Titus Showers Courageous Men Magazine

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Hollywood’s

SEXIEST I love being wrong so I can learn something I never knew before”

POWER COUPLE By Telishia Berry

Michael Jai and Gillian White are one of Hollywood’s sexiest power couples. Love, peace, and happiness exude whenever you see these two interact anywhere from the red carpet to working out together to a high-energy scene where they are engaged in martial arts. Most couples who have a healthy relationship have at least one thing that they say keeps them together in love and harmony. In my interview with Michael, I asked him, “What is that thing “THING” that makes Michael and Gillian work?” We have zero egos, and we both love to learn. I love being wrong so I can learn something I never knew before. We are teammates in the true sense. The journey in life is fascinating because we continue to learn, and we continue to get better because we are not servicing an ego that keeps us from reality. My life changed when I accepted being 100% to my wife and started being the husband and father that I need to be. That satisfaction of being that man is immeasurable and far greater than anytime I spent running around with a flock of women and doing what society says we should be doing. Michael and Gillian White have worked on several projects together, including the upcoming movie, “Take Back.” We congratulate Gillian for being the first black female martial arts star! Look for more from this incredible couple. 6 courageous men


Michael and Gillian White


Dianna Forsberg 8 courageous men


It is deemed that most successful women desire more from men in a relationship in today’s culture. We can be challenging, but what we want is simple. We want a MAN, not a boy masquerading to be one. His character and values will be at the forefront of his true identity.

A Man of God Women today want a man who follows God above all things. This brings comfort and security to us. A God-fearing man will love you deeply, removing uncertainties, doubts, and insecurities about where the relationship is going or his true intentions. Women want a man that will never put them in a position to question the relationship. Whether he’s in her presence or not, she is comforted in knowing that he’s trustworthy, Godly, faithful, and a leader in and out of the home.

Honesty Women want the truth. Even if you believe the truth will upset us, choose to be honest with yourself and us. We can forgive an honest man, but a dishonest man is intolerable. One lie will turn into a snowball effect. Soon, you will begin questioning his character. Why lie? Please give us the truth.

Trust This world is hard enough on us. In a relationship, you want to feel secure. When you trust someone, you can exhale; an indescribable relief. When a woman trusts you, you get the absolute BEST of her. She won’t hold back. She’ll pour into her man, which in essence makes him a better man.

diannaforsberg

Financially Responsible Even if a woman’s income exceeds the man’s, she should be able to trust you to make wise financial decisions that support both your goals. Not just suggestions or ideas, but the ultimate example is how he handles his own money and investments. The question is, “Can he take care of himself?” If he can’t take care of himself, how can he successfully lead the home and family? Even if we don’t need you financially, we need to know that you can hold it down if something ever happened to us.

Be a man of your word The crux of the matter is this: Do what you say you will do. Promises are good, but actions hold power. Typically, a person who honors their word has their priorities in the right place. You can have good intentions and make promises. But, you exhibit good character when you keep them. Integrity is everything, and it will determine how people deal with you. When it comes to relationships, a BOSS woman doesn’t want to be your boss; she wants to be your lady. She’s not looking for a “Caretaker,” Most women are interested in true partnership. She wants your support, love, and commitment. Nurture her heart and get to know her. Don’t be fascinated by how the world views her. Support her endeavors because a good one will certainly support yours with voracity. Lastly, PRAY for her when she’s at her best AND her worse. She may be a BOSS in the world, but she wants to be your lady at home. Dianna Forsberg is an International Fitness Model, Published Cover Model, Amazon #1 Best Selling Author, IFBB Bikini Pro, Motivational Speaker, Health and Wellness Lifestyle Expert, Successful Entrepreneur

diannaforsberg

www.diannaforsberg.com


How To

Attract

Your Soul Mate BISHOP RC BLAKES

T

here’s a belief that we all have a soul mate - a person that connects with who we are and where we are going. Some believe that this is the person God specifically designed for them. While there are many different beliefs about the concept of soul mates that I may or may not subscribe to, I believe in soul mates. I am married to mine for twenty-five years and counting. I used the term attract because I believe that we must attract them. They don’t fall from Heaven.

There are three keys we will discuss.

1. BECOME WHAT YOU DESIRE We all attract what we are. It’s not enough to have idealistic imaginations that exceed your profile. The first step to attracting is becoming.

Cynthia Videau

2. BE AVAILABLE WHEN THEY ARRIVE It would be best if you resisted the idea of relationship desperation. Sometimes we preoccupy our lives with the wrong people and are never emotionally available for the right ones. Be available for your soul mate.

Website designer and Marketing Strategist 10 courageous men


C

ynthia Videau is a 5-star reviewed, BBB Accredited, highly recommended Website Designer, Marketing Professional, and Business Strategist. She specializes in creating stunning, custom, Wix websites tailored specifically for A soul mate connection like a pair your marketing goals and is strategy. Cynthia is also an Icon Partner of shoesa over distinct left and with Wix. For six years, she right. has pushed, curated, and helped The left andCynthia the right shoemother, must minister, and speaker. brands grow. is a wife,

3.MAXIMIZE YOUR INDIVIDUALITY

be individually whole to make the pair. MOTIVATION Maximize your individuality HER as a graduating single to be whole enough to After with a Bachelor of Science Degree, the journey to finding for to a be mate. While you’re aqualify job proved very difficult. I kept getting rejection emails. The reason single, become best version. was always that, your ‘I didn’t have enough experience.’ One day I was presented with the opportunity to design websites for a business development agency. It motivated my talent start a business. RC Blakes me is to theusefounder oftothe

QUEENOLOGY movement, author HER CHALLENGES of the QUEENOLOGY book and Yes! I experienced I didn’t immediately quit my job to pursue online programs. many He’s asetbacks. pastor and entrepreneurship. I useddedicated it to supplement my income. At first, I couldn’t dedicate YouTube personality to all my time to my growing business. I struggled to “put myself out there.” I was empowering women.

nervous about being rejected. My mindset towards pursuing new clients was more toxic embracing Visit than his website at the process itself.

WWW.RCBlakes.com

HER INSPIRATION RCBlakes

My greatest inspiration is Jesus himself. I had to learn how to shed the shame of my past and allow God to heal me. The greatest thing about Christ is that He’s bold, always willing to give, and unconditionally loves everyone.

HER HOPE People will gain an opportunity to discuss their most heart-wrenching desires and concerns about their brand. The opportunity to come up with a creative design and marketing strategy is available.

FOLLOW CYNTHIA VIDEAU cynthiavideau.com |

@cbeyondmarketing |

A soul mate connection is like a pair of shoes...a distinct left and right.”

@cbeyond.marketing


12 courageous men



14 courageous men



16 courageous men



Like yourself, enjoy your own company, and spend time with you.”

Winston Warrior The Dope Professor 18 courageous men


Every Women Must

LoveHerself Full disclosure...I’m not a woman. Smile.

But seriously, all jokes aside, I don’t profess to know all of the unique emotions and feelings that come with the extra X chromosome. And, I completely acknowledge that most men (not all of us) process, express, and emote our feelings in contrastingly different ways when juxtaposed to how women do so. With that said, quite often, I am asked for relationship advice from men, and especially from women. This is the case because, as #thedopeprofessor, I offer life lessons to my social media family that I’ve learned along the way. These lessons seem to resonate with so many.

I believe that at our core, we have some basic human characteristics that transcend our gender differences. One basic foundational emotion is Love. As human beings, there as some truths that are universal. Not to be religious, but the verse says, “Love is patient, Love is kind, It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude; it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” So when a woman (or man) asks my advice as to why they can’t find Love or why Love wasn’t found them, I immediately ask the question, “But do you love yourself

unconditionally?” Do you offer yourself the same type of Love expressed in the quote? Women can be more forgiving of their man’s shortcomings than they are with forgiving what is perceived as their own. Why? I believe it’s due to the lack of self-love. If you can’t love yourself, how can you love anyone else; or understand how to love anyone else? Recognize that “imperfections” are unique expressions of God. You are special! Embrace your curves, love your stretch marks, don’t hate your moles, admire your hair – natural or store-bought (smile), and appreciate your breasts regardless of the size. Like yourself, enjoy your own company, and spend time with you. A woman must learn to love herself first.

Just... Love. On. You.

Once you’ve indeed fallen back in Love with yourself, then you will naturally reject anything (or anyone) that isn’t loving. Conversely, you will begin to attract the Love you seek. Love begets Love.

Winston Warrior aka #TheDopeProfessor (@ therealwinstonwarrior)

Winston Warrior (that’s his real name) is a storyteller, model, social media influencer, creative catalyst, and marketing executive. He is an actual university professor/administrator at the University of Miami. Entertainment is his other passion. Winston is also an R&B singer/songwriter. In 2011, he released his debut studio album, Lifeology 101 whose lead single “Bad 4 U” peaked at #27 on the Billboard Adult R&B Song chart.


20 courageous men



22 courageous men



How to

Spot aFake Marriage

T

here are so many people today in our culture that want to get married. They are not concerned about being in love or compatible. They just want somebody to connect with. This is why you must be careful who you connect with at this stage of your life. Notice how I didn’t say in a relationship, but I said married because there’s a group of obsessed people. Yes, it is not good for a man to be alone, but you have to be careful of connecting with the wrong rib and not talking about barbecue ribs!

3. Money marriage. This is a prevalent type of

1. Foreigner marriage.

4. Companion marriage.

Dating people who are not from this country who need a green card to become American citizens. You’d be surprised at how many times someone has called me from Africa for me to marry their niece for $10,000, and all they want is a green card.

2. Sex marriage. This marriage is very unreal and

unusual. They want to get married based on how they engage sexually. Just because a person can have multiple orgasms does not mean that they will be good husbands or good wives. Sex is not everything that you will notice as you get older. No matter how good they are, according to human nature, you will get used to it. I love fried chicken, but I sure don’t want to eat it every day. Can someone give me some salmon?

marriage. Unfortunately, most people that are thirsty for companionship don’t see it. But a person wants to marry you simply because of what you have financially, big house, cars, investments, properties, hair salons, etc. They are only in love and want to marry you simply because you can give them the lifestyle they can’t give themselves. Be careful of those more interested in what’s in your wallet more than what’s in your heart!

It is said, “Even misery loves company!” We are in a time and day where people are at home alone, primarily because of Covid. They work at home alone, eat at home alone, and sleep at home alone. Some individuals don’t have to be compatible with you; they want you there. This lifestyle is dangerous. I know people who live like this in the same house and don’t speak to each other. You will be shocked and amazed at what loneliness can do to a human mind that is not strong enough to wait for a good match! jksanders7

Jonathan K. Sanders



Dear Troy... Troy L. Rawlings

I’ve dated this guy for 5 months. I asked him what he wanted to do for Valentine’s Day and he replied “I don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day. We can have Valentine’s any day.” Is that a red flag? Is he not serious about me or is that typical? Help me understand, please!

Dear Ms. Inquiring, Well, I hope when he said, “We can have Valentine’s any day.” your first response was,

“How’s this Saturday??” To put it simply, I don’t believe this is a Red Flag... unless in the 5 months you’ve been dating, he’s never treated you to a nice date, flowers, candy, movies, hot-butt-nakedsex...

Cynthia Videau

If he has made those efforts before Valentine’s day, he is correct; Valentine’s day is just another day. Now, why he doesn’t celebrate Valentine’s day is an excellent question to ask. There could be religious or traumatic reasons why he doesn’t celebrate. But how does he treat you as a whole? Is he a caring, compassionate, giving man towards you outside of the Holidays? Because if my math is right...5 months back from February, January, December, November, October... This MOFO had three major Holidays before Valentine’s to show you who he was!!

Website designer and Marketing Strategist

Now, if you told him that Valentine’s is your favorite holiday and it means more to you

26 courageous men


C

ynthia Videau is a 5-star reviewed, BBB Accredited, highly recommended Website Designer, Marketing Professional, andhe Business She specializes in than any other, and said I Strategist. DON’T DO creating custom, Wix offense! websites tailored specifically for V-DAY...stunning, then you can take your marketing goals and strategy. Cynthia is also an Icon Partner And I’m not insensitive; I know with Wix. For over six years, she has pushed, curated, and helped Valentine’s is the most romantic brands grow. Cynthia is a wife, mother, holiday minister, and speaker.

for most women. But if by chance he has shown you love, respect, honor, and the HER MOTIVATION affection you with love...well...if was the After graduating a Bachelor that of Science Degree, the journey to finding case, we wouldn’t be having this dialogue. a job proved to be very difficult. I kept getting rejection emails. The reason LOLalways that, ‘I didn’t have enough experience.’ One day I was presented was with the opportunity to design websites for a business development agency. Ask him if he’s serious about you. That’s It motivated me to use my talent to start a business.

your best bet. And try not to throw away the grown man with the bathwater; men HER tend CHALLENGES to pursue what they want. If he’s Yes! I experienced many setbacks. I didn’t immediately quit my job to pursue serious about you, you’ll know and feel it.

entrepreneurship. I used it to supplement my income. At first, I couldn’t dedicate all my time to my growing business. I struggled to “put myself out there.” I was nervous about being rejected. My mindset towards pursuing new clients was more I hope this helps toxic than embracing the process itself.

Troy

HER INSPIRATION My greatest inspiration is Jesus himself. I had to learn how to shed the shame of my past and allow aka God to healRelationship me. The greatest thing about Christ is that He’s Troy L. Rawlings “The bold, to give, and Gurualways of willing Comedy,” is unconditionally an Author, loves everyone.

Comedian, Host and Consultant. Troy HER HOPE travels the world dismantling the Taboos People will gain an opportunity to discuss of communication about Sex, Love their and most heart-wrenching desires and concerns about their brand. The Relationships. His mission is opportunity “To help to come up with a creative design and women marketing strategy is available. men and communicate better in love.”

FOLLOW CYNTHIA VIDEAU

www.TroyRawlingsLive.com @cbeyondmarketing |

cynthiavideau.com |

troyrawlings

@cbeyond.marketing


”Our relationship works as well as it does because we support each other—it’s as simple as that.”

Steve Carter

28 courageous men


5 Ways BOSS Lady! To Support YOUR

With all the successful businesses and products my wife has launched, she has never considered herself a boss. She instead prefers to be in a mentorship or leadership role working and thriving in the trenches with her team. I’m married to Pasha Carter, one of the most successful, talented, and driven leaders in the world. Juggling businesses, meetings, personal commitments, and children can get overwhelming, but I enjoy watching my wife succeed in every aspect of life. She is the ultimate role model for other black women, as well as our children, and seeing her excel brings me joy. Our relationship works as well as it does because we support each other—it’s as simple as that.

Here are 5 Ways to Support Your Boss Lady... 1. BE HER #1 FAN

When you two have discussions, and she brings you an idea, encourage her to pursue it wholeheartedly. As her partner in life and business, she needs and values your unconditional support. No one should believe in your wife’s ability to succeed more than you—make sure she knows that. 2. TALK TO EACH OTHER

Having intellectual conversations with one another should not be overlooked or undervalued. Whether with pillow talk or table talk, intentionally creating time to discuss significant topics is vital to the success of your relationship. Confiding in your spouse enhances your bond and builds trust. 3. EMBRACE CHANGE

Everyone wants to grow, but no one wants to change. If you desire a healthy relationship with your boss lady, understand that growth, as a couple and as individuals, should never stop. Personal reflection and reassessment of goals should be a regular occurrence. 4. EMPOWER HER

Your wife is a remarkable businesswoman who does work that matters. Encourage her to keep pushing boundaries for all the boss-women who will follow in her footsteps. On days when she is frustrated or discouraged, remind her of how far she has come and help her brainstorm solutions for her challenges. 5. LEARN FROM COUPLES YOU ADMIRE AND DON’T COMPARE YOUR PATHS.

Pasha is always in my corner, and I am always in hers. No venture is too crazy, no idea is too big, and it’s never a competition. When we go through challenges personally or professionally, we continue to be each other’s biggest supporter and confidant. Pasha and I believed in personal growth and development prior to having a relationship, and now that we’re married, it’s easy to grow together. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of open communication, unconditional support, and surrounding yourselves with other couples who share your same values. Steve Carter is not only a husband, father, son, and brother to a loving family, but also a renowned speaker, top sales trainer, and a successful businessman. stevecarteronline stevecartercld tevecarterofficial in/steve-carter-27144013


Know How To

AN INTERVIEW WITH PREACHER, AUTHOR, PHILANTHROPIST, AND TV & RADIO PERSONALITY

IF HE’S SERIOUS ABOUT YOU

BISHOP GREG DAVIS

By Telishia Berry

During the initial dating stage, if both have been single for a while, you’re both hopeful, trying to figure out how each other feels and if you want to invest more into the relationship. In preparing for this interview with Bishop Greg Davis, I did a quick survey with some of the single women in the Courageous Woman Network to find out what they wanted to know more about. The most significant thing is if he is serious about a relationship or is he just floating by and only out for a good time. We delved into the question, How do I know if he’s serious about me?

2. THEY WILL TALK ABOUT THE FUTURE. He will talk about things that they want to do in the future. “What does that look like with us together.” If a man doesn’t talk about you in his future, then there is no future. He will be consistent if he is serious about you. Consistency is the action of an interested man who wants you in his future. He will be consistent in his calling, even in his conversation. He will be consistent in the real world. Whether he is taking you out or talking to you on the phone.

Cynthia Videau BISHOP DAVIS SHARED 5 POINTS

3. HE WILL ASK QUESTIONS ABOUT YOU.

A man that envisions you in his future will ask questions about you. What do you like? He will 1.HE WILL TELL YOU. He will tell you he is want to know everything about you from your ex interested. He will talk about the future with you. to what kind of flowers you like? He’ll get data I mean a man that is serious about you. A man more and more often. that’s not that serious will continue to take you out, enjoy you, but never talk about where the 4. HE WILL SHOW YOU. He will show you that relationship is going. Men tend to move faster if he wants to be with you. He will send you flowers they are interested. They will say, so, where’s this and gifts when it’s not your birthday. He will show going? They will bring it up. you with his actions. All the things that he does. He’s always taking mental notes of what you like. 30 courageous men

Website designer and Marketing Strategist


C

ynthia Videau is a 5-star reviewed, BBB Accredited, highly recommended Website Designer, Marketing and Business Strategist. 5. HE Professional, WILL BE AFFECTIONATE. I didn’t She specializes in say, want to havecustom, sex. Affection and sex creating stunning, Wix websites tailored specifically for are two different He’ll Cynthia want tois also an Icon Partner your marketing goalsthings. and strategy. holdWix. yourFor hand. He’ll want tohas show you curated, and helped with over six years, she pushed, PDA (Public Display of Affection). He brands grow. Cynthia is a wife, mother, minister, and speaker.

will romance you. Romance is different than sex. He’ll send long text messages, HER MOTIVATION you know, checking on you. He will send you lunch. “Hey, I just orderedoflunch forDegree, the journey to finding After graduating with a Bachelor Science It will be delivered.” YouI will be rejection emails. The reason ayou. job proved to be very difficult. keptnot getting confused Some can sex was alwaysabout that, ‘Isex. didn’t have men enough experience.’ One day I was presented you and not be interested in you. But with the opportunity to design websites for a business development agency. the one that wants a future with you, he It motivated me to use my talent to start a business. knows how to romance you.

HER CHALLENGES Bishop Gregory M. Davis is one of

the Imost soughtmany aftersetbacks. Bishop’sI didn’t in this Yes! experienced immediately quit my job to pursue country. For overI used 30 years, Bishop Davis entrepreneurship. it to supplement my income. At first, I couldn’t dedicate has been spreading the good news of to “put myself out there.” I was all my time to my growing business. I struggled the gospel of Jesus Christ and pouring nervous about being rejected. My mindset towards pursuing new clients was more out the “oil of joy in the world.” He is a toxic than embracing the process itself. founding father of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International, where he sits on the Bishop’s Council under HER INSPIRATION the leadership of his spiritual father My greatest inspiration is Jesus himself. I had to learn how to shed the shame & Founder of FGBCF, Bishop Paul S. of my past and allow God to heal me. The greatest thing about Christ is that He’s Morton, and now under the leadership of bold, always willing to give, and unconditionally loves everyone. Presiding Bishop Joseph W. Walker III.

HER HOPE People will gain an opportunity to discuss their most heart-wrenching desires and concerns about their brand. The opportunity to come up with a creative design and marketing strategy is available.

bishopgregdavis

www.Gregdavisshow.com

FOLLOW CYNTHIA VIDEAU cynthiavideau.com |

@cbeyondmarketing |

@cbeyond.marketing


Destiny’s Doorstep Rev. E. Blake Scott Have you ever had I had just arrived home from college on summer a valuable package break. Looking forward to hanging out with friends delivered to your and enjoying myself, I had no idea that a date with “destiny” would show up on my doorstep. doorstep? Fellas, have you ever had something of great value be delivered to your front door? I did! And I never would have imagined that my “destined friend, lover, and wife” would come to me the way that she did. I always thought that I’d have to search diligently and pursue my future wife. However, God brought her directly to my doorstep.

So how do you know if she is the one sent by God? To be honest, you don’t. Love itself doesn’t fall from the sky and hit you like a lightning Bolt! Real authentic love requires commitment, time, and attention.

Cynthia Videau

In the word destiny, you see the word tiny. It was through those tiny conversations, dates, intimate moments, and one on one time that God began to shape me for marriage. It wasn’t a big “I know she’s the one” but a moment by moment of God’s At that exact moment, did I realize she was the one? unveiling that she’s was the one chosen and predestined for me. My soulmate, confident, friend, No, but God did! lover, and future wife.

Website designer and Marketing Strategist 32 courageous men


C

ynthia Videau is a 5-star reviewed, BBB Accredited, highly recommended Website Designer, Marketing Professional, and Business Strategist. She specializes in So, fellas,stunning, are you expecting total tailored specifically for creating custom,the Wixbig websites package on yourgoals doorstep? It’s possible! your marketing and strategy. Cynthia is also an Icon Partner with Wix. For over six years, she has pushed, curated, and helped brands grow. Cynthia is a wife, mother, But even in that, be mindful of the tiny minister, and speaker.

things; they truly do add up.

HER MOTIVATION

After a Bachelor of Science Degree, the journey to finding REV.graduating E. BLAKEwith SCOTT has been amarried job proved be very difficult. I kept to tohis devoted wife forgetting rejection emails. The reason was ‘I didn’tand have enough experience.’ One day I was presented morealways than that, 28 years together with opportunity to design theythe have 3 children. Blakewebsites is an for a business development agency. It motivated to use to start a business. author and me serves asmy antalent associate

minister, Sunday school and Bible HER studyCHALLENGES teacher at Canaan Baptist Yes! I experienced many I didn’t immediately quit my job to pursue Church. Rev. Charles E.setbacks. Roots is his entrepreneurship. I used it to supplement my income. At first, I couldn’t dedicate Pastor

all my time to my growing business. I struggled to “put myself out there.” I was nervous about being rejected. My mindset towards pursuing new clients was more toxic than embracing the process itself.

HER INSPIRATION My greatest inspiration is Jesus himself. I had to learn how to shed the shame of my past and allow God to heal me. The greatest thing about Christ is that He’s bold, always willing to give, and unconditionally loves everyone.

solidfoundationmarriage

HER HOPE People will gain an opportunity to discuss their most heart-wrenching desires and concerns about their brand. The opportunity to come up with a creative design and marketing strategy is available.

FOLLOW CYNTHIA VIDEAU cynthiavideau.com |

@cbeyondmarketing |

@cbeyond.marketing

“Real authentic love requires commitment, time, and attention.”


Dr. Ryeal Simms The Relationship Scientist

34 courageous men


Should

~Women ~ Pursue Men?

I get this question all of the time. I even find myself debating this topic with other experts, such as biologists. And my answer will always be the same. But before I answer, let me first briefly break down the science of pursuing. Neurologically, there is a particular spot in the brain called the sexual dimorphic nucleus (pursuit spot)... Amongst all of the research, we have found that a male’s sexual dimorphic nucleus is larger than a female’s sexual dimorphic nucleus. Knowing this scientific fact, it’s clear that if the male’s sexual dimorphic nucleus is larger, that means that the male will be more aggressive when he pursues a woman. But we also have to understand that the woman also has a sexual dimorphic nucleus, which means she also can hunt.

When a woman pursues... She does it in a more subtle way. These subtleties are Design by the laws of nature. We do things automatically (naturally) without us being conscious of it. One of the ways women pursue without being mindful is just the most straightforward way – Stroking the hair and Eye contact. This eye contact is subtle yet extremely important because this is the signal for the man to use his pursuit spot, which is a lot larger than hers and a lot more aggressive.

Bottom line... God did not design only for males to pursue. We’re both hardwired to do it. We know this by watching every single living breathing creature on this earth. But somewhere along the line, women were taught to suppress pursuing when in actuality, a woman can, and a woman does pursue, just not aggressively.

Dr.

Ryeal

Simms known as the

Relationship Scientist, is a licensed and certified relationship coach, Counselor/ Marriage facilitator, body language expert, cognitive neuropsychologist, behaviorist, motivational speaker, and the leading authority on the neuroscience of relationships worldwide.

www.drryealsimms.com DrRyealTheRelationshipscientist


FAMILY Family

is

is next to God in my life, and I cherish family. I am so proud to be a husband to my wife, a father to my four daughters, and a grandfather to my seven grandchildren. There is nothing like spending time with the people you love. As an introvert, I can say that I really love and care for people dearly.

“If you want your children to know love, treat your spouse with love and respect.” My friends have been few, and my companions have been fewer. My relationships have been healthy because I have always examined myself and looked for similar spirited people. People have forced themselves into my circle that didn’t turn out so well, but I can easily let those relationships go because I never chose them. ‘They’ chose me for ‘their’ purpose, and I was never really attached. If you are around me, you are going to another level or going to another person. Either way, I am “choosing” to move on. Good or bad, every single day, we are making a choice. You will decide to be the best person you can be. The best parent you can be. The beat spouse you can be. You can control and the power to decide how you will behave today. How do you choose the spouse that is right for you? First, look at yourself and ask yourself who has the most influences in your life before you decide to add a spouse to the equation. 36 courageous men

EVERYTHING

Then study the person who has influenced you the most, because without realizing it, that is where most of your values are being received. If it’s from your mother, and you love and appreciate your mother’s values, look for some of those same values in your wife. The same holds true with your father. If it’s from your father, then seek his advice for some guides, and know who you are before you seek a spouse and be willing to work on you first, and don’t be afraid to seek counsel for flaws and seek the people that love who you are and not the person that you are pretending to be. Overall, if you want your children to know love, treat your spouse with love and respect. This is how you teach your children about love. It is essential to display love in front of your children because you can no longer say “Do as I say, and not as I do” to your children. This statement has never been correct when it comes to you doing wrong and telling your children to do right. And the reason it’s so important is that you are training a generation that will follow you. It is vital to the human race that we take responsibility for our families and raise exceptional children. Charles Smith is a devoted husband, proud father, advocate, and communal leader mandated to amplify the importance of children’s voices worldwide. He is a tenured professional in the finance and insurance industry and the New Horizon Church International Pastor. Mr. Smith is the author of the highly anticipated book 7-STEPS to Raising Amazing Children.


Pastor Charles Smith


Che Brown 38 courageous men


Secret Happy The #1 To A

“Whenever you are there to be their biggest cheerleader and you’re there to cheer them on, it makes for a happy marriage.”

Marriage S

ay these three words every day. They’re not, “I love you.” Surprise! The three words to say every single day is, “You Got This.” It’s so simple, but my wife always knows I’ve got her back. See,

there she was, she wanted to do something new again. She was going to do this whole Peloton workout. Now my wife does other workouts, I get that. But when she said she wanted to do Peloton, you know what I said, “You got this.” She said, well, “I don’t know. I’ve tried some things before and it didn’t really work.” Look, I want her to know I’m her biggest and baddest cheerleader. So I say, “Can I help you?” There are another three words, fellas. Can I help you? Can I order something that you need? Can I order a water bottle, new workout mat, new shoes, or workout gear? But in short, “Baby, You Got This.” Now, sometimes people just assume their partner will be there. But no, you got to say it. “You Got This. I’m your biggest cheerleader.” Yeah, you got to say, “I love you,” but I’m going to tell you, if you say, “You Got This,” in whatever they want to do. They’ll put a big smile on their face every single time. So if you’re reading this, baby, whatever you want to do, You Got This! Che Brown | www.SalesTeamGuru.com Founder | Creator of The www.ComebackChampionSummit.com and host of the #1 Late Night Business Show: The Happy Entrepreneur Show @IAmCheBrown


Wife

My

IS MY BEST

Friend JAY WILLIAMS

T

here’s nothing like being married to your best friend most of all being able to share everything you do and go through with the person you love. One of the things that I love about being married to Michelle is we never argue, we always talk about our disagreements but never argue. It;’s refreshing to come home every day to my wife who greets me at the door with a jolly happy spirit and a kiss still after 17 years. This may seem small to some but it has a major impact on my day to have a happy wife and not a fussing wife. We are a strong family who love each other and our blended children we also have added on a few more foster children (6 boys). We have adopted 2 of them already and the rest are in the works. When I got married I asked God to Help me love my wife like he loves the church. I wanted my love to be so strong for her that it would be the greatest

love that she’s ever known next to God. I am proud to tell the world that I love my sexy wife for life and everybody knows it.

I want to share 3 benefits of having a wife as a best friend. 1. Having a wife for a bestie allows you to release and share your most personal things that you can’t share with anyone else. It allows you to become vulnerable and heal from some of your past hurts knowing that someone truly cares for you. 2. Having someone to laugh with and enjoy the simple things in life with is very important because life itself will make you have some days that you will need to come home to someone who can lighten the mood. 3. You should have someone in your life that you have plenty of things in common

Cynthia Videau

Website designer and Marketing Strategist 40 courageous men


with and that will tell you the truth when things are right and when they are not going right, Your best friend should want to make sure that your credit is good so you both can enjoy the better things in life.

A Word To The Wise... If you try to out love one another, you will never fall out of love! When you decide to love you must know that it’s no more me but we. One of the biggest secrets to a successful marriage is that compromise is everything. You may not agree with everything but always try to stay on the same page when it comes to even the little things. This is important to know that when little things get out of control they turn to bigger things that could have been fixed with a conversation and understanding.. As a man I make sure that she wants for nothing, I always open doors for her and I train my boys to make sure that she carries nothing but her purse. I treat her like the queen that she is, I learned this from my father and I’m passing it down to our sons.

Thejaywilliamsshow1.com jaywilliams377


42 courageous men



Are

Men

Poor Communicators?

Roosevelt Ethridge

M

en are taught communication primarily by their cultural experiences. Many women would respond to this question with an absolute, “Yes!” However, many men are comfortable with the way they communicate. Communication is critical in every relationship. Unfortunately, many men are misunderstood in communication for several reasons.

approach to communication. Before we expound further, to men’s defense, it is not primarily their fault. All men are taught about communication from these three institutions: family, school, friendships.

Cynthia Videau It is not effective communication when a man mainly gives orders or enforce rules. Men are easily dumped into the “poor communicator” category because of their one-dimensional

Our upbringing and experiences shape us. A gentleman can fail in building a healthy communication personality if he doesn’t even acknowledge that he needs to improve or change. School teaches young men at early ages to become outcome-driven and goaloriented. Then men can be influenced by their friendships. No matter how men have learned to communicate, all men desire to be heard.

Website designer and Marketing Strategist 44 courageous men


C

ynthia Videau is a 5-star reviewed, BBB Accredited, highly recommended Website Designer, Marketing Professional, and Business Strategist. She specializes in Before labeling custom, men Wix as websites “poor tailored specifically for creating stunning, communicators,” it is important to your marketing goals and strategy. Cynthia is also an Icon Partner noteWix. thatFor adult are challenged with overmen six years, she has pushed, curated, and helped by shame, guilt, and embarrassment. brands grow. Cynthia is a wife, mother, minister, and speaker.

These challenges will impair a man’s abilityMOTIVATION to communicate effectively. HER After graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree, the journey to finding is a “Global aRoosevelt job proved Ethridge to be very difficult. I kept getting rejection emails. The reason Leader.” Histhat, work extends was always ‘I didn’t havethrough enough experience.’ One day I was presented with the countries opportunity to design websites for a business development agency. several abroad. Roosevelt It me to use my talent start a business. ismotivated a multi-book author, andtohis

work can be found in two academic HER CHALLENGES libraries. He also serves on a bookYes! I experienced manyfor setbacks. I didn’t immediately quit my job to pursue review committee Gordonentrepreneurship. I used it to supplement my income. At first, I couldn’t dedicate Conwell Theological Seminary. all my time business.to I struggled to “put myself out there.” I was Above all, to hemy is agrowing man dedicated nervous about beingthe rejected. My son. mindset towards pursuing new clients was more family and honors life of his toxic than embracing the process itself.

“Typically, men are not classified

HER INSPIRATION as good communicators. In many

My greatest inspiration is Jesus I had to learn how to shed the shame relationships, women say, “it ishimself. not of my past and allow God to heal me. The greatest thing about Christ is that He’s what he said, it is how he said it.” bold, always willing to give, and unconditionally loves everyone.

@Rooseveltetheridge

HER HOPE

People will gain an opportunity to discuss their most heart-wrenching desires and concerns about their brand. The opportunity to come up with a creative design and marketing strategy is available.

FOLLOW CYNTHIA VIDEAU cynthiavideau.com |

@cbeyondmarketing |

Typically, men are not classified as good communicators. In many relationships, women say, “it is not what he said, it is how he said it.”

@cbeyond.marketing


Getting g It Right

W

e know for sure that Eddie and Debra Williams didn’t raise lazy sons. I have a doctorate and a list of credentials to prove it. Putting in work is nothing new for me. I’m willing to do the heavy lifting to be successful in my personal and private life. What’s the point of having everything and not having a special someone to share it with? With so much on my plate, I used to have a hard time finding time for love. Not anymore. With one unsuccessful marriage under my belt, I have insight on “How to get it right.” Professionally, I was thriving, but personally and spiritually, I was immersed in reflection and regret. A year later, I had a better understanding and credit changing my “on the go” lifestyle to the pandemic. I was forced to focus on myself, my thoughts, and God. First and foremost, a man needs to discover who he is. Good, bad or ugly, understanding this helps to inform what he needs in a mate fully and if he is ready for a mate. That work needs to be finalized before entering a marriage. Marriage counseling is worthwhile for everyone. That is why thorough and in-depth marriage counseling is highly recommended. It is essential to understand that the honeymoon phase is fun and joyous, but the real work comes after that. For example, if communication fails, it is necessary to realize that it is time to put in “the work.” Counseling is a part of that equation.

46 courageous men

It is essential to understand that the honeymoon phase is fun and joyous, but the real work comes after that.” I have always courted women who I, deep down, knew weren’t fully compatible with my needs. The future Mrs. Williams will be fully aligned with my love and passion for God, family, and community. She will be someone whose individual goals and ambitions can inspire me as I do her. Although 2020 was challenging in many respects, 2021 is already off to a fantastic start with tremendous promise- love life included! Dr. Khayree O. Williams presently serves as the Director of Austin Community College District’s Truth Racial Healing and Transformation Campus Center. He received a Bachelor of Business Administration and Master of Education with an emphasis in College Student Affairs and Leadership from Grand Valley State University. Dr. Williams obtained a Doctorate in Community College Leadership from Ferris State University. Khayree has amassed over fourteen years of professional experience shepherding diversity, equity, inclusion work, and advocacy for historically marginalized students at higher education institutions.

Khayree Williams



Spice LIFE

Finding THE

Of W

hen life tosses you golf balls, it’s only natural that you swing, right? Well, according to Mr. Brandon Lewis, real estate extraordinaire, that’s the only way to live. Although we are still in the midst of COVID-19, this seller’s market is demanding that this multi-million dollar producer and Midland Dailey News Realtor of the Year work overtime just to keep up with the demand. It is no coincidence that Lewis is coined, “The Dapper Agent.”

do” list and finishing with some much-needed cardio with the wife.”

In order to prepare for his success, he starts his

4. Sexting is a must. If you don’t do it, someone else will.

day with prayer, gratitude, affirmations, making breakfast for the family while dancing and singing some old school 90’s jams with his shirt slightly unbuttoned to exposing a little R&B chest hair. After the show is complete, he throws on his bowtie and is off to help people buy and sell homes.

Being married to his high school sweetheart

makes the transition from work to home easy. “She is my person. She doesn’t always understand me but she accepts me.” And that right there is one of the keys to a successful marriage. “After eating dinner as a family, and playing with the kids and helping them with homework, I end the evening solidifying my “to

48 courageous men

When asked how he keeps the “spice” in his marriage. He gave these five steps: 1. Schedule time to date. 2. Communicate with one another, do not talk at one another 3. Give each other space.

5. Take things off of their plate by helping out around the house, cook dinner and assist with the children. As a man, that’s one of the sexiest things you can do. Brandon Lewis is a devoted father and husband and Real Estate Agent in Midland County, Michigan. Brandon Lewis-0354a816b brandonlewismidlandrealtor

BRANDON LEWIS






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