What's on your table?
Editorial Board Chairman: Greg Hedgepeth Director of Projects: Angela Marshall Contributing Photographers: Greg Hedgepeth, Angela Marshall and Shelby Bazemore Contributing Writers: Greg Hedgepeth, Angela Marshall, Evelyne Del Billingslea, Kimberly M. Knight, Rich L. Griffis and Trey Wade Print layout and web: Greg Hedgepeth Sponsorship Inquiries Phone: 252.702.2073 info@substantialmagazine.com www.substantialmagazine.com
ŠSubstantial Magazine 2014 All Rigths Reserved ISSN 0000-0007
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CONTENTS 5 From the Editor-in-Chief
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• Join the Substantial Movement pg3 • Transform Your Passion into a Successful Business pg7
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Substantial Man of the Issue pg
Mr. Rich Griffis aka "The Bearded Boss"
12 My Life as Mrs. Moore
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By Kimberly M. Knight
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Our Substantial Woman pg Ms. Kimberly M. Knight
16 Unleash your Entrepreneur Spirit
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By Angela Marshall
• What Investors Want to Hear pg18
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You Can’t Judge A Book By Its Cover pg
An interview with Mrs. Diane N. Taylor of Taylor Made Publishing By Evelyne Del Billingslea • Substantial Magazine Sponsorship opportunities pg25 • The Introduction of Substantial U pg27 Visit www.substantialmagazine.com to find additional content, behind the scenes footage, extra interview questions that didn't make it to print, other great stories, photography and much more. Substantial Magazine would love to get you involved. If you are interested in having SM tell your story, or interested in helping us celebrate the stories of others email us at info@substantialmagazine.com
Words from the Editor-in-Chief
Passions & Business
Facebook: Facebook.com/gregory.hedgepeth.1 Twitter: @GregWho Instagram: mrsubstantial2u
Dear supporters, As always I feel compelled to serve up some sort of intellectual food for thought. Words that you will remember as you flip through the pages of this issue and think "I see now; why they do it". In Substantial Magazine's journey to becoming a publication of regional/national influence its necessary for us to understand the word business. However, it's equally necessary for us to identify our passions and focus on how we turn our passions into a successful business. The word business as defined means a person's regular occupation, profession, or trade. The practice of making one's living by engaging in commerce. The word passion as defined means a strong and barely controllable emotion. I offer up the notion that when these two are mixed or more so when one drives the other, you are well on your way to success. I recall this quote "To be successful, the first thing to do is fall in love with your work." This issue is fueled by the stories of people who understand this concept. From Rich Griffis who took his passion for men’s fashion and style; mixed it with his creative design experience to create his company Stone Hinge. Take Diane Taylor who after co-authoring a book and being faced with some of the daunting tasks of an author discovered that she has a unique set of skills that could be used to help other authors have a voice. Thus the birth of Taylor Made Publishing. Not only these two but Kimberly Knight whom after losing her husband to HIV/AIDS, has made it her mission and business to spread awareness about the disease. I have enjoyed developing and reading about these great people as I hope you will.
Of considerable importance, size, or worth. Strongly built or made.
I leave you with this. The people who get ahead in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and, if they can’t find them, they make them.
www.substantialmagazine.com 5 | Substantial Magazine
Starting your own business is like jumping on an emotional rollercoaster with the highest of highs and lowest of lows -- all the while, wondering if the ride will come to a screeching halt. Anyone can start a business but it’s infinitely harder to grow and sustain it. When a company faces challenges and falls on hard times (and it always does), it’s your passion and commitment that ultimately get the business through to the other side. If you don’t have a true passion for your business, everyone can sense it: your customers, team, advisors and investors. Below are three steps to help transform your passion into a successful business:
Do you know enough? If not, start asking. You have a passion and want to start a business! Do you know enough about the industry? With industry background and know-how, you’ll be ahead of the curve and can hit the ground running -- producing products, building a customer base and forging your company vision.
Don't be discouraged, if you have a great idea, but aren’t familiar enough with the field to get started, use your network, speak with people who’ve started businesses in your industry to help you get up to speed quickly. This is like building an informal advisory board of people who’ve gone through a journey similar to the one you’re embarking upon.
Jump in! There’s really no better way to start than
diving in head-first. In the beginning, you may not have your exact plan mapped out, and you’ll likely make significant changes to your model. But the benefit of starting a business around a passion is that you know why you’re doing it and can more easily overcome barriers that come up along the way. It’s this deep-rooted drive and enthusiasm that will keep you motivated and engaged with the product you’re selling.
Gupta, Gautam. "How to Transform Your Passion into a Successful Business" www.entrepreneur.com/article/230003 Web. Nov. 20, 2013.
Surround yourself with others who share your vision.
` Because you can expect long work hours and hard days in the beginning, personal drive and shared similar values with your colleagues will see you through this time. This enthusiasm translates to a positive customer experience. And that's what will build your business. Turning your passion into a successful business not only allows you to be profitable while doing something you love, it helps set you up for lasting success. Most importantly, passion is central to making decisions that are in the long-term interest of the customer and the company, which will help you establish sustainability and longevity for your brand.
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Substantial Man of the Issue Mr. Rich Griffis aka "The Bearded Boss" Rich Griffis Age: 24 years old Education: BFA - Graphic Design from ECU Hometown: Burlington, NC Marital Status: Single Rich Griffis — a son; brother; friend; business owner; the Bearded BOSS — All these things, but most importantly, a Man of God.
SM: Tell us a little about the concept behind "being a Bearded Boss" was this just something you came up with or is there a specific meaning behind it? Rich: The term “Bearded BOSS” was something I randomly coined one day after having a candid conversation with my friends. People know me for my big beard, but I started thinking, I’m more than just a guy with a big beard… I’m a BOSS making BOSS moves. And it fit perfectly in line with everything that I had been working towards over the past few months. I’ve actually contrived a definition for what I believe it takes to be a Bearded BOSS.
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BeardedBOSS (n): (1) any man making moves, whether it be career-wise; for himself; for his family; a provider (2) a go-getter; a man who wants the best in life and will work hard to make it happen for himself —NOBODY can stop them; (3) most importantly, a man whose [beard game] is SECOND2-NONE Honestly, any man can be a boss, but it takes a special man to be a Bearded BOSS.
“For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” - Jeremiah 29:11 SM: You recently started STONE HINGE. Tell us a little about the company? Rich: Stone•Hinge is my new accessory brand that I started 2 days after New Years Day of this year (2014). As of now, our primary products are beaded wrist-wear for both men & women. We believe in the motto less is more so you’ll find that most of our items are very subtle in color and look. Accessories should compliment an outfit, not overpower it. SM: What inspired you to start STONE HINGE? Rich: I’ve always been into fashion and style, especially from a men’s perspective. Even as far back as high school, I’ve liked to design my own items. When it came to Stone•Hinge, I knew it would be something that I could easily do solo for a while until I was able to build a solid team. As a man, I like simple accessories and I knew there were other men out there with a similar preference. Although Stone•Hinge is geared towards both men and women, it originally started as an idea targeted to men. There are tons of women accessory lines out there, but few that offer men solid options. SM: You come from a marketing background, tell us how these skills/experiences helped you launch your company? Rich: Coming from a marketing background has helped drastically. I’ve had the opportunity to “shadow” my coworkers and learn a few tips and tricks regarding everything from managing social media pages, paid ad promotions, SEO and Google keywords—all marketing lingo that I wasn’t familiar with until recently. I can honestly say that had it not been for me working at my current job, I don’t know if Stone•Hinge would have taken off as fast as it has. Marketing for your business is a full-time gig. You have to put time into promoting your brand or else you will slowly lose engagement from your customers. SM: What gives you inspiration for your designs as it relates to your jewelry/accessories? Rich: I’m inspired by pretty much everything around me. My mind constantly flows with ideas for future collections. It’s almost hard to explain—but I’ve always been that way. I can see the way colors and textures interact and instantly be inspired for my next idea. I’m also inspired by popular trends that I see others engaging in. As a fashion head, you have to be in tune with what’s “in.” SM: Where do you see STONE HINGE in the next five years? Rich: In the next 5 years, I see Stone•Hinge growing exponentially. Aside from wrist-wear, I’m planning to expand to
necklaces, clothing, hats… the sky is the limit. I also realize that eventually I will have to grow my team. As I stated before, right now I am a one-man team—pretty much handling everything by myself… finances, social media, emails, scheduling. SM: If you had access to unlimited resources where do you see the STONE HINGE brand going (feel free to dream huge)? Rich: Wow, if I had access to unlimited resources, it could definitely take my brand to the next level. One of my dreams has always been to open a physical store. Stone•Hinge having a physical store were customers can walk in and buy our products would be awesome. There are a few things that I would like to do with my wrist wear that I just haven’t found the appropriate means of doing it just yet, such as custom engraved charms and beads with my logo on them, as well as taking my packaging to the next year. With unlimited resources, I could really expand the Stone•Hinge brand internationally— having a location on all continents. SM: Are there any challenges you have had to overcome as a young minority entrepreneur or do you forsee any in your future? Rich: I haven’t really seen too many challenges thus far but I’ll be completely honest, I do foresee that as my business expands, I may come against opposition. It’s a sad reality that I think is still an issue these days. As a young black business owner, there are many who are threatened by that in our society. Being a well spoken young man catches some people off guard sometimes. They don’t know how to take me. But I do know that as long as I keep God at the forefront of all that I do, I can’t be store and won’t be stopped—no matter what
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SM: Why are you substantial? Rich: I am substantial because I am allowing [God] to use me to make an impact. Never would I have ever imagined that this awkward introverted kid from a small NC town would grow up to be as sought after as he is. Substantial: of considerable importance, size, or worth. Strongly built or made—that definition describes me completely. I may be small physically, but what I bring to the table makes up for it. The things I’ve been through in life have made me strong mentally, physically, and spiritually. I am substantial
stereotypes may be thrown my way. SM: What motivates/inspires Rich Griffis as a person/artisit? Rich: I consider myself a spiritual man, so the one thing that truly motivates me is my belief that through God, all things are possible. The fact that He has blessed with the abilities to do so much is surreal. I could not have ever imagined that I would where I am today. SM: What advice would you give to other young people pursuing their entrepreneur spirit? Rich: Don’t ever give up on your dreams. If there is something that you’ve always wanted to do—do it. Don’t allow others to talk you out of doing something that God has placed in your heart. Too many times we allow the opinions of others dictate our future. Don’t let money play a factor as well. While having a lot of money can make things seem easier, at the end of the day, there are ways around not having a lot of money that you can still go forward with your dreams. SM: Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about the Bearded Boss? Rich: I’ve purchased the domain for BearededBoss.com but a site hasn’t been developed for it yet. I’m also working towards developing both a facebook and instagram presence for it, so
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#staytuned. I’ve already had both men and women hit me up about “BeadedBOSS” shirts so I have a pretty good really, it’s not going to have any problems taking off. I’ve seen the impact of other similar business recently, especially with beards seemingly being popular right now. It’s another one of those projects where the potential is infinite. I’m looking forward to seeing what impact it may have. At the end of the day, the message goes farther than just a man with a beard—I’m looking to show that there are some men who are hard workers and go-getters. I even have people at work calling me the Bearded BOSS. Keep up with Rich Griffis Facebook (personal) Rich L. Griffis Facebook (business) www.facebook.com/StoneHingeCo (or search Stone Hinge) Twitter/Instagram @Iam_RichGriffis Instagram @StoneHinge_Co
What to expect from Substantial Magazine Substantial Magazine strikes a balance between inspiration and information, traditional and digital, community and family. Through creative photography and the written word we celebrate the stories of the minority community. Substantial Magazine, the premiere minority magazine in Eastern NC, motivates and educates on the importance of living a SUBSTANTIAL lifestyle.
“We are substantial and so is our purpose.� We do amazing things on our jobs, in our communities and through our arts. Our accomplishments and body of work is extraordinary. Substantial Magazine is the tool by which we "toot our own horns." Our community is sophisticated, unique and bold in all that we do. For that we exist to tell your story. A wise man once said "If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way" that man was Dr. Martin Lurther King.
substance We want to share the future prosperity of the minority community through efforts such as increasing access to health care, job creation, revitalizing schools, and the development of underserved communities.
Not only do we want you to be substantial; we want you to dress the part. Find out about the latest fashion dos and donts. Look to Substantial magazine for fashion commentary, latest news about seasonal collections, and fashion tips/trends from our editors.
Look to this column to bring you the latest as it relates to financial advice and news. Substantial magazine will highlight raising entrepreneurs, successful business owners, and minority for and not for profits that are playing a substantial role in their commnities.
From spoken word, to the latest in hip-hop news. Substantial magazine is teaming up with the best in the business to bring you a diverse reader experience as it relates to the arts. Here we will also showcase creative work of our readers and freelance photographers.
take a closer look for yourself at www.substantialmagazine.com 11 | Substantial Magazine
My Life as
Mrs. Moore
By Kimberly M. Knight
W
here do you turn when your back is against the wall while your husband’s life is hanging on by a thread? It’s September 24, 2012 at 10:46pm and I’m completing an online nutrition exam before the 11pm deadline. I glance up and to my left is my husband stumbling into our bedroom. As I rushed to my feet I asked, “Are you able to control the shaking?” His reply of “no” was followed by continued shaking. He’s weak to the point of barely speaking and his voice is so light I can hardly hear him whisper. My mind is wandering on the fastest route to the hospital and why did I just watch him have a mild seizure in our bedroom. The sweet aroma of lavender and vanilla always filled our room but not on this night. On this night it was filled with the smell of sickness and my husband was unable to control himself. He’s always been a very healthy man and was an advocate for personal fitness. At the beginning of September Brandon thought he was bit by a spider at our neighborhood park. When we went to the urgent care he was simply treated with antibiotics and after 2 more visits we were recommended to the womb clinic. But tonight was a turn for the worse as I carried him to the car. As my mind was racing to drive him to the hospital I couldn’t help but wonder what was happening to him. I started thinking of prayers and thoughts of healing
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for him as he moaned next to me. When we arrived at the hospital he was too weak to walk so I wheeled him into the waiting area. Thankfully, we only had to wait 15 minutes to be seen and once the nurse asked him the typical questions of his family medical history such as cancer, diabetes, HIV, or allergies he was admitted. However, the growth on his calf kept growing and became discolored as each day went by. As the hours of the night go by I am constantly praying that God heals him of his sickness. The doctors are puzzled at why his kidneys are now at 50% use and at age 31 his health is slowly declining. As I contacted family members and friends I realized that tonight was about to become a moment that would change our marriage. Minutes become hours that turn into the next day of September 25th. I’m now sitting on the side of the bed with the man I vowed for better or for worse, for sickness and in health, and to honor for always. Here we are as he is fighting for his life on a breathing machine as tubes are entering his body from every angle. He looks up at me as he pulls the mask from his face and tells me I’m the love of his life as I said the same to him. I asked, “Is it time?” and he looks at the right corner of his room. He replies, “Kim its time”. I told him I would prepare my heart for what’s next. We embraced and that was again one of those moments I felt stood still in my life. Then as he is taken for more tests another seizure occurs and they have to work twice as hard this time to stabilize him. As I’m
standing outside of his room with my best friend Miranda I allow family and friends to visit. Then I’m approached by the lead team physician who asks to speak with me in private. I assure him that my best friend is a medical professional and anything he says she will explain if I do not comprehend. He said, “Mrs. Moore I will be very straight forward with you about your husband.” I looked at my best friend and I knew at that point there was no turning back. Then the words came from his lips, “Your husband is HIV positive and the treatments we have been giving him are for someone with a healthier immune system”. My heart literally dropped. I asked that his mother be able to receive the news from the medical staff and that I needed a room to myself. One of my requests was to know when he contracted the virus. Those 15 minutes alone felt like several hours and I wanted to just sleep away the pain. I felt every emotion in that room from hurt, anger, disappointment, betrayal, love, patience, forgiveness, and understanding.
A
fter the tears disappeared and the prayers were made I heard a clear, but soft voice in my ear saying to walk in his room and forgive him for past, present, and for what’s to come. So I opened the door wearing my NCCU collegiate hoodie and I walked into my husband’s room to find him in an unconscious state. It’s September 25th and I’m holding his hand telling him how I forgive him. How his presence in my life will forever be remembered. God had given me peace about my husband transitioning and I knew there would be more to endure as he departed this life to eternity. He was my high school sweetheart, dear friend, spiritual prayer mate, and my husband of 11 months. We’ve known each other since childhood but it was time to say our farewells. So as the doctors discussed the outcome of him living with HIV. How just the mere thought of him living for 8 years without treatment was remarkable, they also consoled me and informed me that he was indeed dying. It’s September 26, 2012 at 6:45pm and I’m in his room with family and my best friend, having to remove my husband off of life support. If you’ve been in the position to be the deciding factor of a loved one being removed from life support you can empathize with my sorrow. The selfish heart wanted to hold on to see him blink, move his limbs, or breathe on his own. However, he was already gone when it came time to let go of my beloved. It was bittersweet because he was now free from sickness and the judgments of this world. Still, I missed him even before he left. We had reached that moment where I transitioned as well from wife to widow. The months ahead brought on heartache and pain from the feelings of loss as well as betrayal. Even though we went through testing prior to our marriage my husband was not honest with me. Now almost a year later I have endured many life challenges and tests. Not only in my marriage but with my health as well; which is why I am thankful daily to God for sparing my life. I am proud to say I am living HIV free but I am even more proud to help others in my community that are living with or affected by the virus. Through the death of my husband came the rebirth of Kimberly M. Knight to be a voice. Brandon is why I am so passionate for this cause because no one deserves to die alone or live in secret because they had no one to talk to. Mrs. Kimberly M. Moore was a woman of great strength, dignity, grace, and beauty. She valued her marriage and honored her husband even after death. She’s truly my alter ego and has taught me the value of loving another human being as God has intended. I recalled my vows and leaned on my faith to endure the “what’s to come”. It was simply finding my peace in God, prayers of loved ones, and sound counsel that led to my healing process. Now as I move forward as a motivational speaker, writer, and HIV Activist, I go back to the forgiveness I expressed for my husband in his hospital room. I remember that my purpose is to encourage a “Brandon” and to offer assured inspiration to a “Kimberly”. This article is dedicated to all things substantial such as unconditional love, honor, and forgiveness.
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Substantial Woman of the Issue Ms. Kimberly M. Knight SM: Who is Kimberly Knight?
Kim: It is never a simple answer when it comes to finding out the love of your life is transitioning to death. When the doctor told me my husband was HIV positive instantly I thought of having a quiet space to release my emotions of fear, doubt, anger, and most of all forgiveness. The forgiveness of my husband’s choices for my life is what has sustained me today.
Kim: Kimberly Knight is a woman who is aspiring to live effectively the purpose God has placed over her life.
SM: What made you want to speak out in regards to these experiences?
SM: Tell us about some of your recent accomplishments.
Kim: I wanted to be a voice for the voiceless that felt they had to live in secret with their diagnosis. My husband was unable to be vocal about his condition which led to lack of support for nearly 8 years. After his passing I knew I wanted to speak boldly for a “Brandon” and to encourage a “Kimberly” that there is life after.
Age: 32 Education: B.A. East Carolina University and currently prusuing a 2nd Undergraduate at NCCU Hometown: Wilson, NC
Kim: Currently, I’ve been so graciously elected as a Wake Empowered Team Member for the Greater Than AIDS Alicia Keys Women Empowered Campaign. The SISI Foundation Treasure Her Grand Tea is honoring me in March for my activism in the Triangle community. I was featured in the January/February of Sheen Magazine, February issue of Diamond Diva Magazine, and I’m scheduled to speak at UNCCharlotte in March for HIV Awareness. SM: Having read your story in regards to your husband and his passing with HIV, please share briefly with our readers your emotions after finding out?
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SM: Explain the importance of not only sharing your story but the importance of spreading awareness about HIV/AIDS? Kim: The reason I share my story is because I realized the importance of knowing your partner’s status. As a AfricanAmerican and Native American decent woman I am at high risk of contracting HIV or AIDS. I never questioned my husband’s
results prior to marriage or had an in-depth discussion about sexual health prior to our marriage. That lack of boldness or in-depth discussion is what I want to empower women to be encouraged to discuss with their partners. The awareness piece comes into play because the more educated we are as a society about the condition the more empathetic we can be towards those living with or affected by HIV/AIDS. My life’s mission is to educate those in my community and outside of my community about the value of knowing your status.
they offer the Triangle community. The Alicia Key’s Women Empowered: Greater Than AIDS Campaign was presented by the NC AIDS Network and a dear mentor of mine Stephanie Brown suggested that I sign up for the program. So I logged on and submitted my application to be awarded a team membership for the Wake Empowered Team of NC. My teammate Rebecca Knight and I created the HIV awareness event called “Red is the New Black” to educate the Triangle area in a social mixer atmosphere.
SM: What advice would you give to someone that may be going through what you have and/or may know someone that is in a similar situation?
SM: Let's get to know the personal side of Kim; what do you do to relax and get away from your busy days as an Advocate, Motivational Speaker, Writer, Professional, etc...?
Kim: My advice would be first to cling to your faith as I did. God was and is the pinnacle piece of my story. I know that it was my beliefs and will to overcome that made me as strong as I am. Only God can give you that kind of strength to persevere through the loss of your spouse in this manner while simultaneously family and friends are not supportive of the mission God has assigned you. Secondly, I would say be willing to forgive because half the battle is forgiving the wrongs someone has done against you so you can have peace afterwards.
Kim: My relaxation varies based on my schedule but I always take the time out for daily meditation, spa massage days, and trips to the beach. Sometimes I will just check into a luxury hotel in another city to relax which somehow inspires me to write. But it’s those quiet moments at night or the sound of the ocean when God gives me clarity and peace over my life.
SM: Do you feel HIV/AIDS is still a major concern within the African American community? If so why do you think so? Kim: Absolutely I believe HIV/AIDS is a major concern in the African American community because our women are being diagnosed at a high percentage. Also, our men have increased levels due to lack of practicing safe sexual intimacy measures and lack of routine testing visits. Our community has turned a deaf ear to the reality of HIV/AIDS and we are not invincible from this disease. SM: If you could change one thing as it relates to the minority community's prospective on dealing with the issues surrounding HIV/AIDS, and from a relationship stand point dealing with trust/ honest amongst your partner, what would it be? Kim: If I could change one thing it would be the stigma that is associated with the disease obtained only in a gay or lesbian intimate encounter. This is everyone’s issue not just one groups concern but it’s a global issue. As for a relationship stand point it is imperative to be transparent in our relationships especially those that involve sexual intimacy and marriage. It’s time that we go back to the values of our grandparents that your word is your livelihood and that trust is a virtue not an option. My story could have been totally different if my husband were honest with me.
SM: Why are you substantial? Kim: I am substantial because I am a voice in my community and my aspirations are becoming my reality. I was able to turn my test into my testimony to help inspire people. Kim: "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams" - Eleanor Roosevelt. I am a dreamer that dreams in color! I am a writer at heart and it’s been therapeutic for me to release my thoughts in magazines, my blog Konversations at Knight, and to encourage people to never stop dreaming. Stay in contact with Kim Knight-Moore Inspirations, LLC on Facebook and Konversations at Knight on Wordpress.com
SM: You are currently a volunteer with the AIDS Alliance of Carolinas and the newly appointed NC team member for Alicia Key's Women Empowered: Greater Than AIDS Campaign. Tell us a little about these projects and how you got involved? Kim: I reached out to the Alliance of AIDS Services Carolinas almost a year ago as a volunteer because I wanted to be in an environment to educate myself about the cause. I needed to see people living their lives with the illness and begin steps towards becoming an advocate. Currently, I’m completing my internship with the agency and becoming educated on the many services
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Unleash your Entrepreneur Spirit Angela Marshall Sources: BlackandMarriedWithKids.com and Essence at photos.essences.com.
It’s a sunny day outside and the glare of the sun on my windshield is blinding. As I pulled down the sun visor I thought to myself, these things aren’t long enough; wouldn’t it be nice if they were just a little longer to actually block the sun? As I continue to fight the rays of the sun, putting my hand in just the right place to block the glare yet see the traffic, I continued to complain about how the sun visor is misleading because it does nothing to block the sun. An attachment to this device would be great, something like a visor shade – great idea right. I chuckled out loud and kept it moving. Low and behold I was flipping channels on TV late one night, couldn’t sleep, and there it was, Easy View HD an easy pull down sunshade attachment for your sun visor. The product seemed to be one of those simple no-brainer inventions that so many of us talk about but then dismiss. It’s an invention that could easily turn out to be a million-dollar concept that will cause many of us to say, why didn’t I think of that. So what I complained about and laughed off, someone else unleashed their entrepreneur spirit and developed a solution to an everyday problem faced by most drivers. Sold at a reasonable price to millions of households with two or more vehicles, well you do the math. Just the thought of such a simple invention addressing the needs of so many drivers set my mind to wonder. Who does that; what kind of person takes a simple idea and turn into a successful product? Of course, my being all knowing, NOT, I answered my own question with it must take lots of money to do something like that, even on a small scale. I ended this self-to-self conversation with the decision that entrepreneurs must be gifted people not everybody can be an entrepreneur. Once again I a shrugged it off and kept moving. Then I saw an interview on CNBC with Sara Blakely, founder of SPANX. At 29 Blakely committed her life savings of $5,000 to create something suitable to wear under her white slacks. In less than a year this one-time Disney World ride greeter and seven-year door-to-door fax machine salesperson found her line of shaping underwear. Blakely who admits to having no retail or business background has taken SPANX from a product sold out of her Atlanta apartment to a household name sporting $250 million in annual revenues and net profit margins estimated at 20%. By now I’m starting to think that becoming an entrepreneur may not be so difficult. But what or who is it exactly – Entrepreneur. According to Merriam Webster an entrepreneur is a person who starts a business and is willing to risk loss in order to make money. Risk loss, this is where most of us lock up our ideas, label them as pipedreams, fantasies, or foolishness, and walk away. Then we begin to convenience ourselves of all the reasons why loss is not an option, especially the loss of money. Yet, so many of us often daydream of ways to make money, if I only could or if only I had… then I would be able to… Perhaps your reasoning starts with I’m just a… I don’t have the means or know how to do something great. Sound familiar? Being the researcher that I am, I took to the Internet to find out if there were any entrepreneurs I could identify with, those that were in my shoes – just an everyday person working hard trying to make a better life for my family.
Here’s what I found. J.K. Rowling a destitute single mother on welfare who, with the Harry Potter series became a best-selling billionaire. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone and the six subsequent books have sold 500 million copies worldwide. A film franchise and theme parks have made J.K. Rowling far more than just an author by anyone's measure. All it took was her imagination, pen and paper to unleash her entrepreneur spirit and set her on a path of unimaginable financial success. Lisa Price started making hair products in her Brooklyn kitchen with just $100. She sold her blends at church flea markets and street fairs. Today, Carol’s Daughter is a multimillion-dollar line of must-have beauty treats.
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Cathy Hughes, a teenage mother to media power player, Hughes is the founder of Radio One, which includes 53 radio stations in the U.S., and TVOne, a cable network. At one point during the early stages of her career, she lost her home and was forced to live with relatives as she rebuilt her company into what is now one of the biggest media companies in the world.
Kimberly Dillon’s desire to changed the way we use technology led her to create House of Mikko, a website that helps women choose their makeup and hair products based on their features.
My search led me to a host of ordinary men and women who unleashed their entrepreneur spirit and became great success stories. The most inspirational story I found was about Jaylen Bledsoe, a 15 year old who, at the age of 12, launched Bledsoe Technologies, now worth approximately $3.5 million (http://bledsoetechnologies.com). Since its start, Bledsoe Technologies has become the number one information technology consultancy firm operated by a minor in the Mid-West. Bledsoe started with two employees and now has almost 150 contract employees around the world. In addition to e-commerce solutions, Bledsoe Technologies also provides online marketing campaigns, corporate branding, and technology consulting to small and mid-size businesses. Jaylen is currently moving his company forward with the development of cell phone check-in at hotels which would also allow customers to use their phone as a room key. Jaylen’s best advice “keep going, move forward and always take risks.”So the next time our bright idea light bulb goes off, don’t ignore it – investigate. The next time you say to yourself I wish someone would make… investigate, because that someone could be you. Don’t be afraid of failure because failure is another step toward greatness. Denis Waitley said it best, “Failure should be our teacher, not our undertaker. Failure is delay, not defeat. It is a temporary detour, not a dead end. Failure is something we can avoid only by saying nothing, doing nothing, and being nothing.
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What Investors
Want to Hear
needs. What main point are you addressing and what’s your proposed solution? Once you’ve done your competitive analysis and built your value proposition, you’re ready to make the case for what makes you different, weaving your unique selling points throughout your entire pitch. Make sure to consider the following when crafting your response: Offering. Specifically, what product or service are you providing that nobody else does? Even if there are many competitors with a similar offering, how can you distinguish yours? Is it a difference of perspective? Cost? Ease of use? Target the little (or big) things that prove the uniqueness of your offering. There needs to be a hook somewhere; find it and use it. Approach. What makes your business model or marketing strategy stand out? Detail your market penetration potential, including potential sales and distribution channels. You want to show that you have a plan for making money, a plan that is adapted for your particular company — a plan that will work (even where others may have failed).
Venture capitalists (VCs) make you work hard for their money by inundating you with question after question about your fundraising process, your company goals, your founding team, among other things. Many of these questions will seem reasonable. Some will seem ridiculous. But no matter the question, you must have an answer. And your answers better be good. Behind all of this interrogation, there is one key underlying question: what makes you different?Regardless of the variation on the theme, your potential VC is really asking why your business — as compared to others vying for their money — is worth their investment. If you’re ready to join the ranks of funded entrepreneurs, you need to be prepared to answer this key question. How? BEGIN WITH A THOROUGH COMPETITIVE ANALYSIS You need to be able to paint the big picture in broad strokes, providing a comprehensive overview of the competitive market, including potential risks, success factors, and barriers to entry. BUILD YOUR VALUE PROPOSITION What is your unique value proposition — and how can you prove it? Identify your customers (or potential customers) and their
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Technology. If it’s your state-of-the-art technology that makes you different, push this point. Be prepared to show off the technology that is the engine powering your business. Note that if it’s your technology that makes you stand out, you also need to be prepared to discuss future tech developments to show your competitive advantage won’t be lost somewhere down the road, post investment. Team. Sometimes it’s the people at a startup who make it stand. If this is your company strength, sell it. Who are your key players? What were their previous successes? As any successful serial entrepreneur can tell you, an all-star team (or even a team with one lone shining star) can be a powerfully effective selling point. It really all boils down to what makes you special. VCs meet so many entrepreneurs; they are the audience for an endless litany of pitches. Unfortunately, this means VCs are often bored and somewhat jaded. They are looking for a spark, for the magic. And they won’t dig to find it. That’s not their job. It’s your responsibility to bring to the forefront what makes you stand out. Ultimately, you want to thoroughly convince the VC, that, if they take the leap of faith to invest in you, you are going to execute on your vision in a way that you—and only you—are in the unique position to execute on. "What Investors Want to Hear" http://urbanyp.com Web. Oct. 13, 2013.
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You Can’t Judge
A Book By Its Cover By Evelyne Del Billingslea
I
f there were ever a cliché that fit perfectly for one woman, it would be the saying “You can’t judge a book by its cover”. Diane Taylor is multi-dimensional, energetic, and full of surprises. She is every bit the modern day woman, yet very traditional in terms of family. The Utica NY native and mother of two is taking her experiences as a wife, business owner, and domestic violence survivor and pouring her energy into her newest business venture, Taylor Made Publishing Company. Taylor talks with Substantial Magazine about her motivation for starting Taylor Made, and how she juggles managing the constant growth of the company. Evelyne: Who is Diane Taylor? Diane: I’m a wife, a mother and an entrepreneur. I’m a Christian, a go-getter and authentic. Evelyne: What is your take on success? Diane: I believe success is relative, in the eye of the beholder if you will. I measure my success daily because it’s setting a goal and reaching it and setting another one, it’s being able to re-invent yourself. It’s living your life like its golden. It’s playing the best hand possible with the cards you were dealt, with the understanding that you have the power to throw it in and get all new cards. Evelyne: Tell us about Taylor Made Publishing? Diane: TMP is a full service book publishing company that specializes in helping steer authors from manuscript to print. We offer everything from cover design, to copyright to ISBNs. Our job is to help everyday people tell extraordinary stories. Evelyne: What was your motivation for starting this business? Diane: I co-authored A Game of Faith – The Story of Negro League Baseball Player Carl Long and decided to self-publish. The task was daunting and tedious, but necessary. It wasn’t until I was faced with it that I realized that God had prepared me with a unique set of skills that I could use to help other authors have a voice. I truly believe that every person has a story that deserves to be told. We have so many talented writers in our community with few outlets willing to gamble on their success. Evelyne: Who motivates you in your business and professional life? Diane: Of course, I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me. However, God also sent me a helpmate that has been my cheerleader here on earth since we met. My husband has always encouraged me to dream, live, plan and create and he’s always been right there to make sure I don’t fall. I might stumble, but he won’t let me fall and that’s priceless. Professionally, I am motivated by my authors, my family and my friends. I want my authors to reach their goals. I want my family to be healthy and happy and I want my friends to know they are loved and appreciated. Evelyne: What has been the toughest challenge so far in your business? Diane: I’ve had the pleasure of watching my husband run a successful business of his own for over 15 years. It afforded me an opportunity to learn a lot from the sidelines. One of the things I knew for sure going in is that I did not want to start my business in debt. I didn’t want to use business loans. That meant using my own savings for start-up.
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Name: Diane N. Taylor Age: 38 Education: MA, Technical Professional Communications ECU 2006, BS Broadcast Journalism, Morgan State University 98’ Hometown: Utica, NY Marital Status: Happily Married to Garrett T. Taylor
photo provided by: Shelby Bazemore
I’m glad I’ve been able to do that, but initial capital has been my toughest challenge. Evelyne: Are there any current projects you are working on that you would like to share with our readers? Diane: In addition to the four books we have already published we have three others that will be out before the end of April. I am proud of all of our books and our authors, but I am really excited about our first children’s book In My Eyes, by Monique Curry. As a mother of two small children I just know the importance of positive age appropriate stories. Evelyne: Do you find it harder being a female minority business owner? How do you balance being a business owner, wife, and a parent? Diane: Truthfully, I don’t feel it harder to be a female minority business owner, but I do feel obligated to set a good example to all the Sistas watching and that keeps me on my toes. I am dedicated to helping people find their passion and living without fear. I am in such a great mental place with my business because I know it’s exactly where and what I am destined to do and I have found no greater joy than that. I really want that feeling for everyone.
I struggle with balance sometimes. Juggling a business, successful marriage and babies ain’t no joke. They key for me has been scheduling, tons of family and friend support and lots of prayer. Once I relinquished the all things have to be perfect mindset and decided to trust that the people around me will help me when I need and ask for it, I was good. At the end of the day I assess where I may have fallen short and if the good Lord sees fit, I vow to do and be better the next day. I really try to prioritize my faith, my marriage, my babies and then my business and in that order. Evelyne: If you could change one thing in this world what would it be? Diane: This is tough for me, because I truly believe that all things happen as they should. We live in an imperfect world with imperfect people and when things seem dark, I am comfortable knowing the Master’s plan is unfolding. My peace comes from knowing that I surrender my destiny to God. Evelyne: What do you do for fun? Diane: I absolutely, positively love to travel. I love to totally immerse myself in a different culture, learn how other people live and witness pieces of the world that God created.
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I also love being with my family, seeing my children run, jump, play and dance warms my heart. Evelyne: Name something you can't live without? Diane: The three Fs: Faith, Family and Friendships. Evelyne: What's something you live by? Diane: “Things may come to those who wait, but only the things left by those who hustle.” Abraham Lincoln. Evelyne: Briefly tell our readers why you are substantial? Diane: I am substantial because I refuse to just take up space in this world. I am dedicated to leaving an imprint. I am dedicated to improving the space around me. I am substantial because I believe that each us has the innate power to live, be and love. I am substantial because God says so. Evelyne: Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about Diane Taylor? Diane: I come from very humble beginnings. I grew up in a housing project in Upstate New York. I’ve lived through a physically abusive relationship, being raised by a single mother and the list goes on and on. Through all of that, I defied what some said I wouldn’t do or couldn’t do. I’ve had a lot of firsts in my life. I was the first Black Miss Greater Utica. I was the youngest and highest ranking African American in a County Executive position where I grew up. I’ve worked hard my entire life. While it’s true nothing worth having is free, it’s also true that this life has little to do with where you’re from and everything to do with where you intend to go. Evelyne: You can connect with Diane and Taylor Made Publishing on Social Media at: facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taylormadepublishing twitter - tmadepublishing web site – www.taylormadenc.com email: diane@taylormadenc.com Although still in its infancy stage, Taylor Made publishing has already made a huge splash into the pool of literary success. The company has provided a platform for talented authors, and a medium of inspiration for ocal residents in Eastern NC and beyond. Taylor and her team have enjoyed several successful book launches since its inception, and most recently began a book tour with the book ‘A Game of Faith- The Story of Negro League Baseball Player Carl Long’. While many women would balk at the idea of whole heartedly jumping into a new career path with two young children and a husband who is also an entrepreneur, Taylor embraces the challenge. She straps on her stilettos, powers up her laptop, and she sets the world on fire. There is no doubt that this woman is bound to make an international success out of Taylor Made Publishing.
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The Introduction of
Substantial Magazine is expanding and we are pleased to introduce to you Substantial U aka Substantial University. Substantial U is the newest element of the Substantial brand and will focus on motivated, and highly talented minority student leaders who are making a statement on their college and university campuses. From the presidents of campus organizations; to the successful, movers and shakers within the classroom. We've been building our team of students that have a passion for success and the ambition to get it done. We're allowing these minority student leaders the opportunity to tell their stories and the stories of their peers within their own mini-magazine series. We are super excited about this opportunity to bring you the stories of determined young men and women who have decided to put the "extra" in extraordinary. Visit www.substantialu.com and find out why they're "next to change the world". Connect with us on facebook, twitter and instagram to find out more about the Substantial U project. Facebook (SubstantialMagazine), Twitter (@substantialmag), and Instagram (substantialmag)
Visit http://substantialu.com/join-the-team/ to find out more
Greg Hedgepeth President and Editor-in-Chief of Substantial Magazine Founder of Substantial U
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Mr. Trey Wade Editor-in-Chief, Substantial U
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