams. It also represented the collective achievement of our EGAMI team. What do you do to escape and recharge, even for a few hours? One of my favorite places to visit is a cabin in the mountains in Blue Ridge, Georgia. I go there to spend time, still my mind, and it’s the place where I wrote my last book. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment means believing in the possibilities of what you are capable of doing. It means being your own biggest champion. You have to be the biggest believer in yourself, and you have to believe great things are possible for you. An empowered mindset is an individual that believes in oneself, it starts with YOU. egamigroup.com P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 81

Stephanie G. Ovadia

tephanie G. Ovadia is a New York attorney who practices in the areas of personal injury and entertainment law. She began her career at the Law Office of Phillip Unger in Garden City, New York, eventually becoming managing attorney. While there, she litigated countless cases including slip and fall, wrongful death, assault/battery, product defects and car/motorcycle accidents. Currently, Stephanie has her own practice, litigating numerous high-profile legal matters and solidifying her reputation as a formidable force in New York’s judicial system. She has established herself as a sought-after, no-nonsense attorney.

Having an extensive knowledge in the field of entertainment law, Stephanie has handled various high-profile legal disputes. She has litigated numerous cases for celebrity clients involving libel and defamation suits, contract negotiations, and various other legal issues. Stephanie is frequently called on by various news outlets to offer legal insightful commentary and has been interviewed for multiple print publications, including the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Newsday, the New York Post, the Daily News, the New York Law Journal, People Magazine, Radar Online, TMZ, and multiple TV and radio shows.

What motivated you to seek a career in law? I always wanted to be a lawyer. Personal injury cases give me a lot of satisfaction. I love to help people get the compensation they deserve. Being a lawyer was my mother’s dream too, but there wasn’t as much opportunity for women in her day. In a sense, her dream became mine and we achieved it together. In addition to your work with personal injury cases, you are known as an “attorney to the stars.” What attracted you to entertainment law? I was not necessarily attracted to it. The clients found me. I think it had to do with my reputation and nature. People in the entertainment world often require a very quick response. My phone is always on and clients can get in touch with me easily, at any hour of the day or in any emergency. It’s something that people always appreciated and thanked me for, whether they were a celebrity or not.

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Attorney | Law Office of Stephanie Ovadia As a mother of eight children, Stephanie has become increasingly concerned with the spread of internet bullying and has given many lectures on the issue of cyber bullying, parental controls, and legislation. Stephanie hosts her own radio show, “The Stephanie O Show,” on LI News Radio 103.9 FM. She has also run for New York State Assembly and received the Independence Freedom Award from the Nassau County Independence Party in 2012. In 2014, she was a recipient of the Top Women in Business Award from the Queens Courier and received a Citation of Honor from the Office of the Queens Borough President.

Tell us about the format of your radio program, “The Stephanie O Show,” on 103.9 FM, LI News Radio in the New York area. The radio show features celebrities in an interview format. The difference with our show is we let the guests speak when we ask the tough questions. The guests generally like our style and want to come back. Being the single mother of eight is a full-time job in itself. How do you find balance between your law practice, radio show, work as a legal commentator and home life? I always loved the saying, “If you want something done, ask a busy woman.” We learn how to manage, how to juggle multiple tasks, and we achieve our goals. I’m fortunate to have eight great kids. What does the word empowerment mean to you? Empowerment to me means doing something meaningful every day. Make each day count – it has a purpose and I always say that there is no dress rehearsal in life.

DEBBI DiMAGGIO

ebbi DiMaggio is dedicated to helping new real estate agents thrive. She is a Realtor, author, speaker, and philanthropist- which is a smattering of her current endeavors. She became a Realtor after serving in several different industries, including working for the U.S. Supreme Court and a variety of magazines in Los Angeles. It’s clear that Debbi turns each of her accidental pursuits into a passion. Along with her husband/partner and Broker, Adam Betta, and business partner Heidi Marchesotti, they have grown their Bay Area luxury real estate firm, Highland Partners, from just seven agents in one office in 2009 to more than 80 agents in two offices (Piedmont and Montclair Village, California) over a decade where Debbi is the marketing director and business coach dedicating herself to helping new agents navigate high-end markets. Debbi stresses several key points to young agents within their own team and beyond, including the importance of creating structure within their day and

Realtor, Author, Speaker, Philanthropist Highland Partners

engaging face-to-face with co-agents and clients. She stresses that real estate is a relationship business, where you need to build trust and confidence with your clients from the beginning. Debbi emphasizes that you can’t hide behind the Internet and social media. Debbi has created a personal brand due to the success of Highland Partners, which includes philanthropy, writing books, and participating in speaking engagements at nationwide events. Her first foray into writing was a coffee table book called “Contained Beauty,”

which began as a side project when her first child left for college. The project enabled her to network with professional photographers worldwide and resulted in subsequent book deals. She and Adam co-authored “The Art of Real Estate,” and Debbi published “Real Estate Rules!” in 2016 as part of the “Rules!” book series by Brigantine Media. As her multi-faceted career progresses, Debbi maintains a down-to-earth demeanor, a genuine desire to continue learning and innovating, and a professional outlook in which she views everyone as a potential collaborator. These characteristics are integral to her continued successes into the Beverly Hills – Los Angeles luxury real estate market. She and Adam continue to encourage their team, work collaboratively with them and other luxury agents, and encourage communication in the industry. www.DiMaggioAndBetta.com

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E M P O W E R E D Adrienne Johnson

Angelica Yates

Three Dimensions Dance Studio DANCE TEACHER

Leander Independent School District TEACHER

Alexis D. Jones

Catalina Post Acute and Rehabilitation NURSE

Anita A. Pirkle

Alice D. Lee

Ankita Patel

Juice Plus REPRESENTATIVE

Macy’s Inc. ACCESSORY STYLIST

Kumon Math & Reading Center of Forney EDUCATOR

Almira A. Santos

Ann Elliott

City of Phoenix ACCOUNTANT

Crye-Leike Executive Realty REAL ESTATE AGENT

Amanda Cross

Ann O’Neill

Jewels of Life Jewelry DESIGNER

Amanda Huss

Transportation Professional Certification Board PROGRAM MANAGER

Amanda K. Jones

West Coast Realty Of Venice REAL ESTATE AGENT

LavishiBrows, LLC ESTHETICIAN

Ann E. Wacholder

Fifth Third Bank HUMAN RESOURCES

Ann M. Rodgers

Amanda L. Cray

Capgemini DIRECTOR

Amy Koch

Golub Corporation ACCOUNTANT

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Omega J ENTERTAINER

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Naturzbest LLC BUSINESS OWNER

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AR Cardenas Trucking Texas, LLC OWNER

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Daughters of Zion Global Initiative NONPROFIT

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Novecento Restaurant Corp. RESTAURANT OWNER

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84 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Barbara L. Muncie

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Capri Schwartz

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DeToiya Machelle McAliley

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Euquinom Travel TRAVEL AGENT Loving Encouragement COACH

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HUB International INSURANCE AGENT

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Senior Options Solutions PRESIDENT

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Realize Colorado DMC EVENT PLANNER

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P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 85

E M P O W E R E D Fernanda Cunha Vaisala SALES MANAGER

Hallie Robbins, D.O. PHYSIATRIST

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Jamhella C. Fondren

Fingers Jolly

Hamdia A. Mohamed

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Formka R. Johnson

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Atlantic Hotels Group LLC ACCOUNTANT

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Touchstone Crystal by Swarovski / Hunters Mountain Boutique CONSULTANT

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Ella I. Greene

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Celebrity Lifestyles TRAVEL AGENT

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Sierra Interpreting Inc. INTERPRETER

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86 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

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Insurance Associates Plus INSURANCE AGENT

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Credit Service Company LEGAL ASSISTANT

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Mass Mutual FINANCIAL ADVISOR

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Empower Too Inspire AUTHOR, WRITER, PUBLIC SPEAKER

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Sakkstyles FASHION

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Touch of Class Limousine PRESIDENT

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Adelante Development Center NONPROFIT

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Servpro of Kennett Square/Oxford ACCOUNTANT

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AH2S Faith-Based Mission PRESIDENT

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Virginia Beach Sheriff’s Office LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

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Black Swan Foundation of Chicago FOUNDER

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Empire Professional Services, LLC TAX PREPARER

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Pennsylvania Steel SALES

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 87

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JTHT Limited SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR

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Texas Children’s Hospital NURSE

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Raising Buttercup FOUNDER

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MoPro New Beginnings Mastectomy Boutique REGISTERED MASTECTOMY FITTER

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Mia Agency MARKETING/ADVERTISING SPECIALIST

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Marina C. Silvestri

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Comprehensive MedPsych Systems PSYCHOTHERAPIST

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Mahoning County Career and Technical Center TEACHER

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T&L Dollhouses CEO

Monumental Moments In God’s Word WRITER

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88 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) PROGRAM MANAGER

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Parkland Hospital SOCIAL WORKER

Vanderbilt University Medical Center RESEARCH SCIENTIST

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The Head Healer GURU WELLNESS

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Stewart Behavioral Health Services OWNER

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Bartholomew County School Corp TEACHER

The Entrepreneur’s Source COACH

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Best Market RETAIL

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Stevens Center Management Inc. PROPERTY MANAGER

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Marlo Tuaty Inc. SPEECH THERAPIST

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Meta J. Mereday

Supply Chain Solutions, Inc. TECHNOLOGY

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United Veterans Council of East Tennessee NONPROFIT

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VEDI Inc. PRESIDENT

School Districts CROSSING GUARD

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Banfield Pet Hospital VETERINARY ASSISTANCE

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Ndeye Magatte Ndaw Nicole Nigoghossian

StyleZzBridge Productions CEO

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NW Method FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

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Reco Industries Inc. EXPORTS

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The Hen House Gifts & More BUSINESS OWNER

Custom Computing Corp. DIRECTOR

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Regina Hill

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Frontier Neurosciences LLC CERTIFIED MEDICAL ASSISTANT

General Motors ASSEMBLER

Noelle Marie Kaeser

Regina Peters

Equine Paver Solutions CONTRACTOR

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Financial Fitness Education Inc. CEO

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True Sports QUALITY ASSURANCE Simplicity by Sandi.com AUTHOR

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Keller Williams Crystal Coast / Arbonne REAL ESTATE AGENT

Rita Simon

OneDigital BENEFIT SPECIALIST

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Freelancer CONSULTANT

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AAA Movers GENERAL MANAGER

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Bronx Lebanon Hospital / New York State Office of Mental Health DIETITIAN

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Norfolk Academy EDUCATOR

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Avon/Tupperware SALES

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Sweet Dreams Little Ones CONSULTANT

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Paquina G. Cameron

Department of the Navy CONSULTANT

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PC Creations BUSINESS OWNER

Care One at Cresskill NURSE

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Spectra Hospitality & Food Service PLANNER/COORDINATOR

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Clinton Savings Bank MORTGAGE BROKER

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Kitty’s Kreation COSMETOLOGIST

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Iron Mountain Entertainment Services DIRECTOR

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Real Estate Developments REAL ESTATE INVESTOR

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Family Resources of New Orleans DIRECTOR

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Motherly Cleaning Service / LSW Taxes OWNER

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Ryisha J. Bullock

The Tutoring Shack Academy, Inc. EDUCATOR

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Empress Studio LLC ESTHETICIAN

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Alliance Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault THERAPIST

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Mary Kay Cosmetics DIRECT SALES

Shelley M. DiAngelo

Diabetes: New Life Roadmap NURSE

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EuroThreads ADMINISTRATOR

Just Five Drops CBD HOLISTIC MEDICINE/CBD PRODUCTS

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Curvey’s Cupcakes & Confections, LLC BAKER

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Shontel Greene

Sarah’s Beauty SALES REPRESENTATIVE

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Smriti Nalwa

Life Changers Sitting Service NURSING / MEDICAL

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Sonia Bitton

Cisco Systems DIRECTOR

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Shajuan’s Interior by Design INTERIOR DESIGNER

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OminiRa Health and Wellness WELLNESS

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Northstar Counseling COUNSELOR

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The Barboza Method Studio FITNESS INSTRUCTOR

Divine Selections WELLNESS

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Gandy Crossing Care Center NURSING / MEDICAL Alpphas Home Health and Holistic Services / 3 Phases of Becoming a Woman BUSINESS OWNER

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Jakes Place for Change SOCIAL WORKER

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P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 89

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Beautifully Imperfect Nails by Stephanie NAIL TECHNICIAN

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Prevention Center PSYCHOTHERAPIST

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Bristle Barber Shop & Academy EDUCATOR

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Canine Integrity Academy DOG TRAINER

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Sylvia’s Second Chance OWNER

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Financial Education Services NETWORK MARKETER

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Pentar Inc. CEO

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High Point Treatment Centers SOCIAL WORKER

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90 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

Vincenza S. Iuele Ingui

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Fervent Clothing, LLC RETAIL

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Vikki Keyser

Keller Williams Commercial REAL ESATE AGENT

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By Syndi Reibman

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Swing into Spring (Kic k

ing and Screamin

pring is here, and hopefully, you have a new spring in your step as our days get longer, the sun gets stronger, frozen creeks start flowing, and flowers start growing. This is the perfect time to do some spring cleaning. Here are some tips to help wash away those winter blues. The first step is to make a list. Grab a pad and just go room to room, making a list as you go of what absolutely needs to be done. Don’t make so much work for yourself that you give up before you start! Just go with the basic things that you know should be done and you can work on other projects later. Next, have the supplies handy that you will need. Grab a bucket, mop, broom, rubber gloves, cleaning solutions, microfiber cloths, Swiffer, 92 | P.O.W.E.R. Magazine

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rags, etc. We suggest using organic products. Remember to work from top to bottom. Start by removing your curtains. In the bedrooms, you should strip the bed entirely, including the mattress pad and bed skirt. Give the ceilings and walls a once-over with a damp towel, Swiffer or long-handled feather duster, then do the furniture, then the floorboards, and then attack those dust bunnies under the bed and furniture. Don’t forget the ceiling fan blades. If you can, remove the covers to the heat vents and vacuum them as well. If time allows, send your drapes and curtains to the dry cleaners or run them through the wash. If you don’t have time to run

extra loads of laundry, you can run your curtains through the dryer on the “air only” setting for 15 minutes and hang them back up immediately so they don’t wrinkle. Your washer and dryer need cleaning also. Check the dryer vent for buildup and give it a good cleaning. You can run a vinegar rinse in the washing machine and ‘clean’ it of the built-up residue. Open all the windows and give the house a good airing out. Not only does the fresh air feel invigorating but it helps get rid of any musty smells. When swapping out your clothes, think about what you really wore and what you never wore. If you haven’t worn a piece of clothing in 2 years, chances are you aren’t going to wear it ever. Donate it! Clutter is a downer. Give to a good cause and give

yourself more to write off for your taxes. Replace your dresser drawer liners and potpourri sachets and go through your drawers. Odd socks, old bras and T-shirts with holes go in the rag bag. Wipe down your laundry hamper and wash those laundry bags – they get grungy as well. If you have fur coats, now is the time to bring them to storage. You should launder all the winter coats, hats, scarves, and accessories that pile up throughout the winter before putting them away. Consider getting a professional carpet cleaning service to come give your carpets a thorough steaming and deep cleanse. You’ll be amazed at the difference and they will get rid of all the ground down dirt which has accumulated over the last 6 months. You can also rent a professional carpet steamer. If you have AC units, remove the covers, and gently pull out the inside liner. You can spray them with a general cleaner outside. Hose them off, allow to dry in the sun, and replace them the same day. For wood floors and furniture, Murphy’s oil soap is one of my favorite products. Microfiber cloths or old towels work best. Just apply a little to your cloth and rub in a circular motion to keep your wood shiny, clean, and dust free. The tops and sides of your picture and mirror frames will need a good dusting. Carefully clean the front panes as well being careful not to scratch any glass. A microfiber cloth works great for this project. As much as it’s a hated subject, you really need to give the windows a good cleaning. First, remove any dust or dirt from the surrounding window frame with a brush or vacuum. Then using a microfiber cloth, grab your favorite cleaner and really scrub. If it’s not a hardship to remove the windows, wash the inside

and outside. You’ll be amazed at how much more light you have. When cleaning blinds or window treatments, here’s a good “life hack:” wrap each end of long kitchen tongs with microfiber cloths held with rubber bands. Now you can clean in between the slats easily. Your kitchen should sparkle. Remove everything from each counter space and give it a good scrub and cleaning. Clean the cabinets inside and out. Replace the shelf liners. Clean out the refrigerator and freezer, and scrub the shelves. Check the expiration dates on those condiments. Time permitting, you should go through the non-perishables in your pantry and cupboards as well and check expiration dates. Don’t forget spices. Most have a shelf life of two years. If you are able, move your refrigerator out a foot or two and vacuum the dust from the back. You can also Swiffer beneath it and get more of that hard-to-reach dust. While the windows are open, use the self-cleaning oven function and clean the oven. Make sure to follow the directions. The junk drawer needs an annual purging. Go through your spatulas, serving spoons, etc. and see what’s old or not necessary. Decluttering is essential. Your bathroom also needs a spring cleaning. Again, start with the ceiling and walls. If you have a shower curtain, either replace it or run it through the wash. Give the tiles a spray with a mold remover, and then try a mixture of 1 cup vinegar, and ½ cup of rubbing alcohol to kill any germs and shine up the whole bathroom. Check your medicine cabinet for expired cough syrup, and other medications, etc. Your local county usually has information regarding where and when to drop off expired medication. If not, ask your local pharmacy. While you’re checking your med-

icine cabinet, your makeup expires also. Be aware of old items that can grow bacteria, have dried up, or that you don’t use. Check the drains for hair and clogs. You can get a simple snake at your local hardware store and save yourself money later from hair build-up. Winter blankets can be laundered and stored with dryer sheets to keep them fresh. Don’t forget those blankets and pillows from the couches. Use the brush attachment on your vacuum and go over the couch if it’s fabric. If the pillows have zippered/removable covers they should be laundered as well. Fireplaces and chimneys may need to be professionally cleaned every three or four years. If you use yours a lot, you should clean beneath the grates. If you don’t have an ash flap that leads to the burner, simply sweep it all out. Wear a bandana over your face so you don’t inhale any dust. Now that it’s not too cold, it’s also time to visit the dreaded attic. If you have boxes that have moved from house to house, unless they’re family heirlooms, you can probably donate a bunch of things to charity. Trust me, your great-great-aunt won’t care if her dishes are donated or not! Pet owners should wash pet beds, toys and pet-wear. Your fur babies will thank you. For those with families, everyone should pitch in. Happy spring cleaning!

P.O.W.E.R. Magazine | 93

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