Women of Wealth Magazine

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STORIES

Dr. Lei Lewis 6

Sue Ann Cordell 10

Marnice Miller 14

Valerie Hale 20 Beverly Claiborne 24 Kendra Calhoun 28 Dr. Deirdre Marie Manley 32 Melissa Boston 34 Laquita Brooks 38 Lael Caldwell 42 Dr. Linda Bing 46 Faye Coleman 50 Dr. Tasha Dickerson 54 Apostle Dr. Veryl Howard 58 Dr. Reneé Starlynn Allen 62 “Brandy” O’Neal

Welcome to the Miami “ESSENCE OF A BOSS LADY” ISSUE

Another WOMEN OF WEALTHMAGAZINE EDITION about Success, Power, and Wealth. But this is 2022. So, what do you do when you come through a season of the COVID-19 Virus? How do you continue to nurture your mind, body, and soul with daily reminders of a pandemic and disturbing news? You go inward, you simply go inward and perhaps take a 2-hour flight or put that top-down and travel to the beautiful Miami, where the wealthy and prestigious play. But Why you may think? AFTER retiring from 30 years of practicing law, one of the very first things that I did, was set out on a mission to discover the mindset of wealthy people and how others, and myself, could acquire such wealth. I quickly realized that without someone reaching back for me as they “Lift and Climbed” I may have spent many years overcoming pitfalls that would challenge my faith. But God! Our previous special edition. launched in the Hamptons, April 2022, is very dear to my heart. In fact, it rings a melody of gratefulness, tenacity, and resilience.

I’ve had my share of life’s ups and downs God’s been good to me, and the downs have been few I would guess you can say, God has blessed me.

For what started out as a lifetime vision of me hosting 20 perhaps 50 women at the Hamptons, soon became an avalanche of 200 plus women from across the country and abroad making history with Women of Wealth Magazine in the most phenomenal way, for never in the history of The Hamptons has this many women and women of color congregated.

As I reflect on my journey with Women of Wealth Magazine, I can tell you that it has not been easy, however, the hunger of feeding the souls of women through the pages of business, beauty and wealthy lifestyles also fed me. Today, I’m full and lifting as I continue to climb to higher heights. Also, in this edition, we want to extend our gratitude and deepest appreciation to the amazing women that made this possible. There are stories from women from all walks of life that understand my vision and heart. Women who like me, look back reach back and

grab another’s hand to Lift them as they Climb. For the first time this year, we’re introducing a list of Titans, wildly influential design-minded women who have made the Women of Wealth Magazine team so proud to introduce them. Women who fiercely stepped out on faith and have become nurturers through their products, nonprofits, and businesses. These courageous ladies are an example of the power of within and I am proud to take the reins of introducing them throughout the pages of this issue. As a famed Editor and Chief of Women of Wealth Magazine a native of Beckley, West Virginia, raised by three teenagers after the death of our dear mother...the landscape of my mind living with eight other siblings was never a beautiful magazine. It was however love, nurturing, and strength, a strong roots that became the sustainable cultivation of my life over time. For the first time this year, I will be unveiling my signature fragrance line LEI ELLE. My love for life and people, for beauty and art, for music and

collaboration, has also been the fuel that fires my advocacy of lifting others today. In this issue, you too will be inspired as we Lift and Climb to higher heights and continue to watch over the landscapes of those that need cultivating as we march forward creating boss Ladies. Our visit to Miami is about gathering our hopes, dreams, and love for one another as we cultivate in our wealthy place on Bowe Island. We are Boss Ladies, so naturally, for such an occasion we would need a theme for this gathering that comes with a protocol. So, our Women’s Retreat is aptly titled “The Essence Of A Boss Lady.” This weekend our challenge is to create more Boss Ladies.

As I stroll through the pages of the Miami Edition of Women of Wealth Magazine and gleam with the

excitement of the joy that you too will experience, my heart is reminded of these words from a beautiful song that James Cleveland sang on an Unknown Album. “I’ve had my share of life’s ups and downs God’s been good to me, and the downs have been few, I would guess you can say, God has blessed me. But there’s never been a time in my life, he didn’t bring me through.” If anyone should ever write, my life story. For whatever reason there might be. He will be there, between each line of pain and glory. Jesus is the best thing that ever happened to me.

Dr. Lei Lewis Publisher and Editor in Chief FAVOR WROTE MY LIFE STORY.

Sue Ann Cordell

A WOMAN WITHOUT WALLS

WOW Magazine was introduced to Sue Ann Cordell by a friend of ours and she did not disappoint. We found all aspects of Sue Ann Cordell fascinating and grateful for the new relationship. We were eager to share with you the incredible skill set, faith and wisdom this woman possesses. We thoroughly enjoyed our interview with her.

to be

Happy whylimit toanhour

Please share how you began your career with William Morris Endeavor Entertainment and what was the last position you held?

Shortly after relocating to Nashville, Tennessee in 1991, I accepted a job at Charles Dorris & Associates, a talent agency that focused primarily on the representation of Contemporary Christian Music artists. The company was extraordinarily successful, and a larger company approached the owner about purchasing his company. He accepted their offer and became Co-Head of the Christian Music Department at William Morris Agency (now known as WME) and I came on board as his assistant.

A year later, I moved from the Christian Music Department to the Administration Department as Head of Human Resources/Office Manager. The following year, I was named Vice President, joined the Global Management Team for Los Angeles, New York, London, Miami, and Shanghai, served as an advisor for the Philanthropic Foundation, and continued to train and mentor young professionals. The last position I held was Head of Human Resources/Office Manager & Advisor for the newly formed office in Dallas, Texas with a primary goal to bridge two entities together for the purpose of building live events for a select group of high-profile clients.

How can our readers build characteristics that will get them to the next level in their job or business?

It starts with an appreciation for the opportunity that has been given to you. Taking a positive approach each day not only helps with your mindset, but it can also lift the spirits of others and improve the overall attitude of your coworkers and customers. Quite frankly, it is critical to the financial and operational success of the company you work for. When supervisors and upper management see this characteristic in you, it opens doors for future opportunities.

Here is my simple formula for success:

Do work hard—it will get noticed. Do form relationships—they are everything in business. Do take advantage of every opportunity.

Don’t complain. Don’t take it personally. Don’t tear others down.

Treat everyone with dignity and respect even if they don’t do the same for you and find humor in each day.

Your position was secure with an internationally known, prosperous company and you could have stayed there for the rest of your career, yet you did not You started SHINEWORTHY Lifestyles –shineworthylifestyles.com, a speaking & coaching career, and a tea company. What advice would you give someone who wants to change careers yet has a lot of fear or financial challenges in making that change?

Have a goal. I often say, “A Goal without a plan is just a wish.” A well thought out plan can diminish fears. Start by harnessing your passion, then on your off time, be relentless in pursuing every possibility surrounding it. Be realistic about what it will take financially and make sure you prepare in advance. Just starting the process can motivate you and allow your current job to be more enjoyable.

Your husband Randy Cordell is the senior pastor of a large church called Lakeshore Christian Church. It is known to be a church of diversity. You also began Shineworthy Tea in a location known for diversity. You speak a lot about the importance of this issue. How would you describe a business that is succeeding with diversity and why is it important?

It is a welcoming and loving culture where people from all levels of society are treated with dignity and respect and are given opportunities to excel without bias. When a business is conducted in this way, it allows everyone to thrive.

You are described as a role model for being a successful entrepreneur as well as a person who stands strong in your principles of faith. You speak at Universities and mentor young women. Did you have a mentor in your career and if so, how did it influence your career path?

I’ve had several mentors who walked beside me and opened doors for me. You see, the key element of influence with each of my mentors was this: They believed in me and wanted to set me up for success. They were my biggest cheerleaders and as a result, I have tried to pattern my leadership after them. When asked what I love most about my jobs, my answer is always the same: “I love to train and equip people and help them rise to the top and shine like a star.” That comes from the mentorships I was fortunate enough to have along the way.

How does your faith influence you as a mentor?

My faith influences every aspect of my life. I start each day in my “prayer chair” seeking wisdom from above. I believe wholeheartedly that above everything else in life our purpose is to love God and then to love others. These key elements influence me as a mentor.

Would you be willing to share a memorable moment of disappointment that occurred in your business?

We built out the space for SHINEWORTHY TEA with upscale design and opened our store with great anticipation of other businesses opening soon per our contractual agreement. At our Grand Opening, we had over 900 people show up. We continued to grow, all the while anticipating other businesses would be coming soon. Without any advance notice, we discovered through an outside source that the property owner had decided to go a different direction. As a result, we were now an upscale tea business that was in the middle of a charter school parking lot. We made the decision to get out of our lease and reinvent our business model. We experienced great disappointment, however we learned so many valuable lessons that have equipped us to continue to grow. We are smarter and more cautious when making decisions that will affect the future of our business. Instead of setting us back, it set us up for greater success. This past year, SHINEWORTHY TEA celebrated our 10th year in business, and we continue to grow!

How do you decide and choose the people of influence in your life?

I look for successful people who have been where I am and have aligned themselves with the same values that I hold near and dear to my heart.

There are many tea companies, yet you chose to start Shineworthy Teas amongst fierce competition. What makes your tea company different and how have you thrived with these unique economic times?

Tea is the number one drink in most parts of the world, and many wonderful conversations and business deals have been conducted while sipping tea. We offer our customers the absolute best in flavor, quality, and value. During these unique economic times we have continued to serve our customers online offering free shipping on all orders. We also partner with six other businesses who offer SHINEWORTHY TEA exclusively in their establishments.

shineworthytea.com

You authored a book called Simplify: A Life Anchored in Purpose. I read this book and it made me take a closer look as to what is important in my life. If you were to finish this sentence… “My hope is that when someone reads my book, they will…”

begin to focus on the things that matter most and take a positive approach to life!

Last question. You were featured in a podcast where you said, “I choose to be happy.” Some will say that circumstances can take our choice away to be happy. A spouse dies, a child has an addiction, health issues, you lose your job, bills can’t be paid, more family chaos, etc. The challenges of life can steal our joy and our faith. What can you share that can help our readers choose happiness and faith during times of trouble and still live a life of purpose?

The struggles of this life are real and hard to deal with. In times of trouble, I try to take a positive approach and trust God for the outcome. When I slow down and look back on my life, I can see how God has carried me through time and time again. This enables my faith to become greater than my fear, and the joy of the Lord to truly be my strength.

Happiness is a choice—let’s choose to be happy!

Marnice Miller

BUILDING WEALTH WITH GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS

When one thinks of women and wealth, you must include this highly educated and well sought-after professional in business, Marnice Miller. This 23-year veteran of the Civil Service, served within various sectors of the government where she learned the ends and outs of processes, policies, and procedures. Not knowing how all that knowledge and wisdom would play a major part in her current role today, Marnice would go on to receive many accolades and awards prior to venturing into her current role as President of Human Capital Resources and Concepts (HCRC), a consulting firm that specializes in resource management capabilities designed and utilized by all federal organizations. This business is unique in many ways. It’s 100% woman owned and is considered “economically disadvantaged” because of her socio-economic category. However, this disadvantage did not prevent her firm from being certified by the Small Business Administration (SBA) as minority owned business operating within a Historically Underutilized Business Zone. Having this leverage allows Marnice the opportunity to bid on the many opportunities to work with the federal government. In fact, there are not a whole lot of consulting companies in the area, let alone the state, with this competitive advantage.

Through these efforts, HCRC is also able to provide an array of other services including, analytical support, collection management, planning, human capital, training, program management, database consultants, project managers and end-user services. Marnice also saw an opportunity to provide HR consultation and services to other small companies who do not have the luxury of being able to hire full-time HR staff. Surprisingly, so many small businesses lack the proper knowledge when it comes to HR.

Being able to offer training and outsource HR services for owners in these situations has been a game changer.

Human Capital Resources and Concepts is the “Support You Can Rely On” and takes immense pride in serving the greater community. Women Of Wealth Magazine search the nation looking for such empowering stories to share with our readers. We discovered that minority women were indeed much sought-after human capital. They always knew that they possessed the character of a successful Boss Lady. But lacked the economic resources to turn a dream into tomorrow’s reality. Marnice worked in the government’s world for many years, and finally one day the light bulb came on and she knew it was time to take all that she had learned and create the multimillionaire Boss Lady. Let’s dig deeper into the essence of a Boss Lady.

AJ: You have a very extensive resume with a wealth of knowledge and wisdom. Tell us how easy or difficult was it for you to take your experience in the government and transform it into a successful business?

MM: Working for the government was an experience within itself. As a federal employee your job duties rarely change, in fact you can most times perform your duties with your eyes closed, that’s just how repetitive it can be. As I transitioned into entrepreneurship, the communication part, networking, and meeting people was easy for me. It was the business piece of it all that was difficult. While you know the players and know the field, the competition factor was a challenge. In the

entrepreneur world, you always must think about your next step. You can’t just sit back and coast. It’s driven primarily by relationships so there is a daily effort to develop and foster them. Initially, I had to get the company name circulating within the industry and begin developing relationships with other firms. Once I obtained work, I also needed financing and the list goes on. Learning how to maneuver in this new space has been a big learning curve for me. Deep down, I wanted something new, and wanted to do it while I was still young enough to want to pursue it. Still having a passion for the work, I was doing in my previous career. The idea to start a consulting business, where the federal government was our primary client, would allow me to continue working in a familiar field, but on my own terms.

We can only imagine, coming from the government where everything is handed to you, to having to build those relationships on your own amid competition can create a heavy toll. As you navigated into entrepreneurship, what is a typical day like for you?

First thing in the morning, I might have one thing in mind, however, priorities change quickly when you get in the office. It is remarkably busy, filled with employee issues and financial situations with regards to collecting on outstanding payments and other pressing business. My day is ever changing. I can work as hard or as little as I want. A 12–14-hour day doesn’t seem long when you’re doing it for yourself. I also like the fact that I’m growing something that exudes professionalism and integrity. That’s what matters most to me. I can also

employ people and positively affect their lives. It warms my heart to have a team working to achieve our core values. The work is sometimes tedious, but the payoff is greater as an entrepreneur.

With so much going on and the learning curve you spoke about, tell us what is the most rewarding aspect of being an entrepreneur?

Being an entrepreneur allows me to affect change in the diversity of hiring, managing my own time and doing work that I’m enthusiastic about. As I transitioned from government into business ownership, especially as a minority woman business owner, it was important for me to ensure that I am doing what I’m enthusiastic about if I were to have longevity in this industry. There were many days, I didn’t feel up to the task. I was overwhelmed, overbooked, and overloaded but I kept going. My passion to serve people won’t allow me to give up.

“When You Are Not Feeling the Greatest, That Is When Your Biggest Opportunities Come”

With that being said, what are the biggest challenges you have faced thus far as an entrepreneur?

The startup and learning the business space, it is a shark tank. I am doing business with individuals who have been in this field for a long time. Most of the time, they do not look like me, a minority woman. Therefore, finding my voice and my footing as a minority woman in this industry was my biggest challenge. I admit, It was very tough. I had a lot of anxiety. What really helped me was what I was able to do before I

left my government job. I started doing the groundwork, and when I say the groundwork, I mean, I started talking to people, I started talking to a lot of companies and started getting advice on what things I should start with. Then I took all that advice, and I tailored it for my schedule, for what was realistic for me as it related to the amount of funds I would need, would I have to expend towards travel to networking and conferences and created a working budget. Because all that cost money, I would seek out all the free conferences, free seminars, and ways to network to help offset my budget. Of course, when you are talking to people, they want to know that you are serious about doing business, collaborating, and partnering. You must have a website. You must have business cards because those are the things on the surface that people are going to look for right up-front in addition to operating capital.

Do you feel it necessary to stay abreast on industry trends and if so, how have you incorporated them into your business?

We are in the age of social media. You don’t want your business name to avert whoever is looking at that proposal and steer them away from you because they are thinking that you are only one thing and, in our case, just simply HR. Many do not know we have the largest contract with the Department of Army for their anti-terrorism training, which primarily has not been a woman-owned company. Therefore, a lot of times, I go for HCRC versus Human Capital Resources and Concept. I use the acronym because HCRC could mean anything, so I am not pigeonholed on social media by the algorithms. Keeping things up to date with

advertising and marketing on these social platforms, going to trade shows, having a presence on and offline and learning the algorithms have been the biggest industry trends we’ve incorporated in our business.

Speaking of social media, what are the three most important habits a woman should have if she aspires to be a successful entrepreneur?

Any advice I would give, would be to follow your gut primarily, always, it will never leave you astray. Next would be not to allow intimidation to overtake you; you belong here. In a heavily male dominated industry, it is easy to feel like you’re not deserving, or you don’t belong in this space. Don’t allow negativity or intimidation of others to defeat you. Most importantly, stay enthusiastic. That passion will keep you stable and moving forward in times of doubt and uncertainty. It was not easy for me to walk away from a six-figure job. I would encourage anyone looking to do the same to plan. Do a lot of market research on your industry. Develop relationships before you make the leap. Don’t go into it blind. Talk to business owners that have done it before. Knock on doors. Eventually, you’ll find someone that will talk to you.

Do not be afraid to take risks. It’s not a sure thing, even if you know the industry, however it pays off if you remain consistent. I thought I knew everything about the federal government, but it’s an entirely different world when you step out on your own. I would go to Washington DC to prospect with different companies and often left feeling defeated, but those relationships eventually paid off. You must stick with it. Those who are able should keep their day job while building their new business to help offset expenses as well as ensure

to stay on top of money management that is a vital factor in being successful.

“Be The Best You Can Be At All Times”

When it comes to building wealth, what advice would you give to women of today’s society?

MM: As previously mentioned, you must do your research to make sure that you are in an industry that has the capability to build wealth. If you are trying to build wealth. Nowadays, you must look at various avenues to create wealth. It is usually not one thing that builds wealth. Ensure that your primary industry puts you in a place to build wealth. Such as real estate investments. The most important thing is to “Be On Your Game At All times”.

What is next for you?

Looking ahead to five years down the road, we forecast annual revenues of about $5 million with a staff of 50 employees. We plan to expand our offices throughout Polk County. We are also working in conjunction with my brotherin-law’s non-profit charity, Filling The Lane, to implement an internship program to bring in college level students on a quarterly basis and show them the fundamentals of entrepreneurship.

For more information on Marnice Miller, CEO Human Capital Resources and Concepts, Inc. please visit website: hcrconcepts.com

Email: marnice.miller@hcrconcepts.com Phone: (844) 564-6253

Valerie Hale WOMEN OF INFLUENCE REDEFINING

WEALTH

Traveling around the world you have the privilege of meeting women from diverse backgrounds, lifestyles, and economical statuses. Women, who have struggled, overcome challenges, to only struggle again; yet this time, rise to the occasion of abundant blessings and stature. This young lady is no exception.

Valerie takes extraordinary pride in her biggest accomplishment in life, being the mother of three children and now, two grandchildren. That is her praise possession, and it shows. Being a parent is the most satisfying and exhausting role; to be solely responsible for overseeing the shaping of someone’s life can be daunting. There is no downtime, no rule book, and certainly no magic wand to undo the parenting mistakes you make along the way. Nonetheless, her now-grown children have and always will be the favorite part of her journey.

In addition to parenting (which is a full-time job in itself), her career in the hospitality business, where she managed a restaurant, shaped Valerie professionally, putting her in position to acquire wealth, she thought.

It was only after several years; she took a position in the corporate arena that would lead to a twenty-five-year career. Little did she know, she was walking into a good ole boy network of staff and franchise owners. Luckily, she was not easily intimidated by those looking to leverage their power of influence to get what they wanted. She learned to stand her ground while building respectful relationships and after 20 years, was promoted to CEO. Life was going well,

I want my children to remember they are loved.

her kids were healthy and happy, she was a few weeks from celebrating three years of marriage to her husband whom she adored, and the business was moving in a positive direction. Then the train derailed and in one day, Valerie’s life turned upside down.

The next six months would continue to provide more details supporting she was married to a stranger. There were no warning signs or indication that he was troubled. She felt like she was living through a 20/20 episode and was the untethered passenger along for the ride!

When your fact becomes fiction, it feels like you have lost your internal compass. As a result, Valerie remembers spending one full day in bed processing what just transpired and the following Monday, she confronted a problem head-on and threw herself into work. Having something of importance to focus on as well as her obligations of leading a company, Valerie refused to allow unforeseen events to consume her.

Of course, I mourned, cried, and sought support from those closest to me. We make choices every day and we can decide to remain the victim or become the hero in our own story. Valerie chose victory, to persevere, to become a great woman of resilience.

It is Valerie’s hope to be a sense of inspiration, advocate, and unyielding voice for women that have gone through similar difficulties. You are not your struggles and Valerie is a living testimony of that very truth.

What, if anything, did you do to prepare yourself to take on a CEO position?

Although I knew I had the knowledge and wherewithal to create a positive culture and drive the business, the ego can wreak havoc on your thoughts with questions like “am I good enough.” The ego thrives through self-preservation and fear keeps the ego alive. Self-talk can damage your mindset, so I had to be mindful of the story I was telling myself. I reminded myself that I have earned this new position and that I was enough! I also read books and listened to podcasts about successful companies and CEOs.

Is there anything you wish you would have known before you took on the role as a CEO?

That it’s all on you at the end of the day and it can be lonely at the top.

With that being said, how does a CEO find a Mentor? Does she need one? Who are your mentors and why?

Every CEO should have at least one person that provides support and encouragement. It can be a lonely place at the top and I find it essential to surround yourself with likeminded people to inspire and encourage you. Someone that is an accountability partner, someone that will let you know

when you are off track and can quickly help realign your mindset and goals.

I have several people I would refer to as life mentors. My mother, Leonora, has been a pillar of strength and my biggest cheerleader. My grandmother, Faith grew up in the foster care system and was on her own at the age of 14. She had limited education yet became an editor for a local newspaper and worked three jobs to ensure her children did not do without. More importantly, she instilled in me the importance of being independent.

I also have a spiritual and business coach who provides constant guidance, and encouragement and keeps me accountable. The best mentors are those that do not filter their words but push you to be the best version of yourself. I have learned that if you are not scared of something, then you are too comfortable. Challenge yourself – it is great to be a little scared and grow than fear nothing and be stagnant.

How do you identify weaknesses in your company and what are your strategies to overcome them?

Having conversations with staff and other offices that we support always provides a good insight into the general feeling of how we are doing as a company. My best advice is to seek wisdom. I always like asking my staff and owners for their advice on what we can do differently.

For those, looking to climb the corporate ladder and/or are thinking about entrepreneurship, share how trade helps a company grow. Can you share one specifically?

New Business is one of the greatest benefits of working with Tradebank. We offer access to thousands of businesses who are potential new customers for their products or services. When a company barters with these new customers, it will expand their customer base.

There is a nationally known artist who uses their trade dollars at various hotels when traveling for exhibits. They also use trade to print all their marketing materials, repairs on their vehicles, tree removal and staff benefits like dental services and employee gifts. They also travel every year to Florida for family vacations using their trade dollars. Their motto is, “think trade first.

What qualities enable companies like Tradebank to survive and thrive for more than 30 years?

A company should define its brand and the emotional impact it has on its customers. Our brand is the value we create for businesses and our connection with our clients. On an internal level, we’ve learned that a positive culture is everything. Investing in our team through ongoing training, education and coaching is paramount to ongoing success and sustainability. Also providing a platform where individuals

feel comfortable sharing their strengths and struggles with their peers without judgment.

As we know, in anything, relationships are key. In your opinion, what is the value of the barter system in today’s economy?

Tradebank is an extensive network of thousands of businesses, where all kinds of products and services are traded multi-directionally. No longer do companies have to search for one-to-one direct trade relationships.

In today’s economic environment, it is critical for business owners to have a plan to stay competitive in the marketplace. Tradebank provides a platform where businesses can trade what they have for what they need without spending cash.

The number one reason business owners join Tradebank’s barter network is to open new distribution channels for their products and services. Participating business owners produce new trade dollar revenue from the new business Tradebank generates for their company. The new revenue can be used to offset current cash expenses, like marketing, printing, travel, entertainment, legal services, and employee benefits. Incorporating barter into your business not only ensures the longevity and health of your business, but it can improve your livelihood when times get tough.

In a workforce that is male dominated, do you find that you manage men any differently than you do women?

I am a direct person, but I also understand the importance of reading another person’s energy and then engaging that individual based on what motivates them. I do not find stereotypes to be accurate or relevant therefore my management style is to treat everyone equally and conversely manage each person based on their communication style.

With being such a direct person, how do you manage emotions when someone disappoints or betrays you?

Our first instinct often is to feel hurt or emotional when disappointed by another’s action, but those emotions can get the better of us. I give myself time to reflect on the situation and see what role I may have played in the other person’s story. I find it helpful to ask questions and sometimes through reflection and engaging the other party in the conversation,

sometimes you learn it is more about what is going inside someone than it has to do with you personally. People often act out without realizing how their actions affect those around them. I believe in giving grace, but also establishing healthy boundaries. Most importantly, every day is a new day, so I move quickly to a place of gratitude, which centers me.

We all know that being healthy mentally and physically defines how we live our life. I want to be healthier so that I can hike mountains in my 80s and be a pillar of support for my family. I promised myself that I would finally make choices that would ensure I was living my best life. Earlier this year, I started incorporating a healthy diet by being mindful of what I put in my body. Also, I had put off surgery for over 10 years that had inhibited me from being physically active. Women tend to take care of everyone first and I was guilty of not doing the one thing that would provide me with much-needed relief. So, I took the plunge and had the surgery, and now, I am excited to be able to play tennis again, go skiing, horseback riding, and hiking pain-free. Feeling limitless is powerful.

As a woman of great influence, how would you describe wealth?

Wealth is external and internal. For me, my greatest wealth is a happy and healthy family, a positive mindset, and the opportunity to impact the lives of others. On an external level, it is waking up in the morning and deciding how you want to take on the world.

With over 30 years in the industry and your experience as a CEO, you still value family as your number one priority. Do you think about the legacy you want to leave your children and if so, describe it for us?

I want my children to remember they are loved. To remember that even through challenging times, they are resilient, and will continue to move through whatever life presents them – to remember to keep going. I hope their thirst for knowledge challenges them to always better themselves. To go out into nature as much as possible. To remember this life is short, so go live and explore and love your family and more than anything else, choose what makes you happy.

When you think about your professional goals, which have you met recently and how do you celebrate a win?

I think about the end results, and I keep motivating myself by telling myself, there is someone out there waiting to hear my story.

Beverly Claiborne A WOMAN WALKING IN HER DIVINE PURPOSE

Imet Beverly Claiborne at an event that our friend had invited us too. We took to each other immediately and have been moving the relationship along with the speed of a successful relationship. I found her to be a God lover and a woman in control of her life and always looking for someone that she can help gain control of their life. Building her successful empire was not free from its challenges. Before stepping out on faith to make Abide Products and services her primary focus, Beverly owned a successful Interior design firm in Ellicott City, Maryland as well as served in management for three nationally known companies: General Electric, MCI, and Coca-Cola Enterprises. From her wealth of experience, she saw firsthand the importance of abiding in God and inspiring others to “Live Wise and Live Well” by applying Godly principles. In fact, I found her story on life so compelling and fascinating I asked her to share it with my readers and here we are. Let’s listen to Beverly in her own words as she shares HER STORY.

“The life you live is the legacy you leave!” Think about it—true champions do not spend their lives always getting it right, they spend it getting better! It takes intentionality and courage to choose a path that requires discipline, diligence, and determination. I am Beverly Claiborne, a Christian author of Abiding in God’s Word, Speaker, and Certified Personal Life Coach. I love designing, journaling, traveling, laughing, and having fun, so when it comes to my business, I must really focus and be intentional with time management. I am a Christian, and a born-again believer. Before Christ transformed my life, I viewed life differently. With the Holy Spirit’s guidance which increases spiritual perspective and changes life’s priorities; I began to grow according to His will.

Living life with joy, peace, and happiness instead of stress and chaos is a mindset we must develop if we want freedom in this troubled world. Life changed when I started renewing my mind with the word. Therefore, I created the Abide Product line. Abide is a lifestyle brand created to encourage and inspire people to live wise and well in Christ.

I am inspired by Oprah’s leadership skills because she not only uses her resources to help others, but she also demonstrates her faith. This is one of the reasons I founded the “Amazing Faith Foundation,” our mission is to help people with life skills for success. Our number one goal is to educate youth and adults on how to navigate life by providing them with the resources they need to live wise and well. Educating them on love, health, and wealth. It is critical that

we surround ourselves with people who love us, nurture us, and people who genially want the best for us. What I know for sure is this, one touch from God changes everything, His love is the antidote to what this world is lacking.”

WW: I decided to dig a little deeper looking for even more gems. What inspired you to develop your idea?

BC: The Abide Product line was created after God opened my heart to read the book of John. After reading all about Jesus in this chapter, one scripture really spoke to me. John 15:5, where he reminds us to abide in Him which inspired me to create the brand based on the lifestyle of abiding in Christ. This revelation led me to name my business “ABIDE.” I like to call it “A Business in Divine Encouragement.”

Knowing what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently when you were first starting out?

Absolutely! Following a strategic business plan is the key to running a successful business, I often deviated from that plan which I see now made all the difference. I had so many great ideas and not enough resources to execute them all.

How has your book made an impact in the literary space?

Becoming a published author with Trilogy Christian Publishing has its benefits. Having the option to promote my book on TBN’s Channel which reaches 155 million homes is a blessing. I’m thankful my book, Abiding in God’s Word is changing lives in this area.

How do you overcome writer’s block?

I think about the end results, and I keep motivating myself by telling myself, there is someone out there waiting to hear my story.

How has your faith influenced you as a writer?

My Faith is the reason I’am a writer today. I never thought about becoming an author until my experience with God changed my life; it was never something I aspired to achieve. Once I started hearing the voice of the Lord, my faith started to strengthen, and I began to grow according to His will. I mean everything changed, my marriage, my friends, my finances and most importantly my relationship with God. Faith is like a muscle; you must exercise it, or it will become flabby. Faith is something many people fail to use properly and often ignore. God wants us to put our faith in Him; as soon as I put faith into action, everything changed in my life.

As a minority woman in business, why is representation important in the literary space?

Role models are essential. Just knowing that there are women who have gone before me with the courage to break barriers and achieve tremendous success inspires me work harder.

Black or African American represent just 5.8 percent of writers. If writing is one of your gifts, use it—we should not shy away because we are the minority in this space.

How do you define wealth?

This question makes me think about

4 Types of Wealth

Financial Wealth (money) Social Wealth (Status) Time Wealth (Freedom) Physical Wealth (Healthy)

Right now, I am walking in “time wealth” and I honestly feel I have been for a while; it gives me the financial freedom to pursue happiness which is needed in this troubled world. I feel God has given me this as a gift so I can help pursue God’s will for my life. Wealth is an abundance of valuables and possessions, being wealthy is not only having enough money to meet your needs, but it also gives me the liberty to meet the needs of others. God has blessed me to be a blessing!

Is it easy to build wealth as an author?

It is different for everyone! If you are famous or already have a following it can be lucrative, nevertheless, being an unknown or new author has it challenges; it takes time and effort. Becoming an author for me was more about sharing the truth of God’s love with others and leaving a legacy for my children.

What are the three most important habits a woman should have if she aspires to be a successful author?

1. Discipline. Being disciplined with your time and having the determination to complete whatever it is your writing. You must have perseverance.

2. Focus. Stay focused and do not let distractions get in the way. Focus on writing something every day. Personally, I like writing in the morning after my quite time with the Lord and a good cup of coffee. I feel refreshed and energized. Regardless of if you are a stay home mom or corporate executive, knowing when your creative juices are flowing is necessary.

3. Commitment. Keeping a designated writing schedule is important. I must be well rested or writer’s block kicks in, I never write when I am tired because it interferes with my creativity.

Where can aspiring writers connect with you?

Beverly@abideproducts.com

BeverlyClaiborne.com

Theabidestore.com

Kendra Calhoun THE MAKING OF A BOSS LADY

FROM START UP TO PHILANTHROPY

Many little girls have dreams of growing up and owning their own corporations and/or businesses or as we know it becoming a “Boss Lady” aka The Head Woman In Charge. They dream about the clothes they will wear, the car they will drive, the lifestyle they will live but very seldom do they think about the challenges that come with accomplishing that goal. Many defeat themselves before they even get started but not this Boss Lady and Woman of Wealth.

Living a life of poverty, moving from a homeless shelter to shelter, and sometimes even sleeping on the street under a bridge or in tents, Kendra Calhoun was determined to make a better life for her and her mom. She stayed vigilant, finished school, graduated with multiple degrees, and is now the founder and CEO of Bridging the Gap Industries & Financial Services LLC, an innovative leadership business development company that specializes in information technology, infrastructure & business project management, creating appropriate financial strategies for individuals and corporation, providing consulting and outsourcing support for Fortune 100 IT and Financial corporations.

She holds a B.A in IT Computer Science & Business Finance. She is driven as a single mother raising 2 young men and also taking care of her elderly mother. She strives to be successful to provide a certain lifestyle and support for her family. Although Kendra has been working for over 20 years in the Information Technology and Finance Industry, she makes a high 6-figures salary in both industries. She brings sustainable long-term growth and value creation for transformation into this industry and also a wealth of industry knowledge and expertise as one of the leading Senior Financial Marketing Directors supporting the Mission—“No Family Left Behind.”

I find it’s best to lead with your heart and not your business.

Tell us more about the nature of your business, which include your vision, mission, and companies value?

At Bridging the Gap Financial Services, LLC (BTGFS), we believe in the five F’s: Faith, Family, Finances, Fitness, and Fun are the key to having a successful business and living a fulfilling life. We offer financial services and strategies that help meet your unique goals and needs. Our platform offers you the power of choice. We have relationships with well-known insurance and financial services companies, which allow us to offer a wide selection of products and services. When creating a diverse strategy, it allows you to prepare for your future and can help safeguard the lifestyle you have built. Our vision is to create massive change in the marketplace, change the financial industry for the better, and transform people’s lives. Our mission is to build a largest financial services company with at least 100,000 licensed agents, create at least one hundred millionaires, and help one million families pursue financial independence. Our values to our clients are to provide the knowledge, support, guidance, and confidence to build their financial future. Our values to our agents include providing the tools, environment, mentorship, and examples of success to allow them to flourish.

What are the biggest challenges you have faced thus far as an entrepreneur?

America has a major financial literacy problem. The situation of most families is that they are living with too much debt, they are under-protected, they are not saving, or do not know how much to save. They do not have a strategy and they do not know what to do about it. Our Crusade is to fight against that illiteracy with education. Another challenge is the lack of financial education. We take information that usually reserved only for the wealthy and teach it to the masses. We believe that when you know better, you do better financially. Furthermore, the traditional financial industry typically only services clients with wealth already accumulated. However, that leaves the rest of America out in the cold. We believe everyone should have a chance at financial independence! In my conversations with people, it is evident how people can be influenced to think about money in a limited way.

Unfortunately, schools do not teach fundamental financial skills, and due to limited knowledge passed down within our families and communities, we do not understand how money works. One of the biggest challenges I face as an entrepreneur is finding people who want to be or are a business owner, but still have an employee mindset. In

addition, financial companies are not coming out to our communities to close the gaps.

When it comes to building wealth, what advice would you give to women today?

When it comes to building wealth, I would advise a woman today to immerse herself in financial literacy by reading books on wealth strategies and learning from others’ mistakes. Most people are doing the same things and ending up in the same place. Find a mentor, teacher, or coach who knows how to get you from your level of understanding and get you to where you want to be. She should also focus on a nontraditional route for personal development and mental toughness.

Sometimes, we can feel pushed into certain fields, because this is what we have been socialized to do but if we are to master wealth we must be in sectors where the money naturally is. Know the numbers, I am not encouraging you to simply chase money but recognize the earning potential of your field.

What are the three most important habits a woman should have if she aspires to be successful in philanthropy?

Faith – Foundation to know your success is not your own and God has a hand in all things. A solid foundation of habits includes waking up early, hydrating, eating healthy, moving your body, and practicing gratitude. When you feel good, you will have a positive impact on others.

Direction – know where you are going, be specific and have a plan to get there. Trust herself as the voice of authority. What are you saying to yourself? Most people must rewire their subconscious belief system to trust their own authority without the need for validation from others.

Connections – network for net worth, your relationships will push you forward or pull you down or backward. Advocate for yourself and know when to ask for help and when to say “No.” Being a philanthropist can be impressive but to give to others, one must first know how to give to herself.

When it comes to giving to your favorite causes, should you give anonymously or publicly, and why?

It truly depends on your intentions for giving, but people give anonymously because they do not want their name associated with a controversial cause, either for reasons of personal safety or because the association might offend other people. Giving publicly may encourage or inspire others to contribute and sometimes people want to get recognition.

How did you build strong relationships with donors and other people in the philanthropy space?

It is best to lead with your heart and not your business. People must know what you do, and you must be willing to collaborate and be interested in what others do.

WOMEN OF WEALTH — TRAILBLAZER, FORWARD THINKER, EMPOWERING AND RESOURCEFUL

Dr. Deirdre M. Manley was born and raised in Hartford Connecticut (inner city). She is a freelance writer, blogger, poet, published author and successful Entrepreneur. Her life experiences laid the cornerstone to develop her pathway to success.

Deirdre earned her undergraduate Bachelor of Science degree from Bethune-Cookman College, Daytona Beach, FL. Deirdre soon discovered her passion for early childhood education; supported by her husband, Dyral T. Manley, and spiritual foundation of her grandmothers Estelle Riley and Vinnie Mae Harris enrouted inspired Deidre to step out on faith! Shortly after she (migrate) to South Caroline in pursuit of both her master’s and doctorate degree in Education Leadership/Early Childhood from South Carolina State University.

After years of experience in early childhood education, Deirdre was compelled to discover new innovative techniques to support Educator’s across the country. It was her passion for early childhood education and her belief that “Every Child Needs a Champion,” that paved the way to becoming a “Woman of Wealth.” She travels the country empowering grantees of federal funding to provide equity in early education and assist with developing their road map of success.

Deirdre ’s forward thinking and strategic planning led to the foundation of “No Limit Consulting” the world of passionate educators and strategists seeking to help leaders and organizations thrive across the country. In 2006, Dr. Manley work diligently alongside researchers, early childhood experts to create the state of Florida Voluntary PreK program. In 2009, Dr. Manley assisted with the development of the Department of Children and Families Childcare Licensing and Background Screening Childcare Providers training portal. In 2009, Dr. Manley became an Adjunct professor in Early Childhood for the University of Phoenix, where she and a team of researchers and professors, created the Bachelor’s Degree program in Early Childhood. In 2010, Dr. Manley worked with the National Center for Quality Teaching and Learning @ University of Washington, in Seattle, WA, where she assisted with the

development of the “15 Minute Suites” for all Head Start programs to use for professional development across the country. For over 22 years, Dr. Manley works with many early childhood programs for the Office of Head Start and local school boards across the United States providing program planning, training and technical assistance and quality assurance protocol to support. When visiting Fairbanks, Alaska and Singapore, Deirdre was catapulted into advocacy for equity across early childhood programs. This began her journey in training and technical assistance. In 2015, Dr. Manley launched her first compilation of poetry, “Reflections, Floating Red Petunias, in Hartford, CT. In 2017, Dr. Manley was featured on Windsor Community Television, Windsor, CT, “Diversity in the Community” where she discussed her plight growing up in the inner city and how prayer, family and her “Village” propelled her into the purpose God has designed for her life.

Deirdre continues to inspire, motivate, and encourage individuals and empower organizations to cultivate a cultural environment that is sensitive to cultural diversity and growth mindset across the United States; through regional/national trainings, speaking engagements (published Author), charity and local communities’ events. Dr. Manley’s passion has always been in offering higher quality learning and equity across early childhood programs with a focus on infant and toddlers, with special needs. Her work has been cited in many communities to include to licensed childcare programs and national safety prevention programs that service families in need of support from “The Village.”

Deirdre has served in several different capacities, however her passion and love for life changing experiences lives within and God’s light continues to shine bright every day of her life.

Melissa Boston

WAKANNA FOR LIFE

Ground-Breaker, Trailblazer, and Game-Changer are the words that come to mind when you think of Melissa Boston, CEO of WaKanna For Life, a Chicago-based Cannabis and CBD company. Bringing over thirty years of experience and knowledge in the sales and business development arena, this WOW Woman is disrupting the marketplace through her innovative leadership and marketing strategies.

Melissa was instrumental in establishing two Cannabis/CBD startup companies, where her leadership led to explosive growth for both companies with direct oversight of ten employees and a multifaceted marketing and sales team. Her wisdom, wit, and marketing skills went to work as she and her team were able to redirect a company headed for imminent closure from eight thousand dollars a month in sales to over thirty-five thousand dollars a month in only thirty days. Over the next eighteen months, she grew the company’s sales by over twenty-four hundred percent, hitting a high six-figures of two-hundred thousand dollars for two consecutive months.

More recently, this business powerhouse led the second company to a record $1.2 Million in sales within seven months by implementing her innovative marketing techniques. These techniques generated an astounding $392K for the company alone in one month. In addition to her extensive experience in the cannabis industry alone, Melissa has received MVP status for six of the eight companies she ever worked for full-time and has helped rapidly grow the sales and daily functioning of many businesses.

specialist, but she was quickly promoted to a business development account representative and ultimately to Account Sales Manager. She increased the customer base, managed customer growth and attrition, and facilitated client presentations with an ability to efficiently close sales. Her work grew one account from $7M to $33M in annual sales.

As CEO, Melissa leads operations and strategic direction of their enterprise, with full responsibility for all bottomline factors. She created the company’s website—vital to its success—which included writing all content and verifying that all information was FDA-compliant. Through her efforts and continued mentoring of the marketing team, they have maintained a strategic and active web presence since the company’s inception. Through her strategic insight and implementation, her team has diligently grown the company’s revenue to over three million dollars ($3,000,000.00) in sales as of November 2020.

Currently, thirty-five states and the District of Columbia have legalized cannabis-related products for medical use, of which sixteen have legalized the recreational use of marijuana as of April 2021. As more and more Americans accept the idea of legalizing marijuana across all lines, the growth of Wakanna For Life is unlimited in a space that is still underserved by women and women of color in particular. Gender and racial diversity in the Cannabis industry remains an uphill climb as the start-up costs can range anywhere from seven hundred thousand to open an existing retail store to more than twelve million dollars for a newly constructed cultivation space.

From licensing, staffing, technology, taxes, and security systems to the facility, operational and legal compliance, the capital requirements are a steep investment to start, sustain, and scale the business long-term. Still, through Melissa’s creative marketing and strategic leadership, this WOW Woman is blazing the trail for many women to enter the lucrative Cannabis/CBD Market. She is undoubtedly a remarkable example to follow as she disrupts this market both as a woman and a woman of

color, breaking records in this highly caucasian, male-dominated industry.

Of course cannabis has its positive and negative traits which is why included in her larger vision for the company, employee oversight and development, and regular interaction with the public; Melissa has been integral in creating a safe, effective, compliant scaffolding that could hold the company’s high-quality products. In this regard, she worked directly with labs on the homogenization of all products, secured independent Certificates of Analysis (COAs) on all products, and worked with pharmacists to implement product recall practices. Through her oversight of ensuring their products undergo rigorous testing, they have not had to undergo any product recalls.

Melissa and her team have developed and implemented training that details product knowledge, friendly and efficient customer service, and compliance with federal and state regulations to further ensure public safety. They are also teaching about the entrepreneurial benefits of the cannabis business and offering opportunity to those who see this as a viable path to business ownership. She believes strongly in community involvement and has helped put together a CBD Education course and CBD Social Media training for the general public. In November 2019, her company was also responsible for paying rent for several seniors in the community facing eviction and homelessness.

Through this new and promising opportunity, not only is Melissa forging an alternative path to health and wellness; she is also providing socio-economic benefits to a diverse generation of young men and women who do not fit into the mold of the traditional business systems of old. In her most recent role with an international company, she constantly raises awareness in others of what is possible. Leveraging her passion for public speaking and wellness products, she has established markets in over forty countries in just a few years, including Turkey, Ukraine, Singapore, and China, making her one of the primary faces of the company.

Melissa’s powerful driving passion for wellness, community, and healing ultimately metamorphosed into a published book on general health for the human body. In her new book, she shares her extensive knowledge of plant medicines, diet and exercise routines, and mindfulness practices to coach the reader into living a more fulfilling lifestyle. As an international speaker on wellness and body nutrition, she brings her passion into all aspects of her own life and work and infuses her knowledge within her career in the cannabis industry.

I help people pivot by making them realize that there are seasons to whatever they need to do.

Laquita Brooks

ANTICIPATING THE FUTURE

When I hear the name “The Motivational Maven”, chills run through my spine, not in a way to gloat but as a surreal feeling of being able to overcome all the challenges in my life. From a humble Christian Background, as a little girl in Louisiana, the need to always be there for people had filled me even at that youthful age. I was always passionate about people; from doctrines from the bible, the ways I was raised, and the interactions I had with people, it was evident that life was all about helping others around you. As a young woman, I thrived off motivation with the travails of being a Black woman in school and other areas. Of course, you hear many Black women say that it was not easy fending off racism and juggling school work or their professional life. But for me, it was particularly hard as I was a teen mom.

You know the feeling where it is hard to figure out what you want to do in a particular field, but you know you are supposed to be there. That was me; I relished being an entrepreneur; however, I did not even know what I would do with my life. I would sell candy and sweets in my school and even start making air just to earn more money. As much as breaking free from the shackles of poverty was the mission, I enjoyed seeing the smiles on people’s faces when I made their hair or sold them candy.

I have always been fascinated by having multiple streams of income, the thrill of having different areas through which I could pull money from was lovely. So, I invested in many things, from, Hair Salon, to Real Estate to Coaching, Public speaking and a host of other businesses. For me, following the trend and anticipating the future was my motivation. I like to study the times and envision where things are going. Hence, taking action for me is a carefully thought-out process that involves a series of meetings with influencers in the fields to get the best results.

As a visionary, I have seen many creative and talented individuals succumb to the pressure that they do not need to take on different things. The fear of not being able to manage responsibilities limits us as individuals. This is one of the reasons why I decided to coach people. To liberate them from terrible mindsets that set them back. I feel that with the right mindset, you can accomplish anything. Look at me today, a teen mom struggling to understand life to a 7 figure Real Estate investor, Mother, Wife and Mentor.

How did I get started?

Right from my early days in church, there was always an innate feeling to see people smile. I was great at coordinating and organizing people. It was just soothing to see other kids thrive, so it was no surprise how I quickly became a leader in the church. But aside from Church activities, growing up under the watchful eyes of my mother, she instilled in me an independent mindset. She would empower me to become a better version of myself even at a youthful age; bear in mind I still did not know what to do with my life, but I knew I wanted to work for myself. I knew I wanted to own businesses, which business? I had no idea, but the thrill of handling my affairs and making ends meet even at a young age felt so rewarding.

So as a young school kid, I would go buy candies, sweets from the local store and sell them to the kids. I was the go-to candy girl in the school. I realized that after we had lunch in school, the kids would always want to munch on something. So, it dawned on me to invest my pocket money in buying sweets. From a few kids to half of the school knowing my name. I was still not satisfied; I did not want to be known only as the candy girl and so I started curling hair in my mother’s kitchen during the weekends.

It was so exciting to be curing hair for $10 – $15 in my mum’s kitchen at a youthful age. I loved the independence it gave me, to be that industrious at a youthful age was something I took pride in.

I am sure every woman, regardless of their color, can relate to the experience of being a mother. In the beginning, I

was bewildered with so many emotions as to how my life will turn out. I mean, how was I supposed to manage being a mom, juggle with school and try to become someone in life. I was lost for a long time struggling with the constant reminder that I was a failure. But there was one thing that did not go to waste in my life even with the whole whirlwind of emotions, the enterprising spirit never died. As a young Black woman who had always had to find a way to fend for herself, even at a youthful age, it was all I knew.

My passion for making hair propelled me to go into hair school, where I was able to master the rudiments of making hair. I enjoyed it but it was like there was something missing. I knew there was more to my life than making hair and so as the Universe normally orchestrates things, I got to know about stocks and real estate. I was fascinated by Real Estate, and I went to a school to hone my craft.

Now, many people call me the Motivational Maven for many reasons, but I would like to point out one of those reasons. My ability to master distinct aspects of business in order to liberate people is what makes life so rewarding. The thought that you are crazy for doing many things never sat well with me; I wanted to master so much so I would never be stranded again in my life. Today, I thrive in different areas of life and want people to see that they can achieve even greater success with the right person or people behind them.

How did I disaster proof my business?

If anyone says that owning a business is easy, then it is for sure that they do not know half of what they are talking about. Starting and managing a business is one of the most hectic things to do as a human being and a woman. I get asked the question, how am I able to run multiple businesses. Aside from the norms of having a quality staff and being in the right niche, one of the essential factors of preserving your business is disaster proof. No one wants to be a victim of any kind of disaster, especially the one that affects the business. But you need to disaster proof your business to continue the legacy of your operations regardless of the outcome. So how was I able to disaster proof any business? I will show

you five ways I was able to do this.

The first thing I did to disaster proof my business was get proper insurance. I am no prophet of doom, nor am I expecting a hurricane, flood, or fire to engulf your business. But in any eventuality of any of these happenings, it is expedient that you have the proper insurance that will help you bounce back. I have seen folks that have thriving businesses but since they did not have good insurance, they were not able to continue their legacy.

Secondly, I was able to pivot into other areas to up-scale my business. So, what that meant was investing in Online sales, free shipping, free delivery to ensure that I have a rich customer base.

The third thing was to ensure that there was more than one channel of communication between my business and the customer base. You need to provide different outlets through which your customers can reach you. Therefore, investing in quality customer relationship management through digital marketing, text messaging, and email integration software is key to saving your business.

There are many forms of disaster that can occur in a business; one of them is going bankrupt. During the first wave of the pandemic, there were many companies that closed because they were not able to keep up with their operations. However, if you have multiple streams of income, you can easily find ways to salvage the situation when an economic meltdown happens. As a business owner, you should have multiple streams of income so that you can be free from any unexpected issues.

Finally, having a business comes with unexpected situations that will require some amount of money. As a business owner, you should have some money stored somewhere in your reserves that can be labeled as emergency funds. This was one of the ways I was able to disaster proof my business.

Helping Others to Pivot

There is one thing I always tell people that I coach and others in general, your ability to thrive in life rests on how well you can change with the times. Imagine

someone still using the typewriter to send a message when there are Emails. It sounds absurd, but that is how being fixed to one spot can look ridiculous. But all my life, I was never afraid of pivoting, of changing with the times, and becoming a better version of myself. As I grew up, I realized that through my interaction with people, many feared pivoting. There are distinct reasons why people might be scared of pivoting. One of the major reasons that hampers people in changing with the times is the fact that they feel they should be doing so much more with their lives, but unfortunately, they do not know what to do. I need to put it out there; it took a long time to figure out what to do with much life, and even the successful people are constantly finding themselves as they go through life. So, it is okay to keep finding yourself; you do not have to be hard on yourself. Take your time to follow what you believe in.

Another issue is when people follow what their parents want them to do. Many parents want to live their lives through their kids, so if they did not have the opportunity to play basketball, they would want their kids to do so even if their passion is being a musician.

So, one of the ways I help people pivot is by making them understand why exactly they cannot move forward? Is there a fear that is stopping you? As much as I want to help people pivot in their business personally, they need to understand where they are going, so that translates into their business.

Another way I help people pivot is by making them realize that there are seasons to whatever you need to do. The most important thing is gaining the knowledge and the application of the information you gathered at a particular time of your life. For me, I have been able to do different businesses, from having hair salons to running a logistics company to even managing an online store. I always understood that there are seasons that define your life, not all seasons will work out in your life, but that is okay. They all have a way of shaping you to become better.

As a business owner or even anyone in general, understanding that the seasons

match distinct aspects of you is one way of pivoting. The world will constantly tell you that you do not have a focus, that you are all over the place. But what if your definition of being scattered was exploration. I did not know what I was supposed to do for a long time, but I sure did explore. Now, I know what to do and what not to do for my business and life to excel.

Also pivoting in life and business requires you to have the right coach that can motivate and put you on the right track. I had to find a coach that was able to align my creativity and channel my abilities into areas where I could excel. So, it is only normal to reciprocate the favor my coach did for me by helping others whom I knew were stuck in that same situation of being stuck. It is necessary to have someone in your corner to encourage you and let you know that you are not alone, that your dreams are valid, and that you can achieve what you want.

As a business owner, you need to be forethinking, and knowing the distinct aspects of your life will help you find ways to break free from any issue relating to your business. Therefore, some companies are still standing even after the pandemic because they have incorporated latest ideas into their business that have helped them grow.

5 tips every business owner should know to disaster proof their business

Disaster can come in any shape in a

business, it could be a natural disaster, a death of a colleague, financial struggles or any other unexpected occurrence. One reason business crumble is that their owners do not have sufficient information on how to prepare their business when disaster comes. However, here are five tips you should know in disaster proofing your business.

First, have good property insurance. I know that it might have been emphasized before, but there is nothing like being absolved of major incidents that have to do with the disfiguring of your building. No one wished for it, but you do not have to spend a huge amount of money trying to rebuild.

Another tip that business owners need to have been figuring out the essence of the community. Remember that you are serving the people in a community. If there is an issue or a disaster that affects the community, you need to find ways to ensure that you are a brand that people can always rely on. Your brand image must resonate peace even in the storm through your services, communication, and products. Find ways to alleviate their problems easily. You can provide free shipping, discounted prices, and free coupons.

Thirdly, you should always provide emotional support to your employees, clients, and everyone that is connected to your business. Check on your employees, provide better working conditions and ensure that there is a smooth work/life balance. Plus, the customers are major stakeholders, so you should check on them, send them messages on their special days and always make them feel great.

Another way to disaster proof your business as a business owner is by creating strategies that will suit the season you are in. Whatever business climate you find yourself in, whether you are in the awareness stage or you are looking to convert the leads that you have. Different strategies must be employed to ensure that your goals and objectives are achieved.

Finally, always have money in your reserves for any unexpected situation in your business. You need to keep some money aside so that you do not get stranded when the need arises.

Lael Caldwell SUCCESS THROUGH NETWORKING

Lael Caldwell is the Co-Founder of Ben & Lael, Inc. She began Ben & Lael with her husband, Ben Caldwell in 1998. Her career started as a trainee with the Bissell Companies, a commercial real estate development company responsible for developing millions of square feet of hotels, shopping centers and office buildings in Charlotte, NC. During her 10 years with the Bissell Companies, she was promoted to Vice President of Marketing. Throughout her time there, Lael developed proposals and negotiated contracts with Fortune 500 companies to move their headquarters or take residence in one of the Bissell Companies’ properties. She was featured in Business Properties and shared her insights as to how she achieved her success.

After resigning from her position, Lael moved to Nashville to serve as a missionary in South Africa. While in training, she met Ben Caldwell and they married that year. Although Ben was working at Slingerland making guitars and drums, Lael encouraged him to take a year and work as an unpaid intern with Terry Talley, a worldrenowned metal smith. After one year of being mentored, they began Ben & Lael, Inc.

Lael was very successful at networking yet wanted to create and teach a new strategy. Thus began Align, Define, and Achieve, a weekly networking meeting allowing CEO’s to share their story about their successes, failures and strategies. She also began a weekly meeting for medical professionals who were invited to share their stories of success and strategy to overcome adversity.

During her three years of weekly meetings with Dr. Terry Smith and Dr. Bob Sturgeon, Lael was introduced to the practice of Neuro Linguistic Programming. She obtained her certification as a Master Practitioner in NLP through The Tad James Group; allowing her to begin her Executive Coaching Business where she trains and strategizes with CEO’s and their staff.

Lael joined a direct selling company for two years. In two months, she became their number one new sales representative. She was featured in their national publication where she shared her success strategies.

Ben asked Lael to realign full time in the Ben & Lael business in 2015. She left her position as Regional Director of Tradebank to fully invest her time in their business. She set forth her strategies to increase revenue and drive business through commissions.

Since rejoining the business, Ben & Lael has been featured in Garden & Gun, Southern Home, Victoria Magazine, Cottage Journal and Nashville Arts Magazine. She created a master group of influencers and began working and training a new team.

Lael began to focus on the selling of enamels and within 2 years had tripled their sales. The Haslam’s commissioned the Tennessee Leadership Award. Ben & Lael also reinvigorated the jewelry line with the help of talented staff. The jewelry is now being shown in stores across the country and is also carried at The Hermitage Gift Shop in Nashville.

Ben & Lael won the commission for Starbucks Reserve in Birmingham, Michigan to create etched copper panels for the interior, as well as the commission to create the Ellis Island Family Heritage Awards 2017. They received the commission to create the enameled flag for the Tennessee Leadership Award 2018 for Dolly Parton.

Lael believes that the product is the human being. People connect to the human being first and your product second. Once you define who you are, align with the right people to inspire your dream, and you put forth the consistent effort to achieve, anything is possible.

Strong, timeless, and one of a kind.

Ben & Lael enamel paintings and large flags have been featured in the Wachovia Center in NY and Vanderbilt Medical Center lobby in Nashville, TN and their hand made copper and silver serving pieces can be seen in stores all over the country.

There were days when I didn’t want to live. But God had another plan.

Dr. Linda Bing EMPOWERMENT COACH EXTRAORDINAIRE

Dr. Bing is the founder and CEO of Turning Point Leadership Group LLC, an innovative performance improvement company that specializes in diversity, equity, and inclusion, leadership development, and relationship management. She has worked in the U.S. and abroad developing and delivering interventions for clients of all sizes and disciplines from individuals to Fortune 50 companies. She is a Certified Diversity Executive through the Institute for Diversity Certification. Her training programs won an award from The Society for Human Resource Management. Her viewpoints are often sought out as a conference keynote speaker and presenter. And, they have been aired on the CBS Evening News.

Dr. Bing is also a Certified Relationship Specialist through the American Psychotherapy Association. She is the author of Tame Your Tongue & Transform Your Relationship, Tame Your Tongue & Transform Your Organization: How to Close the Employee Inclusion Gap, and a motivational speaker in the Les Brown Speaker’s Network.

In addition, Dr. Linda hosts a podcast called In Her Shoes and previously served as the co-host on Love & Relationships on Atlanta’s top-rated urban station, V-103 FM. She holds a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Education, an M.A. in Psychology, an M.A. in Organizational Behavior, and a PhD in Organizational Psychology. She is on the Leadership Council of the National Small Business Association and is a member of many civic and professional organizations. Her innovative trainings and coaching programs have helped millions transform their lives resulting in enhanced relationships and increased income. Today, she would like to do the same thing for you. Let’s listen to her Interview.

Dr. Bing, what is an Empowerment Coach?

Most women don’t know where to get help with their businesses and support in their life simultaneously. As an empowerment coach, my primary focus is on who you are aligned with what you do. I merge executive coaching with life coaching. I help you become who you need to be, so that you can do the things you need to do, to have the things you want to have. The coaching relationship we develop helps you make changes that impact your entire life.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I spend my days curating my newest brand “The Dr. Linda” coaching programs which primarily support Black Christian women over 40 who are single again. I uplift their confidence, help with goals, and pull them out of guilt, shame, and despair to help them prosper in life and in business. I can do it because I was once her and I did it for myself. As the CEO of Turning Point Leadership Group, an organizational development firm that specializes in diversity, equity, inclusion and relationship management, I coach, train facilitators and coaches, meet with clients, and create DEI strategic initiatives. For over 25 years, we’ve been supporting clients in the creation of sustainable DEI cultures. Our products, programs, and services work for everyone but my personal sweet spot is Black women.

That is why I developed a subsidiary brand, “The Dr. Linda Coaching” known for leadership, confidence, and style. As we prepare organizations to recruit, retain, and develop women we also need to prepare the women for leadership roles in the organization. January 2023 will be our official launch. We are building a network of coaches as well as products and services for every budget and every situation. Reach out to us at thedrlindacoaching.com.

How has the need for coaching grown over the past decade and why?

The market size of the Business Coaching industry in the US has grown 2.8% per year on average between 2017 and 2022. The market size of the Life Coaches industry in the US has grown 3.2% per year on average between 2017 and 2022. Coaching is a highly personalized and individualized well-being intervention. According to research commissioned by the International Coaching Federation (ICF), awareness and engagement with coaching continued to grow. The data indicates that in times of profound change, increasing pressures and demands, coaching is seen to be more relevant.

As an Empowerment Coach, what are the biggest challenges you face?

One of my biggest challenges is helping people understand what coaching is and what it isn’t. Everyone can benefit from some sort of coaching because it grows and develops us. We are imperfect people so there is always an opportunity for growth and development.

A second challenge is helping people see that hiring a coach is not an expense; it’s an investment. As with any investment, you will see an appreciation in value, your value over time. And you’re worth it! You don’t need to wait until you reach a certain level of success or make a certain amount of money. A good coach can help you get there. Even coaches have coaches. I have more than one.

How do you help women identify their blind spots?

It’s all about self-reflection. I ask a lot of questions like:

Why are you seeking coaching?

What changes do you expect to see in yourself because of the process?

Who are you? (they can answer any way they want, as creatively as they want, in as much detail as they want)

What are you most afraid of?

What are some adjectives to describe who you are now?

What are some adjectives to describe who you want to be?

What’s the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned?

I’ve learned many important leadership lessons but, I think the most important one is that leadership is servanthood. A servant leader feels responsible for helping people learn and grow, feel purposeful, motivated, energized, and contribute at their highest level. It’s not about you the leader; it is about your people. If you do not want to serve, you are not ready to lead.

From your own firsthand experiences, what led you to create your focus group as well as your podcast?

I am a Black Christian woman who does not believe in divorce. God doesn’t like it so neither do I. However, my first marriage ended in divorce, and I was devastated. I had two small children, a house, and a new business to maintain. I became depressed and my self-esteem was shot. I remained single for several years. Whenever I decided to date, it seemed as if I was picking the wrong people and the relationships did not work. Then I met my second husband and history repeated itself. While I knew intellectually that I was a good, intelligent, attractive woman worthy of love I could not feel that in my heart and my self-esteem and confidence got worse. Now I was divorced twice! There were days when I didn’t want to live. But God had another plan.

After my second divorce I felt a lot of guilt and shame. I felt like a failure but, I grew closer to Christ. I studied His word more and prayed more. I sought His will in everything. I was determined to follow Him wherever He was leading me. I began to see His work in my life like never before. God led me through a process that gave me back to myself. He let me know

that my previous radio audience was practice for the real thing. I was a Black Christian woman over 40 who was single again and it became apparent that that was the audience for me.

It was then that I remembered hearing Minister Paula White say, “you can’t lead in areas where you did not bleed.” It was then that I remembered a guest minister who spoke at my church about his experience developing a drug rehabilitation program after he recovered from his own drug addiction. He spoke of how God leads us through experiences so that we become equipped to lead others. If God told us what we would have to go through, we would never volunteer. I now know that my experience was not one of shame but of honor. God used me to better serve His people. I am now in my third and final marriage to a wonderful man that I dated earlier in life and reconnected with 20+ years later in my church. It’s a beautiful story for another time.

What makes you the next Trailblazer in women empowerment?

First and foremost, it’s my anointing. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, I’ve learned how to take my experiences and my education and use them to point the way, take risks, and change the environment. I have a vision for a different future and a faith that turns dreams into reality. My determination cuts through barriers and obstacles. I use that power for myself, I use it to help other women, and I instruct women had to tap into their own power to do that for themselves and for others.

Tell us about your new book.

My new book is titled Tame Your Tongue & Transform Your Organization: How to Close the Employee Inclusion Gap. Several years ago, I was reading in the book of Proverbs and was inspired by four tongues. So, I wrote several pages about them and then stopped. Over the years it took me a while to go back and continue writing but I finally did. I published a book called Tame Your Tongue & Transform Your Relationship. Today I not only sell the book, but I have a workbook and workshops on the subject. Many of us, especially women, speak a lot and don’t often speak with compassion. As a result, we speak death rather than life into our relationships and blame the failures on everything else.

Because I work in diversity, equity, and inclusion and often hear about the microaggressions that people (especially women and people of color) are challenged by, it occurred to me that the same techniques for taming our tongues in our personal relationships could be applied to taming our tongues in our professional relationships. Instead of using our tongues to degrade and discriminate we can use them to uplift and encourage. I also have a workbook and programs for the new book. Both books are available on my website: thedrlindacom, barnesandnoble.com, and amazon.com.

From Corporate America to The World of Cannabis

AN INSIDE LOOK INTO PURE GENESIS

Faye Coleman

With multifaceted experiences stemming from operations management to emerging business strategy, Ms. Coleman is an enthusiastic leader who thrives in challenging situations, including complex negotiations, international business and acquisitions, process optimization, and workforce development.

Before launching Pure Genesis (PG), LLC, Coleman began her agile career successfully serving in diverse leadership positions with Kraft General Foods, Campbell’s Soup, and Vlasic Foods International. Next, She successfully transitioned into retail leadership with the Home Depot, Target, and CVS Pharmacy where she led northeast markets to #1, through driving business excellence, national category growth campaigns, and serving as part of concept design teams such as City Target.

Today, as leader of a certified minority and women-owned business (MWBE), mother, and cancer survivor, Coleman’s mission is education, access, and advocacy. With six business streams under her belt, Coleman is pursuing a cannabis license, she is a multistate hemp operator, and international hemp business owner, in pursuit of the SMART Sustainable Commodities grant in partnership with HBCUs and with support from the White House to develop underutilized land, underserved communities, and undervalued curriculum to cultivate the next generation of cannabis leaders and farmers, as well as launching her first CBD beverage line of products, Genesis.

We will engage, empower and in short, help Black women leaders win!

WOW: What’s the number one misconception about cannabis?

FC: That cannabis is addictive. That more Black people smoke cannabis than any other group. That cannabis can kill you. Finally, Black women entrepreneurs cannot operate a cannabis business. They are all misconceptions that I continue to correct when there is an opportunity to educate. Over the past year+, women have started an average of 1,800 new businesses per day in the U.S., and Women of Color account for 89% of those new businesses. So, we have value! In fact, according to the State of Women-Owned Businesses Report, black women-owned businesses represented the highest rate of growth of any group in the number of firms between 2014 and 2019. So again, we have value. Right now, Black women entrepreneurs in the cannabis industry own less than 1% of the market because the stain on the cannabis industry is the lack of intentional investment. If we look at Black women entrepreneurs there is a significant challenge. We own 15% of all women-owned businesses (2nd to whiteowned) and unfortunately collect only 3% of women-owned business receipts. This in large part is due to the lack of access to capital. Black women continue to prove their worth, yet we continue to be marginalized. It is time to invest in Black woman entrepreneurs!

Do you think marijuana will eventually be legalized in all 50 states, why or why not?

Yes. More than two-thirds of Americans, according to a Pew study, believe cannabis should be legalized. According to Leafly’s jobs report, there are over 400k full-time jobs in the cannabis industry. Today medical cannabis is legal in 38 states and legal for adult use (recreational) in 19 states. This year alone we have movement at the federal level with the Cannabis Administration Opportunity Act and the MORE Act which aims to end the decades of harm inflicted on communities of color by removing cannabis from the federal list of controlled substances and empowering states to implement their own

cannabis laws like decriminalization. The SAFE Banking Act is another bill that aims to allow banks to provide banking services to cannabis businesses without penalty. There is also activity on cannabis research legislation. With this much movement, legalization is imminent. When that will be, is another story.

In what now seems to be an oversaturation of cannabis businesses in the marketplace, what is your competitive advantage?

I do not believe there is an oversaturation of cannabis in the marketplace. I believe what you may see is the constant reporting on the industry. Cannabis sales in 2021 were approximately $27 billion, up more than 40% to year prior and is expected to reach $43 billion by 2025. The industry is truly in its infancy. As a certified Minority Women Business Enterprise (MWBE), PG competes in this young market through the competitive advantage of our amazing team, our community first partnership and a strong portfolio of businesses. We have 250 years of corporate to cannabis leadership experience from top Fortune 500 companies, to physicians, to government and cannabis business leaders. There are many who want to get into the business, the challenge is, can they raise the funding and do they have the team. In addition to our amazing team, as a business, our goal is community-first partnering where we offer 30% of positions through reentry programs, provide transferrable and leadership skills training, provide incubator space for young businesses as well as internships and scholarships with local colleges. We will also offer more than a living wage for entry level positions, provide onsite health and business education events, as well as provide 1% profit sharing to under-resourced communities. Finally, we have a diversified portfolio with six business streams where we are currently pursuing cannabis licenses, we are multistate hemp cultivators, educators, business consultants, research partners, CPG developers and HBCU/ Black community support partners.

As an entrepreneur in such a competitive industry, what are three habits you feel have contributed to your success?

My habits come in the form of PG’s Mission which is education, access, and advocacy. Education takes the form of programs and one-on-ones as we focus on the plant, medicinal benefits, business, and legalization. We not only educate others, but we also seek to educate ourselves through conference participation such as the Cannabis World Congress Business Exposition (NYC), and the Black CannaConference (New Orleans). Access for PG is our goal of providing high quality cannabis products & services (hemp & THC) to the patient and adult community. Advocacy is where we provide support for expungement, decriminalization, and social equity. This is most evident as I serve on the boards of the Cannabis World Congress Business Exposition (CWCBE), the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey (AACCNJ), the New Jersey CannaBusiness Association (NJCBA) and the National Hemp Association (NHA). These appointments allow PG to have a seat at the table, and positively participate and shape the narrative and direction of the industry. It is an honor.

With that being said, what makes you the next trailblazer in the world of cannabis?

It is interesting you use the word trailblazer. So often as Black women we are the first in many instances. I was the first Black woman to graduate from the school of Industrial Engineering at West Virginia University. I was the first Black female engineer or operations leader. As Black women, many times, we are trailblazers. The next trail that PG is on, is to help Black women entrepreneurs win in the cannabis space. To accomplish this goal, next August 24th and 25th, 2023, PG will host an inaugural Black Girls CANN Event. This will be a PG Signature event that will promise to unmute the value, voice, and vision of Black women entrepreneurs in the industry. We will engage, empower and in short, help Black women leaders win! We are super excited. More specifics will be announced later this year.

As a Woman of Wealth, what do you see your future legacy being?

My legacy will be to provide generational health through the high quality, safe and efficacious products we intend to provide, and generational wealth, to family, friends and others who struggle to achieve through traditional paths. It begins with education. Our community specifically has been lied to, vilified, and incarcerated at an arrest rate of 400%, while we own less than 4% of the market. This is the true crime. Our Now You Know workshop will provide you with knowledge of the plant, the medicinal benefits, the business of cannabis, and how to prevent drug misuse and incarceration. This education will allow you to let go of past misperceptions and move forward with clarity that will allow you to effectively navigate your pursuit of this industry.

What’s next for your brand?

Turning action into revenue! Obtaining our license so that we can open the doors to our future cannabis dispensary in Atlantic City. Launching our CBD cooler. Focusing on cannabis/hemp research through partnerships with CHEM and various universities. Continuing to educate those who want to understand, invest, or operate in this space. Our goal is not just to do well but do good. Certainly, in this industry there is no trail for success, but through faith, family, and a focused team, we intend to leave one!

To the amazing Black women leaders reading this. “Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit. We are all the same in this notion: the potential for greatness lives within all of us!” Wilma Rudolph

If you would like to learn more about Pure Genesis, please contact us through the following: puregenesis.us genesisinfused.com IN: pure genesis IG: @puregenesis410; @genesisinfused

Dr. Tasha Dickerson LEADING WOMEN TO THE LIGHT

Dr. Tasha Dickerson, Founder of EVIN SKINCARE Rx, has served her community as a Family Physician for over 15 years. She received her biology/ pre-med degree from James Madison University. She then attended Virginia Commonwealth University and received her first degree in Clinical Laboratory Sciences and then her Medical Degree. She has been a member of several medical societies and she is a recent member of the International Peptide Society. She enjoys giving back and volunteering. She also enjoys helping women of all ages feel better on the inside as well as the outside and that is how EVIN SKINCARE Rx was created.

EVIN SKINCARE Rx wants you to allow your inner beauty to shine through. The glow of healthy skin will allow you to put your best face forward. Our products are made with organic ingredients along with additional clinically proven ingredients. Together this combination provides exfoliation, hydration, skin brightening and wrinkle reduction. You will truly experience a more even skin tone with daily use. All products are paraben-free, sulfate-free, vegan and cruelty free. We were extremely excited to see an African American Doctor take a dive into skin care. Evin Skincare introduces a way to bring out the beauty of the black skin tone. As well as other types of skin tone.

My three top habits, I can say for myself, that has contributed to my success thus far would have to be Prayer, Persistence and Consistency.

With so many skincare products on the market, what inspired EVIN SKINCARE Rx and its uniqueness?

I enjoy taking care of my patients and take time to establish a relationship. With that comes trust in multiple ways and on various levels. I get asked my opinion on decisions such as do you think I should have surgery to what skincare products I would recommend. With that, I realized that some women

were overwhelmed with skin care choices and weren’t choosing any skin care products at all. They did not have a routine but had skin concerns such as dark under eye circles, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. They also had the need for a good facial cleanser. I wanted to make it easy for most looking for a simple regimen to address those needs and EVIN SKINCARE Rx was created.

What products are included in your skincare line?

Our product line includes the following:

• The Trio is made up of the essentials needed in a skincare regimen. That includes a facial cleanser, a moisturizing eye serum and a moisturizing facial serum.

• Wash Away The Day Facial Gel-is a gentle cleanser for most skin types. Our beauties see a difference in their skin quickly.

• Eye Uplift Eye Serum-is a moisturizing serum that helps reduce fine lines, puffiness and under eye dark circles.

• Be The Light Facial Serum-is also a moisturizing serum and contains ingredients that decreases fine lines, stimulates collagen production, and helps with hyperpigmentation.

What is your bestselling product?

The Trio by far. Our beauties comment that they enjoy and see the best benefits when the products are used together day and/or night.

What separates you from your competition?

We try to keep your routine simple but effective with clinically proven ingredients. We would like to start a minimalist movement because sometimes less is more when it comes to skin care. We can be our own worst enemy by overloading our skin with too many harsh ingredients.

In your opinion, what makes you the next trailblazer in the skincare world?

What makes me a Trailblazer, that’s a good question. I would like to become your skincare beastie helping you to navigate the skincare world with more ease. We will continue to bring you quality products that take care of your skin.

I’m sure you have women approach you all the time

with how your services were life changing for them. How does it feel to know that you have a hand in creating positive mental health, body image and self-esteem for so many women?

This is part of the inspiration for starting EVIN. I want to remind people that it is not selfish or only a luxury for a few to take care of themselves. It is important to take care of your skin, which is your largest organ. Skin care is self-care as well as healthcare. We have even selected our product names to inspire you with each use. Our mantra is… “I get up, WASH AWAY THE DAY and BE THE LIGHT because EYE UPLIFT!” My goal daily is to let my light shine and if that helps or lifts at least one soul I feel blessed. We all have the power to be the light.

What is the most rewarding aspect of being an entrepreneur?

In my day-to-day world of practicing medicine, I operate in a very masculine environment. With EVIN I allow my feminine energy to lead me to operate in a more creative and intuitive manner. We are in a remarkably interesting time of opportunity. There are opportunities to create and build like never before, especially for female entrepreneurs.

What are your three top habits you feel contributes to your success?

My three top habits, I can say for myself, that has contributed to my success thus far would have to be Prayer, Persistence and Consistency.

At what age should one begin a good skincare routine and why?

You can start as early as the tween-teen years with sunscreen, a gentle cleanser and moisturizer only. As hormonal changes occur, an anti-acne regimen may need to be added. For anti-aging concerns it is important to start in your late 20’s to early 30’s. The earlier the better as signs of aging can start around this time.

That is good advice. Oftentimes, women wait until their later years to adopt a healthy routine, let alone pay attention and give their skincare that attention it deserves. Tell us what role does diet play in healthy skin and why?

Our genetics plays a role in our aging process. Diet is no doubt second. What we consume daily such as water for hydration, to eating nutrient dense foods, to also avoiding the habits that can accelerate aging, it is all important. It is important to consume foods that contain selenium and vitamin C and E, which are antioxidants to help repair skin

damage due to free radicals. Vitamin C also helps to boost collagen production. Healthy fats like omega-3 are natural moisturizers and are anti-inflammatory. Finally, zinc supports oil production and repairs skin damage. These vitamins and nutrients represent a small sample of what is needed to keep our skin healthy, happy, and glowing.

As a minority entrepreneur, let’s talk more about legacy and building wealth. What is wealth to you?

Wealth to me is multifaceted. It is composed of having the financial means to live the life you choose to live. It also allows you the time to enjoy the life you want to create. Finally, having good health, being present and feeling your best is wealthy.

Interesting points. Many people contribute wealth to money and that’s not always the case. Tell us more about your legacy. What do you want your legacy to be and why?

For my children and family, I hope to be a role model of service. I hope to leave a legacy of service to others behind. I serve daily to help lead my community to a healthier lifestyle and better health.

What is next for EVIN SKINCARE Rx?

We have always been focused on taking care of the inside as well as the outside. We plan to continue that focus.

Tell us about the life of an African American Physician.

As an African American physician, I have chosen to practice medicine in our community. The practice has a long-standing history of providing care to our community for over 100 years. There are still disparities in healthcare and mistrust still exist, but I do my part to bridge the gap. One way to improve the relationship between African American patients and the healthcare system is to increase the amount of physicians that look like them. Currently African American physicians make up only about 5% of practicing physicians. Our communities are also still dealing with food disparity, crime, poverty, and school conditions that exacerbate poor health. This needs to change because when one community suffers, we all suffer.

If you desire our service, please contact us at: evinskincarerx.com and on Instagram @evinskincarerx.

Apostle Dr. Veryl Howard

A NO NONSENSE WOMAN OF GOD

by LeiElle

Some people may call her Apostle, Doctor, or Woman of God. When they choose to disrespect the anointing of God or the call on her life, they say “Hey Girl” or “What’s up Veryl.” Sadly, it has been done even in the marketplace arena among the body of believers when conducting business. Would they call their boss by their first name? The truth is, Dr. Veryl Howard, prides herself on being a child of God, assigned by God to Apostolically implement the five-fold ministry of God in the business arena. God instructed her to do this in a non “churchy” manner. There is a time for speaking in tongues, laying on hands and shouting when it is governed as appropriate by God.

But there are also times to be eloquently business savvy in a tough marketplace with a kingdom agenda. This truth Apostle Howard is learning oh so well as she navigates the world of business from a kingdom perspective. She takes on the business task God gives her for His purpose. Staying grounded in The Word and living a fasted life has helped her to prepare for the assignments. God shields her from the ridicule of those that don’t understand. God gives the balance and ability to fulfill the assignments because we must mingle in the world though not of the world. He also rewards when we don’t deviate when conducting business on tough terrain. Apostle how we’re encouraged anyone to not be afraid to walk in unfamiliar territory. Just work as business workman of the Lord with a kingdom agenda. He will take care of the rest.

What has been your greatest challenges conducting business from a Kingdom standpoint?

I had to grow spiritually to understand balance while winning souls over to Christ. My swag changed to relate to the business world the way God would have me to do it. My ear gate stays inclined to God’s word so He can show me how to conduct myself among all genres of people. Many people may question my approach but if God is directing me, I stay the course.

Considering your challenges, what steps have you taken to ensure you’re not being judgmental in the secular world?

To simply put it, when I negotiate a deal with someone who has a drink in their hand, I do not judge. Or if a businessperson cusses casually in the process of closing a contract, I do not cringe. I keep my composure yet stand my spiritual ground and not compromise my actions noting God has allowed me to have their ear gates. I allow the glory of God to speak through me while doing a business deal thus not being “churchy.” I win them over with honesty, wisdom of God, being different and understanding that I was once a sinner too needing to be saved.

With many sticking to the notion of the separation of church and state, what do you feel it has been the biggest disconnect with this mindset?

Many of us miss it because we do not balance our assignment understanding that God placed us in the marketplace for a reason. We get it twisted and lose focus.

Being spiritually focused, what other ways do you see your spiritual giving path show up in your life?

I find myself often working in atmospheres which seems contrary in other’s eyes to the call on my life. But I ask, did Jesus only kick it with the church people? No, He had a

mission to win over the lost and implement His principles in a reckless society. I am called to the global marketplace and not just the four walls of the church.

Since we’re speaking of Biblical principles, is there a particular person in the Bible you would identify with most?

Lydia in the bible was a businessperson who sold royal textiles. She had to learn negotiation speech and be sharp in business. But she sold with grace and compassion winning many over to the kingdom as she sought the Lord. She was the first convert in Philippi and her home became the place where the congregation gathered for worship and fellowship. Her house was the church because she was a businesswoman with wealth who opened her spacious home for kingdom business. She is who I most identify with because I lived that every day.

what do you feel is the most impactful way to win people over in the business Arena regardless of their religion background?

Just as Jesus won folks over in the marketplace with love, grace and by example, we must do the same. He preached more in the marketplace then in the synagogue. He was tough when he needed to be, but He also spoke the language they understood. He rebuked his disciples many times due to their approach. There was nothing churchy about His approach. We can be too heavenly minded as believers and no earthly good. Many believers must learn how to be effective in a secular world outside of their comfort zone the “church” and be the light on the hill.

What can you say, has been your biggest contributor, outside of your faith, to being successful in business?

I had to grow spiritually to understand balance while winning souls over to Christ.

Often, I have sat in corporate settings among my spiritual adversaries and had to speak with authority, power, and the favor from God. There was something they had, that God promised me, so I had to learn their business language. Afterall, the bible says the wealth of the wicked is laid up for the just. Even the Proverb 31 woman in the bible rose early and went to the marketplace. She operated with balance but had the business skills to get the job done yet still be holy. But wise believers do it with the wisdom of God to win over that business owner to Christ. Religiosity among multi layered millionaires is a hindrance to personal business success.

For those running into similar challenges as you, what advice would you give them?

There are people in the marketplace who understand the dynamics of optimum business expansion and the believers could learn from them. Unless we balance our spiritual ethics in the workplace, we cannot win over the souls we are trying to lead to Christ.

As a woman of wealth, what are current business ventures?

Presently, I have been blessed to be a principal actor in the number one hit show on All Blk TV Network called “Double Cross.” It is a secular show and I play a high-class mother helping to run a sex trafficking ring.

Some would say your current role is contradictory

to your spiritual stance what would you say to that?

Well, this is the real world. Sex trafficking is so prevalent. It is a lucrative business but is often ignored even in the church. Well, one would say Apostle, which is such a dichotomy. Are you still saved? I would say, I am part of an agenda to bring awareness to this multi-billion-dollar foul business that exploits young boys and girls globally. I would also say the directors “Dem Gibson’s Films” are Christians who understand how to get their point across through me without asking me to degrade my spiritual character but to indeed act. It is an assignment for me because God opened the door in the film and television arena to minister to those on the set. They respect my non changing God like disposition and tell me they feel the anointing and appreciate my acting ability. They get my assignment an often ask me for prayer. God opened this door in the marketplace of an industry that needs believers to be in place to pray and lead others to Christ. If I were religious, I would not understand my assignment in the entertainment arena as a casting director, actress, marketing specialist, manager to film producers and recording artist. My job requires me to do business with people who are “unchurched.” I must talk their business language to seal the deals.

For Information on Apostle Dr. Veryl Howard, Actress, Author, Casting Director & Life Coach and/or Faith Management & Talent Casting visit her on Facebook & Instagram

with Dr. Reneé Starlynn Allen HEART-TO-HEART

Meet Dr. Reneé Starlynn Allen, a black celebrity emcee and host of the Reneé’ Allen & Friends Show. She is also known as The People’s Emcee, Radio & TV Host, Advocate for Women, Families &Human Decency. Dr. Allen is the Founder & C.E.O. of Global Conscious Initiative and launched the DMV 48 Men of Power during the pandemic to highlight men of color who have accomplished phenomenal deeds in this earth and communtiy. Reneé has been a symbol of inspiration for so many in the entertainment industry.

Growing up in Fairfield, Connecticut, with two younger sisters, Reneé had to take on a great deal of responsibility at a young age. She was always a force to be reckoned with throughout her academic life; whether it was becoming the first black female all-school Congress President of her High School or winning at volleyball, Reneé has worked her way towards the top of the success ladder.

Transparency. It’s the real deal.

When asked about the women who inspired her, this is what Reneé had to say.

“I start with my family because my Grandma Connie [late], my mother’s mother, she’s just the epitome of what a grandma should be. I mean, she was there for everything! She Inspired my two sisters Lisa, Sonya and I. My Aunt Pookie [late] was another one who always there for us, too. She didn’t skip a beat and I remember that she gave me my deposit on my first home in 1984. She was extraordinarily supportive, and I miss them both dearly. I owe everything that I am to Charlotte Fraser, my mother. She gave just enough rope to let you have some fun while keeping you protected and safe. And I just can’t repay her enough, and I try to do everything I can for her daily.” My Mom is one in a zillion and was responsible for assisting many people in our family as well as several of her friends.

With the opportunity to meet the great Oprah just at the start of her career, Reneé already knew she was born to serve a bigger purpose.

“It was a fundraiser for $1 million to pay off a building downtown, for I believe the National Council for Negro Women, and I met Oprah at that time. She has just completed an interview with Forbes Magazine. She has always been someone that I respected and was proud of; I only wish that I would have given her my card at the time.” She is a living testimony of

After successfully running the Reneé Allen & Friends Show for years, Reneé is proud to launch her first solo book by October 2022. This is what you should expect from it.

“Transparency. It is the real deal. Testimonies from like-minded women and men will be included in my book. Over the past decade and a half I’ve completed eight anthologies. I’m working on my first solo book, Star Power, and I’m also working on a book with Janice

Stevens Cook which focuses on the emotional setbacks and how you can overcome them. We met, and we had an experience that we share in this book to help women celebrate each other and stop being jealous of one another. It’s a powerful book, and we have other like-minded women and celebrities involved in it, as well. Everyone is always talking about this word jealousy because it’s not going anywhere. Racism, jealousy and cancer seem to be the poison in the universe, and I want to do something about it and I wish to find a cure for it all. GOD Willing!

Dr. Reneé has had various mentors throughout her life who helped her excel and grow in her career and pushed her to never give up on her dreams.

“I’ve been extremely blessed with many extraordinary experiences where I have received priceless advice from amazing human-beings throughout my life!” Of course, my Mother, Charlotte Fraser, has been the ultimate mentor and role model to me. My father, Leith Fraser, who was my first male mentor and the first man I ever fell in love with; spoiled me and molded me. Charles Overton, Scott, C.S.O. insurance became a mentor of mine, taught me so much, not just about insurance, but just life skills and how to be the greatest salesman in the world. I really learned a lot from him. Darnell Self and his wife, Traci, have been excellent friends to me since 2000. When I met Marcia Dyson; we became very close almost instantly. She and I met through a mutual acquaintance, and I fell in agape love with her and shortly thereafter, brought her to my first women’s event in D.C. where many of the women in my front & second rows had the opportunity to meet her and eventually develop friendships. I love to connect people. I am not selfish and believe that its our duty on earth to connect people and support their dreams so that they will experience trajectory in their passion & purpose. I cannot forget about Dr. Lance London. I have known him for thirty-seven plus years and he has been a safe

haven for me during some of the most difficult years of my life and taught me so much as an entrepreneur. Roger Gore and Dr. George C. Fraser have been inspiration to my soul. FraserNet and the Power Networking Conference changed my way of thinking as a black consumer in America. Each of us bares a responsibility to engage, educate, empower, inspire and motivate our next generation. There are too many to mention, and I am grateful for all who pours positivity and wisdom into my life

If you are a young woman who wants to break into the entertainment industry as a commentator or interviewer, Reneé shares some valuable advice for you.

“You know, women are beautiful people, super emotional and competitive. Keep an open mind! Let things slide off of you that you’re not connecting with. Don’t hold on to things or someone who’s not helping you. Just focus on a great attitude as attitude determines altitude. You are extremely vulnerable and fragile when you’re a young woman or man coming into this world. And it can be frightening, especially for black men who we know how they’re being treated out in the world. So, I would just say, keep your attitude, right? Write your thoughts and goals down on a piece of paper. Always think about your growth and concentrate on becoming a better version of yourself. Figure out what you could have done better in your rework relationships. Write your goals for the

next day. What do you want to accomplish? Write your top three things to focus on the next day, and if you fall short, don’t beat yourself up because you have time to make mistakes if you learn from those mistakes and keep going! The one thing you should do your best to avoid is giving up on your dreams because its never too late and you are never too old.

Leaving us with some words of wisdom, this is what the amazing Dr. Reneé Starlynn Allen had to say.

“What I’d like to leave you with are these words of wisdom. We are all growing. It doesn’t matter how old you are; we all learn something new every day. Become someone who loves to learn and serve! What I want people to realize is no matter what income bracket you’re in, or no matter what educational level you have accomplished; Know that we are all human beings and each of us deserves grace, mercy and favor. My prayer is for everyone to walk in kindness because you never know what people are going through. Someone could have received a diagnosis of cancer, or have had one of their parents or loved ones pass away, etc. There’s no reason to be mean at all in this world. And if you’re being mean; shame on you. Being a decent and kind person is a decision! Each of us has one life and it’s your gift to GOD [or your higher power] to be the best!

#BamBoomPowdow

Celebrating our Mother, Charlotte Fraser’s, 80th Birthday! or Thank you Mom, Charlotte Fraser for 80+ years of love. or My Siblings and Mom l to r: Lisa, Mother Charlotte, Sonya and Dr. Reneé

“Brandy” O’Neal THE RENAISSANCE WOMAN

History is painted with the accomplishments of women who have made great contributions to our society. There are simply too many to name in this article without the risk of missing the names of some of the most accomplished women who ever lived. Many of them were born into great families and yet many others had to find their way through the challenges of life, which often made them tire of the politics, stresses, and often closed doors that society often offered them. Even as I write this article, I think of Judge, Ketanji Brown Jackson, the newly nominated supreme court justice by President Joe Biden, who has managed to earn two degrees from Harvard University, and if confirmed she will be the first black woman on the nation’s highest court system. Women have come a long way and we shall continue to make our mark in society.

Thousands of women join the ranks of those who have reached heights in life that rival the accomplishments of those who often felt that they were not capable of doing much more than the average person.

Women we salute you and say, “Thank You,” for giving us hope and inspiration. For you are the “Renaissance Women.”

In my book of poetry, I describe what I believe is a befitting name for women who reach heights unknown and accomplish things that take patience, courage, and hard work. Some call her a Super Woman, I call her (as the poem is so aptly entitled) Renaissance Woman. She is bold and beautiful, strong and mighty. She is the kind of woman that walks into a room and gains attention for her energy that greets the people before her outer beauty, energy that changes the hearts and attitudes of many who observe her presence. She never has to speak because her presence speaks volumes for her. She has learned to be grateful for those things in life that money cannot buy. She is proud to be a mother or to simply be the daughter of a mother who in some way helped to shape her into the woman that she is. She is willing to plant her seeds for greatness in life and every day she spends time toiling the soil and nurturing that seed until it blossomed. She understands that the weeds may try to grow and chock the life from the seed, but her determination makes us keep moving forward even when she may feel like giving up. Her spiritual walk is intact and her God watches over her to ensure that she continues and never gives up.

Today I pay tribute to you, the Renaissance Woman of our day. It is your effort toward change and the bettering of our world that has helped shape those

places where we can see advancement. We clearly understand that we have a long way to go, but we take a moment just to pause and say thank you for your unselfish efforts and never-ending strides toward a better world that continue to lead us to “ keep the faith and hope alive.” Today, I salute you for being courageous and for being able to carry the torch once carried by women who have passed on to the other side, It is you dear lady, that brings hope and inspiration for women to come and we shall remember your contributions, efforts, and accomplishment as we experience a better world.

You are the Renaissance woman, that woman who knows much and who uses that knowledge to pave the way for others, You are that woman who has acquired profound knowledge in many areas and who has set the pace for others to follow. You are that woman who has proved to the world that dreams do come true and goals can be reached. You are “that” woman and we salute you today and always and we say “Thank You,” for giving us hope and inspiration. You are the “Renaissance Women.”

Footnote: You can read the inspiration for this article The Arriva l in my next book The Soul Tears The Second Journey coming soon on Amazon.com. The Souls Tears The First Journey is available on Amazon.com and lifepublushing.com

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