The Black Family Magazine - November 2022 Special Edition

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Dr. Cheryl Wood Valorie Burton Kalilah Wright Candace Holyfield Ellie Diop Jason White

Chere M. Goode

Interview with Dr. Cheryl Wood

Conway Dr. Carlisa M. Smith Carol Muleta Sabrina Willis Rakiema T Sellars-Pompey Lolita McNeal

Andrea Blue Annette Gomes

Davidson Dr. Monica D. Reed

Dr. Cheryl Wood

Dr. Cheryl Wood is the CEO of Global Speakers University, a training and development company that equips entrepreneurs and leaders with the tools to master the art of sharing their unique voice, story, message, and expert knowledge. Wood is an international 2x TEDx speaker, executive speaker development coach, and 20x best-selling author who has delivered riveting keynotes for clients including NASA, Verizon, Prudential, Capital One, U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Department of Agriculture, the FBI, The United Nations, Federally Employed Women and a host of prestigious law firms, corporations, and international conferences.

Wood has been featured in Forbes Magazine, Huffington Post, Rolling Out, Sheen, Essence, Black Enter prise, ABC News, Fox 5 News, Fox 45 News, Good Morning Washington and The Washington Informer.

She is the recipient of the 2021 Pres ident’s Lifetime Achievement Award and the 2019 GODSU Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters for over a decade of helping entrepre neurs globally to unleash the power of their voice. Wood firmly believes that our legacy is connected to our voices and now is the time to speak up and share what you know!

Wood has helped over 150,000 leaders to exponentially increase their impact, influence and income by helping them to polish their stage presence, increase their platform confidence, and develop trans formational messages that move audiences into decisive action to produce desired results. Her annual signature conference, SpeakerCon, equips entrepreneurs and leaders to use their story, life experiences and knowledge to “transform the world one word at a time!”

Dr. Cheryl Wood International Empowerment Speak er, 2x TEDx Speaker, Best-Selling Author, Founder of SpeakerCon and Global Speakers University (GSU) www.cherylwoodempowers.com (301) 395-7589

Connect With Me on Social Media at @CherylEmpowers

Dr. Cheryl Wood

Valorie Burton

Valorie Burton, life strategist and international speaker, is CEO of the Coaching and Positive Psychology (CaPP) Institute. Her life-changing message has an intriguing, research-based emphasis in the pioneering field of applied positive psychology - the study of what happens when things go right with us.

Her company provides coaching, coach training, and resilience training and has served clients in all 50 states and 20 countries on six continents. Since 1999, she has written 13 books translated into multiple languages, including Let Go of the Guilt, It’s About Time, and Successful Women Think Differently.

- Make major life changes that are exciting and scary at the same time.

- Be happier and have more fun, even when life seems routine.

- Become strong leaders, navigate office politics, and achieve professional dreams.

- Navigate setbacks and disappointments in a way that makes life better, not bitter.

She has appeared regularly on the TODAY Show, CNN, Dr. Oz, and Essence, and has spoken for hundreds of organ izations around the globe. She was named one of the top 60 motivation al speakers in America and one of the Top 100 Thought Leaders in the field of personal development.

For over 15 years, Valorie’s books, speaking engagements, and coaching programs have helped people:

- Speak up with confidence rather than settling for less.

- Go to sleep at night feeling at peace about decisions.

- Conquer emotions that cause procrastination, emotional spending, and self-sabotage.

She and her husband Jeff live on a ranch south of Atlanta with their children.

www.valorieburton.com

Kalilah Wright

Kalilah Wright, born in Jamaica W.I., migrated to the United States at the tender age of 4 and was raised in Brooklyn, NY. She is the Founder and CEO of expressive brand Mess in a Bottle.As an accomplished designer and trained architect, she used her Masters degree from Morgan State University and Bachelors of Arts from Penn State University to establish the brand in January 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. Mess in a Bottle allows you to put messages on t-shirts and are packaged in reusable bottles.

The Mess in a Bottle brand was established to evoke change, question Kalilah’s audience and

allow individuals wearing their messages to be vocal without saying anything at all.

Each item is designed and printed at her Baltimore in-house studio space.

Kalilah has participated in multiple pitch competitions and won the Wells Fargo Business Pitch competition in 2016 and the 2018 iFundWomen pitch competition in conjunction with the Baltimore Ravens. Mess in a Bottle has

collaborated with numerous brands and created limited edition capsule collections with Warner Brothers Studios for their movie The Kitchen, YouTube, Roc Nation artist Rapsody and most recently Target for their Black History Month collection. Celebrities such as Viola Davis, Serena Williams, Luvvie Ajayi, Lena Waithe, Yvonne Orji and more, are all proud supporters of Mess in a Bottle.

Kalilah Wright, Founder & Owner of Mess in a Bottle

@Messinabottle

@Ownerofmess www.messinabottle.com

Angelou

CANDACE “The Six Figure Spa Chick” HOLYFIELD

Candace “The Six Figure Spa Chick” Holyfield is the founder and the creative mind behind the Queen Spa Expo (specifically created for minority spa professionals) and The Black Spa Magazine.

She is best known for her Award-Winning spa parties and her business instructional classes designed to empower millennial business owners. She has written over 30 e-books for spa professionals and has been invited to speak on mainstages internationally. A trailblazer in her own right, Holyfield has assisted over 500 spa owners to launch their salon and create a six-figure income. Her work in the industry has not gone unnoticed. She has graced the stages and pages of some of the

most coveted beauty magazines and expos. She has become the voice for African American spa owners. This prompted the development of The Queen Spa Expo and The Black Spa Magazine.

As a humanitarian and advocate for black women enterprises, Candace Holyfield has become the trusted voice within her generation. Her raw style of communication, with her flair for marketing has quickly made her an Instagram favorite.

www.candaceholyfield.com

Angelou

Ellie Diop

Ellie has built an online community of 500,000 people and educated over 50,000 students through her business coaching and online curriculum.

Ellie has shared her business success story in several media outlets including Fortune Magazine, Entrepreneur, Newsweek, Fox Business, Business Insider, NextAdvisor, Bloomberg, Inc. to name a few.

After losing her corporate job during the pandemic, Ellie used her $1,200 stimu lus check to build a multi-million dollar online coaching business in one year. Entrepreneurship changed Ellie’s wealth trajectory, and fueled her mission to help other women experience the freedom that starting her business has provided her.

After serving over 50,000 students, Ellie is still committed to assisting women to overcome their circumstances to build successful businesses so they can live the life of their dreams.

Ellie was also invited to share her views on entrepreneurship in the New Economy in front of US Congress and named a top 100 most influential African American by The Root.

Ellie Diop is a Business and Strategy Coach, an author, and a speaker. She is the Founder and CEO of Ellie Talks Money and Ellievated Academy, and the host of the Get Ellievated podcast.

Jason White

Federal Government Expert, Speaker, Online Coach and Mentor.

What do the Department of Defense, the De partment of Homeland Security, the Department of Agri culture, the Department of Veteran Affairs, and the Department of Interior all have in common? Each one of these United States governing bodies has an ongoing relationship with and has awarded one or sev eral government contracts to Jason White. Jason started his business in 2008. He didn’t reap the dividends of his work until 2011

It took three years to get his first contract because, in the beginning, all he had was a Ph.D., public high school diploma, an interest, and an ethic. Without any guidance or help, he used that formula to become the mentor he thought he needed. Now, he is the conduit between government entities, their representatives, and you

Before he began this journey he had never worked for the federal government and had no prior knowledge of the federal government’s internal protocol. Yet, he’s secured over 35 active government contracts, more than 30 of which are ongoing for at least the next four years, and the number continues to grow. Given his extensive experience, Jason has the skill sets, relationships, rapport, and resumé to be a mentor for others who seek to win government contracts.

www.thefederalcode.com

Dr. Chere M. Goode

Dr. Chere M. Goode is the Founder and CEO of Total Harmony Enterprises, Make Me Over Wellness, and the Jordan Alexander Cofield Foundation(a 501C3 organization dedicated to her late son). Goode is a mother, caregiver, and the Creator of the RECHARGE Health, Wellness, and Fitness Expo. Goode has been a Licensed Practical Nurse for over 30 years and is Nationally Certified in Hospice and Palliative Care. She is a 10x time #1 BestSelling International Author, Speaker, Wellness Coach, and American Heart & Stroke Association Ambassador/ Spokesperson.

Known as the RECHARGE Strategist, Goode teach es professional women strategies for self-care to recharge their mental, physical, and emotion al batteries for success in life and business through her 8 Recharge Pillars of Self Care. Goode’s teach ings also emphasize the importance of self-care to enrich one’s life and heal after loss. She promotes positive self-image and teaches her clients that if you look good, you feel good so pamper yourself as often as possible.

Goode is certified in the relaxation techniques of mindfulness,

reflexology, and sound bowl therapy. Her mobile wellness studio, Make Me Over Wellness, brings wellness services right to your front door. Goode is also the founder of the Ladies Recharge Movement where she hosts quarterly events for women to step away from daily duties to perform self care and enjoy sisterhood and fun with other like minded professional women.

Some of Goode’s written collaborations include legendary Authors and Speakers such as Les Brown, Mikki Taylor, and Dr. Cheryl Wood. Goode has been featured on ABC, Dr. Oz, Wendy

Williams, Baltimore’s TV 25, Good Day Baltimore on Fox 45, Society

Moms TV, Radio One, WOLB Radio, All Nations Radio, Impact The World Radio, I Heart Radio,The Baltimore Times, Baltimore Flava Radio, Speakers Magazine, Impact Nation Magazine and a host of other Magazines and Media Outlets. She has spoken and emcees at numerous conferences and organizations including FBI, OSHA, Coca-Cola, United Healthcare, American Heart & Stroke Association, United Healthcare, Clifton T. Perkins Juvenile Detention Center, Speakercon, and The Leadership Experience Tour. She is highly respected and well versed in health & wellness. She has received numerous awards and Government citations for tenacity in business. She was awarded as a 2020 Woman Thriving in Business and one of Baltimore’s Women of Passion, Poise, & Purpose by the Baltimore Times. Goode’s expertise in the areas of RECHARGE strategies, self care, weight management, stress management, mental wellness, healing after loss, and heart disease prevention has touched the lives of many all over the world.

Dr. Cheryl Wood

Black Family Magazine: What is SpeakersCON and what was the inspiration behind WHY you started?

Dr. Cheryl Wood: SpeakerCon is the annual premier conference, convention, and awards gala for entrepreneurs and leaders who are committed to making their voices count. SpeakerCon equips entrepreneurs and leaders with the tools to unleash the power of their voice, find the power in their story, share their unique life experiences to impact the lives of others, build legacy and create wealth through their expert knowledge.

I started SpeakerCon because I observed there were too many entrepreneurs with transformational stories and valuable expert knowledge who were quietly staying in the background and remaining invisible because coming to the front of the room scared them. I observed that there were too many entrepreneurs who were hiding in

shame from the messy parts of their life story even though their greatest power was hidden in those stories, and I wanted to empower them to stop hoarding their past hurt. And I observed that there were too many people in the marketplace suffering and staying in pain because there weren’t enough entrepreneurs sharing the solutions they had learned through their own journey, so I wanted to equip them with the tools to share their knowledge.

Black Family Magazine: SpeakerCon2022 - Your Next Chapter means...

Dr. Cheryl Wood:

Your Next Chapter means there is greater in front of you than behind you. It means although you may have accomplished great things already, you are not done. As long as you are living and breathing, there is more for you to accomplish and more impact for you to make. Your Next Chapter means you get the joy of unveiling even more of

your brilliance and the world gets the joy of experiencing it!

Black Family Magazine: What does Stepping Into Your Next look like for Dr. Cheryl Wood & family?

Dr. Cheryl Wood: Stepping into our next as a family includes not only continuing to be a role model for our community to show them what’s possible, but also creating increased ways to give back to our community. Our next as a family will include incorporating programs and workshops as a part of the business to help teach financial literacy to our own community and creating more jobs within our own community by consistently hiring people who look like us. As a family, we are excited about stepping into the next BIG possibilities in front of us that will allow us to use our time, energy, effort, finances, resources, and passion to elevate other Black individuals and families!

Black Family Magazine:

What does living to leave a legacy mean to you?

Dr. Cheryl Wood:

Legacy means having something to pass down. So, legacy means you have created something worthy to hand to someone else and to be talked about long after your physical body is gone. Your legacy might be your faith, your values, your character, or simply the life you lead and the reputation you created that becomes an example for others to help guide their future.

Black Family Magazine:

If there is one thing you could share about family supporting or witnessing your transformation what words of encouragement would you give?

Dr. Cheryl Wood:

I would encourage family members and others who are witnessing someone’s transformation to make it your aim to be like a tall, refreshing glass of water on a hot day by going out of your way to give kind, encouraging words of support

to the person on their journey. In a world that’s often filled with a spirit of competition, envy, and anger, we need the love and support of our families to give us that extra “fuel” to just keep going. When your loved one wants to throw in the towel, be the voice of reason to help them refocus, reignite, and continue. Even when you don’t fully understand their vision, give a kind word or a listening ear. You don’t always have to understand the dream to support the dream!

Black Family Magazine: Can you share with us the new mindset changes that you had to adapt in order to reach your goals?

Dr. Cheryl Wood:

In order to reach my goals, I had to adapt a “no matter what” mindset where nothing or no one would stand in my way of becoming the greatest version of me! I had to develop a growth mindset that reminded me that I am worthy of all great things even with my fears and flaws. I had to develop a resilience mindset that even when I fail I have everything it takes to get back up. And I had to develop a

mindset to see every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Black Family Magazine: Dr. Cheryl, you often say, “Someone is waiting on what you are sitting on”. Can you share how the power of your VOICE, your STORY, your ACTIONS contributes to breaking generational cycles.

Dr. Cheryl Wood: If you want to heal from anything, the first thing you have to do is acknowledge that it exists. That’s exactly what we do with our voices and our stories. We openly acknowledge that pain and hurt has existed in our lives and that there are some generational beliefs, behaviors and patterns that need to be crushed. Every time we

allow ourselves to be vulnerable enough to share the messy parts of our own lives including the toxic generational cycles, we (i) give ourselves permission to heal our own hurt, (ii) create a healing space for others who are currently experiencing the hurt we once held onto, and (iii) break generational cycles by exposing and healing from our trauma instead of keeping our pain quiet and hidden.

Black Family Magazine: What words of encouragement do you have for other leaders trying to navigate the family, God and the entrepreneurship journey?

Dr. Cheryl Wood:

throw you off course for keeping first things first. My belief is that anytime you keep God first, treat your family as your first “ministry” and put in the work to keep harmony between your responsibilities and your possibilities, you will always win!

Black Family Magazine: The Black Family Magazine is on a mission to transform 1Million Black Families through personal and professional growth. Can you tell us a little more about your latest book? Success Code What were personal and professional growth that you had to embrace in order to obtain your level of success?

Dr. Cheryl Wood: I recently authored two

transformational books with two giants in the world, Brian Tracy and Les Brown. In my book with Brian Tracy, Cracking the Success Code, I spent time challenging readers to embrace that there is power in their voice and that someone in the world is waiting on them to show up and share what they know so they can move beyond the pain that’s holding them hostage. And, in my book with Les Brown, Dare to Rise Above Mediocrity, I challenged readers

to focus on the fact that there is nothing ordinary about them and that they were uniquely designed for a specific purpose that no one else can fill.

For my own personal and professional growth and to achieve this level of success, I had to embrace one ultimate truth... that

I AM ENOUGH JUST AS I AM. Ironically, even at this level of success in my journey as a 7-figure

earning business with global impact, I still have to constantly remind myself of that truth every single day because my fears and insecurities will always attempt to be the loudest voice in my mind. And, if I don’t allow the voice of truth to be louder, I will succumb to the toxic belief that somehow I’m not good enough. So, I just keep feeding my mind positive affirmations and mantras throughout the day every day!!

Black Family Magazine: What programs/services do you currently offer for those who desire to work directly with you?

Dr. Cheryl Wood: I meet each client where they are and, therefore, offer a variety of training courses, workshops, bootcamps, masterminds, and live events to help elevate the impact and income of entrepreneurs globally. Clients can work with me through my Center Stage Speakers Program, Vocalize Speaker Mastery Course, Global Legacy Builders Mastermind, and/or Tenacious Woman Retreat.

Black Family Magazine: Where should our audience go to stay connected with you?

Dr. Cheryl Wood: On my website at www. cherylempowers.com and on all social media platforms using the handle @CherylEmpowers.

Andrea Blue

JJ Conway

“No one ever got rich by studying poverty and thinking about poverty”

- Wallace D. Wattles

Living To Leave a Legacy

In 2009 I came home from a military trip to find my house sold, my stuff thrown out, and divorce papers to sign. That week I became a single military mom with over $845,000 of debt to my name, most of which was taken (and spent) by my ex-husband.

People said “file bankruptcy! Walk away from that debt.” I didn’t want to get stuck in a never-ending cycle of debt and bankruptcy. I wanted better for my son!

I wanted a legacy for my future generations!

I learned how to hustle in a hurry, working multiple businesses in addition to my job. I ran toward my creditors instead of hiding from them, assuring them I would pay in full one day, even if I could only pay two dollars today. I scoured the library and the internet and learned how to make money work for me.

Dumping debt and building wealth isn’t just about how much money you make or how much you save. Those things are important, but they’re not the KEY that allows you to leave a legacy.

Each of us have enough energy, intellect, and talent to leave a legacy, but we’re so conditioned to poverty as a way of life that most of us never realize the latent power hiding in each of us.

Wallace Wattles taught that the hardest thing you’ll ever do is stay focused on thinking about yourself as prosperous. To break the generational cycle of poverty, and push back against a world that tells us we’re worthless, we must visualize ourselves as prosperous and make a commitment to our future. We do this by writing a detailed vision of what we want, reflecting on that vision at least twice a day, and taking daily consistent action in the direction of this dream.

It sounds simple, until you try it. It sounds simple, many never try it. When we do, everything changes! Doors begin to open, and opportunity finds you. This is how you begin to break the cycle of generational poverty.

I believe in your power to live your dream!

- Veronica Simon

Dr. Calisa M. Smith

Dr. Carlisa M. Smith earned her Doctor of Education, EdD, at Nova Southeastern University.

Dr. Smith is a licensed real estate broker and real estate instructor. She holds numerous designations and affiliations. Dr. Smith is an international speaker, multiple times bestselling author, educator, real estate empire builder, life coach, and philanthropist. Dr. Smith is a highly sought-after speaker. She is known to Educate, Inspire and Empower. Dr. Smith ignites her

audience with her enthusiastic personality, captivating smile, and intoxicating humor.

Dr. Smith is the CEO of multiple organizations including J Briann Realty Group, Inc. (A full-service real estate and real estate investment firm) and A Smile for Everyone, Inc. (A nonprofit organization that assists their participants with their out-of-pocket dental expenses to maintain a healthy smile. Dr. Smith has over 28 years of experience and is known for her work ethic, commitment to excellence, integrity,

persistent attention to detail and accuracy. She is also known as an established leader and educator. Dr. Smith is committed to her mission to help others succeed and build their empire. Dr. Smith is a Florida native. In her spare time, she likes to travel, listen to live music, and read. www.drcarlisamsmith.com https://linktr.ee/dr.carlisamsmith info@drcarlisamsmith.com

Contact Number: 561-688-1316

Black Family Magazine: What does living to leave a legacy mean to you?

Dr. Carlisa M. Smith: Leaving a legacy is the transference of power and wealth to the next generations to empower them to do the same. Additionally, it’s sharing your personal history, life experiences and knowledge with your family and your community to ultimately make a mark in this world and a global impact. Therefore, being remembered for decades to come. According to scripture, “A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.” Proverbs 13:22 Furthermore, we must leave an inheritance for our family with land, finances, values, and health education so that our food will be our medicine.

When I think about my ancestors and what they went through so that I could have the opportunities that I have had and still even more today, it amazes me. My maternal grandmother was a major influence in my life. She was a strong and very intelligent woman. My grandmother shared the life lessons that she experienced with me. She gave

me her best and I am extremely grateful. I was taught to dream big and visualize everything I desired.

I am a real estate broker, investor, empire builder and the property “flipping queen”. I love what I do. One of my favorite quotes, by Andrew Carnige, reminds me of why real estate is the career for me. “Ninety percent of all millionaires became so through owning real estate.”

As I mature, continue to grow wiser, and age gracefully, leaving a legacy becomes increasingly important. Breaking generational cycles, healing from generational hurts, building generational wealth through personal and professional development are essential.

I have always been passionate about advocating and empowering people to succeed professionally and through the journey of life with true freedom emotionally, mentally, physically, spiritually, and financially.

If you passed away today, how

will you be remembered? Are you happy with what you believe the description of you will be? If not, you can make a change today. Elevate your mind and elevate your life.

“Life has no limitations, except the ones you make.”

-Les Brown

Dr. Monica D. Reed

Carol Muleta

Carol Muleta is a Parenting Strategist and Consultant. She created The Parent ing 411, a portal where she engages parents and awakens the JOY in their journey with her fresh approach to addressing challenging behavior, building strong family connections, and fostering children’s success in school and in life. Carol reaches parents through keynotes, webinars, coaching, and a podcast. She was named 2019 District of Columbia Mother of the Year® by American Mothers, Inc. For six years, she hosted the Parenting 411 radio show on Baltimore’s Radio One talk radio station and was named Radio Person ality of the Year at SpeakerCon 2019. A 5x best-selling author, Carol has written a poignant, mini-motherhood memoir, entitled Mother’s Work: Pearls of Wisdom & Gems from my journey. Her recent anthology, The Parenting Odyssey: Trials, Treas ures, and Triumphs of Parenting in a Pandemic was a finalist at the 2022 International Book Awards. In her previous career in corporate market ing, she oversaw a product portfolio that generated over $1B in annual revenue. Her signature story, “Scal ing Up: From Marketing Manager to Mother of the Year” has inspired many. Carol lives in Northern Virginia and is the proud mom of twin sons who are now young adults.

- Carol Muleta

Black Family Magazine: What does living to leave a legacy mean to you?

Dr. Carol Muleta: Everyone can make a powerful impact in whatever role(s) they play in the world, if they embrace the challenge. As a parent, you have an extraordinary privilege to leave a legacy. Beyond money or property you leave behind, you bequeath to your children invaluable life lessons as they witness the manner in which you relate to them, manage your daily obligations, and interact with others. Strategic Advisor, Peter Strople, said “Legacy is not leaving something for people. It’s leaving something in people.” When you emphasize lavishly pouring good material into your children vs. surrounding them with lavish material goods, you set them up to create a life of real meaning. Below are essential elements your children can digest by observing and being actively taught by you:

Respect: Illuminate your child’s path by regarding yourself and others with dignity in moments of harmony or discord, abundance or scarcity, joy or sorrow, and success or defeat.

Responsibility: Practice routines and rituals for taking care of individual needs while respecting the needs of others. In addition, give your children responsibility for some tasks that serve the family.

Resourcefulness: Model and teach problem-solving skills that prepare your children to creatively confront life’s unexpected challenges. When appropriate, solicit your child’s ideas for tackling family dilemmas.

Resilience: When facing setbacks, acknowledge disappointment, assess damages, regain traction (with help, if necessary), recast your approach, and restart the journey. Allow your child to experience low-stakes

failures and guide them through these steps, so they gain experience recovering from crisis.

Relevance: You deserve time to relax and experience joy even when there’s no higher meaning attached. At other times, demonstrate what operating in purpose looks like. Share some of your goals and the daily practices that help you reach them. Show your children how they can use their skills and talents to serve their own needs and those of others.

Ultimately, some lessons are taught and others are caught. Be intentional about creating your own formula for the legacy you want to leave for your children AND theirs. Follow The Parenting 411 on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube!

“Don’t wallow in WOE is me. Rise up and walk in WOW, it’s me!”

Sabrina Willis

My multifaceted career has provided a solid foundation in which

I can consult, educate, advocate, and lead policy revolution and adherence to standards of care. I use the knowledge and experience gained over the past 13 years to provide invaluable consultation and expertise to attorneys about medical issues. With a solid clinical background, I apply the nursing process to evaluate relevant, complex information in legal cases, ultimately bridging the gap between the legal process, healthcare science, and patient outcomes. I believe the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. Healthcare has advanced tremendously, but we still have a long way to go. One step at a time.

Visit our website: www. victoriouslegalnurse.com and connect with us on www.linkedin. com/in/vclnc.

Black Family Magazine: What does “Stepping Into Your Next” mean to you?

Sabrina Willis: I am thankful for the ability to write my own story. “Stepping into my next” means propelling along the path of those who came before me. I had a sense of gratitude that stemmed from being one of three. As the eldest child, I was held to a much higher standard than my siblings. I wore that as a badge of honor, meaning I could forge a path demonstrating that we had a solid foundation that prepared us for the world. I was the example developed by fire and presenting to the world a gem.

Going through it was not easy by any means. Stepping out on the other side, I have a sense of accomplishment and a deep desire to share and help others who may be struggling. Many people tell the story of their success but fail to mention all the valleys along the way. I battled anxiety, depression, PTDS, imposter syndrome, and overall feelings of unworthiness. I decided I would be the author and

finisher of the story. Following a successful military career, I found myself at a crossroads. I finally had the freedom to choose my path but was battered by a position of bedside nursing. I decided to pick something that sparked my curiosity.

The brain is one organ medical professionals have studied but still have limited knowledge of its full capabilities. When my two-year-old suffered a massive stroke, I learned just how valuable my understanding of the brain would be. As a nurse and former military officer, nothing could have fully prepared me for the journey. I was, however, grateful for the prep. Shortly after the initial experience, I started my independent legal nurse consultant company, Victorious Consulting. I wanted to be a resource for families and attorneys who help families dealing with medical malpractice, personal injury, and domestic violence. If my daughter makes a full recovery, she can look back and be proud that her mom fought not only for her but for countless others to have solace and justice.

“If you want to go fast, go alone, if you want to go far, go together”

- African Proverb

Rakiema SellarsPompey

Rakiema T Sellars-Pompey

is teen-mother whose story is one of resilience and determination which wouldn’t allow her situation to dictate her future. She holds many titles: Nurse, Soldier, Speaker, Consultant, Author, and owner operator of Lotus Drip Wellness Suite, a VIP Concierge IV Hydration & Vitamin Shot Bar service; Lotus Wellness Screening & Diagnostics, a Drug Collection & DNA testing lab; and Rakiema Sellars Consulting. In an effort to obtain those titles, Rakiema has proven to be a lifelong learner, receiving her Associates in Arts (AA) from Chaminade University 2003), Bachelors of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Old Dominion University (2009), trained as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) since 2011, board certified in Emergency Nursing since 2013 and currently attending the University of San Diego’s Doctorate in Emergency Nurse Practitioner program, while concurrently serving on Active Duty.

With over 22 years of healthcare experience, Rakiema loves to educate and mentor nurses. Due to her unique story, Rakiema is requested to speak at various events. Of note: 2019 Essence of a Boss Conference, 2019 North Carolina School Counselor Conference, 2020 South Carolina School Counselor Conference, and the 2022 Las Vegas STEM Fair for Clark County School District

Black Family Magazine: What does living to leave a legacy mean to you?

Rakiema T Sellars-Pompey: In my formative years, my understanding of “legacy” was that it (legacy) was, most of the time, something of monetary value, that was left and/or passed down by parent, grandparent(s), or another family member. With this definition of legacy as my only reference I would have told you that my family was not a family of legacy. As a result, I’ve strongly desired to change that reality for my family. Especially as a teen mom, I wanted nothing more than to ensure my children never needed or wanted anything.

As I matured, I realized that legacy is not only generational wealth handed down from generation to generation. Legacy, in many cases involves your family, but it can also involve people you know and people you don’t. It is more than a passing of generational wealth and includes the passing of knowledge, empathy, or understanding that will elicit a life-long emotional

response. Whether good or bad, the emotion is attached to the person who elicited it and that is also their legacy.

I believe that my legacy will not only involve familial generational wealth but those I interact with on a daily basis. I try to make people feel appreciated with all of my interactions. Whether it’s someone who comes into my business, Lotus Drip Wellness Suite to get an IV Hydration drip or DOT drug testing or a patient I’m seeing in the hospital while on rounds as part of my residency as a student nurse practitioner. I want each person to feel seen, heard, and cared for during our time together and thereafter.

I’ve been in healthcare for 22 years and I’m hopeful I’ve gotten to impact a lot of people with my positivity. Building a legacy is a daily focus for me - every person I encounter should feel like he or she matters and leave feeling better than when they came.

“If you are going to live, leave a legacy. Make a mark on the world that can’t be erased”

- Maya Angelou

Lolita McNeal

Lolita McNeal is a woman with a burning passion to see women living their best lives by walking in the authenticity and fullness of who they truly are. This passion led her to start a life changing business, Walking in Wellness. Through her business, she educates, empowers, and equips women to live a life of physical, mental, and spiritual abundance. This is accomplished through coaching, speaking, and authoring books.

Lolita holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She is a certified Life Coach through Life Purpose Coaching Centers International. A certified Holistic Health Coach with Legacy Holistic Health Institute. An ordained minister and proud veteran of the United States Air Force. Lolita currently resides in Lilburn, GA with her husband of 28 years, her three amazing adult children, and two handsome grandsons.

Black Family Magazine: What does living to leave a legacy mean to you?

Rakiema T Sellars-Pompey: In my formative years, my understanding of “legacy” was that it (legacy) was, most of the time, something of monetary value, that was left and/or passed down by parent, grandparent(s), or another family member. With this definition of legacy as my only reference I would have told you that my family was not a family of legacy. As a result, I’ve strongly desired to change that reality for my family. Especially as a teen mom, I wanted nothing more than to ensure my children never needed or wanted anything.

As I matured, I realized that legacy is not only generational wealth handed down from generation to generation. Legacy, in many cases involves your family, but it can also involve people you know and people you don’t. It is more than a passing of generational wealth and includes the passing of knowledge, empathy, or understanding that will elicit a life-long emotional

response. Whether good or bad, the emotion is attached to the person who elicited it and that is also their legacy.

I believe that my legacy will not only involve familial generational wealth but those I interact with on a daily basis. I try to make people feel appreciated with all of my interactions. Whether it’s someone who comes into my business, Lotus Drip Wellness Suite to get an IV Hydration drip or DOT drug testing or a patient I’m seeing in the hospital while on rounds as part of my residency as a student nurse practitioner. I want each person to feel seen, heard, and cared for during our time together and thereafter.

I’ve been in healthcare for 22 years and I’m hopeful I’ve gotten to impact a lot of people with my positivity. Building a legacy is a daily focus for me - every person I encounter should feel like he or she matters and leave feeling better than when they came.

“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”

- Maya Angelou

Dr. Andrea Blue

Dr. Andrea Blue hails from Baldwin, MI. Dr. Blue is an international speaker, author, educator, mentor, and coach. Her education includes a Doctorate in Management and Organizational Development and Change in Higher Education Organizations; at Colorado Technical University; 2 Master’s Degrees; at Ferris State University in Business Administration and Career Technical Education. Dr. Blue is the Founder and CXO/Executive Director of B & J Enterprises, LLC, where Blue Pathways Educational Mentorship Services and Paramount Recruitment Agency were birthed.

She brings 20-plus years of experience in business, management, and education. Dr. Blue spent the first 15 years as a mentor at Ferris State University. In 2014, she had the opportunity to work with a University that allowed her to explore her gifts and start a business where she continues to serve black and brown girls and women between the ages of 10 – 25+.

As part of our 12 Plus City Tour for 2022 – 2024, we intentionally work with c-suite leaders (male and female leaders) that work with women of color in corporate spaces.

We bring our programs and services to you worldwide.

She works closely with c-suite leaders to provide them with strategic tools to help schools and organizations create effective leaders, increase retention rates, and decrease drop-out rates. The focus is to engage and build a culture of camaraderie to reduce the Great Resignation through our Leadership Platform for Women of Color In Corporate Spaces.

As an executive leadership development mentor, educator,

and coach, she has worked with 50+ organizations. Dr. Blue understands their frustration and knows what works and needs to be done regarding cultural and organizational change and development. As corporate leaders work hard with us to increase retention rates, decrease drop-out rates, trust is built.

Throughout her career as a consultant, she has found that executive leadership development, mentorship and coaching is the tool to help c-suite leaders to enhance their teams and realize the importance of organizational change and mindset. The change will happen; however, how will leadership handle the change?

The transformational services include personal/professional development to c-suite leaders that work directly with black and brown girls and women. We promote change with more than excitement about the change but provide an opportunity to work directly with qualified mentors to provide action steps. We work with organizations

with black and brown girls, women, boys, men, and female veterans. Keep in mind that all of our avatars are not students. We offer support by helping these individuals find and use their passion and purpose with an action plan.

The ideal client is driven, overwhelmed, working with outdated systems and processes, and a professional who desires to move toward the next steps with patience. The client may have questions about the unknown but are willing to do the work to find clarity and complete the processes. The client work with black and brown girls, women, boys, men, and female veterans, and they understand their lived experiences of being underprivileged and

underrepresented populations. They are dedicated to transforming lives. The services extend locally and globally. The client plan for a career, education, entrepreneurship, personal/professional development, and employment goals. The client dares to dream big with authenticity and integrity.

We know this client because we are this client. We are intentional about working with organizations closely connected to this affirmation statement. We bring 15-plus years of business, management, and education experience and DISC Certification Training. We intentionally help transform 650,000 plus lives through mindset mentorship and coach strategies.

Black Family Magazine: What does “Stepping Into Your Next” mean to you?

Dr. Andrea Blue: This question is so important to the growth of my family. Each year, it is important to sit down with family members in corporate spaces, continue their educational journey, and embark on the entrepreneurial journey. The focus of meeting quarterly is to create a plan of action individually and as a family. If there is no plan, the vision is unable to be fulfilled.

As we step into the next level of our journey, called life, we want to follow our bliss. This is the one thing that you were born to do. If you are not following YOUR bliss, you are living someone else’s dream. Build for the next generation.

Taking steps with a plan of action is so important. I am intentional about bringing those that want to go on the journey. Family is more than by namesake; it is by divine order.

Take steps to look at your family and see how you can build the next steps of legacy.

Motto: Let Us Motivate, Educate, and Lead You Beyond Their Today and Into Their Tomorrow.

Dr. Andrea Blue

- Martha T. Davidson

Annette P. Gomes

Annette P. Gomes is currently a Sr. Strategic Communications Planner and Writer with the Department of Defense in Washington, D.C., CEO of Wutavoicecomunications, LLC, Co-Founder of Dream Out Loud Media, LLC. and a freelance writer for The Black Family Magazine.

After hanging up her reporting shoes, she began using her voice in other ways, notably as a Voice Artist with her company “Wutavoicecmmunications” For more than 10 years, she’s lent her voice to a number of clients ranging from Dissection Media (The MovieGarage) the National AfricanAmerican Museum to Pfizer to the Department of Defense – Army. In 2020

Born in Barbados, West In dies, she dreamed of a life in entertainment television as a producer.

She took a slight detour in college after enrolling in the Agricultural Journalism -Broadcast sequence division at University of Missouri. For more than 15 years she served as a Radio Commentator, Anchor, Reporter and Talk show host with NBC and CBS affiliates in Missouri and Georgia. She holds degrees in Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Management.

She co-authored and released her first children’s book: “C is for Critter Fixer” Annette’s true passion lies in giving a voice to the voicelessabused and trauma victims. A survivor herself, the film “Garage” furthered her commitment to helping survivors thrive. She also volunteers as a reading mentor with the Wright to Read Program in Alexandria, VA.

The seed was planted. For he knew me in the womb - Jeremiah 1:5.

Black Family Magazine: What does “Stepping Into Your Next” mean to you?

Annette P. Gomes: Stepping into my next is God’s dream for me. I have always known I was born for greatness, even as life’s twists and turns would appear more often than I wanted them to. Some may call it failures; I call it a blueprint for MY LIFE. As I began to type a recent resignation letter, I suddenly realized I was receiving one of God’s winks. I am working towards my gift, my passion, my reason for being. My dream? To evolve every day, empower and inspire others. I wanted to be a communicator for as long as I can remember because my voice was silenced for so long. I’m not only the CEO of my own communications company but the Co-CEO of another. I’m finally living my dreams out loud.

Living the Legacy

Martha T. Davidson

Inner peace begins when you are More than Enough”

- Martha T. Davidson

Martha T. Davidson is a Transformational Mindset Consultant, Certified Neuro-Transformational Leader and is certified in RTT Hypnotherapy. She is passionate about enlightening and empowering her clients with proven coaching strategies and educating them on how to embody these mindset strategies to design & transform self-worth while letting go of the past and embracing the present. Her accelerator program, Mindset Reset, is her signature transformational coaching program. She is an Amazon Best Selling author of “Age With SAGE”, and the Visionary

Author of No More Silence. She is also a co-author of 7 anthologies where her chapters heighten the awareness of emotions and physical impact of holding on to silent stories. As an Inspirational speaker, she hosted and participated in various workshops. She was a plenary speaker in March 2022 at the International Women Day Rise Conference in Paris, France and spoke in Dubai August 2022. She was recognized in the March 2020 K.I.S.H. Magazine as a Sensational Women to watch in 2020. She enjoys serving the under-served - especially the homeless and children. She is currently on the Board of Directors of Umi Feeds in Atlanta and Love Mama’s Legacy Foundation. She has one son, loves to travel and enjoys creating memories with family and friends.

Black Family Magazine: What does living to leave a legacy mean to you?

Martha T. Davidson: It is so important for me to be recognized and remembered not only for creating and leaving wealth and sharing the value of generational wealth. I want my life between the dashes to reflect my character of love and compassion. I am reminded of a scripture “As man thinketh is his heart so is he”. For me, it is essential to leave a legacy that demonstrates the importance of fulfillment and developing and

understanding that whatever the various seasons I encountered in my life it happened for a reason. It was for me to expand who I am and for me to share, and let others see how even through challenging times or amid good times I showed up heart centered.

For many of us, we get caught up in what other people’s values are of us, we often don’t show up authentically because we’re too busy trying to please other people. We’re persistently trying to be everything to everyone. This

was my life’s story for many years seeking validation outside me and a major distraction in who I came here to be and certainly not one of inspiration. When I awakened to this monumental paradigm shift that I am here to be an inspiration versus seeking validation. So, for me leaving a legacy is letting anyone that I encounter know that whatever season you’re facing in life’s journey always find the glory, blessings and lessons to emanate your life authentically being heart and soul driven.

Dr. Cheryl Wood

Veronica Simon

“Focus On You Until You Become The Focus”

- Veronica Simon

Veronica Simon is a certified international life coach, facilitator, inspirational speaker and founder of the BeYouBoo™ brand. She has a distinct passion for women and children and her candid style of communication encourages people to live life on purpose. She is a multiple International Best Selling Author in which all of her writing contributions all tie back to her sheer essence of loving others to life!

Veronica’s 1st book, “Soul Engagement – A 40-Day Journey to Personal Freedom and Power” reveals how anyone can tap inward with focused intent to peel back the layers that may have kept them from becoming their authentic self.

Equally fascinating is Veronica’s approach in helping people work toward extraordinary goals and connecting with their inner self. Not only is she an accomplished author, she is a retreat host, founder of a certified 501c3 organization, recognized in her professional corporate career as a servant leader and in her community as her sister’s keeper. She is undeniably a Woman, Daughter, Sister, Wife, Auntie, and Mom to name a few, yet above all, AN AUTHENTIC LOVER OF SOULS!

Black Family Magazine: What does “Stepping Into Your Next” mean to you?

Veronica Simon: Stepping into my next will be the epitome of me rising in my God given power to fulfill my destiny as my unapologetic self while inspiring my family and others to embrace and simply be exactly who they are. My destiny is wrapped up in freeing others as I have progressed through the process several times via my journey to personal freedom and power. As we are intentional with our metamorphosis of becoming, we will transition effortlessly into BEING!

Inspiring others to be authentic is a self-love quest that I encourage others to make time to engage themselves. It is a consistent, intentional engagement without distraction within a space in which they hold sacred. Being intentional about anything but especially about peeling back the layers of self is a matter of the Soul. The ultimate goal which will have an infinite impact is becoming Soul Engaged. Being soul engaged will solidify the foundation for you to be solid in being Y-O-U!

Over my years of being, I can honestly share that I have been able to step back through many phases, instances, milestones in my life while recognizing my missteps, pitfalls, triumphs, growths and the removal of the blinder that

now challenges me to be fully accountable for ME! The best view for me, will always be God’s view of who HE shows me that I am versus who others may like me to be. Aligning and trusting that you are a vessel for something much greater speaks volumes to the why it is important to not only discover but know and grow into the YOU that YOU ARE BY DESIGN!

Many of us know the following scripture well, “I am fearfully and wonderfully made” ~ Psalm 139:14. But I am going to challenge you to study and break down not just the one verse by the entire Psalm. There is so much depth in this Psalm, just as there is so much depth to YOU!

Make your pursuit of being Y-O-U, your mission as you seek to uncover YOUR vision!

Dr. Monica D. Reed

their voices to reach back and pull another woman up.

Dr. Monica 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.

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

M any 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 ac complished that already. Her deep passion for “CHANGE” came from her heart that showed up through her tiny body (back 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.

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

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 women find their voices, and utilize

Monica Reed completed the Global Leadership Academy 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 been marked as the FIRST black-owned, full-service, entrepreneur business center in Bucks County, PA.

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 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 solution-based environments,

and face life with a choice point; community outcomes become an excellent example of positive posttraumatic growth.

Monica has led several social-impact 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 motto is: “When one woman heals, one family is healed.”

- Dr. Monica D. Reed

Black Family Magazine: What does “Stepping Into Your Next” mean to you?

Dr. Monica D. Reed: