The ANTHOLOGY of the YEAR LIONESS VOL.2
10
CO-AUTHORS
VISIONARY.COACH.AUTHOR
Monique
FLEMINGS A CELEBRATION OF AUTHORS
Visionary + Coach Cover Feature
MELODY MARTIN
CONTENTS
MONIQUE FLEMINGS
TABLE OF
PUBLISHEDANDBLACKMAGAZINE.COM
Author
TABOTHA CRUTCHER Author
ADRIENNE REESE SANDERS
Author
CHERITA WHITE MORRIS Author
HALANA L. THOMPSON Author
ASHLEY GARCIA Author
GLENNETRIUS NEAL Author
we appreciate our featured authors and our readers.
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Monique FLEMINGS
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Bio
The trailblazer Dr. Monique Flemings uses her three decades of leadership, healthcare, and ministry experience, totransform lives of her clients. As the CEO of Monique Flemings Enterprises, professional faith- based women marry their ministry mantles and marketplace graces together to make money unapologetically. She provides her clients with strategies for clarity, confidence and coins through digital education, coaching, anthology projects and intimate retreat experiences. A proven strategist she continues to serve her profession of physical therapy in academia and ministry leaders nationwide in several leadership roles. Dr. Monique is the author of over 20 books and a brilliant international speaker. She has been featured in Women of DignityMagazine, Speakers Magazine, Published & Black Magazine, and a contributing writer in Brainz Magazine. It is her passion to teach women to live authentic and unapologetic in their multi- graced abilities. She has mentored over 30 emerging authors in the last year through her business. Her academy for women leaders provides mentorship for women in curating profitable streams of income from using what’s in their hands. It is Dr. Monique’s uniqueness and her ability to push women that is the hallmark of her business.
Dr. Monique Flemings
The Interview
Tell us about you and your brand as an author and who is your target audience. I write self-improvement books for faith-based professional women. While my target audience is professional women, men, and youth benefit greatly from my brands. My books are focused on practicality and implementation of strategies for living. I write in a style that allows my readers to return to my books over and over again. I aim to provide practical life and leadership solutions that can be implemented immediately.
Are you traditionally published or self-published? Which do you prefer? I have been in self-publishing for 20 years and prefer the self-published route. The self-publishing route has changed so much, and I am an advocate of self-publishing. I believe that self-publishing gives the author so much more autonomy. It requires more work and creativity for the author, but it is my preference.
What does authorpreneurship mean to you and why did you enter this arena? Authorpreneurship means legacy. I love the ability to change lives through writing. As an author, I open the door to my platform because I am the authority on my subject matter. This allows my brilliance as a thought leader to shine. I stepped into this arena by accident. I really did not know what I was doing, I did not have a guide, but when I figured out where I was and how much I enjoyed being here….I started getting comfortable in this arena. Now, I am here to mentor others. It means that my voice, and my thoughts will never die, they will live forever in my books.
What or who has been your greatest influence in publishing and why? I would say that my greatest influence in publishing has been the beauty of impacting the lives of people that I never meet. To receive messages from people that read my books and were encouraged or inspired is priceless. When people meet me in public and come up to me telling me about how much my book has changed their life, I am honored. I received a report that my book was being used for at-risk youth. I was so honored by this and as an author, this was absolutely amazing. This ability to impact people influences me to keep writing and publishing. The changing of lives has been the greatest influence on me as a writer.
How has becoming a published author changed your life overall? Becoming an author takes my voice to people I will never meet. It takes my story to places that I will never go. It places my solutions in places where people need assistance. Now that I have stepped into anthology projects, I have the honor of coaching and mentoring other writers and helping them build their platform as an author. Changing their lives, has changed me tremendously. My business was developed because of my book- Mastering Transitions. This book changed the trajectory of my life and launched me into coaching, training, and taking my speaking seriously. This is the book that is often requested and inquired about the sequel book.
What would you say is your greatest win has been as an author CEO? My greatest win would be creating opportunities for emerging authors. This is one of the reasons that I launched my own boutique self-publishing company this year. I know what it’s like to have a horrible experience in publishing and becoming an author. I want my authors to win. Also, writing two anthology projects in 2021 with the legendary Les Brown was phenomenal.
What’s the best advice you have received in the publishing arena that you wish to pass on to our readers and those who want to publish in the future? I really have not received any advice that I would pass on to others. From my experience, I would share with authors that you want to write a book that remains relevant. Many people want to share their stories, which is powerful, but you must learn how to write in a manner that allows your book to live for more than 6 months. Write in a way to provide strategies and life lessons for people, even if it’s coming to your story. Allow the reader to connect with your story and do not bleed all over the pages when you are writing.
What has been the most effective marketing initiatives or programs you have used to promote your book? I like everyone had to pivot to using more social media over the last few years and it’s allowed for a broader reach in impacting people. I have always conducted workshops and training around my books that highlight the book and allow me to share my written solutions. This is effective because people will share their transformation with others and then share you and your book for future workshops and training.
Do you have any new book or literary projects coming up (or have you just completed a big project ~ reached a milestone, etc.)? If so, please tell us about it. I just launched a new project in April 2023 entitled, Lioness: Prayers and Affirmations for Women Leaders, Volume 2. This is a powerful sequel anthology project written by some brilliant women leaders, sharing their story and their prayers with affirmations. We also released this book in Spanish, which is amazing to me and makes me incredibly proud. This project was published this year under my publishing company Jream Publishing House LLC. This will be my 21st publication as an author
Who are you behind the book? Tell us who you are when no one is looking. What do you do for fun/relaxation? What’s your favorite vacation spot to unwind? I am a rock star autism mom and my big why is creating a space for our brilliant on. I enjoy 70’s sitcoms and my favorite vacation spot is anything by the water. My favorite spot is Hilton Head South Carolina. When I am not working, I am relaxing with my family or watching our amazing son defeat odds and evolve.
What’s at the top of your list of Goals you plan to accomplish over the next year? This year we are focusing on coaching and training professional faith-based women leaders. We have an amazing event Unapologetically Unmuzzled Live Event designed to coach women leaders in cultivating their clarity and confidence. I found this to be a major stumbling block for many women leaders and I am taking my over three decades of leadership experience and educational background to develop strong, courageous women leaders. This live training is held in Chicago, September 21-23, 2023. You will see me hosting more training and coaching events because this is my passion. I have a few books that will launch later this year and I am taking more speaking opportunities.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers? I would encourage authors or those wanting to publish to get a mentor or coach. It’s lot a room for error and in my 20 years, I have done it all. I try to share the tricks of the trade with my clients, so they do not have to stumble through like I did without guidance. Understanding marketing is critical. Writing is the easy part. Marketing and selling are where many lack confidence and training. Don’t sit alone, get a coach and start leveraging your platform as an author. This is where I see most authors drop the ball. They do not want to hire a coach, or they think once they write and publish a book the journey is over. No, it is just the beginning.
What’s the best way for our readers to connect with you (feel free to include the links to your social networks and website. You can contact me at www.moniqueflemings.net if you are interested in being an author in my next anthology project or if you are looking for publishing services for your own book. My company offers not only publishing but coaching for those that desire to become author-prenuers. The best way to connect for coaching and training is to invest and attend my live training event in Chicago in September. https://www.unapologeticallyunmuzzled.com I am on all social media platforms as @Dr. Monique Flemings
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Melody MARTIN
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Bio. Melody Martin is an aspiring serial author. She is a native of Chicago, IL who currently resides in Augusta, GA. Her gift and love of writing was discovered at age fourteen by her English teacher during high school. Since then, she has written numerous (unpublished) masterpieces, that consist of prayers, self-help, sermonettes, and poetry. She is an intercessor, evangelist, and minister with a gift of prophecy. She captivates, motivates, and inspires most to become better. She established Prayers of the Righteous prayer ministry in 2018. Melody’s call, passion, and gift have caused her to serve as lead of street evangelism, and intercessory prayer, to serve on praise and worship teams, and as a choir member at several ministries. Professionally, Melody has served in the field of IT for more than a decade and is currently serving as Senior IT Technologist for a Fortune 500 company. She is a licensed Life and Health Insurance Underwriter for her growing business. She is currently a mentor for the class of 2023 Women of Deliverance Spiritual Midwives and a member of Chosen Church. She has sat on the board of directors for Healing Rooms of St. Paul (MN) and Kingdom Full Gospel Church (GA). She is a wife, mother, and grandmother that enjoys serving, reading, speaking, teaching, mentoring, singing, music, walking, and traveling. One of her passionate past-times is cooking for her family and watching them enjoy her kitchen creations. Now equipped with the strategy to another path of greatness in the area of writing, this authorpreneur has the confidence to allow the lioness within to fearlessly lead the way, unapologetically unmuzzled.
Melody Martin
The Interview
Could you tell us about you and your brand as an author and who is your target audience? Melody Martin, is an aspiring serial author, a native of Chicago, IL that currently resides in Augusta, GA. She is a businesswoman, minister, and prophetic intercessor, that captivates, motivates, and inspires most. She is the founder of “Prayer of the Righteous” prayer minister since 2018. Melody has served as leader of street evangelism and intercessory prayer teams. She also has served on the praise & worship team at several ministries. Professionally Melody has served in the field of Information Technology for more than a decade and is currently serving, as Senior IT Technologist for a Fortune 500 company. Her gift of writing was discovered at age thirteen by her English teacher, during her freshman year of High School. Since then, she has written numerous (unpublished) masterpieces, including books and poems. Since being unapologetically unmuzzled she is currently working on a solo writing project to be released Fall of 2023. She has sat on the board of directors for Healing Rooms of St. Paul (MN) and Kingdom Full Gospel Church (GA). She is a licensed Life and Health Insurance Underwriter for her growing business. She is a wife, a mother of six adult children, and a grandmother of twelve. Melody likes singing and a mixed genre of music, walking, reading, and traveling. One of her passionate past-times is cooking for her family and watching them enjoy her kitchen creations. Now being equipped with the strategy to another path of greatness in the area of writing, this authorpreuneur has the confidence to allow the lioness within to fearlessly lead the way, unmuzzled.
Are you traditionally published or self-published? Which do you prefer? I prefer traditional publishing. This route can be more expensive but worth it. This route is more professional and time-saving in my perspective.
What does authorpreneurship mean to you and why did you step into this arena? Authorpreneurship means everything to me. Some arts and artist do not pursue their craft because of the stereotypes attached to them. In the past, so great artist, authors and musicians did not become famous, great or wells known until they were long gone. With modern society and the information age advancing artistry can thrive and expand during the life of the artist. My love and gift of righting can be incubated, nourished, discovered and thrive to set the stage for entrepreneurship based on the simple premise of publicly speaking on what was written.
What or who has been your greatest influence in publishing and why? When I think about how long and how many things I have written since I was a teen, I reminisce on the joy, healing, and mental clarity writing has brought me. My greatest influence in writing has been my children and grandchildren. I will leave a documented legacy. Writing comes naturally to me. If I can process what I hear through the tool of writing I understand it.
How has becoming a published author changed your life overall? Becoming a published author has motivated me in ways unimaginable. Becoming a published author has brought clarity and confidence to my purpose. Becoming a published author has opened doors for speaking engagements, enhanced my testimony, and given me great talking points when conversing with those aspiring to also become published authors and guides for women trying or wanting to understand their role as the woman in relations or in general. Becoming a published author has brought peace and rest to the daunting search for purpose. Becoming a published author has opened the eyes of those around me and given them confidence to know that if I could do it, so can they.
What would you say is your greatest win has been as an author CEO? My greatest win as an Author CEO is watching Lioness Vol 2: Prayers and Affirmations for Women Leaders soar to an Amazon Best Seller in record time. To purchase visit www.melodylmartin.com Also another great win was the fact that after so many years of procrastination, stepping out on faith, and becoming a best seller in less than 4 months, though this anthology project was remarkable.
What’s the best advice you have received in the publishing arena that you wish to pass on to our readers and those who want to publish in the future? The best advice I would give those that want to publish is, to begin with an anthology project and work with a team that offers coaching, pushing, and deadlines along the way.
What has been the most effective marketing initiatives or programs you have used to promote your book? The most effective marketing initiative for me has been word of mouth and social media. Getting your material in the right hands is a strategy Holy Spirit has driven for me.
Do you have any new books or literary projects coming up (or have you just completed a big project ~ reached a milestone, etc.)? If so, please tell us about it. I am a co-contributing author in the Amazon Best Seller, Lioness Vol 2: Prayers & Affirmations for Women Leaders with visionary Dr. Monique Flemings. This book is written by ten women leaders. This book is comprised of testimonies, prayers, and affirmations that will inspire and encourage Women Leaders everywhere to stay the course and to become better for their churches, communities, and the world. I am currently working on a book to be released Fall of 2023.
Who are you behind the book? Tell us who you are when no one is looking. What do you do for fun/relaxation? What’s your favorite vacation spot to unwind? When no one’s looking, at work and at home relaxing. I love and adore my husband and our family of six adult children and twelve grandchildren. I love cooking, worshipping, praying, ministering, learning ways to become more equipped to serve, reading and so much more. I travel to unwind. So far, my favorite vacation spot has been Aruba.
What’s at the top of your list of Goals you plan to accomplish over the next year? Over the next year, I plan to roll out a Christian Comic Book series for children and young adults and finish my solo book project.
What’s the best way for our readers to connect with you (feel free to include the links to your social networks and website. The best way for readers to connect with me are as follows: Phone 706.306.1580 IG https://instagram.com/msmelody7?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= Email Melodylmartin@myyahoo.com Website www.melodylmartin.com
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Tabotha CRUTCHER
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Bio. Tabotha S. Crutcher was born and currently lives in Athens, Alabama. She is the daughter of Ola Savage and the second oldest out of five siblings. A mother of two children, Shardaeand Larquis Crutcher, and a loving grandmother of three granddaughters, Kamari, Karsyn, and Kallie, who motivates me every day. Tabotha was inspired by her grandfather, the late Reverend Sam Crutcher, and a host of several spiritual leaders within her family. She believes that family is important, and with their guidance and support, she was molded into the woman she is today. Ms. Crutcher serves as an Elder at Remnant Church International in Athens, Alabama under the pastoral leadership of Pastors Kenny and Letisha Brinkley. The Brinkley’s have been a powerful influence in her life and in ministry. She assists with leading Remnant Outreach Ministry in various capacities that include children’s organizations, disaster relief programs, and community volunteer services. Tabotha is the leader of the janitorial team, a member of the praise team, a member of the prayer team, and a member of the audio team. She is a songwriter, playwright, and poet. Mentoring young women and incarcerated women is a desire of Tabotha, and she hopes to fulfill her dream of one day owning a center for women from all walks of life. She lives by Hebrews 6:10, “For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.”
Tabotha S. Crutcher
The Interview Could you tell us about you and your brand as an author and who is your target audience? My brand as an author is creative writing that brings clarity to the reader; " it is what sets me apart in services that are associated with who I am. I aspire to reach women whether it be adolescent or mature to help push them beyond the walls of despair through inspiration, healing, and onto freedom. Are you traditionally published or self-published? Which do you prefer? Aspiring to become a self-published author is one of many goals that has been set for me along with being the sole proprietor of my own company which would include movies, playwrights, and songs.
What does authorpreneurship mean to you and why did you step into this arena? Authorpreneurship would allow me to invest in myself, create as well as increase the opportunities for others to invest in themselves also. Writing is one way to successfully do this, using both social and economic skills, and having the resources made applicable to the business.
What or who has been your greatest influence in publishing and why? I wholeheartedly thank, " Dr. Monique Flemings " for being an example of excellence! Her resilience is noteworthy in and throughout her work. She excels as one the best there is, having many accolades and books and being on top of her field. Monique has set the stage for many women authorprenuers.
How has becoming a published author changed your life overall? My first published book " Lioness Prayers and Affirmations for Women Leaders " has opened up my vision to seeing all things are possible to achieve. The greatest win came from being unable to complete to completed! What I thought was impossible became possible through hard work and dedication. What’s the best advice you have received in the publishing arena that you wish to pass on to our readers and those who want to publish in the future? My advice to anyone who desires to write a published book is "Do not procrastinate! " There is no magic wand to be waved nor is there any one thing that will make it appear, only you! By staying persistent and doing the work, and recognizing that what it takes is not on you but in you. By letting yourself see the world from a different angle " none of us see through an unclean lens " but have the tenacity and the courage to move towards your dream.
Do you have any new book or literary projects coming up (or have you just completed a big project ~ reached a milestone, etc.)? If so, please tell us about it. My new book " A Ten Day Devotional " " Her Soul Restored "will be coming out this year, and after the completion of " Lioness," I am grateful for the opportunity to bring forth another book and share it with women from all walks of life.
Who are you behind the book? Tell us who you are when no one is looking. What do you do for fun/relaxation? What’s your favorite vacation spot to unwind? I am the biggest jokester; I love laughter and doing pranks, especially with my family. In my spare time, I write plays, songs, and poetry. I also set up puppetry for children. I love long walks, country rides, and games. I spend time with family; my mom, siblings, and aunts. We are close nit and enjoy the best when we are together.
What’s at the top of your list of Goals you plan to accomplish over the next year? My top goals are books, and a podcast entitled " Let Go of the Basket " that centers around mothers with troubled children: a magazine company and resource centers for abused women.
What’s the best way for our readers to connect with you? For contact information, you may reach me at tabothacrutcher@gmail.com Instagram or Facebook.
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Andrienne REESE SANDERS
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Bio
Adrienne Reese Sanders is a native of Johnsonville, South Carolina. Shortly after graduating from Hannah-Pamplico High School in Pamplico, SC in 1998, Adrienne joined the United States Army where she served in Human Resources for 13 years before her Honorable Discharge. She attended the University of Maryland University College, Adelphi Maryland, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. Adrienne is a faithful servant of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and is very passionate about the things of God. She was ordained as an Elder in God’s church in 2011. Adrienne has a heart for young ladies and women. As one who has dealt with many unfavorable encounters as a young girl into early adulthood, she hears the cries of young girls and women from all walks of life and uses her testimony to instill hope and encourage those who may be experiencing their own struggles. Adrienne is a down-to-earth and approachable person. She is also very sincere and will get down in the trenches with you if need be. Her family is one of her greatest treasures. She is married to Johnathan Sanders. The two celebrated 16 years of Holy Matrimony in May 2022. Together, they share four children, one son-in-law, and two grandchildren. They currently reside in Matteson, Illinois.
Andrienne Reese Sanders
The Interview
Tell us about you and your brand as an author and who is your target audience? Overall, I am an encourager. I feel that anyone who comes into my presence with a heavy spirit walks away feeling uplifted. Of course, not merely because of me, but because of the Hope that lies within me. More specifically, my brand as an author is currently targeted to young girls and women. I dealt with a few struggles early on in life that could have landed me in some pretty unfavorable spaces. Fortunately, by the grace of God, my pain became my purpose. I now use what was meant to take me out as a springboard to launch out and let other ladies know that they are not what they endured, and greater is on the other side.
Are you traditionally published or self-published? Which do you prefer? As a first-time author, I am traditionally published and since I’m very new in these author streets, I prefer to remain traditionally published at least for the time being.
What does authorpreneurship mean to you and why did you step into this arena? Authorpreneurship to me actually means it’s “GO TIME”! I stepped into this arena because I know my story needs to be heard. As I stated earlier, my pain became my purpose. There are too many women going through or who have gone through the same or similar situations as me. They need to know they are not alone. I’ve stayed in a place of stagnation far too long. I couldn’t keep it bottled up any longer.
What or who has been your greatest influence in publishing and why? I would definitely have to say off the bat, my coach and mentor, Dr. Monique Flemings, who is also the visionary author of the anthology project we just completed, “Lioness Volume II: Prayers & Affirmations for Women Leaders”. I’ve watched Dr. Monique since 2015 on and off. I’d take a class she’d offer here and there, but the end of 2022 was a pivotal moment for me. I’m no longer secondguessing my gifts and callings. Dr. Monique is an awesome woman of God, an amazing mentor and coach, and an overall power pusher. More than that, it was really the pull inside of me…wanting to really walk in my purpose.
How has becoming a published author changed your life overall? I’m so new to it that I really don’t know yet! LOL! That has yet to be determined. However, personally, on the inside I feel so accomplished. I feel unleashed. I know that I haven’t arrived and I’m not seeking that at all. My eyes are open, and my spiritual antennae are up to see what’s next.
What would you say your greatest win has been as an author CEO? So far, realizing my growth and just me moving forward has been huge. A few years ago, I would not have been able to see myself here. I’m not ashamed to admit that there’s much I still need to learn, so I’m counting the small victories.
What’s the best advice you have received in the publishing arena that you wish to pass on to our readers and those who want to publish in the future? The best advice I have received is: 1. JUST WRITE! Don’t worry about sentence structure in your drafts. Don’t even be concerned about if it makes sense at first. Just write! Get it all out on paper or computer, and then go back and look at the structure. Never write and edit at the same time! Although this was one of the best pieces of advice I received, it was hard for me to do because I am a very detailed oriented person. I wanted to correct EVERYTHING on the spot!!! LOL! Hopefully it will become easier in the future. And, 2. SPEAK YOUR TRUTH! THIS WAS A DIVINE DOWNLOAD. TO BE MORE SPECIFIC, THE PHRASE WAS “YOUR AUTHENTICITY HAS IMPACT!” IT HAS BEEN MY MANTRA EVER SINCE.
What has been the most effective marketing initiatives or programs you have used to promote your book? The most effective marketing initiative has been to appeal to the total woman. To bare my truth because I know it is something others can relate to. That’s why I am not afraid to tell my story. At first it was hurtful, now it serves as a tool for healing.
Do you have any new book or literary projects coming up (or have you just completed a big project ~ reached a milestone, etc.)? If so, please tell us about it. We just wrapped up “Lioness Volume II: Prayers & Affirmations for Women Leaders” of which I am a contributing author with Dr. Monique Flemings as the visionary author. We just learned earlier today that the book has reached Amazon Best Seller status, so we are over-the-top excited about that. I do plan to do more writing in the future; however, I don’t have a timeline for that just yet, but it won’t be long. Other than that, I just hosted my very first conference ever, earlier this month for my soon to be non-profit organization, “Honoring Our Mothers…Preserving Our Daughters” (HOMPOD). That was very huge for me!
Who are you behind the book? Tell us who you are when no one is looking. What do you do for fun/relaxation? What’s your favorite vacation spot to unwind? Behind the book, I am simply Adrienne. I am Adrienne, the wife; the mother; the grandmother (MiMi); the employee, the student; the worshipper; even Adrienne the impatient driver… (Pray for me!) For relaxation, I love a good massage!! And I love to watch HGTV!! My favorite vacation spot is anywhere there is water. I love being by water, it’s so refreshing! I’m also a foodie! I love to try different cuisines. Currently Asian cuisine is my favorite, specifically, Korean. I lived in Korea for a year while I was in the Army and the rest is history! Thai cuisine is a close second!
What’s at the top of your list of Goals you plan to accomplish over the next year? I would like to see growth in my soon-to-be non-profit organization as well as personal development as a speaker and an authorpreneur. Hopefully, I will have written another book by then as well.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers? Sure. I’d like to encourage the readers to bet on themselves. To see themselves walking in their greatest potential. If that means getting out of your own way, so be it. Don’t sit on your gifts, someone somewhere needs what you have to offer and they’re waiting for you!
What’s the best way for our readers to connect with you (feel free to include the links to your social networks and website. I can be reached by email at connect@adriennereesesanders.com. My website address is www.adriennereesesanders.com. I’m also on social media as Adrienne Reese Sanders on Facebook and unapologetically_adrienne on Instagram. To mothers and daughters or any relationship that portrays such, I would like to extend to you the opportunity to join a community of like-minded women and girls who are seeking positive reinforcement in their relationships and their daily lives! Join us on Facebook in our private community “Honoring our Mothers… Preserving Our Daughters” or contact us by email at hompodinfo@gmail.com or on our website www.hompod.org.
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Cherita
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WHITE-MORRIS
Bio
A butterfly…she is beautiful, delicate, and resourceful. Cherita, like most people, wants to be valued and loved by others. The way in which she approaches any task that comes to her is matter-of-fact-ly, with flowers dispersed so as not to offend. Yet, she is very thoughtful and thorough with all intention to bring value to others, both professionally and personally. Loving people is her nature. To love is to give herself away. Cherita gives as she would like to receive. Her gift to others is the way that she envelopes and exhorts strength onto the souls in her presence. The transformation of this woman from a caterpillar to a butterfly is captivating. She is a mother to three adult sons and three gifted grands. She raised those young men as single mom while establishing a career and being an entrepreneur. Cherita has a beautiful smile that allows people to feel her warmth, whether she is being serious or whimsical, focused, or having fun. She smiles when she would prefer to cry, and she keeps persevering when she would prefer to estivate. As a University of Chicago Biological Sciences graduate, Cherita has contributed scientifically to publications in the Journal of Neuroscience. Cherita has served on the Board of her Homeowners Association as both president and secretary for twelve years and two years on the Board of N.O.T.I.C.E., a professional organization for the advancement of women of color at the University of Chicago. Cherita has served as a seasoned Grants and Contracts Administrator, financial consultant, and strategist for over twenty-two years. She is a solutionist, having served some of the most brilliant minds in the biomedical sciences worldwide. The strength that it has taken for Cherita to become the woman she is today should be applauded, revered, and honored. I introduce to you, my sistah, the Butterfly.
Cherita White-Morris
The Interview Tell us about you and your brand as an author and who is your target audience? I am also a very proud mother of three beautiful adult sons, and three cheerfully, gifted grandchildren. I’m a quiet observer, who loves listening for life’s lessons and patterns. I enjoy my private time alone with God in meditative moments or observation throughout my day, whether in stillness or in motion. Professionally, in lieu of becoming a physician which was my dream, I’ve maintained proximity to the biomedical sciences over the past 23 plus years serving and supporting the vision and research programs of various global leaders initially as a lab technician, and later as a Grants and Contracts Specialist. As a businesswoman, I’ve sought to encourage and enhance the inner beauty of women as they live and lead their families with more confidence and strength. My heart is to enrich and empower women and children with a mindset towards legacy growth and expansion. In addition, within my community, I’ve enjoyed advocating and serving on the Board of Directors in my Homeowners Association for close to 12 years to raise our property values and cultivate dignity and greater sense of pride. As God’s teacher, I enjoy being a life-long learner gaining clarity and revelation, to challenge and stretch perspective, and offer insights for others along the way. Now as an author, I’m excited and count it a privilege to share nuggets I’ve acquired in quiet moments. Powerful reflections that lend to personal growth and fresh perspectives for others to glean from in their personal walk with God. My heart’s desire is for my audience to come to know the love of God - beyond the veneer of religion, in a genuinely intimate and authentic way. My prayer is for readers to come to know God’s heart towards them and His longing to restore a meaningfully, intimate connection with them. My hope is that readers will grow to become more aware and accepting of His unconditional love and thoughts concerning them. I pray that readers would come to know the length God would go to establish or restore relationship and connection with them, beyond anything we have ever truly known or understood our relationship to look like with Him. My target audience are adults ranging from 18 to 80. And with time, I’d love to see that target audience extend to adolescents and youth as it’s never too early to cultivate a healthy awareness of God’s love in the heart and mind of a child, especially in these times.
Are you traditionally published or self-published? Which do you prefer? Lioness Volume II is my first publication as a Contributing Author which was self-published under the tutelage and leadership of Dr. Monique Flemings. As a budding author, I certainly preferred this coached process backed by Dr. Monique’s prayers, guidance and years of experience. This anthology project served as a solid springboard for me as an authorpreneur. It demystified the process making the introduction to becoming a new author more enjoyable, and ultimately quite successful. I am truly grateful for this coached journey as it came with Dr. Flemings’ coaching insights, guidance and experience as an accomplished Best-Selling Author, and the success of this Amazon Best Selling Anthology, Lioness Volume II which was a huge accomplishment for us. This entire process with Dr. Monique provided next-level confidence, along with the necessary tools and momentum needed to build upon for future work and publications. What does authorpreneurship mean to you and why did you step into this arena? Authorpreneuship is a powerful platform which enables me to share Godinspired reflections of personal values and lessons learned to enrich or support others through life’s journey. The inspired contents can potentially serve as a witness or testimony to others. The written word affords you an opportunity to inspire, clarify perspectives, offer insights, suggestions, and recommendations. It has the potential to refresh and encourage a soul, offer insight and awareness, or even breathe the breath of God on the reader in a moment when it’s much needed in their life. Authorpreneurship is an opportunity to flow in our divine expression and birthright energy, creating new beginnings and doors through the written word. Books become containers or vessels which send forth “life”, inspired thoughts and words to others. Messages encapsulated in books are more than just mere words on a page; there is spirit behind the words which can anoint, deliver, serve as confirmation and encourage momentum and forward motion in the absence of a friend or extend needed mentorship of sorts when one is not present. When an author is inspired to share revelation, you begin to recognize God’s power and spirit flowing through you which is not limited by geography, nor time.
Authorpreneurship affords God-inspired thoughts to heal, to uplift, to offer insight, and your perspective or experience in the appointed time and season of an individual who you may not know, nor ever meet. It extends an opportunity for you to understand the power of words, and the fact that they are truly carriers of the essence or spirit of God around the truth or revelation that is timeless. Authorpreneurship is truly inspiring expressions and a vehicle of healing for people to hear and revisit, and the message (living word) may become edited over time lending a new meaning or revelation the next time the reader revisits it. Authorpreneurship is truly a privilege and an honor, especially in a world that moves so fast as it is typically captured when one slows down in a more reflective state to transcribe the thoughts and heartbeat of God. God can do so much through the written word, especially when it’s authentic and relatable. His word through an author has the potential to heal or nourish a soul for years or even decades to come. Authorpreneurship is an honor and can be quite prophetic! I stepped into this arena as an outgrowth of my love for capturing my conversations and nuggets during my personal time with God. Journaling my questions and God’s encouragement and direction became a way for me to remember His promises and direction, beyond the moment of bliss and relief, especially when life becomes “lifey” and I need to recall all He’s done for me over time. I love the power and pictures drawn through words - the thoughts, the emotions, the presence of God, the knowledge and revelation that comes when you yield yourself to capturing the moment, the conversation, when you’re “in the spirit” or communion with God. Upon reflection when I revisited my journals over the years, it seemed such a waste to have so many nuggets in notebooks containing these reflections and not share the “spirit”, potential of these words or “containers of life” with others. I realized that what’s common or “ordinary” to us, can be “extra-ordinary” or transformative for someone else. Your victory serves a “living testimony”, as a salve, or food that nourishes someone else’s soul. God nudges us and prompts us to become “unmuzzled” for various reasons (including culture, or a wounded soul). In this state, the inspired word of God remains vaulted until love (God) replaces fear and helps you realize the divine value of your testimony as your soul is healed. I procrastinated my start as an author for over 20 years because of fear, not knowing how to start, dismissing the value of my story because of my fractured self-worth, and getting lost in my head, and allowing other things in life to become a priority. What prompted me to jump onto the Lioness Volume II project was God’s prompting to simply start and realizing the need to heal spaces in my soul that skewed my perspective and value of what I had to share. Often, we hide waiting on things to become “perfect” (as if there is such a thing), instead of valuing ourselves as we are today and simply turning our life, our soul, over to God and trusting His healing process and growth and development in our lives.
Recently, I reflected on various prophetic words spoken over my life and felt a pull to start by participating in this anthology. A few years ago, a prophet confirmed that I would heal as I wrote my story. Another noted that there was a lioness on the inside of me. I recalled their words on occasions; but I got in my head and lost in life procrastinating for a few more years, because I was unsure of where to begin. Then recently, my prior pastor echoed a similar the message and leaned into me being an author. With all of these nudges, I knew I had to move on this. I missed the first volume of the Lioness anthology; but, I could not miss the second call for authors. I jumped in clueless of the process, unsure of what God would have me speak to; but, I had to trust and not ignore another call to action. So often we wait (procrastinate) and believe that we must “qualify” to begin “the work”, when, in fact, all we need to do is simply trust, and begin with what we have in our hands, and in our hearts, leaving the rest to the Author and Finisher of our faith. It’s Him doing it anyway through us, not us. I’ve learned when we delay unnecessarily, when we are typically looking at and relying on ourselves, instead of looking up and trusting Him.
What or who has been your greatest influence in publishing and why? My greatest influence in publishing was Dr. Monique Flemings’ Lioness Volume II coaching offer, along with the timing of the resources to invest in my success in the project and timing of a painful “break/wake-up”. God is ever so patient with us and he gives us many opportunities to do what we’re called to do. I knew I could not advance as an authorpreneur until I obeyed God’s instruction to tell my story and begin to heal. God sent three powerful voices to me and Dr. Flemings offered a platform with instructions and guidance for me to begin this process. Pain is wonderfully transformative and enough to get you unstuck, lol! This door was divinely aligned as the subject/topic, resources, and guidance all came at the same time. It was clear to me that it was time to begin the work without dismissing or explaining it away again. Talk about a unmuzzling a woman, . . . yes, it was my time, to get out of “me”, and get into God by submitting, yielding, trusting, and giving Him the glory!!
How has becoming a published author changed your life overall? It’s a wonderful yet humbling reminder of your purpose, and what’s on the inside of you, along with who compelled you to start in the first place. We were all born to reflect the glory of God. It’s also an opportunity to grow and share “truth” in a manner that has little to do with you. Although God uses us as His hands and feet, it critical to remember that a lot of what we go through is not for us; but, for those we will meet more importantly along the way.
This anthology was truly an opportunity for me to get out of my own way. And it continues to serve a reminder that there’s far too much on the inside of me to go back to my corner and remain silent. This opportunity is truly a call to God‘s purpose and intention, “run to my destiny”, serve others, and to be open His will and His way. Your obedience and authenticity in service gives others permission to show up, brave the waters, and do the same in their lives! God is no respecter of persons. How your light shines, and what He does for you becomes an testimony of what He will do for others who trust and believe in him as they step out on faith. Even in this interview, I am being reminded to continue to take more action - action around my “genesis”. Sometimes we make the mistake of believing that we did something when in fact, God is doing a new thing in and through us. I am so grateful that He loves us despite us and our humanity.
What would you say is your greatest win has been as an author CEO? My greatest win to date was simply starting the journey after 20 years of procrastination and investing in being coached by Dr. Monique Flemings, an experienced author who could walk me through the process to becoming an Amazon Best Selling Author and BestSelling Book, if I followed her lead and instruction. Choosing to feel the fear and doing it anyway. Moving past delays, reasons, excuses and yielding to God in an arena where I have no experience. Receiving the experienced coaching and opportunity presented to me through Dr. Flemings to demystify the process, provide guidance and support I needed to begin my assignment. Her coaching was priceless and minimized the hurdles along my journey as an authorpreneur. And best of all was when she announced the day after our virtual launch that Lioness Volume II was now an Amazon Best Selling book, and we were now Best-Selling Authors!! She led us to this achievement in 90 days! This experience was beyond what I could imagine, and the decision to become a part of this project was a real game changer as a new author. Many have asked me how we did it so soon and were sincerely excited for us. This was truly a stunning accomplishment and a proud moment for all of us. Dr. Monique coaches from a transparent place, in an efficient manner, and left/leaves space for God to guide our stories, along with a community for us to continue to support each other as we grow the work given to each of us. God is the ultimately the reason for our success, along with Dr. Monique’s obedience to His instruction and strategy! I am quite clear that God‘s love and grace towards me is the foundation of my story, and the platform ahead of me. My Father’s engagement is everything, especially through a fresh lens and the fruit that’s evolving in my life. I procrastinated far too long in sharing what was clearly ordained. But that’s what happens when we get into our heads and attempt to create based on the world’s standards. God tells us to move, yet we never feel that what we have to say is enough. But that’s such a lie. The truth is you were born ready! You just need to catch up with God’s declaration concerning your destiny, own it, believe it and then walk in it! Purpose is real and is intended to be walked out with God at every
moment of every second of every day. We must remember to follow Him and acknowledge Him in all our ways so He can establish our thoughts. God truly has us if we would simply trust him and not base our accomplishments on our effort or works!
What’s the best advice you have received in the publishing arena that you wish to pass on to our readers and those who want to publish in the future? Just do it! Do not allow procrastination to keep you from stepping out or speaking up. Do not allow fear to become your companion. Check your state along the journey, and never attempt to “create” in fear. It doesn’t work. Step into purpose and God will guide you through the rest. Love is the foundation of anything solid and sure. It is the foundation of your confidence and your relationship with God. You can do all things through and with Christ who strengthens you! Be patient. The pace of this culture is not aligned with the pace of God. Get in the right headspace. Then, check who you are walking with. Step in alignment with God and get busy living, creating, and sharing to serve and bless others! You will not regret it, and they will so appreciate that you did not keep “it” (God’s gift, His inspired solution or perspective) to yourself!! Leave your DNA in the earth! Plant seeds everywhere as divinely directed by God, and watch the seeds grow flourish. God never does anything other than on purpose and He does not make mistakes, especially in creating YOU for His purpose. Prepare. Align and position yourself for His purpose. Then, let His word flow as guided by Him.
What has been the most effective marketing initiatives or programs you have used to promote your book? As a beginning author, I’ve relied primarily on my rapport with my immediate circle of friends and family. People who genuinely want to see you excel, especially when they’ve watched your potential and fruits over the years. They enjoy celebrating with you, will match your excitement, and willingly help with ideas and the promotion of the book as a personal win in your life. I’ve experienced friends taking pride in knowing the author and typically want to see you excel. And when they come up for air from their busy lives, they come back around to be sure to get their copy. Our family and friends really want to see us grow, and become all that they believed we could become, along with the potential they see on the inside of us. It's been incredible and encouraging to see people also get excited about the receipt of an autographed copy of the book. This has been the initial promotional approach so far, along with suggestions of the book being presented as a gift for other women in their lives, groups, bible study. Once you start and continue to share and promote the book to all you know, you will be amazed how ideas will come to you for promotions. The key is to continue to share and never become self-conscious about how much you promote it. People are busy and will appreciate that you came back around to serve them. My next phase will include some new avenues and ideas from the perspective of my young and vibrant sons. Their generation has a different perspective of how to utilize social media and extend their audience. They will certainly keep you young, lol! But that’s still in progress for now.
Do you have any new book or literary projects coming up (or have you just completed a big project ~ reached a milestone, etc.)? If so, please tell us about it. Right now, this is my first milestone, and I am celebrating and enjoying this accomplishment for now. However, I do have a new project that I will be working on this year to expand my chapter entitled, “Finally Looking Within” in our anthology. It’s a workbook for adults in conjunction with the chapter which expands the concepts presented in my chapter of the anthology. The target audience for this project is adults. Then, I hope to explore a slightly revised version for adolescence and youth. I’m quite excited about it!
Who are you behind the book? Tell us who you are when no one is looking. What do you do for fun/relaxation? What’s your favorite vacation spot to unwind? Ah! Well, I’m an only child and tend to be a homebody. I love cooking, gardening, sketching/painting, journaling, or simply vibing with some great music, the sun, nature, and my closest friends. My home is my refuge, so I also enjoy interior design as well to evoke a comfortable space from the wear in tear of life. Lately, I have begun to slip away and travel locally to gain a little R&R over the weekends. I’ve become more aware and am starting to enjoy the beautiful sounds of birds which has become a new fascination. I know! A little different, huh?! Lol! But it’s such a beautiful departure from the hustle and bustle of the city, the energy and pace of the day-to-day grind. I love “being present” these days, and I find it so much more delightful to do so in a slow-paced environment. Some of my favorite places to vacation include Hawaii and Costa Rica. This Fall, I will be heading to Thailand and I’m super excited about that! This getaway is for a 5-day personal development course with one of my mentors; but I intend to stay a few more days to enjoy the sights and culture there with a few of the students attending this event.
What’s at the top of your list of Goals you plan to accomplish over the next year? One of my top goals this year is to tap further into my divine ability to establish financial independence and focus my energy on things that I enjoy and truly want to do to serve others. It sounds easy, but there’s a lot that goes into that intention at various milestones throughout the year. I’ve worked hard manifesting much along with others over the years of my professional career. I’d like to explore my capacity in partnership with God to see all that’s possible as He leads me in purpose this year.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers? Please know that whatever you need is within you. The answers you’re looking for and the guidance you desire is on the inside of you because God is with you. The word of God tells us to ask, and it shall be given to you. Seek and you shall find. Knock and the door will be open. Think of your quest as a treasure hunt. The treasure is YOU and your divine purpose. Let Him guide you and provide you with a strategy, and respective parts of what you want guidance or clarity on. Cultivate your awareness and focus on His direction. Then, surrender, in confidence of His love and faithfulness to guide you. He wants to lead you and provide clarity as much as you want to know and understand it all. Be patient with yourself and the process. Believe and allow time for His will unfold before you. Continue to look to Him in quietness and confidence. Set your gaze intently on Him with expectation and allow God to reveal the answers to you, along with His purpose for your life. It’s a beautiful journey with many wonderful and unexpected discoveries. No doubt at times you will experience angst; that’s normal and to be expected. But let His plans and guidance unfold with time. Faith is truly the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. He will meet you at the point of your desire. He wants and will support you. Just trust and believe. Align your thoughts and beliefs and watch your awareness and gifts unfold.
What’s the best way for our readers to connect with you (feel free to include the links to your social networks and website). I can be reached through my personal website at www.cheritawhitemorris.com or you can text “STRAWBERRY FIELDS” to (708) 261-9437 and I will get back to you as soon as I can. Please allow 48 hours for a response.
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HaLana
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L.THOMPSON
Bio
HaLana L. Thompson is an extraordinary woman of great faith. She is the founder of HLT Ministries, LLC, an organization that helps women develop language and strategy around living out their life’s purpose and identity. She earned her B.A. in Mass-Mediated Communications from Adrian College. During that time, she accepted her call to preach. HaLana later became a seminary student at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary where she earned her Master of Divinity. She is an ordained minister and an endorsed, board-certified chaplain. HaLana is an advocate, author, counselor, entrepreneur, healer, solutionist, and teacher. HaLana is passionate about women’s ministry, women’s health, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion work. She has been featured in two anthologies: Unashamed: A Global Faith Formation Window to Contemporary Ministries by Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant and HERstory, Vol. 1: She is Strong by Andrea Clark-Horton. She has been a guest speaker on Coloring the Conversation speaking on Perinatal Mental Health: Faith and Perinatal Mental Health and Loss, sponsored by the Perinatal Mental Health Alliance for People of Color. HaLana also co-developed Fostering Inclusivity: An Unconscious Bias Training for Leaders utilized at her health ministry site. HaLana’s personal motto is to help people see themselves the way God sees them. Her wish is to minister across the world; to help people claim and live out their life’s purpose; and to create spaces for women to gather, be encouraged, be uplifted, and be empowered. As a wife, mother, and grandmother, HaLanadesires to be an example for her children and build a better world for those she loves, so they too can impact the world! HaLana holds true to the words in II Timothy 1:7 (NKJV): “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
HaLana L. Thompson
The Interview Tell us about you and your brand as an author and who is your target audience. My name is HaLana Thompson and I was born and raised in Detroit, MI. I am a mother of 3 beautiful young women, a grandmother to one granddaughter, and I have been married for 18 years this May. I am a minister, chaplain, author, entrepreneur, and preacher, and I wear a lot of hats. I also lean heavily into the advocacy role which is why I have such a strong passion for women’s ministry, women’s health, and diversity, inclusion, and equity work. My brand as an author and my target audience is women from teenagers through our more seasoned aged women. I love helping women find their voices, empowering themselves, and living into their God-ordained identity and purpose. I love helping women realize their brilliance and journey alongside them as they are figuring it all out. My motto is always to help people see themselves the way God sees them and that’s as beautiful, strong, courageous, bold, innovative, creative, and purpose-driven vessels are formed, shaped, and destined to become.
Are you traditionally published or self-published? Which do you prefer? I am traditionally published. The other anthologies and projects I have participated in have been through a publishing company. I have not yet written a solo book but it is in the works. So for now, being traditionally published is my path.
What does authorpreneurship mean to you and why did you step into this arena? Authorpreneurship is a new concept and context for me. I have wanted to join Dr. Monique Fleming’s projects in the past but it was not the right timing for me. So when the opportunity came back around, I could not continue to sit on the sidelines. Writing in Lioness Volume 2 was the push that I needed to get back to writing and I also became more intentional about driving my current business and creating more. I am ready to share my story, pour out what God has given me to share, and see where the road continues to lead.
What or who has been your greatest influence in publishing and why? My greatest influence in publishing is my daughters. My oldest started her first business at 18 years old and that motivated me. She’s definitely a go-getter and she said she inspired her by being the courageous, strong, passionate, and self-determined woman she has seen me be her whole life. My chapter in Lioness is all about that! So when given the opportunity to encourage someone else who may have struggled or come up against adversity along their life’s journey, I wanted to give that to the readers and continue to be a role model for my daughters.
How has becoming a published author changed your life overall? Becoming a published author has truly given me that boost of confidence I needed to take a leap of faith and JUST DO IT!! Every step and stage of development in this anthology project also created space and room for me to continue to grow. I had all kinds of excuses and reasons why I wasn’t able to do this or that… This project took away all the excuses, reasons, and procrastinations and I feel so energetic to keep moving forward. The only place to go from here is up… no more looking back!
What would you say is your greatest win has been as an author CEO? My greatest win thus far has been becoming an Amazon Best Selling Author of an Amazon Best Selling Book!! My team and co-authors worked hard on this project and I am overjoyed about this particular win! It is my first and can confidently say it will not be my last!
What’s the best advice you have received in the publishing arena that you wish to pass on to our readers and those who want to publish in the future? Keep going! Keep trying! Write and write some more! Don’t put too much pressure on yourself, just allow whatever is on your mind to be expressed on the page without any revisions… you’ll have time to do that later. Lastly, seek the RIGHT partnerships and collaborations! You don’t have to do it alone! Someone who has done this kind of work before may have a blueprint that will work for you. Collaborate!
What has been the most effective marketing initiatives or programs you have used to promote your book? The most effective marketing initiative for me has been having a great support team. I used social media a lot to promote the book and having my team promote the book on their platforms helped increase my reach. It goes back again to collaboration and not being afraid to seek help from people who know how to do it better than you! Learn, grow, and collaborate!
Do you have any new books or literary projects coming up (or have you just completed a big project ~ reached a milestone, etc.)? If so, please tell us about it. Lioness Volume 2 has been the latest literary project that I have worked on and nothing new in the works just yet. I am working on other projects, events, conferences, and such for the time being. However, I am looking forward to doing more writing in the near future.
Who are you behind the book? Tell us who you are when no one is looking. What do you do for fun/relaxation? What’s your favorite vacation spot to unwind? Who am I behind the book? I am a very chill, laid-back person. Beyond writing, I love dancing, singing, and spending time with my family and close friends. I love playing cards, amusement parks, carnivals, and fun activities. My favorite vacation spot thus far has been any destination in Mexico. I’ve been to 3 different destinations (Cabo, Playa Del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta) and loved each and every place. Put me by some beautiful crystal blue water and I am good!
What’s at the top of your list of Goals you plan to accomplish over the next year? Top of the list to accomplish over the next year is getting into a Doctoral Program. That is my current focus, I know it is going to happen, and I am excited for what’s to come in the very near future.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers? Never be afraid to take a leap of faith and do something you have never done, didn’t think was possible, or something you felt was too high of a bar for you to reach. You are your only limitation. Take the limits off and expand your thinking, how you see yourself, and what you are able to accomplish and achieve! Let God’s vision for your life become your vision for your life! Trust that God’s plan will always be bigger and better than your own.
What’s the best way for our readers to connect with you? If someone would like to connect with me, you can go to www.hltministries.com to get connected with me. I am also on social media, you can follow my Facebook page: HaLana L. Thompson and IG: HLT Ministries, LLC (Halana.l.thompson). Thank you for your support.
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Ashley
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GARCIA
Bio
The innovative Ashley Garcia is a woman who is passionate to cultivate the atmosphere for healing. Her passion is a catalyst to help others break the cycle of pain and overcome and become what they were always created to be. The love, patience, and compassion of working with children has cultivated in her own experience to help others. As a daughter, friend, and leader, she has used her pain and experience to grow and evolve to be a woman who can share her story and stand among her ashes that have become beauty. She was a broken masterpiece but is now God’s masterpiece with imperfections, flaws, and scars. Ashley is the pure definition of what you don’t look like and what you have been through. Ashley is a loving, fun woman who enjoys life to the fullest. She was born in Guatemala but raised in Chicago. Ashley considers her faith, family, and friends to be the most important in her life. She has fallen in love with boxing; she says it is a great way to stay healthy and also have fun. Another thing she enjoys doing is exploring and learning about her city’s culture because it brings joy and adventure into her life. She values quality time with the ocean. It is something about the sound of waves that brings peace and clarity into her life. She believes good food, great conversation, and lots of laughter are the way to the heart. One of her affirmations is: laughter is the best healing agent in life.
Ashley Garcia
The Interview Tell us about you and your brand as an author and who is your target audience. I am an exuberant woman who is passionate about women being healthy and whole. My brand is when you heal yourself you also heal the other woman of your family. My target audience is women ages 30-41 who know that there is more to life but have not experienced their greatest potential as of yet…
Are you traditionally published or self-published? Which do you prefer? I am self-published the team that I worked with was amazing.
What does authorpreneurship mean to you and why did you step into this arena? Authorpreneurship means that since I am a solution in this world I get to put the solutions in book form in order to help others. The reason for stepping Into it was time to be unapologetic about my voice being heard and allow it to travel to places that my feet might not touch physically
What or who has been your greatest influence in publishing and why? One of them has to be Dr. Monique Flemings she was not afraid to be the solution and she published them and has helped many people. Women who step out of faith and publish their stories too many to name them
How has becoming a published author changed your life overall? It has changed my life by knowing that the legacy has started and my story and my voice are out there for generations to come.
What would you say is your greatest win has been as an author CEO? When my readers share with me how they can relate and how it has helped to overcome and heal the trauma in their life.
What’s the best advice you have received in the publishing arena that you wish to pass on to our readers and those who want to publish in the future? Your story is yours and nobody can change it, your readers will identify with your story.
What has been the most effective marketing initiatives or programs you have used to promote your book? Social media and word of mouth has been the best.
Do you have any new book or literary projects coming up (or have you just completed a big project ~ reached a milestone, etc.)? If so, please tell us about it. Lioness Volume 2 prayers and affirmations. It’s an anthology book project with other woman coauthors who come together through the power of collaboration to share our powerful stories.
Who are you behind the book? Tell us who you are when no one is looking. What do you do for fun/relaxation? What’s your favorite vacation spot to unwind? I am a woman who is loving, fun, and kind. I am a woman who loves herself and enjoys taking naps and getting dolled up. For fun I love to box it’s a great way of staying fit while realizing stress I am also a foodie so I like to try out new restaurants. My favorite vacation spot is the ocean front give a beach chair a good book and let me connect with God.
What’s at the top of your list of Goals you plan to accomplish over the next year? Start a new book and release it, and keep advocating for women and sharing their stories in safe places. Travel and keep sharing the love of God.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers? It takes courage to step out and write but it also takes one who is brave enough to share their stories for others to know that there is hope and that you have a purpose.
What’s the best way for our readers to connect with you (feel free to include the links to your social networks and website My website www.theashleygarcia.com Facebook Ashley garcia IG@ convos____with___ash or @ash__
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Glennetrius
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NEAL
Bio
Glennetrius Neal aka “Coach G” is your Chief P.M.S. cheerleader (Positively. Motivating. Sisters. with Purpose. Meaning. Style.). She is the CEO and Founder of G-style Coaching, LLC, a coaching and consulting service company, empowering women leaders to WIN in their life and business by discovering the gaps blocking their next level of growth. Glennetrius serves you with passion and persistence in guiding you from where you are to your what's next as your leadership and growth coach, empowerment speaker, and mentor. Glennetrius attests her passion comes from the pain point of growing up as the only child and wanting a sister to grow with and share in the pains and joys of sisterhood helped her discover another part of her why. After a health wake-up call, her life evolved into something bigger than her own challenges… living with purpose. Her determination continues as the host of “What’s all the P.M.S.? with Coach G, an empowerment podcast for women. Glennetrius also pours her heart into inspiring other girls and women in a safe space on a virtual forum called Sister T.E.A. Talk with Coach G: The BOARDROOM and The Ladies Room. Her strong sense of inclusion empowers women to know they belong in the room and at the table. Glennetrius holds an M.A. in Professional Development with Professional Life Coaching and a Life Purpose Coaching Certification. Her career spans over 25 years involving corporate, business management, ministry leadership, training, and coaching. She accredits her expertise, experience, and knowledge comes from the shoes she has worn through life’s lessons, as an entrepreneur, and leadership positions in the private and public sectors of business. She realizes God has enriched her life by being raised by a strong woman and the joy of being a mother and a wife.
Glennetrius Neal
The Interview
Tell us about you and your brand as an author and who is your target audience. I am passionate in empowering girls and women leaders to WIN in their personal and professional life. Women are the heart of my purpose because I always longed to bond with a sister growing up as the only child. Now, I get to experience the journey of girls and women, ages 16 to 70 plus through coaching, mentoring, empowerment speaking, podcasting, and as an author. Having the opportunity to educate, inspire, motivate, and lead women is more than I can ask for or think.
Are you traditionally published or self-published? Which do you prefer? My initial plan was to self-publish my first book. However, when presented with the opportunity to be traditionally published as a co-author in this amazing anthology, Lioness 2: Prayers & Affirmations for Women Leaders with Dr. Monique Flemings, this marked my beginning. I still have the goal to self-publish because it is a dream for me. However, after this experience, I am open to both now.
What does authorpreneurship mean to you and why did you step into this arena? Honestly, I never thought about this as authorpreneurship. It is amazing being an entrepreneur and CEO of G-style Coaching, LLC, in my own rights, and not seeing this step of being an author as such. The awareness was made known during the training and coaching sessions with Dr. Monique Flemings when she stated, “You are stepping into authorpreneurship.” It was at that moment I gained a new perspective, respect, and outlook on my life. I realized I am solving a problem through writing to help other women on their journey.
What or who has been your greatest influence in publishing and why? For me, this has been 20 years of waiting and not taking the steps to make it happen. It was my moment. I went from “procrastination to published” within three months under the tutelage of Dr. Monique Flemings, the visionary of this anthology. I believe this is enough said. My dream came to life.
How has becoming a published author changed your life overall? I am witnessing what it means to write the vision, make it plain, and see it happen. Becoming a published author has given me the confidence to stand boldly, tell stories to help change lives, and have the fortitude to write more.
What would you say is your greatest win has been as an author CEO? I am the first author in my family, and I gave myself permission to live my dream and leave a legacy.
What’s the best advice you have received in the publishing arena that you wish to pass on to our readers and those who want to publish in the future? I am a recovering perfectionist. I realized my perfectionism was a barrier of procrastination. The statement that cleared my path to write and get to this point was, “do not write and edit at the same time.” My whole world changed. I was giving myself permission to write freely and now it has been completed.
What have been the most effective marketing initiatives or programs you have used to promote your book? Marketing is the bread of building awareness and your reach. It is how we connect and grow. Engaging and informing my audience on a consistent basis through social media and email marketing was the connector. I believe the most important was having a pre-sales campaign.
Do you have any new books or literary projects coming up (or have you just completed a big project ~ reached a milestone, etc.)? If so, please tell us about it. Yes and yes! Yes, I just completed the anthology project for Lioness 2: Prayers & Affirmations for Women Leaders with Dr. Monique Flemings and other amazing co-authors. I am also proud to say it is an Amazon Best Seller. Since the launch of this project, I am an Amazon Best Selling Author, too. My other yes is I am working on my next book titled, “the little girl…NO MORE!” Let’s just say it’s more to come from the chapter I wrote from this anthology, Lioness 2.
Who are you behind the book? Tell us who you are when no one is looking. What do you do for fun/relaxation? What’s your favorite vacation spot to unwind? I love God, I love my family, and I love what I get to do in my career empowering women leaders to win in their personal and professional life. I am a woman on a mission living with purpose and allowing God to direct my steps. I am often reminded by the scripture in Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.” This is my life, but most of all, I have learned to enjoy the moments life is giving me. Journaling and reading are my relaxations. As well as spending time with my hubby binging on good TV shows and having date lunches and dinners together is relaxing and fun for me. And, let me add, I love the unity and connection in having girl moments with my daughters, mom, friends, and women in the family, shopping, praising, having spur of moments to explore new things with my hubby, and dancing like no one’s watching. My favorite vacation spot is going to the cabins to restore, relax, and unplug from the busy day-to-day.
What’s at the top of your list of Goals you plan to accomplish over the next year? Publish my next book, travel more to speak, and stay healthy and whole in how I eat, exercise, and nourish my body, mind, and soul. Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers? After a wake-up call in June of 2020, I realized my life was bigger than me and made the shift to live my life on purpose. I don’t know where you are on your life’s journey, but I want to share whatever it is stirring up inside of you, give yourself permission to grow and take the first step no matter how big or small; seek a coach who can guide you in getting to your next, and get ready for what will change your life because someone is waiting on your greatness. What’s the best way for our readers to connect with you (feel free to include the links to your social networks and website. I would love to connect and work with you because you were designed to WIN in your life! Think of me as your Chief P.M.S. Cheerleader. Now, let’s stay in this sisterhood together: Website: www.gstylecoaching.com IG: www.instagram.com/coachgstyle/ FB: www.facebook.com/coachgstyle/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/coachgneal/ YouTube: @coachgstyle Check out Coach G’s podcast, “What’s all the P.M.S.?”: https://whatsallthepmswithcoachg.buzzsprout.com
the end.