NARRATIVES OF POWER: BLACK WOMEN, LITERATURE, AND THE QUEST FOR IDENTITY
Shaunda Thompson
THE LADY BEHIND THE MASK
Latasha
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PRETTY WOMEN HUSTLE MAGAZINE
July 2024
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ANGELA CONNER
ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT
Remember to balance entrepreneurship and being a mother.
Angela Conner, a pivotal voice in the ever-emerging world of Sexology, speaks of Tantra, Intimate Relationships, and Sexual Wellness! You can find her on a list of podcasts as she spills the tea on ORGASMS, how to get them, how to elevate them, and how to have more of them
Angela is the founder of The Wifey Life, based in Atlanta, Georgia, and she is known through several communities as Angela the Mistress of Sexuality. Her candor on everything related to sexuality instantly eases any shyness a person may have on the topic. Angela has also been a long-time advocate on issues such as “my body my choice” and awareness of human trafficking. Mistress Angela has spent her life studying and working in the science and spiritual aspects of intimacy, sex, and human relationships She can often be found educating, coaching, or creating Intimacy Care Maps (ICMs) for individuals and couples who desire to deepen their intimate relationships. Her passion for supporting others through their most intimate experiences can be seen easily when she smiles in excitement as clients get excited about their “bonus fun work.”
Angela is enthusiastic about living out her “God Given Purpose” of helping people enjoy their sensual and sexual connections (with others or with themselves) Her key to living a healthy, intimate life comes from two of her favorite quotes:
“I am a rebel with a cause” – Nina Simone.
“Love the life you live and live the life you love” – Bob Marley
What inspired your start in entrepreneurship?
My journey with entrepreneurship started with the term called a “side hustle.” A side hustle has always been known as how you make ends meet in my community. At a much younger age, I understood that a company will never pay you for your worth; instead, they will pay you based on their values If they deem your position important for the success of their organization, then you will get paid more This takes time and experience for top-paying roles. My 9 to 5 was always in the non-profit sector. I worked for years in Business Operations, which included federal program management, accounting, and human resources. Those roles are not money-producing streams, so my pay scale was not always the best. I had to figure out what I could do to make extra money I also understood that I could make money doing things in my spare time that I enjoy, or I could do a part-time job I chose to do something I love to do! I became a make-up artist and esthetician I decided to create my first organization called “Skindeep ” I offered make-up services to a targeted market and was quite successful in the field. My success with that company made me fall in love with Entrepreneurship. It provided me with so many amazing experiences and opportunities. Fast forward many years later, and I still love entrepreneurship! I am the visionary of The Wifey Life (intimacy and sexuality educator and advisor)
What has been your biggest challenge/failure as an entrepreneur? And how do you deal with it?
My biggest challenge as an entrepreneur is often cash flow. Managing all the areas of running a business and managing my household can be overwhelming. However, Creating a schedule to manage my business and personal finances was the key Also, learning when to pivot due to limited funds is crucial to maintaining financial stability
What advice do you have for moms looking to get started in entrepreneurship?
Remember to balance entrepreneurship and being a mother. Make time for your family and yourself. Create space to enjoy the journey of motherhood and entrepreneurship
What does being a Pretty Woman Who Hustles mean to you?
Being a pretty woman who hustles means I am doing what I was called to do. I am showing up fully in every space, and I remember my why behind being an entrepreneur
What books do you recommend for moms navigating entrepreneurship?
How do you balance entrepreneurship and motherhood without experiencing burnout while pursuing your passion?
Balancing entrepreneurship and motherhood can genuinely test your bandwidth However, I discovered that I must make time for self-care
There are so many books that I love However, my favorite is Learned Optimism: How to Change Your Mind and Your Life by Martin E. P. Seligman. The largest part of success is your mindset.
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5 WAYS TO CREATE 5 WAYS TO CREATE 5 WAYS TO CREATE CONTENT FAST CONTENT FAST CONTENT FAST
If you ' ve done any marketing online within the past ten years, then I'm sure you have heard the saying: "Content is king " No matter whether you focus on Facebook, blogging, or YouTube - to be successful and grow, you need engaging content, and you need to post it consistently
Many small business owners and freelancers fall into the trap of daily content creation and posting This is a problem for a number of reasons However, daily posting can often lead to burnout and you run the risk of sharing content that doesn't necessarily relate to your target audience
Here are a few tips for creating content that matches your brand identity and message, while saving you a lot of time
Batch create content. Schedule a time weekly to sit down and create content. Write as many blog articles or create as many Instagram posts as possible during that time. 1
Repurpose Content. Don't forget about content you ' ve already shared Old blog posts can be remixed into social media images or reels
2. Use a Scheduler. Use an app to manage your social media posting schedule For Facebook and Instagram, it's best to stick with Meta Business Suite 3
Utilize PLR Content- PLR (private label rights) content are digital products with licensing for commercial use. PLR products can be remade into so much content. 4. Give Canva a Go. Canva is a program used for graphic design and marketing Using it to plan your content saves time, especially since it's equipped with a scheduler 5.
LUBERTA LYTLE
E N T R E P R E N E U R S P O T L I G H T
I have always journaled to express my feelings.
Luberta Lytle is a Christian Certified Life Coach and the owner/proprietor of L L Life Coaching Company She is also the founder and executive director of Dorothy Johnson, My Biggest Fan, NFP She is currently the host of the TV show Living Life with LuLu, sharing and interviewing people who have gone from victim to victorious in their lives In addition to her career as a life coach, she recently retired from working with the Illinois State Government after 32 years.
Before anything else, Ms. Lytle is a mother of three, grandmother of eleven, and just recently became a great-grandmother Luberta lives in Centralia, IL She is an avid reader and enjoys taking walks in her spare time Her heart is fueled by a passion for inspiring and motivating women
Luberta has proven her qualifications as a life coach as she has reached several successes over the past 30+ years of her career and life with her family. She has an MBA from Lindenwood University, a B.S. in Organizational Leadership from Greenville College, and a Practical Nursing Certification from Kaskaskia College
Luberta is an author and a co-author of several books Just in case you hadn’t read it, she just recently obtained another Amazon Best-Selling book title, plus an Amazon Best-Selling International book for her chapter in As For Me and My House. She became a 1sttime author after her first solo project called Heal the Hurt.
During her writing career, Luberta penned a chapter in the Jabez Readers’ Choice Award-winning book Millionaire M O M : Living Dreams, Transforming Lives, and Defying the Odds of Teen Motherhood and co-wrote The She-Preneur Journey, and penned a chapter in the Amazon Best-Selling book #BossMoms.
Can you share with us the inspiration behind starting your life coaching company, L L Life Coaching Company, and your non- profit organization, Dorothy Johnson My Biggest Fan, NFP?
My inspiration for both comes from my late mother, Dorothy Johnson. She always believed and encouraged me. I am just trying to keep my promise to her, that I would make her proud of me
What motivated you to transition from a lengthy career with the Illinois State Government to becoming a life coach and TV show host?
I wanted to do something else with my life I felt that I had accomplished all the goals that I have set for myself with the State of Illinois. I wanted to serve and impact lives in a unique way.
As the host of "Living Life with LuLu," what are some of the most memorable interviews or stories of transformation you have encountered?
My most memorable interview and story of transformation was with my son, Quinton We have been working on our relationship and to have him on the show, being so transparent was truly heartfelt.
With such a busy schedule, how do you balance your roles as a mother, grandmother, great - grandmother, and professional?
Sometimes it becomes hectic I am learning how to manage my time better I am a known procrastinator, so time management is especially important
What sparked your interest in writing, and how does it complement your work as a life coach?
I never had an interest in becoming a writer. I have always journaled to express my feelings. It started with seeing a Facebook post regarding the Millionaire book in 2016. I have been writing and journaling since that time It helps, by showing my clients that you can step out of your comfort zone and do something different
Could you tell us more about your recent book releases, including your Amazon Best-Selling titles?
My first book is called, Millionaire Moms: We are all teenage mothers who became success stories instead of just statistics. This book gave me the title of author. The second book is called, Heal The Hurt: It is my personal story of the good, bad and life lessons that I have learned over the last fifty years of living
AFFIRMATION OF THE MONTH AFFIRMATION OF THE MONTH AFFIRMATION OF THE MONTH
Happiness is my Happiness is my Happiness is my
natural state, natural state, natural state, and I embrace it and I embrace it and I embrace it fully. fully. fully.
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NARRATIVES OF POWER: BLACK WOMEN, LITERATURE, & THE QUEST FOR IDENTITY
By Shaunda Thompson
In a world where representation in literature is crucial for empowerment and inspiration, books written by and about Black women are vital These narratives provide a glimpse into the resilience, courage, and diversity of Black women, offering profound insights and celebrating their experiences, voices, and triumphs Here are five essential books that delve into the identity, struggles, hopes, and dreams of Black and African women, each offering unique perspectives
Sister Outsider by Audre Lorde
Audre Lorde’s Sister Outsider tops this list with its powerful collection of essays and speeches Lorde, a selfdescribed “black, lesbian, mother, warrior, poet, ” confronts the injustices of racism, sexism, and homophobia Her compelling prose and poignant reflections on identity, anger, and the power of language make this book a mustread for anyone seeking to understand and effect social change
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
Toni Morrison’s debut novel, The Bluest Eye, focuses on the life of Pecola Breedlove, a young Black girl in mid20th century America who dreams of having blue eyes Through Pecola’s story, Morrison explores the painful internalized racism and the complex quest for identity that confronts some Black women, challenging societal norms and the devastating impacts on self-esteem
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya
Angelou
Maya Angelou’s autobiography offers a vivid portrayal of the human spirit ’ s capacity for resilience Detailing her experiences from childhood in the Jim Crow South to her teenage years, Angelou reveals how her love for literature and her inherent strength of character helped her navigate racism and personal trauma
Homegoing
by Yaa Gyasi
Yaa Gyasi’s Homegoing is a sweeping saga that traces the lineage of two half-sisters in 18th-century Ghana and their descendants across generations The novel beautifully illustrates the profound impact of slavery and colonialism on Black identity, weaving a rich narrative that spans continents and generations
Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is an insightful exploration of identity, race, and the immigrant experience through the eyes of Ifemelu, a young Nigerian woman who migrates to the United States Adichie adeptly addresses themes of cultural identity, belonging, and societal expectations, offering a sharp critique of contemporary issues facing Black women
These books not only deepen our understanding of the personal and collective experiences of Black and African women but also inspire and transform us The authors challenge us to reflect on our own perceptions and the diverse experiences that shape the lives of Black women globally As you consider your next read, choose one of these impactful books Each page delivers a lesson, each chapter inspires reflection, and each book is filled with experiences that enlighten and transform
To learn more about JCHIC Lifestyle Brand: www.jchiclife.style
DR. JENNI JCHIC GRAHAM
Dr Jenni JCHIC Graham of JCHIC Lifestyle Brand is a seasoned entrepreneur, sought-after global speaker, and passionate advocate for empowering people in business With expertise in PR, content creation, and entrepreneurship, she empowers others to turn their dreams into reality Dr Jenni’s mission is to help women build confidence, find their unique style, and achieve elevated success on their own terms. Her dedication to empowering others has earned her much recognition as a leader in the industry
I wish I had a “ me ” when I was first in business, so I became that for others Over the years, this mission has evolved as I’ve witnessed the profound impact that empowerment can have on individuals and their businesses It’s not just about providing advice; it’s about giving people the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive and succeed They need actionable skills, strategies, tips, and techniques to excel instead of fluff and motivation.
As the founder of JCHIC Lifestyle® Brand, could you share the inspiration behind its creation and the core values that drive its mission?
Dr Jenni, you ’ re recognized globally for empowering individuals in business. What initially drew you to this mission, and how has it evolved?
What initially drew me to the mission of empowering individuals in business was a deeply rooted belief in the transformative power of mentorship and guidance Having navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship myself, I understand firsthand the importance of having someone in your corner who believes in you and your vision.
The inspiration behind the creation of JCHIC Lifestyle® Brand was born out of a desire to fill a large gap in the market I wanted to provide entrepreneurs with a comprehensive platform to access everything they need to succeed in business and life Our core values, including excellence, integrity, innovation, and empowerment, are not just words; they’re the guiding principles that drive everything we do Our mission is simple: to empower entrepreneurs to level up in luxury and succeed in style Our approach is carefully curated for each brand guest, and that’s a big inspiration for the brand. Since we are not one size fits all, brand guests seek us out because they know that their deliverables will be like none other and just for them
Your expertise spans PR, content creation, and entrepreneurship. How do these areas intersect in your work?
PR, content creation, and entrepreneurship are not just separate aspects of my work but interconnected pieces of a larger puzzle By leveraging strategic PR and content creation, entrepreneurs can effectively communicate their message, build their brand, and attract their ideal audience It’s about creating a cohesive strategy encompassing all aspects of their business and aligning with their overall goals and objectives That flows well into the marketing and communications strategies, the public-facing techniques, and the overall brand and image development that we provide at JCHIC LifeStyle® agency.
Many see you as a role model for women seeking to build confidence and find their unique style. How do you approach the process of helping individuals discover and cultivate their personal brand?
Helping my brand guests discover and cultivate their personal brand is a deeply personal and transformative process It’s about more than just finding the right clothes or creating a catchy tagline; it’s about helping people uncover their unique strengths, passions, and values. I approach this process by providing personalized guidance and support, helping individuals identify their unique brand identity and develop the confidence to express it authentically It’s about helping them tell their story in a way that resonates with their audience and sets them apart from the competition It’s my process of helping them curate their signature brand style statement that earned me the title of Brand Style Curator
Throughout your career, you ’ ve undoubtedly encountered challenges. Can you share a pivotal moment or obstacle that tested your resolve, and how did you overcome it?
One pivotal moment that tested my resolve was when I faced significant challenges in scaling my business After being in business for about 6 years at the time, I knew some of what to do but not necessarily how to do it
Bills were coming faster than the money, and I wanted to quit many times. It was a difficult and uncertain time, and there were moments when I wasn’t sure if I would be able to overcome the obstacles in front of me But I refused to give up I sought guidance from mentors, invested in my personal and professional development, obtained business funding, and persevered through the difficult times. Looking back, I realize that it was those challenges that ultimately made me stronger and more resilient
In your experience, what are some common misconceptions people have about entrepreneurship, and how do you address them in your coaching and speaking engagements?
One common misconception people have about entrepreneurship is that it’s easy or glamorous The reality is that entrepreneurship is hard work. It requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to take risks In my coaching and speaking engagements, I aim to dispel this misconception by sharing my own experiences and providing practical advice on navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. I want people to understand that success doesn’t happen overnight and that it’s okay to fail as long as you ’ re willing to learn from your mistakes and keep moving forward I also always tell them that it’s okay to work a job if need be to fund your dreams
Your advocacy for empowerment extends beyond business into various aspects of life. How do you believe confidence and personal style impact overall success and well-being?
Confidence and personal style play a significant role in overall success and wellbeing When individuals feel confident and empowered, they are better equipped to achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives Personal style expresses individuality and can enhance self-confidence and sense of identity It’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good and projecting an image that reflects who you are and what you stand for
Your style and image speak before you open your mouth, so what it says is up to you. As a global image and brand consultant, it’s my job and privilege to identify, enhance, and portray my brand guests’ signature brand style statement to the world
As a sought-after speaker, what key messages do you aim to convey to audiences?
As a sought-after speaker, I aim to convey key messages of empowerment, resilience, and authenticity I want to inspire audiences to embrace their unique strengths, overcome challenges, and pursue their passions with confidence and determination I believe everyone has the potential to achieve greatness, and my mission is to help them realize that potential I want multi-faceted creatives and entrepreneurs to know you don’t have to limit your gifts. You don’t have to fit in a box; instead, you can show all that you are to the world Whether I’m speaking to a group of entrepreneurs or a room full of aspiring leaders, my goal is always the same: to motivate, inspire, and empower others to reach their full potential
Collaboration and community-building are often emphasized in your work. Could you elaborate on the importance of these aspects in fostering growth and empowerment?
Collaboration and community-building are essential aspects of fostering growth and empowerment By collaborating with others and building strong communities, we can leverage collective knowledge, resources, and support to achieve our goals and positively impact the world I know that we are stronger, and by working together, we can accomplish more than we ever could That’s why I’m passionate about building communities and fostering collaboration among entrepreneurs, creatives, organizations, and leaders from all walks of life I’m on a quest to elevate global communities with mutually beneficial collaborative economics.
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for the future of JCHIC Lifestyle Brand, and how do you envision continuing to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others?
Looking ahead, my aspirations for the future of JCHIC Lifestyle® Brand are very ambitious but straightforward. We will expand our global reach, collaborate with more corporations, empower more entrepreneurs, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of others I envision continuing to provide innovative solutions, valuable resources, and ongoing support to help individuals achieve their full potential Whether through our consulting and PR efforts from the agency, coaching programs, speaking engagements, or luxury experiences, my goal is always the same: to inspire, empower, and uplift others.
What is your definition of a Pretty Woman Who Hustles?
A Pretty Woman Who Hustles is someone who embodies confidence, resilience, and determination She’s not afraid to dream big and work hard to make those dreams a reality She doesn’t chase anything or anyone Instead, she aligns. She doesn’t seek a work-life balance Instead, she curates a harmonious flow of activities She’s passionate about what she does and isn’t afraid to take risks or face challenges head-on She brings her visions to life by putting in the work and looks pretty while doing it. But more than that, she’s someone who lifts others up and believes in the power of community and collaboration She’s a leader, a trailblazer, and an inspiration to those around her She’s not just hustling for herself but to make the world a better place for everyone.
TheLady Behind
TheMask
Writtenby:Latasha Ramsey-Cyprian
Shana Gourdine’s life took an unexpected turn when she confronted the harsh reality of domestic violence and grappled with four different health conditions. Rather than allowing these challenges to define her, Shana embarked on a transformative journey to rebuild her self-esteem and inspire others facing similar trials. As a result, she has become a prolific author, speaker, and domestic violence advocate dedicated to helping individuals rediscover selflove after enduring disappointments, trauma, and disability.
Over the course of three years, Shana has authored numerous titles, both individually and in collaboration with others. Her debut book, The Mask Behind the Mask, is a collection of poetry that encourages readers to embrace their imperfections.
Unveiled Pieces of a Broken Mask delves deeper into the baggage people carry from their past, guiding them towards liberation. Additionally, Shana has written Evolution Of The Mask, Power In ME, and Come Learn A-Z With Me.
Shana’s literary and motivational journey has earned her acclaim and recognition, including the Purple Ribbon Award of Courage, Viewer’s Choice Award as the executive producer of the film Through Your Eyes: The Mask Behind The Mask, and recognition at the Global Africa Fashion for Peace World event in 2021. She has achieved remarkable milestones as a 10x Best Seller and International Best Seller on Amazon, received the 2022 “I AM H.E.R” International Women on the Rise and Women Influencers Awards, and earned the 2023 YWCA Art and Culture Women Empowerment Award. Her impact has been featured in Spotlight Magazine, Hopez Magazine, Dream Spire Book Magazine, Channel 13, Channel 10, Spectrum News, and the Troy Record Newspaper.
Originally hailing from Cross, South Carolina, Shana now calls Troy, New York, her home. When she’s not immersed in her advocacy and writing, she cherishes moments spent with her two beautiful daughters, enjoys leisurely walks, relishes the opportunity to travel, and delights in the art of cooking.
In this interview, Shana discusses her involvement in the community and the self-empowerment workshops she hosts. Shana is passionate about her faith, writing, and helping others heal. Prepared to be moved by Shana’s inspirational story of transformation as she guides other women to be the best version of themselves.
You recently launched Unmasking Motivation Magazine in February of thisyear.Whatinspiredyoutolaunch themagazine?
My motivation stems from my extensive four-year journey as a writer. I’ve consistently sought to inspire others through the power of words. My vision is that the magazine will serve as a platform for fellow entrepreneurs, authors, and artists to share their visions, passions, and stories of resilience.
As a domestic violence survivor, please tell us about the selfempowerment workshops you offer womenwhohaveexperiencedsimilar strugglesasyourself?
I’ve made it my life’s mission to empower others on their journey to recovery. Drawing from my own experiences, I offer workshops focused on cultivating self-love, nurturing confidence, and navigating the challenging path of trauma recovery. I guide individuals through the essential steps to healing, helping them rediscover their sense of self-worth and embrace their unique story.
Outside of being an author, podcast host, advocate, and entrepreneur, what is your involvement in your community?
I provide two yearly give-back programs: a back-to-school event and Smiles for Christmas to domestic violence shelters.
What is your definition of a Pretty WomanWhoHustles?
A “Pretty Woman Who Hustles” is someone fiercely dedicated to her goals, relentlessly working to excel in every aspect of her life. She embodies determination, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to success, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth.
Dr. Velma is a business leader who retired as a Deputy Administrator after 38 years in state government She spent 30-plus years as a women’s ministry leader and has achieved fifty blessed years in marriage She is compassionate about her call to help others discover their ideal mate . She doesn’t hesitate to share her insight on love and marriage in her writing, coaching, speaking, and podcast episodes dedicated to the topic.
She is the bestselling, award-winning author of over sixteen published books, a Christian dating-relationship coach, a professional Christian speaker, an ordained Minister (ThD), a host of Dr. Velma TALKS podcast, which returns in July, and the CEO of Adoni Publishing, LLC.
As an author, Dr. Velma is best known for The 4-Book CATCH Series, which uses fiction to discuss problems with the current dating process and introduces godly principles about dating that appeal to everyone
Looking back on my life, I see that being creative was evident, and therefore, writing has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember While growing up in church, I wrote skits for the children’s church and youth groups, and like my dad, I became a songwriter. As a Bible Study teacher, I created content for class discussions and the School of Biblical Studies degree courses.
You’ve had a legacy-building career spanning over 38 years in state government. What inspired your transition into becoming a bestselling author and Christian dating relationship coach after retirement?
When retirement arrived, I viewed it as a time to set aside all my work in leadership, coaching, training & staff development, managing program design and budgets, and operational and process improvement skills My favorite aspect of my job as a Deputy Administrator in the State government was my love for continuous improvement whether it was a program, a process, or a person looking for a career This experience helped me discover my passion for making a program or process more efficient and client-driven
Driving this work was my desire to improve the experience of the staff who performed a service while enhancing the benefits a person received after accessing the service All of this ties into what I do now But I did not consider any of this at the point of retirement I set my sights on relaxing, enjoying each day doing nothing, and traveling occasionally.
My adult daughters revived the writing skills I thought were destined for retirement. They began asking more specific dating and marriage questions. I recall my effort to respond to their questions and spent intense study time digging deeper into the scriptures for answers before I responded This was necessary because I knew my two registered nurses were not interested in fluffy answers but expected in-depth responses I needed to familiarize myself with what the scripture said about singles and marriage, and, as a result, I discovered some new things I hadn’t seen before
As time passed, we discussed more topics, and my daughters shared what they discussed with their friends Soon, their friends asked for more information, and that’s when they said to me, “Mom, you should write a book.” This first book became a call to action for single women. It resulted in my messaging to “date with intent,” “date for marriage,” and the fact that “marriage belongs to God we just get the benefit of having a mate.” The book is a Christian non-fiction entitled, “Your Adam Is Asleep Until God Opens His Eyes A Conversation Between a Mother and Her Daughters About Men ”
Your bestselling series, The 4-Book CATCH Series, tackles issues with the current dating process while introducing godly principles. What motivated you to write these books, and what do you hope readers take away from them?
At the time, I was an ordained minister, had been married for forty-plus years, coached/counseled singles for thirty-plus years, and joined my husband for pre-marriage and marriage counseling After watching the poor dating patterns I witnessed during those sessions when couples expected us to resolve problems we felt would never go away because they were forcing marriage to the wrong person, to watching women continue to make poor choices in dating, and witnessing a lack of understanding about the very strategy or blueprint designed to help – the scripture.
I was compassionate about writing about it, but I wasn’t sure if non-fiction was the best fit That’s when I discovered my love for the Christian contemporary fiction genre In my recent book series, I used Jesus’s approach to storytelling from more than fifty parables or fiction stories I loved how his stories allowed the listener to see themselves in them; he provided them with a redemption plan or way to change, and at the end of the story, it was the person’s choice to act His stories were non-threatening and never preachy, which became my goal This led me to create my first Christian contemporary fiction book using fish characters representing the behaviors of the wrong men women dated.
Using analogies following the parables’ structure worked because I hoped the readers would relate to the stories. Based on the response from my readers, they not only related to the stories but wanted more fish stories It turns out that what I assumed would be one novel quickly became a 4-book series The third book is in response to the male readers I didn’t know I had, and they asked me to address the wrong women to date Book 4 is the only non-fiction in the group, as I felt led to provide proof of the scriptures that warn us of fools and foolish behavior Or what the series refers to as RED flags in a person’s character
As a Christian dating relationship coach, how do you approach helping individuals discover their ideal partner? Could you share some insights or advice you commonly give to your clients?
My approach to helping others discover their ideal partner was to write a series of stories reflecting women’s issues when dating and how the current dating process is broken, leaving many with a past full of hurt, disappointment, and regret.
For those who have yet to read my CATCH Series, it is required reading and the place to start In them, I’ve said what I believe they should do, and they’ll find the answers they seek My CATCH series was intended to serve as the foundation for this kind of discussion
My message is the same to the individual, in my speaking engagements and in workshops I host, regarding discovering their partner The series contains multiple calls to action to help those seeking a better route in this discovery
For instance, the instructions the father gives his daughter in book one of the series is to stop worrying about who this guy will be and instead focus on what she needs to do to be ready for him. This is something that has gotten lost over time. We were better prepared during my generation, and this kind of mindset has gotten lost over time. Getting married is easy, but building a life together with another person takes work. I was determined to share this process with others through my books. The truth is, marriage begins before the wedding and before meeting your mate It starts as you begin preparing for the roll
Before focusing her attention on discovering a mate, it is important to begin focusing on how ready she is before he arrives This is where topics like the BTL of the Husband-to-be Prayer List – Build the List, Believe the List, and Become the List, come in Most will create a list for the husband they want but neglect to check to see if they can meet the same requirements
Or the topic entitled, The Woman in the Mirror This is where a self-examination of your readiness is essential, assessing how many weights you carry from past hurts to let them go and identifying the areas you need to work on now
Eventually, this person is led to change their use of high school dating methods – it doesn’t have a commitment in it and is only a few hundred years old. It is important to recognize that the blueprint provided in scripture is about dating to marry, and therefore, the strategy should change with this goal in mindmarriage is the goal This strategy changes your focus from conditions that will change with time to one that examines the person’s characteristics his heart In the series, this is referred to as looking at the person’s characteristics rather than their conditions
Your podcast, Dr. Velma TALKS, is returning soon. What topics do you plan to cover in the upcoming episodes, and what can listeners expect from tuning in?
Ten episodes from my initial airing of Dr Velma TALKS are still relevant and available on YouTube I plan to expound upon them and reference them when appropriate, as well as highlight and expand upon the topics addressed in the CATCH Series. The podcast will encourage questions, so feel free to post them. The podcast will air every Saturday beginning July 6 at 12 noon PST and 3 pm EST.
With over sixteen published books to your name, what is your writing process like? How do you balance conveying your message effectively while engaging readers with compelling narratives?
I had sixteen books published until the recent release of a devotional I am a collaborating author along with 29 other writers – it’s now 17
I’ve always sought God for guidance in what to write and when to release it
My guiding principle is Proverbs 3:6: “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct their path ” The word “acknowledge” in the original Hebrew language means to “invite in ” So, if God is invited into the process, he will give you direction. He has not failed to guide me.
I always keep the style of the parables at the forefront provide the story about a problem that will resonate with the reader, weave into the story a redemption plan or a way to escape or change, and then, in the end, leave the decision to change up to the reader
You’re the CEO of Adoni Publishing, LLC. How has your background in ministry and coaching influenced your approach to publishing, and what sets Adoni Publishing apart in the industry?
After some time, I decided that it was important to create a way to self-publish my books (I also published my granddaughter’s three books) I did not seek to publish the work of others but wanted an easy route to publish mine I don’t think anything sets my LLC apart from the others. It’s simply my route to ministry, book publishing, and speaking.
Marriage is a central theme in your work, and you’ve celebrated fifty blessed years in your own marriage. What are some key principles or practices you believe contribute to a successful and lasting marriage?
It’s one of the reasons I felt led to write God doesn’t just give us a blessing to keep to ourselves; sometimes, it’s the route he uses to help others and provide them with the same opportunity you’ve been blessed to have Therein lies the reason for my message about preparation before marriage
I will say that if you are a true believer, the one place you will live out God’s Word is in your marriage - from forgiveness to not allowing the sun to go down on her anger, to showing grace in moments, to applying real love in the relationship, to never keep a record of wrong. Marriage becomes your focus and mandate; therefore, it is your priority before any other ministry. Lastly, building a lifelong marriage requires the LCW found in Genesis 2:24: Leave – mother and father, Cleave – only to each other and Weave – operate as one. These are powerful commands, and God has a message for us in each one It’s shameful how disrespectfully the world treats the sanctity of what God has given us
As an ordained Minister (ThD), how does your faith inform your perspectives on love, relationships, and marriage? In what ways does spirituality play a role in your coaching and writing?
The principles I apply in my personal walk as a believer, in my work and ministry, coaching, writing, and marriage is to take God at his word rather than form an opinion It is God’s perspective, as given to us in his Word, that I rely on. I depend on being led by His Holy Spirit in prayer and trust how he guides me.
Looking ahead, what are your goals for the future, both personally and professionally?
Are there any new projects or ventures on the horizon that you’re excited about?
God has given me some ideas for the fifth book in the CATCH Series In addition, I’m returning to my beginning and bringing back my Dr Velma TALKS podcast I’ll talk about relationships and marriage and reference content in my books I also look forward to more speaking opportunities and plan to host workshops on my speaking topics
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ELA HARDENMACK, MD
Dr. Angela Harden-Mack, MD, is a leading voice in holistic wellbeing, dedicated to empowering women to conquer the challenges of modern life, reclaim their vitality, and achieve the essential work-life harmony needed for success in every aspect of their lives
As a medical doctor and esteemed faith and spirituality teacher, Dr Angela brings a unique perspective to her work, merging medical expertise with spiritual insight
Dr Angela’s expertise has been showcased in various media outlets, including appearances on WXYZ Detroit’s "Ask The Expert" and Channel 7 News, as well as columns in BLAC magazine’s "Ask The Expert" segment Her unyielding commitment to women’s wellness and empowerment serves as a beacon of hope for those striving for vibrant health, optimal well-being, and fulfillment. As the Founder and CEO of Live Great Lives Holistic Wellness Coaching, Dr. Angela inspires, educates, and empowers individuals to optimize their well-being using an integrative approach that combines modern medicine with the wisdom of healing arts and therapies. Live Great Lives offers individual and group coaching, events, and publications, placing it at the forefront of holistic wellness and women’s health empowerment
wellness coach, merging medical expertise with spiritual insight?
My journey from being a medical doctor to a holistic wellness coach was born out of personal necessity and transformation
At the start of my career, more than 25 years ago, I was a modern-day Superwoman I juggled the demanding roles of a successful medical doctor, devoted homemaker, and active church member Despite my outward success, my relentless schedule 105+ hour weeks with 72-hour on-call shifts, nights nursing my infant son, and mornings packed with family responsibilities periodically left me with low energy and struggling silently and saying, “This is only for a season.”
The turning point came when a friend pointed out my "Superwoman syndrome," urging me to take off the metaphorical "S" from my chest This moment of clarity forced me to confront the toll my hustle was taking on my health I realized that to truly live a GREAT life, the life God planned for me, I needed to embrace wellness Replacing the "S" with a "W," I embarked on a journey of holistic health, balancing my mind, body, and spirit This transformation inspired me to empower other women to break free from the overworked culture, advocating for a harmonious blend of life and work without sacrificing health Today, I see life as a symphony where each woman can be the conductor, orchestrating a beautiful balance of action, rest, and self-care.
What inspired you to found Live Great Lives Holistic Wellness Coaching, and what integrative approach do you employ to optimize well-being?
The inspiration to found Live Great Lives Holistic Wellness Coaching stemmed from a growing need I observed among my female patients and Bible students Many of my patients were interested in complementary health practices, incorporating prayer and other spiritual activities into their health plans Simultaneously, my Bible students found great value in our discussions about the body, mind, and spirit connection, recognizing that optimizing this triad could lead to better health and a higher quality of life This realization drove me to create a space where women could embrace a holistic approach to wellness
I firmly believe that the first step in an integrative approach to health is to recognize, celebrate, and elevate the connection between the body, mind, and spirit This holistic view is essential for achieving true well-being However, it doesn’t stop there We also need to integrate our personal and professional lives. A woman cannot live her best life if she treats the dimensions of her being as separate silos without connection or if her personal and professional lives are in conflict. By harmonizing these aspects, women can thrive, achieving balance and fulfillment in all areas of their lives.
As a 9-time best-selling author and recipient of the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, how do you balance your roles as a medical professional, author, and wellness coach?
I am honored to be recognized as a recipient of the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award and to have achieved success as a 9-time bestselling author Balancing my roles as a medical professional, author, and wellness coach requires a few key "tools" that help me stay focused and effective One of these tools is my Ultimate Priority Plan, which places God first, family second, and everything else in its proper order. Putting God first is essential for me to remain centered, grounded, and in alignment to receive abundant blessings.
Another tool I rely on is living according to the seasons of life. I understand the importance of timing and do not attempt to "plant" during a season meant for rest By recognizing and honoring the appropriate seasons, I am able to expect and receive an abundant harvest The third key to my balance is maintaining clear boundaries Boundaries are crucial as they define what is acceptable and what is not, providing structure and clarity Priorities, life seasons, and boundaries together create an exciting and abundant life, allowing me to thrive in my various roles
Can you discuss the importance of worklife harmony for women’s success in modern society, and how do you empower women to achieve this balance?
In today’s modern society, achieving work-life harmony is essential for women’s success Work-life harmony is the blessing of enjoying health, happiness, satisfaction, and success. To achieve this, it’s important for each woman to define what success looks like for her personally. While there are general definitions of success, authentic success is about living your purpose, making an impact according to your values, and feeling satisfied with your achievements
I like to think of work-life harmony and success as WHOLE W stands for whole person, whole life, emphasizing that the best life happens when you are whole H represents health and wellness, as true success should never come at the cost of your well-being O stands for ONE, highlighting that you are unique and your plans for work-life harmony must be customized to fit your needs, desires, and the seasons of your life L is for Love, the powerful emotion that makes loving others easier when you love God and yourself E stands for energy, particularly feminine energy, which plays a crucial role in being authentic, healthy, confident, and powerful. Through my coaching, I empower women to be whole, healthy, and wise, leading to balance and harmony in their lives.
What are some common challenges women face in prioritizing their well-being, and how do you address these challenges through your coaching?
Women face numerous common challenges when it comes to prioritizing their well-being Among these, three significant issues stand out: socialization of girls and women, gender stereotypes, and societal expectations From a young age, girls and boys are socialized differently
Boys are encouraged to play full out, be confident, and strive for victory, even if they aren’t fully prepared They are given the rules for success, leadership, and winning
In contrast, girls are often taught to be soft and nice and to participate without the competitive edge. They are discouraged from displaying confidence and ambition, as these traits are often seen as unladylike. The likeability bias further complicates this issue if a woman is smart, she might not be seen as likable, and if she is driven, she is often viewed as aggressive.
Gender stereotypes and expectations play a substantial role in the challenges women face Despite some progress, female role models and sponsors in higher levels of various fields remain scarce The pace of change is slow, akin to a glacial movement Additionally, the gender pay gap persists, with women often earning less than their male counterparts Recent studies frequently highlight that women earn 87 cents for every dollar earned by men I personally experienced this disparity when a male colleague was compensated for additional duties, but my request for the same compensation was denied. This experience was a turning point for me, shedding light on gender pay disparities and teaching me valuable lessons in negotiation, self-advocacy, and believing in my economic worth.
Ultimately, this rejection led to a new opportunity with higher compensation, proving that a "no" can indeed open the door to a "yes "
Expectations from both self and others add another layer of complexity to women’s pursuit of well-being Society has numerous opinions on what a woman should do, who she should be, and what she should have However, these opinions should not dictate our actions
Instead, we must align our expectations with our self-value, self-worth, and self-love Attempting to be a Superwoman or a Perfectionist is not sustainable We need to release these unrealistic expectations and embrace our unique journey, understanding that growth in self-worth and self-love is a continuous process.
I often use the metaphor of a diamond to describe a woman and her journey toward holistic wellness. A diamond starts as carbon and transforms under immense pressure, heat, and time within the earth. Similarly, each woman is a diamond waiting to be unearthed, cut, and polished The greatness lies within our natural essence, life goals, and experiences, which act as the heat and pressure shaping us A woman who embraces a holistic wellness lifestyle becomes a "diamond woman" unique, multifaceted, valuable, polished, strong, resilient, and radiantly beautiful
To thrive, women must focus on the seven dimensions of life: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, career, financial, and social wellness By addressing these areas, a woman equips and empowers herself to tackle the challenges she faces. This comprehensive approach to well-being ensures that women can achieve true balance and harmony in their lives, allowing them to shine brightly like the diamonds they are.
Your journey from the unsustainable Superwoman role to becoming a WELL Woman is inspiring. Can you share some insights or strategies for other women looking to achieve similar well-being and success?
My journey from the unsustainable Superwoman role to becoming a WELL Woman has been transformative and inspiring
The strategy I employ involves regularly meditating on and acting on several key insights that I continue to use for my optimal well-being and success Central to my approach is living my life according to my Purpose, ensuring that everything aligns with this core principle. I believe that my life’s plan is God-ordained and meant to prosper me if I maintain faith, obedience, and belief.
A compelling vision, or Picture, of my life guides me. This vision excites, energizes, and empowers me. I have my vision written down and frequently visualize it in my mind, which helps me walk out my life’s plan with clarity and determination The Path for my life is uniquely mine, with God ordering my steps and illuminating my way I trust that my feet are equipped to navigate every terrain I encounter on my life’s journey
Of course, like everyone else, I face distractions, fears, and doubts that compete for my attention I must be vigilant and prepared for disappointments or setbacks
When I miss the mark, whether intentionally or unintentionally, I make it a point to confess, forgive myself, and redirect my efforts. This practice helps me stay aligned with my Purpose and continue moving forward.
Mindfulness, patience, perseverance, and prayer are essential tools that keep me focused on my path. These practices help me maintain a balanced perspective and stay committed to my goals By integrating these insights into my daily life, I have transformed from an overwhelmed Superwoman to a WELL Woman, embracing holistic wellness and living a life of purpose and fulfillment
