The Black Family Magazine with Lisa Nichols - New Years Celebration 2023 Edition

ABOUT

The Black Family Magazine is the first publication of magazines in the field of personal and professional development, wealth building, African American empowerment, and challenging predefined narratives applied to the African American community.

VISION

Our new platform is dedicated to bringing solutions to families in the black community. The platform is designed to expand your awareness, uncover truth, redefine life, renew strength, and help you to build a new legacy of health and wealth for families with intentions of changing the narrative one family at a time.

MISSION

Our mission is to break generational cycles and healing from generational hurts, and building generational wealth through personal and professional development.

TABLE OF CONTENT

Dr. Monica D. Reed & Family

“LIVING THE LEGACY”

Dr. Monica D.

Reed M

onica D. Reed was born to impact the nation. She has been on a mission to change the world one woman at a time. In addition, Monica is an award-winning, 18x #1 International Best-Selling author, transformation speaker, relationship consultant, and serial business owner. Monica Reed is a mother of four beautiful and amazing children.

Many people may not know that she WON second place in 7th grade for reciting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's "I Have A Dream" speech. She did not win the award because of the words spoken. Dr. King accomplished that already. Her deep passion for "CHANGE" came from her heart that showed up through her tiny body (back

FOUNDER, VISIONARY & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

then) with a BIG IMPACT that later led to the middle school AWARD!

Monica lost her passion within that little girl behind life experiences, insecurities, childhood trauma, becoming a wife, a mother, and being anyone else for everyone else. However, her unique life experiences led her right back to her life's purpose.

women find their voices, and utilize their voices to reach back and pull another woman up.

In 2018, she won the Indie Author Legacy Award in the relationships category. She will forever take the stand for healthy families.

Monica Reed completed the Global Leadership Academy

been marked as the FIRST black-owned, full-service, entrepreneur business center in Bucks County, PA.

Monica started her journey as an entrepreneur by sharing her marital journey with the world by publishing her first book. Her story led to reconciliation and healing for many couples and women individually. Her fight will continue for change in families, marriages, and, most importantly, personal transformation. Her advocacy for change led to building healthy married couples and women empowerment communities.

In 2017, Monica launched her coaching then speaking career to serve those passionate about sharing their journey, helping more

under and was mentored by #1 Transformation Speaker Lisa Nichols and Profit Coach Susie Carter, speaking on the same platform alongside Dr. Cheryl Wood and the Legendary Motivational Speaker Mr. Les Brown.

Monica continues to make a significant mark of her legacy in changing the trajectory of families for generations to come through new business HER Creative Corner: The Entrepreneur Business Center. The multi-location business is the platform and opportunity for new, aspiring, and existing companies to take their businesses to the next level. Her business has

All of her endeavors support the overall good works of her non-profit organization, Love Mama Inspires Foundation. The foundation serves children and young adults who have lost their mothers due to unforeseen circumstances. The organization ensures to continue empowering, inspiring, and guiding the children with the love, support, and community they need to carry out their family legacy.

She is not only the founder of the FIRST Black Owned Entrepreneur Business Center in Bucks County, but in Pennsylvania, she is also the visionary behind the FIRST Black Family Breakthrough platform, The FIRST Black Family Magazine, the Executive Director of the Love Mama Inspires Foundation, and HER Impact & Success Leadership Academy.

Monica Reed was the FIRST in her family to receive an Outstanding Honorary Doctorate in Philosophy of Entrepreneurship and

NEWS FLASH. That girl is back! She is again fighting for CHANGE!

Business Administration along with the prestigious United Nations Global Woman of Distinction Award presented by the fully accredited Trinity International University of Ambassadors School of Business honors program.

Dr. Monica D. Reed is a solid voice to change the trajectory of adverse childhood experiences and a prime example of what happens when thought leaders raise awareness, create solutionbased environments, and face life with a choice point; community outcomes become an excellent example of positive post-traumatic growth.

Monica has led several socialimpact movements, such as Reneww Your Marriage, Reneww You, and the "I Am the VOICE of My Ancestors'” Movement, honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Her work has been featured on ABC, CBS, CNN, FOX, BlackNew, and a host of media outlets.

Dr. Monica D. Reed has committed to spending the rest of her life creating platforms and programs to help women-led social-

impact entrepreneurs, thought-leaders, and legacy leaders rise and to help to build stronger family foundations.

Her personal mission is to invite and usher millions of families into the healing journey, adapting a new family blueprint filled with love, unity and to create a family legacy for generations to come.

Her motto is:

One Woman Heals, One Family Is Being Healed.”

- Dr. Monica D. Reed

“When

A Global Cultural Mission

“An Invitation to Be H.E.A.L.E.D.”

Black Family Magazine: What was your initial thought , An Invitation to Be Healed?

Dr. Monica D. Reed: I wanted to create space for women to heal trauma and create a new blueprint for their lives.

Black Family Magazine: What is your vision behind “An Invitation to be healed” through The Black Family Magazine” ?

Dr. Monica D. Reed: A personal invitation for families to heal BE H.E.A.L.E.D. When we acknowledge that we all

have challenges individually we can begin to do the work personally that will allow us to live the life that was intended for us at our highest potential.

BE is to BE aware, BE present, BE acceptable, BE coachable, BE willing to …

Then to begin the healing work that will lead us to is to begin Honestly Eliminating All Learned or Lended Emotional Dysfunctions that are in the way of who we were truly created to BE. That is what the beginning of the “HEALING” process looks

like. However, we must first acknowledge and be aware of our challenges. The magazine is the platform that was created to drive awareness to our culture and deliver the resources while on a healing journey.

Black Family Magazine: What Happened to YOU that led you to have such a passion to help women and to usher families into the healing journey on a larger scale?

Dr. Monica D. Reed: Glad that I finally got the opportunity to answer. Once I had the courage to peel back the

layers of my own story, I knew I had to share it, to give voice to generations of women who have long been silenced. I was raised in New Jersey, in a family who valued money, education and outward appearances over everything. Behind the facade was a home life filled with conflict, indifference and abuse.

Growing up, I was not allowed to talk about the traumas I experienced. Any attempt to challenge that facade was dismissed. Throughout my childhood, I watched the women in my family suffer profound wounds and move on, as if nothing ever happened. So I learned, by their example, to forgo any hope of childhood wounds, the challenges that began to unfold were inevitable.

On my 29th birthday, I suffered a panic attack and what some would call a nervous breakdown, that lasted for one year. This breakdown was actually an invitation to heal. The doctor prescribed medication that only made me feel worse. So my husband took the kids to a family member and whisked me away to a beach in Florida, to rest. In the seclusion and silence I

immersed herself in music and journaling. All of the issues that I was not allowed to address as a child came to the surface. I knew I needed help, support and solutions. The physical distance from my toxic family relations felt good. So I returned to New Jersey knowing that what I needed was a fresh start. I asked myself, “Who are you and what are you here for?”

My husband and I decided to take the kids and move to Atlanta. I became determined to break the generational cycle of trauma in my family, and to create an entirely new approach to life, relationships and child-rearing. I knew I had a higher calling beyond my corporate job, and role as a mother and wife. So I prayed for guidance, and continued to seek help to work through the layers of trauma that stood in the way of a healthier life. It was at a women’s retreat that I began to see the value in my story.

Each time I shared, other women with similar experiences were attracted to my words and newfound courage. I feel honored to share the lessons of my journey as a facilitator, speaker and mentor to

reshape a bright future for ourselves and our families. When women heal, families can heal.

Healing trauma and generational curses, requires a new blueprint for a healthier way of life. So I created a platform called, The Black Family Breakthrough that then birth The Black Family Magazine to help families on a larger scale.

This publication is designed to expand your awareness, uncover your truth, redefine your life, renew your strength, and help you to build a new legacy of health and wealth for your family. Through educational training and engagement with a powerful community of wellness practitioners and therapists, you can elevate your mindset, so your breakdown can become your breakthrough.

A Global Cultural Mission

Website: www.BlackFamilyMagazine.com Facebook & Instagram: @

TheBlackFamilyMagazine

“It’s an invitation to be HEALED”

NICHOLS LISA

is one of the world’s most-requested speakers, as well as a media personality and corporate CEO whose global platform reaches over 170 countries and has served over 80 million people. Lisa’s social media reach is over 1.9 million followers.

As Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Motivating the Masses, Inc., Lisa has helped develop workshops and programs that have transformed thousands of businesses, and the lives of entrepreneurs across the globe. As a result of her training, her students become unforgettable speakers, best-selling authors, and 6 and 7 figure entrepreneurs.

Lisa’s extraordinary story of transforming her own life from public assistance to leading a multi-million-dollar enterprise is the inspiration behind her bold mission to teach others that it is possible to do the same. Today, fans worldwide revere Lisa for her mastery of teaching people how to accomplish unfathomable goals and tap their limitless potential.

The Black Family Magazine:

As Lisa Nichols, the #1 Family transformational speaker and Personal Development Coach, aligned with our goal this year to invite the WORLD on a healing journey personally to hear what type of advice you give the families with so much happening globally.

What are your thoughts for families when you hear "An Invitation to be Healed?"

Lisa Nichols: (Lisa pondering out loud) So what advice would I give to families with so much happening worldwide on "An Invitation to be Healed?"

Some of my primary advice is to know that we're all whole and complete where we are right now. And that we come to the table enough. We have learned, and we have masterfully learned. We've learned to overcome old trauma, hurt, and disappointment masterfully. "An invitation to be healed" is an invitation to go and almost clear the space, the emotional space, and the mental space. An invitation to be healed is an invitation to lay some old experiences fully to rest. I always say, if you can do what you've done with what you're carrying, what can you do if you let that go?

The Black Family Magazine:

Culturally, we are often told, 'Family over everything.' What should one do if one feels alone on this personal development journey?

Lisa Nichols: Well, I can speak from experience. After all, even though I have a huge, close, amazing family, I have often felt alone on my development journey because I was growing as an individual. While I wanted my family to grow as I was growing,

however, it's like the safety instructions of an airplane. First put on your own oxygen mask, and then help others.

I couldn't help others grow while trying to grow myself until I had grown a little bit. I believe that there is a biological family that God gives you, and then there's the universal family that you go and find. I went and found my family for my personal development journey. I found an electric group of people I met in different places, many of whom look nothing like me, and we found our common ground: personal growth. You don't only have access to one family.

The Black Family Magazine:

You, Lisa Nichols, have said many powerful quotes over the years. One quote said, 'Stop asking for permission to be you.'

Can you elaborate?

Lisa Nichols:

Yes, absolutely. There are so many ways we ask for permission to be who we are. We don't do it by saying, do I have permission to be me? We do it by saying, is it okay if

I? What do you think people would think if I did? I want to do this, but I don't know what people will think.

Whenever you're trying to manage other people's perception of you, you're now surrendering who you are to the person you think that they'll accept the best.

That's what I mean, stop asking for permission, which is, you can replace the word permission with stop asking for approval, stop asking for validation, as you do, and let us see the unique you that comes to the table. Everyone can't handle you, and that's okay; they don't have to, it's okay.

The Black Family Magazine:

We often hear the term “post-traumatic stress”. However, you often talk about post-traumatic growth. What is the difference between the two?

Lisa Nichols:

Oh my God, I love this phrase and didn't create it. I learned about it. After a devastating situation,

post-traumatic growth is the faith that you may have discovered that you have, after a challenging experience, the strength you uncovered. The person, woman, and man you had to become to navigate that terrain are

bigger, greater, stronger, more aware, more solid, and more self-assured than you were even before the event.

It's the emergence of your greatness, the emergence of your strength, the emergence of your faith, coming through a traumatic or devastating or challenging situation, that it is because of that situation that you discovered something in you that you didn't have. What happens, like now, is that people begin to lean into their purpose. Those around you will want more joy because you touch a level of sadness. You want to have more connection because you touched a level of loneliness. You want to have more faith because you touched a level of surrender. And that's post-traumatic growth.

The Black Family Magazine:

Your voices, your impact. How does sharing your story break generational cycles and allow room to heal from generational hurt?

Lisa Nichols: Storytelling is an opportunity to share your story in such a

community, and I'll say, in the African community, and then as we traveled around the world, it became in different origins of the world. But in the black community, in Africa, the griot, the storyteller, was, though the King and Queen were the most feared, the griot, the storyteller, was the most revered because the history lives in the story.

The test shows the climb of the mountain. When we do that, our stories permit other people to have their experience. I think that, as the black culture, we can live in a space of oppressed energy that has been very real. The only thing that can get you out of an oppressed place first is your mind, and wherever your mind is, your life has to follow. So, hurt and victimization, and that place of the victim, has to be shifted in your mind first.

When you tell a story, it shows the power of the mind, followed by the power of action, and it can bring about a new reality that we didn't even know we had. Our storytellers are responsible for telling stories that move our culture and families

forward. Not just the black culture but the culture of humanity.

So, it's more than just telling our story. Are you the main character that's a victor or a victim? It's the way we tell our story. Who are you in the story?

The Black Family Magazine:

How does your personal development affect your professional development?

Lisa Nichols: I'll say this. Your business should always grow your personal development. Your business should always maintain your self-esteem. If you have some undone work, we all have work to do. If you've hit your maximum personal development, your business will stay within that. You're only going to perform as well as you believe you should. You're only going to embrace as much as you feel you're worth. So they are neck and neck.

Your personal development should be in front of your professional development. I always say you want to keep your business from catching

up to your self-esteem because it will slow down and wait for your self-esteem to grow.

The Black Family Magazine:

What was one life-changing event that indicated that you wanted to change the trajectory of your life?

Lisa Nichols:

One, Oh, there was that time, then there was that time, and then there was that time. I am now thinking about choosing the one that fits this, not because I can't find one, let's be really clear. When you ask that question, it makes me think of my rock-bottom moments. And fortunately, or unfortunately, or just life, I hit my version of rock bottom multiple times. It felt like rock bottom to me, where my oxygen and life summation required a change.

One moment that comes to mind and there are several moments have come to mind, but this one, when I was sitting in the doctor's office, and the doctor said, Miss Nichols, you are clinically depressed and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. And she handed

me a piece of paper, and on the piece of paper, I saw two names that were familiar to me but I never thought I'd see on the same page, Lisa Nichols Prozac.

That's when I knew I wanted to change. I had to change. I didn't want to change. I had to change.

I knew who I would be; clinically depressed for the next three months or three years would be unfair to my son, bringing tears to my eyes. Jelani was three years old, and I had already had him in a situation where his father was in prison based on who I chose. And now his mother was going to be clinically depressed and on medication. That wasn't okay with me. So your question made me want to change. It wasn't quite a want, as much as it was a must.

The Black Family Magazine:

Who in your family has played a significant part in your life or career?

Lisa Nichols: My brother was my prayer partner. He prayed with me every day for the initial five

years of my business and kept me on track to be the clay. He would always say be the clay. I was trying to control everything, be the clay. My father has always given me permission to fall, and because he gave me permission to fall, I ran to leap to fly more because I wasn't afraid of falling. My dad had me completely believing that my bounce-back muscle to go fly again was stronger than anything else I was against.

My dad made me believe that I could fly because he made me believe it was okay to fall and that I wouldn't be judged and I wouldn't be saved. My mother has always been the most, to this day. The most radical cheerleader, the most radical champion of me, from retiring from her career to take care of my son so I could be on the road, being my first volunteer, and moving into my house so that she could be my house manager while I was traveling. Literally, my dad, my mom, and my brother were the epitome of a family, championing me all in different ways. No one ever competed, and none of them ever asked me for anything in return. There was this just free flow of, yeah, we believe in you, yeah, we believe in

you. None of them, never, ever, ever to this day, 28 years into my career, made me feel guilty about choosing my career, ever, ever one time I hit the family jackpot.

The Black Family Magazine:

After you tapped into YOUR extraordinary self, you were able to build a life that is now unrecognizable for you and your family. What is your favorite family memory that you all have experienced as you were building your career?

Lisa Nichols: The most difficult part of that answer is it indicates one or two, and there are several of them.

When I brought my family on stage, In honor of my work and contributions, we were in San Diego named April 28, Motivating the Masses Day. Having my whole family on stage, I will never forget it. My dad came up on stage, and I just hugged him and cried. We did it! We did! We did it!

Onstage were my grandmother, my son, my brother, my dad, my mom, my cousins, and my little sister.

What made that so special was, so much in my career, they weren't on stage, they weren't at the event, I was still trying to figure it out, they were still in their careers, and I was away. I never had everyone around me to celebrate a moment with me because it's their moment too. That was a big moment, not because I got the day named after my company in San Diego. Well, that was a big deal, and I was very grateful.

We were all together on the Fourth of July, Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Father's Day, but this time we were together on my stage and in front of my community.

For one moment, both of my worlds, set in the same space, the people I love the most, that have supported me, and the people I love to serve, were living in coexistence.

The Black Family Magazine:

What current programs do you have for those looking to go to the next level or to live life to their highest potential?

Lisa Nichols: I love that we birthed the

vision of " 2020. We birthed it because "Thrive to Inspire non-negotiably going after the next best version of yourself. " was born when the world was in absolute dynamic change and some level of chaos. It doesn't negate your surroundings, do not negate that there's an extraordinary you waiting to be born. " Inspire saying I am not allowing external circumstances to define my greatness, to define my happiness, to define my joy that comes from within, and then I dance with what’s happening in the world.

I’m super excited about the brand new “Thrive to Inspire event because it’s bigger, bolder, and better than ever, gathering

the best people on the planet together to build community and choose to play together in the future.

I’m excited about our “Thrive ” event.

For those who are interested, you can learn more and join us at motivatingthemasses. com/thrive.

The Black Family Magazine: Please tell us more about your “Thrive to ” event.

Lisa Nichols:

As a result of the three-day live event, you’re in action, you’re in community, and you’re clear on your next steps to make 2023 one of the shiniest, brightest, most advantageous years that you’ve seen in a long time. I’m super excited about it. It’s for Gladiators; it’s for leaders. It’s for game-changers. That’s Thrive to Inspire” is for.

We spend live, interactive time together over an entire weekend. As a result of the event, you leave with clear, practical steps. You walk away

going, Okay, here’s what I’m going to do first, here’s what I’m going to do second, and here’s what I’m going to do third, as it gives you tangible, actionable steps.

I’m big on the fact that action is the antidote for everything you want; action is the prescription for everything you’re going after. I also realize that a lot of people need more clarity. You leave clear and aligned before the event is over, and we already put you in action. There’s really nothing like it!

The Black Family Magazine:

Where can our audience go to stay connected to you?

Lisa Nichols: So many places. I have a YouTube channel, The Lisa Nichols Show, with over 200 videos to guide you on your journey. You can also find me on Instagram or Facebook at @Lisa2Motivate. All those places are where you can get content, be inspired, and be motivated. I always say it’s where grown folks come together.

You can also see how to step onto our virtual

campus by going to motivatingthemasses.com, the website, and you choose your journey there.

We have a path for you if you want to enhance yourself as an impact speaker. Not a platform speaker, but if you want to enhance your speaking ability and communication skills, then

you take that path. Or we also have a path if you want to build your personal development. Do you take that path, or do you want to do both? Because they dance together well.

To stay connected to Lisa Nichols visit: www. MotivatingtheMasses.com

Storytelling is an opportunity to share your story in such a way that it shows the triumph over the tragedy to show a testimony.

- Lisa Nichols

- Lisa Nichols

You are the designer of your destiny; you are the author of your story.

Dr. Angela

Seay

DDr. Angela Seay has never lost her hustle or her New York state of mind. Educating others is a part of her DNA. Modeling her life after her Mantra, Healthy people are happy people and happy people show love, Dr. Angela took her passion from academia to the dance floor.

Teaching is her passion, but wellness/fitness is her true love language. Dr. Angela’s method of teaching is just like a three-strand cord. She teaches to elevate the mind, transform the body, and feed the soul.

She is a published author, has served on several wellness advisory boards and serves in ministry to reach her audience. With more than 30 years of experience,

Health & Wellness Coach, Reiki Specialist, Reflexology Specialist, Body Contour Specialist & Dance Fitness Instructor

cultivating an environment for healthy living and community is Dr. Angela’s goal.

Black Family Magazine: What does personal transformation look like to you and how is it beneficial to your family’s foundation?

Dr. Angela Seay: Transformation looks like dedication, commitment, consistency to achieve goals and be the example that you want to see. Transformation is a lifestyle. Demonstrating the

behavior has more merit than providing information. I am determined to continue to water the seeds that have been planted and those that will be planted. The Word of God says that I am on good ground.

Black Family Magazine: What were the steps that you took for your own personal transformation?

Dr. Angela Seay: First prayer, studying the Word of God, meditation, journaling, dedicated to serving others. Then, working on self-care so that I can fulfill the purpose God has in my life.

Black Family Magazine: What does “Thriving to Inspire” mean to you in 2023?

of self care. Make or accept excuses. Enjoy every single day as if it might be the last day. Show love & share positive vibes. Intentionally, encourage someone daily. Give back to make the world a better place.

Black Family Magazine: How will you carry out your ancestral legacy?

Dr. Angela Seay: Teach others the importance of giving and receiving love, health/ wellness, share experiences to help others, and elevate then educate individuals to help them make informed decisions for continued growth.

Black Family Magazine: As a professional resource to the community, what is the best way to connect with you?

Dr. Angela Seay: Focused driven. Continue to always put God first! Self-care is a priority. Teaching others the importance

Dr. Angela Seay Contact Information: D3Health & Fitness D3healthfitness@gmail.com Facebook: D3Health & Fitness or DrAngela Seay Instagram: D3HealthFitness

Veronica

Simon V

eronica Scott Simon, biological daughter of a teen mom, legal daughter of her maternal grandparents and a relentless lover of souls.

Veronica is a true Southern Comfort woman, born and raised in the rural area of Nesmith, South Carolina. The heir to her ancestral legacy of divine love toward others. She was raised on a large tobacco farm where her parents were sharecroppers in which they utilized their funds to purchase their retirement home along with a few empty lots where they had plans to enjoy their retirement years surrounded by family and friends while continuing to give back to the community in which they loved.

Our family home in the town of Kingstree, SC was coined as our family oasis where momma enjoyed every moment when we would get together as a family while doing the things that we so loved to do: eat, drink, dance, play spades, laugh, play kickball or softball on the lot across from the house. Momma loved loving others and being a light that showcased that genuine love is the greatest gift that any of us can extend to another. As it is also the greatest commandment of all and the commandments that momma told me to stand on NO MATTER WHAT! Therefore, we should make it a point to love others as Christ so loves us and seek to know thyself so that we will be awakened to live our lives as destined upon our formation in our mother’s womb. Though we might not always know HIS plans, HE does and is awaiting our strength to look inward to gain knowledge and courage to be exactly who we are.

Veronica Simon, a daughter, sister, wife, mom, auntie and friend. The founder of a non-profit organization that was initially geared toward inspiring teen moms and was expanded to be a beacon of

light for women to take the helm and love themselves first. The organization is currently being revamped for a relaunch where self-love is the pursuit of discovery and fulfillment as a woman makes her own decision to make herself her divine focus.

Black Family Magazine: What does personal transformation look like to you and how is it beneficial to your family’s foundation?

Veronica Simon: Personal transformation for me is making me the focus. The

benefit of my personal transformation to my family foundation is that it supports the freedom of each of my family members being their authentic self, while creating space for them to define and run their own race while being authentic rather than further pursuing being what others may desire them to be.

Black Family Magazine: What were the steps that you took for your own personal transformation?

Veronica Simon: The steps that I took for my own personal transformation were: Made myself the center of my attention by etching out a special place and time for me to be the focus, while addressing my mental and physical health. I created a social instance for 40 days as I was purposeful in my pursuit to become my main focus

I did a complete physical that helped to identify my current state and worked on becoming healthier mentally and physically. I took a before picture and did an after photoshoot that captured more than just the physical appearance of my

transformation but also the health of my essence as it was physically noticeable through the non-staged pics that my photographer captured. I vowed and set a course to keep me in focus.

Black Family Magazine: What does living “Extraordinarily You” mean to you in 2023?

Veronica Simon: Living Extraordinarily Me in 2023, means keeping ME in Focus. With my own infamous quote of, “Focus On You Until You Become The Focus”. Not being concerned about what others think, what others desire of me but leaning in and forward to be the ME that I am free to be without apology.

Black Family Magazine: How will you carry out your ancestral legacy?

Veronica Simon: I will carry out my ancestral legacy by loving others to life. Encouraging, inspiring others to tap inward as they seek to discover who they truly are and release themselves to be themselves without the concern of what others may think. My family’s legacy has been about loving others in a way that they would come to recognize how special they

are simply because of who they are and not what they have! Wealth in my family was notated by the kind of genuine love (non-sexual) one experienced versus the amount of money that one may have.

Black Family Magazine: As a professional resource to the community, what is the best way to connect with you?

Veronica Simon Contact Information: LinkedIn profile: Veronica Simon | LinkedIn #1 International Solo BestSelling books: Soul Engagement (A 40-Day Journey To Personal Freedom and Power)

Soul Runner (Re-Ignite Your Purpose) and several contributing works that were also International best-selling books

Your Voice Matters 1 Habit of The World’s Greatest Leaders

Belinda

Salley B

Belinda Salley, Motivational Speaker was born May 19, 1968, in Newark, New Jersey. She’s the mother of two beautiful daughters, Darnajah Edmond, twenty-one, and Dasia Edmond, seventeen. Salley graduated from Frank H. Morrell High School in Irvington, New Jersey. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Montclair State University and joined the Finer women of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated. After graduating, she secured a job at Essex County Division of Welfare in March 1994 as a Family Service Worker. While working, Salley continued her education at Rutgers University in Newark, New Jersey. She received her master’s degree in Public

Administration in 2020. Salley is also an active member of The Order of Eastern Star. Salley was diagnosed with stage three invasive lobular carcinoma breast cancer; Salley went from depressed to designer and created a sneaker and clothing line to challenge others to “BCourageous.”

especially when she found herself at home looking for things to do to keep her mind off the reality.

Less than a year after being diagnosed with and battling stage 3 cancer, New Jersey mom Belinda Salley went from depression to a designer and created a sneaker and clothing line to challenge others to “BCourageous”. “Finding out I had breast cancer on November 23, 2020, was devastating,” says Salley. “One moment, I’m balancing my job, creating another career, helping my 19-year-old Darnajah navigate adulthood, attending my 16-year-old Dasia’s basketball games, and the next, I’m being told I have stage 3 invasive lobular carcinoma. Of course, no one is prepared for that news, but I was determined not to give up and my prayer was ‘God, help me through and give me the courage not to fold but thrive.” Thriving for Salley came in the form of creativity

She told her inner circle what was going on and then went public on social media, journaling her doctor visits, her pains, her body changes, and her desire to support others battling illnesses. She began noticing people telling her she was so courageous for pushing forward in the comments. That’s when Salley decided to create a few products for her supporters to wear such as t-shirts, hoodies, caps, and masks. She took it a step further and came up with an athletic shoe. “I got the vision from my social media tribe to call it BCourageous which is a combination of using the first letter of my name and the word courageous,” explained Salley. “I never thought I would be diagnosed with breast cancer, but then again I never thought I would use my time in chemotherapy thinking of designs for shirts or shoes, but here I am.”

Salley had a mastectomy on March 10, 2021, and after 16 rounds of chemotherapy, she rang the bell on September 13, 2021. On October 4, 2021,

she went back to work fulltime and has no plans of slowing down. “I’m writing a book on my cancer journey based on my social media posts,” she said. “Other than that, I am working on BCOURAGEOUS LLC and of course raising my two girls. They were truly there for me, my mother was there for me, my village was there for me… A cancer diagnosis doesn’t have to be the end. For me, it ended up being a beginning.v

-By Arthia

Nixon, The Ambassador Agency on behalf of Belinda Salley

“My personal transformation was awakened by an unwanted entanglement with stage three lobular carcinoma (Breast Cancer). My life literally flashed before me, Then I realized the moment I needed to hold it together for my girls. Being the mom of two beautiful young ladies who depend on me there was no time to fall apart. I knew it was going to be a tough battle to fight, but I was ready to go to war for my life.

I began to pray, Lord I come to you as humble as I know how to please be with me and comfort me during this difficult time. I need grace, strength, understanding and wholeness because I felt broken. Lord, I don’t want to be angry, bitter, depressed or withdrawn. I need to know. I prayed for three days straight and finally I couldn’t cry another tear. I felt a release and comfort that everything was going to be okay.

After I recited my bible verses my transformation began. I made up my mind that cancer could not have me. I went onto my social media platform and shared my diagnosis. I was transparent and explained that I will share the good, bad, and ugly of

my cancer journey. I also informed them that if they had any questions they had I would answer them to the best of my knowledge. I had realized God wanted me to share to educate others on the importance of knowing their family health history as well as advocating for quality health care.

I started by sharing how I found the lump on a girl’s trip and knew something was wrong. I then scheduled my mammogram. The results came back normal however I was puzzled. I requested to see the doctor. I explained that something wasn’t right. He stated the results were negative but due to my persistence he scheduled a biopsy. The wait was scary, however, I needed to ease my mind. My gynecologist called me in and informed me that the results showed breast cancer.

Life for me changed. I was preparing to fight my best fight, so I went and literally purchased some camouflage pants, a hat and everything needed for chemo. I began reading about cancer, changing my diet, and researching my doctors. I “REFUSED” to give

up no matter how hard the treatment got. I must say chemotherapy was tough, but radiation almost took me out. After I rang my last bell a sense of peace just entered my spirit. Six months later my oncologist and I agreed that my transformation was amazing. I had renewed skin, hair, courage, and voice for the voiceless.

Through my transformation

I showed my girls to always trust God, draw from your inner strength, stay positive and trust the process no matter what transpires. In life you will face so many obstacles however, how you recover is what makes you grow as a person. I showed my girls how important it’s to treat people with respect and they saw the love return to me during my difficult time. So many people showed up to help with food, gift cards, fruit, puzzle books, breast cancer items etc.

Living extraordinary in 2023 looks like giving praise to God for each new day, meditation, and no stress. I will continue to share my testimony of being cancer free in the community and reminding the masses how important it is to stay on top of your

health. I want to enjoy my girls as they journey through life and pour love into friends and family. I’m so grateful that everyday is like winning the lottery. A side note: my sneakers that I designed as a reminder to get your mammograms were featured on the Vanity Fair website.

Tajala Battle-

rs. Tajala “Taj” BattleLockhart is the Certified Hospitality Educator with a passion for training up our future youth, young adults and coaching adults through adversity by providing industry recognized certifications and training that provides them an opportunity to become successful independent citizens. Tajala is serving her final days as an Elected Governing Board Member for Charles County Board of Education, Director of Programs & Education at Restaurant Association of Maryland Education Foundation, CEO of TAJ Consulting & Events, Founder/Executive Director of Phenomenal Young Women, Inc a 501©3 Nonprofit, Multi

#1 Best Selling Author and the Visionary behind her first book, The Nonprofit Legacy, and Adjunct Professor for the Hospitality, Tourism & Culinary Arts Department at Prince George Community.

Tajala was nominated ACHI Nonprofit Executive of the Year 2022 and ACHI Difference Maker of the Year 2022, awarded Entrepreneur & Women in Business of the Year 2019, Nonprofit Star by National Nonprofit Minority Association 2019, My Sister’s Keeper Award 2019 by The Sisterhood of Southern Maryland Organization, awarded ACHI Nonprofit Executive of the Year 2019, nominated ACHI Women of Achievement 2019, recognized as one of 16 Faces of Influence 2019, awarded Entrepreneur of the Year Nonprofit 2019, 2020 Award of Excellence - Deborah C Bulgin Walking In Excellence and recognized as Southern Maryland Women to Watch 2021.

Happy New Year, and Welcome to Your Season of Transformation!

Last year, I started a journey of surrendering things and making room for myself. I had maxed out my capacity to serve effectively mind, body, and soul. I had to look at my life to see what I needed to truly let go of and get serious on this life journey. I can serve myself as well as I do others. That meant letting go of some of the roles in my life that I was holding on to for the sake of helping others, supporting others, and loving others at the cost of sacrificing not loving my life most healthily and effectively in business and love.

This new year’s journey is to continue transforming my life to allow me to feel healthy, serve healthily, and love myself most healthily. I started my health journey with a new doctor that has done an amazing job of holding me accountable to

ensure that I don’t add any new medication to my daily routine and get my numbers down.

Yes, like many in our community, we are those ones that end up with what they call the triple threat (high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes), and I had two out of the tree and heading into third; however, I surrendered to what other doctors had told me for years, that it was hereditary.

Six months into last year, I successfully got my numbers down to more than half of what they were and always had been through surrendering to healthier choices and being consistent. The other thing that we do as a community. We hold on to relationships that aren’t serving us the same way we serve them. God opened doors for me to see things so I could surrender to some unhealthy relationships with people that I was trying to support and serve in a capacity that no longer served me well.

So as this New Year begins, during this transformational season, I continue to encourage myself and make

decisions that will allow me to live my life in ways I never allowed. It has been scary and lonely sometimes, but it’s necessary. I encourage you to do all things you fear because if you are afraid to do it most times, it’s meant just for you; however, you have to make room for it in your life so you will have the capacity to receive it! I share my words with you for this new season: transformation, surrender, and capacity.

Make room for you!

-Tajala “Taj” Battle-Lockhart

Shintina R.

Garris W

ords of Wisdom for the Heart and Soul: Volume II

Just like many victims of domestic violence I was afraid to tell what I was experiencing. For 4 years I was literally tortured daily, it was a plot to break me mentally, physically and emotionally. My abuser used narcissist tactics all while telling me that I deserved to wear bruises and scars. He went as far as to tell me that my family and friends did not love me, that he was the only one who truly loved me. His actions were the way he professed his love for me. He had deeply rooted family issues and no matter how much I tried to show him love he was able to receive it because he was filled with hate. Love does

not hurt. A person that loves you would not want to inflict pain upon you. Do not believe the words that are said to you from someone who views you as inferior to them. My advice to someone in this type of scenario is to get out quickly. Don’t look back and do not try to reason with your abuser. Recovering from a traumatic situation such as domestic violence takes time and help from licensed professionals to rebuild your self esteem. Do not suffer in silence. Born and raised on the Eastern Shore of Virginia in the early 80’s by her grandmother, Shintina cites this as her reason to push forward in spite of all the obstacles she has faced. As a black woman who combats anxiety and depression she offers her peers advice on ways to soothe the effects of the two. Being diagnosed in 2019 after the passing of her father, Shintina did not allow the diagnosis to hinder her progress.

In late 2021 she was a guest on The BloomN SZN Project in which she discussed deeply rooted trauma from

her childhood, struggling emotionally and financially and the effects of being in a domestic violence plagued relationship. The episode aired in February 2022 and can be found on YouTube. In September she appeared on The Figuring Shxt Out Podcast where she talked about ways to deal with anxiety outside of prescribed medications and triggers such as alcohol, drugs and certain environments. As Shintina continues on her personal journey she looks to educate others on how they can rise above the stigmas that are associated with anxiety and depression and help themselves. She hopes to change the lives and language of those who suffer with various traumas in silence.

After becoming a first time Amazon best seller author for Words of Wisdom for the Heart and Soul: Lessons, Insights, and Guidance from 36 Women of Influence Anthology, Shintina truly identified her purpose as an author, motivational speaker and domestic abuse advocate. Being an advocate against domestic violence landed Shintina a feature in the October 2022 edition of The Black Family Magazine

which showcased overcomers of domestic violence.

Shintina is thankful for the support of her children, family/friends and all the supporters of the first Words of Wisdom for the Heart and Soul.

Teara F.

Stewart

TTeara F. Stewart minister of the Gospel and transformational coach to leaders who want to rediscover, redefine and reinvent the way they lead themselves and others. I am a wife and mother to three young men.

My personal transformation is linked to the process of making olive oil. I have gone through and am still progressing through the various phases for my Oil to Run. It is the crushing that produces the oil, and my life has been quite the crushing. This was beneficial to my legacy, community, and all those who God has called me too because it is no more ME. My flesh has died to the will of the Father and now I

can assist others without self being at the helm.

Some of the steps I have and am taking to own my legacy is truly walking in my assignment with no more fear. As long as I was timidly standing on the sidelines those who were called to my story couldn’t be set free because I was too afraid to step out. There were many around me that would get a glimpse of what I had to offer and would say Teara you need to show all the way up or it is time for you to come from behind the curtain or Tea we are waiting on you. I had to show up the way God intended for me too before it is too late and all I am is a conversational topic at the funeral and maybe a few gatherings after that. I want my suffering, pain, hurt, shame and defeat to be someone else’s story of triumph, deliverance, and bondages being broken.

Living an extraordinarily ME in 2023 means living out loud. Not hiding my wins out of fear of what someone may say or think. Seeing my family smile more, seeing my community thrive instead of barely getting by. Knowing that I am

doing all that I am instructed to do in the time I have been granted to do it.

My ancestral legacy will be carried out in my everyday living. Everyday I will honor those who came before me by paving away for those who will come behind. Whatever was running through my bloodline must cease because it ran into me.

You can reach me at emerge20@yahoo.com

Via facebook and IG @tearafstewart or leadertreeconsultinggrop

Martha T.

Davidson

Inspirational speaker and

Passionate and committed to enabling high-performing African American Women, specifically those who desire to flourish as influential and transformational trailblazers. champion how to reframe

experiences by implementing brain, mind-based, and heartresilient strategies to become Resilient, Impactful, SelfAware, and Empowered.

Personal transformation is the joy of flowing in positive energy and knowing and intuitively sensing you

TMartha T Davidson, founder

are living a purpose-filled life. I read recently that joy occurs when you experience a peaceful flow of energy that I perceive as a spiritual symphony that initiates from the soul. Personal transformation shifts your energy of thinking and feeling and provides insight and wisdom in reflecting on life’s mountaintop and valley experiences. It also heightens one’s awareness that whatever transpired in your evolving life’s journey was for your good. I am reminded of the scripture, count it all joy and learn to unveil the

lessons, blessings, and gifts from each season.

My journey from the ages of 0-6 was full of adverse childhood experiences, physical abuse, moving in and out of five foster homes resulting in childhood selective mutism and other unresolved trauma that deeply impacted my transformation. I attended Dale Carnegie courses, Biofeedback, freebie personal development courses, and tried E.F.T. tapping and other healing modalities, which didn’t shift my low self-

esteem or the emotional stress I was experiencing. I experienced marginal results implementing the various modalities but not a total transformation that released my emotional pain or physical pain. It took me several years of working on myself to address my adverse experiences.

My defining transformational moment occurred in a Coaching Certification program. The Coach stated, “Emotions buried alive never Die,” a Sigmund Freud quote and the most powerful for

me was the part that says, “unaddressed emotions show up in uglier ways .”This quote shifted my whole perspective as I recognized I was limited and captive in becoming what other people expected of me, seeking validation, being a people pleaser, and always working long hours to prove I had to prove that I was the smartest on the team; a limiting belief carried over from childhood bullying. These unaddressed feelings and emotions generated frustration, stagnation, and a struggle to find my purpose and passion. Upon completing the certification program, I felt an indescribable shift in my energy, and this aha experience has altered how I think and feel. After the certification, I began writing my story and published my first book, Age With S.A.G.E.

Thriving amplifies my tenacity and the audacious expectation of who God designed me to be, showing up confidently and undeniably a heart servant leader who is purposedriven to provide insight and wisdom to liberate women of their silent story.

My passion and purpose are my legacy as an influential activist for women releasing their silent stories with neurobased strategies identifying those hidden (subconscious) beliefs and habits that negatively influence their power to flourish— empowering women to begin embodying new thoughts, ideas, new perspectives, and the onus to become fearless in their pursuit to change their relationships and family dynamics, breaking generational cycles of dysfunction.

Martha is the Best-Selling Author of Age With S.A.G.E., a Visionary Author of No More Silence You Too Can Rise, and an advocate for Social Justice, serving NonProfit organizations and underserved communities.

Martha can be reached at coachmarthadavidson@ gmail.com or contact@ marthatdavidson.com.

Dr. Radiance ROSE

Dr. Radiance L. Rose is professionally known as an award-winning Transformational Speaker, Certified Professional Leadership & Life Coach, #1 Best-Selling Author, Talk Show Host of Seize the Day with Coach Rai, Trauma Disruptor, Master Resilience Trainer, Human Rights Advocate, & Entrepreneur. For more than 17 years, Dr. Rose has helped thousands of people transform their lives and achieve their personal and professional goals through coaching & mentorship.

She is the SHE-EO and Founder of ViVi Cole Coaching & Consulting LLC, where she helps veterans, first responders, and

educators achieve attainable goals, overcome work/ life challenges & enhance productivity.

DAs a trauma strategist, Dr. Rose helps individuals unpack & attack their lives and transition from trauma to transformation through her 5-Step Coaching Program.

Dr. Rose received her Doctorate in Philosophy of Entrepreneurship and Business Administration and the prestigious United Nations Global Woman of Distinction Award, presented by the fully accredited Trinity International University of Ambassadors School of Business. Additionally, she is a recipient of the 46th President Joseph Biden Lifetime Achievement Award, 2022.

Her hobbies include Traveling, Dancing, Cooking, & Spending Time with Family and Friends.

Black Family Magazine: What does personal transformation look like to you and how is it beneficial to your family’s foundation?

Dr. Radiance L. Rose: Personal transformation is everevolving, introspective, and

centered on discipline. The starting point is situational, “personal,” which continually changes based on goals, circumstances, and family/ life dynamics. However, there is no end to transformation. Personal transformation requires identifying who I am, where I am, who I want to be, and where I want to be. Additionally, it means having a growth mindset and evading contentment in exchange for becoming extraordinary to reach my highest potential. Personal transformation is beneficial to my family foundation because it waters the soil of accountability in my family tree, which enables us to own our failures, triumphs, & setbacks. Thus, propelling us to become more resilient people, individually, & collectively.

Black Family Magazine: What steps did you take for your personal transformation?

Dr. Radiance L. Rose: The first step for my personal transformation was TRULY learning to love myself, flaws and all. Being physically, mentally, and emotionally vulnerable was challenging yet enlightening. The next step was forgiving myself for the missteps and bad

decisions that I made consciously, unknowingly, & rebelliously in the past. My past is merely a point of reference, and I no longer subscribe to the pain in the shadows of those dark chapters of my life. Lastly, I focused on my vision, developed SMART Goals/ courses of action, and a plan of execution. Today, I am methodically & productively living my dream, one day at a time, while becoming the ANSWER for humanity.

Black Family Magazine: What does living “Extraordinarily You” mean to you in 2023?

Dr. Radiance L. Rose: My definition of living extraordinary means committing to routine selfcare practices, unlocking more spiritual gifts, taking risks, making wise choices, standing tall in the face of adversity, being resilient, exploring my creativity, challenging myself to be GREATER, impacting the lives of the communities that I serve, & living and loving fearlessly without borders.

Black Family Magazine: How will you carry out your ancestral legacy?

Dr. Radiance L. Rose: By doing the difficult, continuous work of unpacking and attacking past trauma, healing my whole person, and severing ties with emotional baggage and bondage, I will build a gateway of hope for the next generation by seeding an ancestral legacy of empowerment, inspiration, and unconditional love.

Black Family Magazine: As a professional resource to the community, what is the best way to connect with you?

Dr. Radiance L. Rose Contact Information: Dr. Radiance L. Rose, SHE-EO & Owner - ViVi Cole Coaching & Consulting LLC Website: vivicole.com Instagram: therealcoachrai Email: rr@vivicole.com

“Living and loving fearlessly without borders”.

Dr. Radiance L. Rose

Black Owned Woman Business Spotlights

4x Award Winning Female Music Producer of New England’s Urban Award Angel Mone’t Creates Educational Music Program for Children Across the Country

The Program Infuses Uplifting Themes with Gospel, Pop, Funk, Hip Hop and Caribbean Rhythms

BOSTON - There is no shortage of programs, shows, or songs children can’t come across on the internet; however, much of the content is inappropriate and not safe for child consumption and that’s where Monet A. Ledbetter-Glaude better known as “Ms. Angel Mone’t” comes in.

A skilled piano and voice teacher at Berklee College of Music in Boston, Mone’t Ledbetter-Glaude has

designed a multicultural music curriculum with resources that teaches children the fundamentals of music and addresses the needs of music in early childhood education through her Children’s Music Program “Peppy People’s Music”.

Some topics taught through this originally composed curriculum include selfesteem, love, and kindness. “The opportunity to merge

music and kids has kept me energized over the last 20 years,” said Mone’t.

“It’s been a pleasure filling schools, daycares, and homes with motivational and inspirational melodies that can be passed down to generations and I hope to continue to inspire the next generation through music.”

The curriculum has live and pre-taped options. A free sample can be found HERE.

For more information on “Peppy People’s Music” and how to get it for your students or children, visit http://www. inetproductionsinc.com/ angel-monet-4/.

To connect with Ms. Angel Mone’t, check out her Instagram or Facebook.

About Angel Mone’t

As President of Inét Productions Inc, Ms. Angel Monét runs a music production company that specializes in the development of instrumental, vocal and performance skills. She is a proud instructor for Piano and Voice programs at her alma mater Berklee College of Music in Boston, Ma. She is the founder of the HOI Network Internet Radio Station and Creator of the “House of Inspiration Show”.

Additionally, Monet uses her love for music to educate children. She is the creator of the popular children’s musical Jack’s World.

Monét has also written, performed, produced, and recorded her latest song “MY TEACHER” which is a tribute to teachers all over the world. Her recent album, “Children Are a Gift,” was released on her own imprint, Rossy Records. She is also the author of the children’s book “Introducing Jack Christopher Wilson” that comes along with music and characterbuilding tools.

To connect with Ms. Angel Mone’t, check out her Instagram or Facebook.

Dr. Radiance Rose

Belinda Salley

Tajala Battle-Lockhart

Dr. Angela Stewart

Teara Stewart

Annette Gomes

Dr. Yvette Pegues Dr. Angela Seay

Grace Agnes Overcomer

Dr. Alvina Ryan

Van & Arlena Jenkins

Kaneisha Harper

Latasha Ramsey-Cyprian Tina Baker

Stacy L. Henderson

Wanita Mask

Dr. Moneshia Dashiell

Tanya Franklin Miller

Dr. Kim & Noble Evans

Sonja English

Sherrie Gilbert-Ramsey

Lorelle Strong Rich Vanessa O. Green Michelle Anderson-Benjamin

Black Family Magazine Impact & Inspire