RICHMOND
Sept./Oct. 2020 Vol. 2 Issue 7 FREE
Amanda The Literary Enthusiast
®
On November 3rd #huamimagazinevote
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The Lessons of Life Do Have A Purpose There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!
A Letter From The Editor
I am not a spring chicken, and what that clearly means is that I haveAbeen track a few times. That also indicates that Letteraround from thethe Editor I have seen a few things, some good and some bad. My decisions haven’t always been correct, and there have been moments of difficulty where my actionsdidn’t didn’tarrive? make All anyofsense me.hopes But What if tomorrow your to plans, through it all, there is one constant that has never changed; and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if the lessons that only lifeyou candecided provide.to put off until tomorrow never everything that happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy Though I have and bruised along the way, day, and you been couldbattered spare someone the trouble of making because I am still here, it proves that God has a purpose for my promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired adversity and a reason mydo? existence. Though it may be hard at today? What wouldfor you times, I have realized that my purpose is attached to those lessons. I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. There is comfort in taking thedoing easy road in life, easy way Honestly, I feel like I am not enough andbut I’mthe a firm out doesn’t growth. One ofwouldn’t the biggest believeroffer in knowing that God putmisconceptions anything on meis that that silence means handle. that everything is alright. That is not I couldn’t I sometimes wonder how life always would correct canand mask hurt,what disappointment, confusion, be ifbecause I chose silence to sit idle accept it presented to me. I and disconnection. because someone doesn’t voice their have found thatJust to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity feelings and opinions, it doesn’t mean they do notA have any to say. is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. challenge to me is an adventure. is opposite. the worst that happen? It could possibly indicate theWhat exact Theycan could have a If Icircus do nothing, I fail, if I try I don’t, instead learn it has whole going on theand inside and never but show it because something new aboutsilent myself. yourHowever, pride andGod in become easier to remain andRelinquish emotionless. return acquire life. desires for us to speak. Theholy best advice everbook givenoftoPsalms me happened someone In the bible, in the 34:1 NLT,when it says “I will told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak His praises.” have offers pressed my instructions way throughfrom doors with key that This Iverse clear God onawhat our only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between responsibilities are as Christians. We can’t stay silent when faced God blesses mespeak with out. and what can burden me with withwhat adversity; we must Evenlife during difficulties, there as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and is resolve and promise when we call on God. when to be quiet, because someone maythat getisit confused Living in a world withso being arrogant. filled with much chaos and misunderstanding, being silent only you tomorrow fuels theMake problem. When you have happen today, but most an opportunity to speak, you must importantly it count. do so with the lovemake of God in your Life is but a whisper and heart, and on your lips. Though your we seem must put ourselves in a the pain may endless, love has position to hear what it is ability to fix a lifetime of brokenness. telling us.
www.huamimagazine.com Terry L Watson Publisher www.huamimagazine.com Editor In Chief Writer Dawn C. Thornton Terry L. Watson Terry L. Watson Writer
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A Group For Followers and mykelmedia@yahoo.com Supporters Huami Magazine (336) of 340-7844 HUAMI MAGAZINE is published bimonthly quarterly by the Mykel Media Company. Any reproduction of any portion of this publication is prohibited without written permission from the publisher prior to doing so. Mykel Media doesn’t accept responsibility for statements made by individuals featured or advertisers. Comments concerning this publication may be submitted to the editor by E-mail at terrywatson@huamimagazine.com Email or Telephone terry.editor@yahoo.com terry.editor@yahoo.com or to 336-340-7844 Mykel Media Company, LLC P.O. Box 20102 Greensboro, NC 27420 HUAMI MAGAZINE 2019 All Rights Reserved 2014 All Rights Reserved
Terry L. Watson
Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder
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On The Cover
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HuamiMagazine.com Richmond - September/October 2020
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November/December 2014
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CONTENTS
SEPT./OCT. 2020
RICHMOND
Aleta Danielle Realty
Aleta Danielle
On The Cover
The Literary Enthusiast Amanda Eaddy McKeithan
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Get Fit Atlanta
DeAndre Cannon
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Verve Fitness
Monique Walker
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Huami Magazine Cutest Baby
Aubrie Tate
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Also Featured
Rodney Blackstock From humble beginnings, this young business man is doing great things. Atlanta, GA
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Danielle Bertrand Ladies, what are you waiting on? Meet the face and founder of Girl, It’s Go Time! Dallas/Fort Worth
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Jemmalyn Hewlett She has built a legacy of businesses for herself, and for her family. Meet the founder of We Care. Hampton Roads, VA
Richmond - September/October 2020
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Amanda
By Terry L. Watson Photos by Virgil Odell Writing to Amanda Eaddy McKeithan is second nature. She compares it to the blood that flows through her veins. It gives her life. The wife and mother of two describes herself as someone who is free-spirited, optimistic, and risk-taking storyteller. Originally from Richmond, VA, she is an educator at heart and has been on a lifelong quest to creatively change the world, in many ways. She is a writer, editor, and author with eight books under her belt. “Whenever I edit, proofread, or ghostwrite for a client, I am using my creative gifts with the goal of making the world a better place, one word at a time. Words are super important to me. I believe that we can either heal or kill with our words. As a ‘wordsmith’, I strive to encourage, inspire, and put some fire under people to go after the life that they deserve,” she says. Amanda is also a business owner and the face of The Literary Enthusiast Creative Firm. “Originally, the name was A Creative Solution. I started it in 2015 and changed it to The Literary Enthusiast Creative Firm in 2019. I published my first book in 2010 and found that I loved helping others creatively share their stories as well. The more I was asked to write for someone, the more I realized that I had a business in me,” she shares. The Literary Enthusiast Creative Firm offers editing, proofreading, ghostwriting, and creative assisting services for authors and busy professionals. If it needs to be written, it can be done by them. Whether it be manuscripts to creating slogans, to contracts, Amanda can do it all. She also provides tutoring services (on site and virtual) for elementary and secondary students. She has also incorporated another component into her business, StoryTime with Amanda that is geared for young authors who need reviews and exposure for their new titles. Amanda has a genuine love for writing and helping others. With writing, she shares how she enjoys seeing someone’s story or idea come to life through her storytelling abilities. “Storytelling is my superpower. Ghostwriting is everything. It is a lot of work, but when I can get to the end of a project, and my clients are pleased, it’s so fulfilling. Every time I get positive feedback, it encourages me to keep walking towards my purpose. There is nothing greater than knowing why you were created.”
“Whenever I edit, proofread, or ghostwrite for a client, I am using my creative gifts with the goal of making the world a better place, one word at a time. Words are super important to me. I believe that we can either heal or kill with our words.”
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Amanda graciously shares who gave her the opportunity to walk in her purpose. “God, of course. I am thankful for this gift that I have been given. God has been the best brainstormer and vision giver. Every life experience I’ve had, I can write about. They’ve impacted me personally and professionally. Each experience has made me a better storyteller and provoked the release of my creativity,” she says. As a author and businesswoman, Amanda has faced her share of challenges. With most writes, there is a constant battle of “writers block”. And for Amanda, it hits her from time to time. “I struggle with procrastination. Though I have great vision, sometimes, I have poor follow through, mainly because I am a low-key perfectionist who desires to make everyone happy. That approach has proven to be sort of a downfall. “I struggle with rejection, and as a result it keeps me from taking even bigger risks and reaching for higher opportunities for my writing career and business,” she says. Though Amanda’s journey has faced its share of pitfalls and stumbling blocks, she remains optimistic and always seeks to encourage others. Her advice to aspiring writers and authors and writers is authentic and very clear. “Go for it. You must stop over thinking and write that book because your story matters. Someone is waiting on your truth and your transparency will save their life. Your story will offer them hope and encouragement; two vitally important tools that will show them to press through the hard stuff. Life will continuously present tough and rigorous challenges. Through my story and determination to succeed, I hope to show someone that no matter how traumatic things may get, you must not quit. Lastly, set an intention and stick with it. You must rid yourself of distractions and not be affected by the opinions of others. The vision is yours, and they might not be able to see it, and that is okay. Do it anyway,” she says.
Amanda Eaddy McKeithan 804-585-4536 www.amandaeaddy.com 8
Moving forward, Amanda plans for The Literary Enthusiast Creative Firm to launch a creative arts preschool. She will also launch Just Amanda Productions and StoryTelling in RVA Films. At the end of the day, Amanda wants to create “dope stories” that change the way people do life. She says, “In the end, nothing I desire to hear more than for God to say, ““I knew you were the baddest storyteller in the land. You survived all that earthly mess, with a pen in your hand”. h
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By Laci Ollison Photos by Monique Walker In a world that has become consumed with outer beauty and appearances, 41-yearold Monique Walker has made it her life’s mission to help people feel more beautiful in a meaningful and transformative way. A native of California, Monique relocated to Memphis in 2009 where she opened her own salon called Mood Styling Studio. Monique soon secured a position as the hair stylist for the Grizz Girls, the professional dance team of the NBA Memphis Grizzlies. Although Monique built a successful career as a beauty business owner, she maintained a desire to help people in a more fulfilling way. In fact, she struggled with being a hairdresser. “It was one of those things that came about not something I aspired to become,” said Monique. “I feel there is a difference in the two. I am grateful that God gifted me with the ability to be successful in that industry and that I had an awesome career for twenty years.” Monique then sought to turn her passion for dance into a career as an Aerobic and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) certified Group Fitness Instructor. The decision to focus on health and wellness was exactly the desire she was searching to fulfill. Thus, Verve Fitness was born. Monique said the decision to leave her position as the hairstylist for an NBA dance team wasn’t an easy one. “I built a relationship with that part of the franchise,” said Monique. “However, there were changes being made and it seemed like a good time to exit when I did. I was blessed to be with them for eleven seasons and was lucky to score an opportunity to host a two-day bootcamp with them in my transition period into fitness.” Thus her transition into the fitness industry began. “I don’t recall an exact moment when I knew fitness was my jam,” Monique said. “I think as I became more proficient in body movement, seeing results in people mentally and physically and doing self-study, is how I came to know this is what I was meant to do.” Monique’s journey in wellness deepened when she began practicing yoga in 2015. She has since earned her 200hour Registered Yoga Teacher certification with the accredited Yoga Alliance.
But Monique’s journey hasn’t always been easy. “Certainly, there are always a million challenges and hurdles when launching a business, Monique said. “The big one for me, however, is dealing with imposter syndrome.” Monique recalls growing up as a heavy child, and an even heavier young adult. She didn’t begin to lose weight and seek wellness until her thirties after she had her daughter. “Always feeling like I don’t fit the mold for a health coach, fitness instructor, or yoga teacher is very real for me. I deal with the same body struggles as my clients, so I know how they feel when battling weight loss and physical limitations.” Monique believes that we are all fed the same imagery and narrative for what it means to be “beautiful” or be “fit.” “So what happens when you aren’t ‘those’ things?” Monique said. “Not being those things create barriers of fear and self-doubt which has the bigger ability to keep you from achieving your goals. This is the thing I work at daily.” Monique said that her biggest motivation is knowing that people are counting on her. “If I don’t show up for a class or a coaching session then I have potentially prohibited someone from getting their dose of physical activity. I know from my personal struggle with weight and body image that accountability and consistency are huge,” said Monique. “If I don’t show up for a coaching session, change class times or cancel classes, I recognize how that can impact someone who is trying to steady the course with this fitness thing. The average person is just trying to fit it all in and having a coach/instructor who is consistent helps them to do that.”
“Always feeling like I don’t fit the mold for a health coach, fitness instructor, or yoga teacher is very real for me. I deal with the same body struggles as my clients, so I know how they feel when battling weight loss and physical limitations.”
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The most memorable part of Monique’s entrepreneurship has been gaining the knowledge of business. “It is so humbling when you have to be multifaceted in one business, “Monique said.” As the owner you wear all the hats! It will make you appreciate other businesses because you know what it takes to make all the things happen.” Monique also said that she is inspired by the resilience and boldness of people who get things done. “I love that we are so hungry and determined to make this life worth something that we won’t stand for anything less,” Monique said. This is the era where we gain our equality, redefine body image and beauty, love who you want and speak loudly about what you are! It is riveting to watch, listen, learn and be a part of such a bold era of people. Snaps to us all!” h
916-848-9625 https://virtual.gleantap.com/thevervefitness/ IG: @themoniquewalker @thevervefitness
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The Face of WeCare 14
By Laci Ollison Photos by Gwendolyn Wilson Photography
Many people dream of starting one business and becoming a successful entrepreneur. But for Jemmalyn Hewlett, she sought to establish multiple businesses and create generational wealth that would be passed down to her children and generations to come. Jemmalyn is the owner of We Care enterprises: the umbrella company for seven different businesses ranging from a juice bar, café, behavioral health services, and a salon and spa. Her business We Care Community Services offers a group home for individuals with developmental disabilities and has corporate offices in Richmond and Virginia Beach. At her salon and spa location, individuals with disabilities have a special day on Monday where they can receive services. We Care Training provides medication, cpr, and other continuing education courses for employees of her community service businesses as well as other behavioral healthcare providers. Recently, Jemmalyn opened We Care Salon Café next to her salon and spa. “Every time I came in the salon, I saw people eating,” she said. “So I decided to open up a café. We also offer free delivery to other salons and barbershops within a four mile radius. We have a full bar, breakfast all day, and a hot bar.” But Jemmalyn doesn’t run these businesses on her own. She has created opportunities for her son, Trayvian Lewis, and her daughter, Ashley Lewis, to manage and own businesses as well. “I’m very big on generational wealth. It is very important for me to have my kids working with me and for them to know how the businesses are ran. If something were to happen to me I know that they can take it to the next level.” Continued on the next page
“I’m very big on generational wealth. It is very important for me to have my kids working with me and for them to know how the businesses are ran. If something were to happen to me I know that they can take it to the next level.” Jemmalyn Hewlett 15 15
wecarejuicebar1@gmail.com 757-937-9898
www.poolsidecooking.com 844-652-9120
Jemmalyn said that it was important to instill entrepreneurship into her children. “I tell them all the time that they don’t have to work for someone else,” she said. “You can determine your own pay and you don’t have to ask someone else for a raise. When you work for someone else you have to wait for them to determine that you get a small increase. But when you’re working for yourself, you determine whether you make money or not.” Now, her daughter is opening up a second location of their We Care Community Services business, which will also provide support for individuals with developmental disabilities. Although Jemmalyn is now a successful serial entrepreneur, she hasn’t always been a business owner. “In 2011 I was working at a medical school as a coder biller making $24,000,” the mogul said. “I was tired of being broke. So, from there I looked into opening up a medical transportation business.” Jemmalyn said that she used an income tax refund check of $4,200 to purchase her first vehicle that she used to catapult her business. “All of my businesses were built from reinvesting into myself,” said Jemmalyn. “I remember telling a friend of mine that when I started the business that I didn’t have the knowledge, money, or experience. The first thing she asked me was how I was going to open a business. I took the chance and now I own seven businesses.” The business owner said that although she doesn’t have experience in the fields that her businesses are in, it has been her ability to multitask and hand off tasks that has helped in making her businesses successful.
www.wecaretrainingservices.com 844-652-9120
www.wecaresaloncafe.net 757-937-1292
4676 Princess Anne Road - Suite 120 Virginia Beach, VA 23462 757-226-9810 16
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“The key is to know how to multitask and put people in place,” Jemmalyn said. “I’m able to do what I do because I’m not in the field. I opened a café, but I don’t cook. I have a training center but I’m not an instructor. I’m able to put people in place who love what they do. I just so happened to open up business that aren’t in my field.”
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“Anyone can open a business but when you can still be in business, that’s when you’ve made it. Often times people stop because they feel like they’ve failed. They’re afraid of failure, but you are going to fail. All of those things will just be a learning lesson.” Jemmalyn Hewlett
Jemmalyn says that it isn’t about having a certain degree or even skill set to start and maintain a business. “You don’t have to have the degree or the experience or gift to start a business. It’s really determination that you need. Anyone can work hard, but when you work hard for a purpose, that’s when you see results.” For Jemmalyn, the thing she is most proud of is the fact that she has been able to keep the doors of all her businesses open. “The face that I’m still in business is what I’m most proud of,” Jemmalyn said. “Anyone can open a business but when you can still be in business, that’s when you’ve made it. Often times people stop because they feel like they’ve failed. They’re afraid of failure, but you are going to fail. All of those things will just be a learning lesson.” But Jemmalyn said that it was her struggles that made her to be the business owner she is today. “I would’ve never gotten to the point where I was running seven businesses if I didn’t go through some things,” she said. “Your negative is your positive and your bad days are your good days. You can’t allow your bad days to affect what you’re doing.” For We Care Enterprises, Jemmalyn said that in the next five years she hopes to go wherever God leads her. “I’m big on growing the business,” she said. “I’m staying on top of my kids and making sure we enjoy what we have. Because when you open a business, your goals don’t stop. Your goals are actually just now starting.” Jemmalyn has also launched a cooking show called “Poolside Cooking.” The show will feature area chefs cooking by an outdoor pool. The show currently airs locally but will soon be viewed nationwide through the Roku app. h
Jemmalyn’s chidren, Ashley Lewis and Trayvian Lewis are the joining forces that help to solidy the WeCare family of brands.
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A Better You 20
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By Terry L. Watson Photos by DeAndre Cannon It’s time to get into shape Atlanta. DeAndre Cannon is an ISSA Certified Personal Trainer and owner of Better You ATL, located in Atlanta, GA. Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, DeAndre holds a Bachelors Degree in Exercise Science from the University of Nebraska, and a Masters degree in Nutrition. Additionally, he is a Men’s IPE Physique Pro + NPC National Qualifier and competes often in bodybuilding competitions. For almost a decade, DeAndre has worked with a multitude of clients including beginners, athletes, and professional bodybuilders. “Working with and utilizing my skill sets as your personal trainer and nutrition coach will guarantee you transforming results. As the owner of A Better You ATL Fitness, my goal is to help my clients feel their very best, without regard to their fitness level,” he says. DeAndre shares that for years, the fitness industry has relied on ineffective workouts, unrealistic diets, and do-nothing supplements as quick and temporary solutions. Yet, he offers a different approach. With his education and experience, DeAndre employs a signature training methodology that includes customized workouts and nutrition plans backed by science, as well as trial and error. DeAndre launched his business 10 years ago. “In college, I trained people in the gyms of apartments, and in parks to save money to open my own gym,” he says. He opened his first gym in Omaha in 2013 and kept the citizens of Omaha fit for five years before moving to Atlanta. Since doing so, he has incorporated a mobile app into his program to better meet the needs of his clients. “With my app, I have gained a broader reach over my current and future clients with my personalized online program,” he says. DeAndre offers various products and services, mainly because of the diversity that his clientele represents. These include a Personalized Online training program, and habit forming, weekly workouts designed specifically for each individual client that can be purchased separately or together with his personalized meal plans. He also offers Personalized Meal Plans that are specifically for each individual client and can be purchased separately or together with personalized workouts. DeAndre also has training guides designed to address general fitness goals and levels. These guides can assist clients who aren’t ready for personalized training but still want to focus on the importance of having sound fitness and eating habits to optimize their body goals. DeAndre is naturally driven and he shares his compassion and love with his clients in the form of change. “I love helping my clients go from where they are today, to achieving their body goals, and gain confidence while growing physically and mentally,” he says. He is also inspired by the achievements and accomplishments of his clients. He offers some advice to those who may follow in his footsteps. “Stay away from fads and gimmicks. Be yourself and focus on helping your clients achieve their goals,” he says. h
DeAndre Cannon www.ABetterYouAtl.com 21
A Love For Real Estate 22
HuamiMagazine.com Richmond - September/October 2020
By Dawn Cauthen Thornton Photos by B Smith Photography
Aleta Danielle has always been interested in helping people. Encouraging others through tough decisions and supporting them in achieving their dreams is constantly on Danielle’s heart. “I’ve had the opportunity to gain knowledge, skills and experience, from various positions which have assisted in my development as a Realtor,” says Danielle. She worked in Corporate America for over 20 years in various roles and gained the experience from each of those positions and applied them in serving her clients. When she assisted customers in the past, she wasn’t sure what the end goal would be. She was only a small part of the process and oftentimes left unfulfilled. Choosing real estate has been one of the best decisions she’s made. In upstate South Carolina the housing market is red hot. The area has been booming within the last few years and Danielle is taking advantage of the opportunities. “With real estate, I’m involved beginning to end. That fulfillment is there because I’ve helped them attain a home,” Danielle explains. In the Greenville/Spartanburg area, several Fortune 500 companies have relocated there due to the growth which has allowed homebuilders to increase their construction exponentially. With these large companies hiring, college students who have traveled here to attend one of the many colleges, stay and vie for those jobs upon graduation. Those same new grads will soon be in the market to purchase a new home and Danielle is ready to serve them.
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“I’ve had the opportunity to gain knowledge, skills and experience, from various positions which have assisted in my development as a Realtor.” 23
The state of South Carolina also boasts 12 beaches. With this new pandemic that has confined families to their homes while working and schooling, living in a vacation home with warm sand at your feet has become a desire. “As a Realtor, there are so many avenues to this position that I want to be able to accentuate about myself and the services I offer.” Though it’s an interesting time, business is still flourishing. It’s certainly a seller’s market, as Agents have seen multiple offers on the same home and even homes selling within hours of going live. Neighborhoods are being built on every livable space one can think of which means the population is also increasing in record numbers. When Danielle isn’t making dreams come true, she works from home as an Account Manager for UPS. The University of South Carolina Alum has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a focus on Management and is taking steps to grow her brand using what she learned in college. The ability to work from home as well as set her own hours is quite beneficial to this mother of two.
Aleta Danielle Realtor
“My three year old daughter can feel that I’m home more now. She and my 14 year old son love that we get to spend so much time together,” says Danielle. Since venturing into a new arena she has learned that knowing how to manage yourself, having a solid plan, and pursuing your interests are the first things to consider. Most importantly, having strong faith has gotten her further than she could’ve ever imagined. “Live your dreams, is my motto, because it’s never too late to do that. But use wisdom when making decisions. Be ready to think out of the box and then get out there and make things happen.” A quote that Danielle admires is “Just as the Caterpillar thought the world was ending, she became a Butterfly.” -Barbara Haines h
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Rodney Blackstock 26
HuamiMagazine.com Richmond - September/October 2020
By Terry L. Watson Photos by Rodney Blackstock If you are living in the Atlanta Metro area, and in need of insurance, there is coverage available for you. Rodney Blackstock is the owner of Blackstock Insurance Agency located 2951 Piedmont Road in Atlanta, GA. Originally from Greensboro, North Carolina, Rodney has lived in several different places throughout his life. That experience he says has given him a better perspective on the world, and an innate ability to connect with people of all different backgrounds. “I’m a kid who grew up in a foster home. I bounced around and lived with different people growing up. I lost my mom at the age of 12, after only seeing her three times. To say my childhood was rocky, is an understatement. Losing my mom gave me so much drive. I wanted to be successful and establish myself, and my family where she wasn’t able to. And what better tool to use, basketball. Basketball was my saving grace. Because of it, I was able to play sports collegiately and professionally. When I was finished, I pivoted into entrepreneurship. I did all this without having the stability of a two-parent household. I had to create the change I wanted to be. I had to work for everything I have, and because of that, I don’t like excuses,” he shares. Basketball is his first love. First as a player, and then as a sports agent, basketball took Rodney around the globe and exposed him to different people and various life experiences. After six years in the game, Rodney decided to pivot to a career where I could have an even greater impact on his people. That was insurance. Rodney is a brother, friend, son, athlete, speaker, agent, and connector. As a Principal within the AAA network, he’s able to provide a number of products that can be tailored to fit the needs of any individual or family. These include auto insurance, home/condo insurance, renter’s insurance, and perhaps the most important one of them all, life insurance. They also provide umbrella liability coverage and RV, motorcycle, and boat insurance.
“Basketball was my saving grace. Because of it, I was able to play sports collegiately and professionally. When I was finished, I pivoted into entrepreneurship. I did all this without having the stability of a twoparent household. I had to create the change I wanted to be.”
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Blackstock Insurance Agency opened in August 2020. Though the location of Rodney’s business is fairly new, he has been in the insurance industry for four years. “I began with the State Farm Agency to perfect my craft. I learned everything there is to know about the industry and obtained both my property and casualty, and my life and health licenses. It was a years’ long grind, which, at times, was quite humbling. Yet, it was a strategic move and I realized I needed that step to get started and help me to arrive at where I am today,” he shares. Rodney has a genuine care and love for people and for helping others. He shares why he decided to open an insurance agency in the first place. “It was to help people build and maintain the lifestyle they desired. When I discovered that I could make money by helping others, it was a no-brainer. I was also inspired by the idea that insurance is a recession proof business, and an essential product and service that people will always be in need of. However, the most important reason for me to start my agency was to create a stable business for my family and establish something that could be around for generations to come,” he says. Rodney also uses his platform to educate others about the importance of being insured. “Miseducation can be a huge challenge for me as an agent. Some people don’t understand the value that insurance brings to their lives. As a black man, I’ve seen first-hand how many of our people in particular, have been taught to believe that insurance is a waste of money, or that it’s not necessary. In actuality, wealthy people view insurance as a risk management tool to make sure they maintain their wealth. My job is to educate as many people as possible while I bring them along on this journey toward peace of mind and wealth generation,” he says. Educating people about the importance of being insured is one of the top priorities for Rodney. In the future he plans to get the Blackstock Insurance Agency name out there and reach people, save people money, and help to protect families.
Blackstock Insurance Agency 2591 Piedmont Road NE Suite 1120 Atlanta, GA 30324 404-835-0131 www.aaasouth.com 28
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His advice to others who may follow in his footsteps is to hustle. “With respect to my career success, hustle has been the number one differentiator. Lots of people are talented, but few are driven enough to show up early and leave late. Few are willing to come in on Saturdays or Sundays to perfect their craft. The hustler mentality helped me in basketball and in business. No one will out-work me. I’d tell anyone who wants to follow in my footsteps to trust the process and to put the work in,” he says. h
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Danielle Bertrand Girl, It’s Go Time
By Terry L. Watson Photos by Crowned Photography, LeAnn Nicole Danielle Bertrand is a native of Baton Rouge, LA, but now resides with her husband, Lance in Dallas, TX. “I am the daughter of the King of Kings. I know my purpose is to manifest Heaven on Earth,” she says. She is also the daughter of Kelvin and Sharon Duncan. Danielle graduated from Scotlandville Magnet High School in Baton Rouge and earned her B.A. in Business Management with a concentration in Small Business and Entrepreneurship from Southeastern Louisiana University. Additionally, she earned her Master’s in the Art of Teaching from Grand Canyon University and is a certified business educator in the states of Louisiana and Texas. She has served as a high school teacher for seven years, teaching various business courses. Yet, Danielle’s most impressive feat is having authored and being the founder of “Girl, It’s Go Time”. The purpose of the book Danielle says is to empower women to get off the sideline and pursue their dreams boldly. The theme of the book is traveling from your current routine to the life you were designed to live. The business component for “Girl, It’s Go Time” serves as a platform that she uses to coach and speak. “This originally was just the title of my first book, but has now turned into a national brand,” she says. Danielle shares that her writing journey began by journaling daily. “It was a release for me and a chance to get my thoughts down on paper. When the idea of writing a book came about, I rejected it. That is not what I wanted to do. However, the Holy Spirit continued to say that was my next assignment. I would start writing and then stop. This happened multiple times. One day, I asked God what my next assignment was? He said, “Finish the book”. At that point I knew what I had to do and got serious about completing the book. In July of 2019, it was published and available for purchase,” she says. “Girl, It’s Go Time” is available in autographed paperback and digital download. The book also includes a 21 Day Devotional. Danielle also serves as a start-up business coach for female entrepreneurs. While doing so she has merged her degree in business, her Master’s in teaching, and her relationship with God to give her clients a unique growth experience in their businesses. She shares, “I help my clients eliminate fear and create a strategy for success to win in the marketplace. Female entrepreneurs can connect with me through consultations, coaching sessions, and coaching packages and are invited to share more about their businesses and current struggles. I help them get clarity and provide guidance on what their next steps should be.” Continued on the next page Richmond - September/October 2020
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As a speaker, Danielle makes herself available for conferences, brunches, virtual webinars, and more. She speaks on the topics of purpose, not settling, empowerment, business start-ups, and self-confidence. Even more, she designs inspirational apparel including t-shirts, masks, and mugs that encourage others to take their lives to the next level. All her products and services are available on her website. Danielle has a genuine love for what she does. “I love helping female entrepreneurs win in the marketplace. Many women have amazing products and services, but they need a coach to help them position themselves for success. When the light goes off in my client’s head, I know that I am making a difference,” she says. As a child of God, and a believer in His mighty works, Danielle says it has been her relationship with God that has impacted her life the most. “I was introduced to Christ at an early age, and through the years, that relationship has grown stronger. My mom always was praying over me and my brother, and now my husband leads us in prayer daily. My pastors have always guided me into a deeper relationship with God and have taught me how to use my words to manifest my future,” she says. She finds inspiration in any woman who is living for Christ and making a positive impact on the marketplace. She describes these as women who have multiple businesses and acknowledge that it was God who got them to that place. Danielle offers some sound advice to others who may follow in her footsteps “Stay the course. Every day might not look like you are winning. Perhaps, you might just be in training. Above everything else, be sure that you are being led by the Holy Spirit. When you have multiple ideas at once, instead of letting them overwhelm you, write them down and focus on one at a time. Give each idea six months of dedication. Once that is rolling, move on to the next idea. Remember to invest in yourself, and not just your business. You can accomplish this by taking courses, reading books, and utilizing the services of a coach. And try to and attend events. By doing these things, your value will increase overall,” she says.
Danielle Bertrand www.girlitsgotime.com mrs.daniellebertrand@gmail.com Instagram: @girlitsgotime Facebook: @girlitsgotime 32
Moving forward, has plans to increase the amount of clients that she coaches on a monthly basis, and do more speaking engagements. She also plans to expand “Girl, It’s Go Time”to become a household name. There are also plans for her to host a two-day, power packed conference. “The most important plan I have is to live my life as an example of what it means to say ‘yes’ to God when He says, “Girl, It’s Go Time.” h
HuamiMagazine.com Richmond - September/October 2020
Aubrie Tate
MAGAZINE
Cutest Baby
The daughter of Aleta Danielle Tate
To submit photographs to be placed in the Huami Magazine Cutest Baby feature, please send a detailed email to huami.cutestbaby@gmail.com
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