WE Social | 2023

FROM THE EDITOR

Empowered Women, Empower Women is the vision for this volume of WE Social and we are so excited to share this stellar lineup of leading Women of Excellence with you. This annual publication is one I look forward to each year because these women are making an impact on the world and changing it for future generations of women. Every businesswoman is inspiring and holds these characteristics: drive, optimism, intelligence, perseverance, and teamwork.

As of 2023, for the first time since the Fortune 500 list began 68 years ago, more than 10% of CEOs leading Fortune 500 companies are women. These women in business are building empires while bringing along likeminded women to cheer one another on.

As you flip through the pages of this second edition of WE Social, please take the time to read the journey of these extraordinary women. Even a step further, reach out to them to celebrate all of their wins in their journey as women in business.

MIA | Associate Editor

JEN MEADOWS | Editor, WEsocial

PUBLISHER

David Renfro

EDITOR

Jen Meadows

COPY EDITOR

Lana Cagle

SALES

David Renfro | 731.499.1414

Jen Meadows | 985.687.8980

Trish Trahan | 985.773.4280

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jen Meadows

Katie Ulmer

PROFILE PHOTOGRAPHY

Jen Meadows

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Liesel Schmidt

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Chris Shenk

SOCIAL MEDIA & WEB DESIGN

Jen Meadows

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LEADING FEMALE PLASTIC SURGEON IN MANDEVILLE, LA

Dr. Michele Cooper

What Patients Are Saying

“…She was there for me every step of the way…” When I went to Dr. Cooper, I was very nervous and afraid. I mean elective surgery is a big step. Not only did she make me feel at ease, I felt she was sincere. She didn’t make me feel as though I really needed the surgery. If anything, I walked out of there with more self confidence and that was before I actually had the surgery. She was there for me every step of the way, before and after. I have received so many compliments from the work she did. I have and will continue to recommend her to everyone.

“…Very comforting…”

I have been loving my new look ever since my surgery about 4 years ago. I enjoyed meeting Dr. Cooper and found her very comforting. She was able to give me the natural look I was going for!

“…Meticulous in every detail…”

Dr. Cooper and her staff are meticulous in every detail both medically and aesthetically. Most impeccable taste is also displayed throughout her Mandeville office building, adorned with marvelous furnishings and gallery art work.

NORTHSHORE VOLUME 3 · 2023

THE VIEWS AND COMMENTS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHORS ARE NOT ALWAYS THAT OF OUR EDITORS OR PUBLISHERS. WHILE EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE THE ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION IN THE PUBLICATION, WE SOCIAL ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS, OMISSIONS OR RESULTANT CONSEQUENCES, INCLUDING ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE ARISING FROM THE RELIANCE ON INFORMATION IN THIS PUBLICATION. ALL IMAGES CONTAINED IN WE SOCIAL MAGAZINE ARE SUBJECT TO THE COPYRIGHT OF WE SOCIAL, BUT NOT LIMITED THERETO. REPRODUCTION OF ANY PART OF THIS MAGAZINE WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION IS PROHIBITED.

NORTHSHORE VOLUME 3 · 2023

THE VIEWS AND COMMENTS EXPRESSED BY THE AUTHORS ARE NOT ALWAYS THAT OF OUR EDITORS OR PUBLISHERS. WHILE EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE THE ACCURACY OF THE INFORMATION IN THE PUBLICATION, WE SOCIAL ACCEPTS NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS, OMISSIONS OR RESULTANT CONSEQUENCES, INCLUDING ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE ARISING FROM THE RELIANCE ON INFORMATION IN THIS PUBLICATION. ALL IMAGES CONTAINED IN WE SOCIAL MAGAZINE ARE SUBJECT TO THE COPYRIGHT OF WE SOCIAL, BUT NOT LIMITED THERETO. REPRODUCTION OF ANY PART OF THIS MAGAZINE WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION IS PROHIBITED.

“The first time I met David, I felt as if I had known him forever. He is very personable and you can tell he genuinely loves his career, which makes it even more enjoyable working with him. David, Jen, and the entire team at Social make marketing in all forms easy & fun!”

SHELLEY HODDINOTT RICHARDSON

Senior Financial Advisor Merrill Lynch

“Social takes your business’s exposure to the next level, and I love their personal touch on creativity and media content.”

DR. LAUREN AGNEW

Eyewares Optometrist

“While Social Magazine is a new partner, my experience with them so far has been very positive! It has been wonderful collaborating with David and Jen on photos and content that perfectly represents my brand.”

ANNETTE DOWDLE

Senior Vice President Hub International

Quotes FROM OUR WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE

“I find that acting on emotion and feelings rather than facts and circumstances often only leads to bigger challenges.”

MICHELLE MAYNE DAVIS, ESQ.

“I just try to take challenges in stride—one day at a time, one foot in front of the other.”

JESSICA BOSCH

“She

“I aspire to be the woman that truly has peace and joy in their life and a positive, supportive woman that supports and encourages other women.”

JENNIFER PACIONE

“I try to echo that in my personal and professional life. Real estate transactions don’t always go smoothly but if you treat everyone with respect and share the common goal of making your clients happy, everyone wins.”

“It’s a joy to come to work alongside great women that empower our patients and each other daily.”

LAUREN CARBO, MSN, APRN, FNP-C

“I strive to make every patient feel comfortable and confident in their own skin.”

BRANDI GILL MCANDREW, MSN, APRN, FNP-C

“She taught me the importance of being independent as a woman and being able to stand on my own.”

“I approach them with an open mind, as challenges present opportunities for change and incite the critical thinking needed to craft effective resolutions.”

LISA ROBINSON

“I can do the difficult things just by beginning them and then taking it one step at a time.”

MELISSA CAMBRE

“Through it all, I found that it really takes a village, and I wouldn’t have been able to do it without my husband, our families, and my team.”

ABI CASWELL

ALISON THORNHILL

“That’s when my path was decided, and my goal ever since has been to help as many people as I can.”

CRYSTAL COOK FERRIS

wants to see others succeed and taught me to always treat others with love and respect, no matter the circumstance. I strive to emulate my mother in all my relationships, especially client relationships.”

MOLLY KOENIG

MARGOT RAINOLD

“Don’t be afraid to change course if your gut is telling you something. Those are the decisions that can change your life.”

JAMIE MCHUGH

“I saw many strengths in my mom, but what stuck out to me the most was her determination to get things done at work and at home.”

ANNA ROSE MCHUGH

“The balance that my mother has for work and family. Her work is a priority, but she is always still there for everybody in our family.”

ELISE MCHUGH

“Life is perceived through one’s senses.”

DR. PAULYNA NGUYEN

“Instead of masking problems, I was healing them.”

DR. ASHLEY GEOGHEGAN

“I’ve failed, but failure made me only want to work harder—and failure is only temporary.”

SUSAN GEOGHEGAN

“I found creative innovations and ways to meet everyone’s needs, and it developed me into the leader that I am today.”

KIMBERLY WALKER

“Having that support from an early age helped me develop the kind of confidence that it takes to be successful.”

CHLOÉ POTTER

“Optometry IS health, and people outside of the profession don’t always realize that.”

DR. BREHANA HAWKINS

“Therefore, I decided to become an optometrist to blend my interest in eye care with my love of fashion.”

DR. LAUREN AGNEW

“I wanted to dedicate my life to something that was rooted in helping others.”

DR. NHI TRINH

“Cultivating a place where kiddos feel comfortable and good about themselves inside and out is what my job is all about!”

KRISTEN CALLAHAN

“I love taking care of people and I want people to feel their best.”

DANA PALO

“Our company’s success is determined by successes of our clients.”

EUGENIA GANGI

“I am leading in my world, and it is important for my children to see their mom, as a woman, work hard and build on her own life.”

TORI PASENTINE

What is it that made you choose to go into optometry/ophthalmology, and what makes you feel the field is so important to health?

Shadowing various professions in the medical field led me to optometry. Optometry IS health, and people outside of the profession don’t always realize that. Contrary to popular belief, perfect, 20/20 vision does not necessarily equate to perfect eyes or overall health. I’ve unfortunately seen patients presenting for their first eye exam in 10 or 20 years leaving with no glasses prescription but instead with a diagnosis of a vision-threatening disease or a systemic issue like diabetes or auto-immune disease. With yearly exams, these issues can be diagnosed and managed in a timely manner.

Dr.

I have worn glasses since I was a baby. Because of this, I’ve had an interest in optometry for as long as I can remember. When I was an undergrad at Tulane and trying to decide on a career path, I knew that I wanted to go into the healthcare field. I also have always loved style and fashion. There is such a variety of eye ware frames on the market today, your glasses can really be an extension of your wardrobe. Therefore, I decided to become an optometrist to blend my interest in eye care with my love of fashion.

Dr. Brehana Hawkins

Lauren Agnew, Owner of Eyewares

Dr. Brehana Hawkins

Dr. Lauren Agnew Owner of Eyewares

EYEWARESNOLA.COM

I wanted to dedicate my life to something that was rooted in helping others. I love optometry because I enjoy patient care and being an advocate for the importance of eye health. I also love the fact that one pair of glasses or contact lenses can enhance one’s quality of life and boost personal confidence. Optometry allows me to help my patients see their world more clearly and preserve the most important sense: vision.

An accident that almost blinded my father made me realize the importance of sight and how it can affect one’s quality of life. I chose to pursue a career in Optometry to learn about how disease states and life choices can affect one’s vision. Life is perceived through one’s senses. Sight is one of the most important of these senses. It allows one to appreciate a loved one’s smile, see children grow up, or something as simple as enjoy the vast blue sky. Optometry is an essential and indispensable field in healthcare and it is my passion and duty to share it with my patients.

Dr. Nhi Trinh

Dr. Paulyna Nguyen

Dr. Paulyna Nguyen

Dr. Nhi Trinh 3601 US HWY 190 E., STE B • MANDEVILLE 985-624-3314

Tori Pasentine

My children are the loves of my life. I have three; Brandon, Victoria Faith and Jesse. Being a single and working mom, I thrive on seeing my children and they fill my love tank. They push me forward in life and in my career, and they give me purpose. Being successful and maintaining a life that enables me to have the luxury to spend quality time with them and provide for them is my goal and the key to my end of the responsibility.

Besides being a mother, I have built a business in Mandeville called Royal Retreat Day Spa. It's a boutique day spa with amenities such as jacuzzi, sauna, lockers, VIP room, and couples' treatment room. We use luxury products in our facials and body treatments such as HydraFacial and Natura Bisse. We carefully train all of our employees, from estheticians and massage therapists to deliver high quality services. My passion stems from traveling and enjoying many different spas around the nation, therefore I have culminated rituals and treatments that I know my clients will enjoy. I have a love for the spa while having a background in the industry. After many years of individually learning and gaining experience, my siblings and I were able to create a luxurious space of tranquility for my community.

I am proud to say that my three beautiful children have a set of parents in their life to set a wonderful example to lead and succeed in life. Aside from their father, who is a strong leader himself and has been supportive of my dreams, I am leading in my world, and it is important for my children to see their mom, as a woman, work hard and build her own life and look out for her team and most importantly her family. I'd love for my sons and daughter to know what a strong woman looks like and there is no gender differences when it comes to one's individual success. As for my daughter, I wish to raise not only a beautiful young lady, but a smart and hardworking leader. I want to set an example and hope to show her what woman leadership looks like. Hopefully one day all of my kids will lead their own life with passion, success and integrity.”

Q/A

WE: What factors impact a woman’s ability to lead others?

TP: The only thing that would impact a woman's ability to lead is her own mindset. Again, there is no gender difference when it comes to anyone leading a team. She has to be strong and determined and also patient to lead a team and share her vision.

WE: Do or did you have a woman leader as a mentor or are there specific women who inspired you and why?

TP: I've had many other mentors in my life, but the only woman I will ever mention is my mother. I watched her fight through life, work hard and provide for her family. She managed 5 kids, and a total of 3 different businesses in her lifetime. Working for her growing up helped me learn what good customer service looked like and how being a business owner isn't all about delegating and collecting profit. You also have to be willing to do grunt work and ultimately do what needs to be done.

OWNER OF ROYAL RETREAT

Meet St. Scholastica Academy’s Head of School, Sheri H.

Gillio, M.Ed.

Originally from the Southshore, Sheri’s family relocated to Baton Rouge in 2005 where she was an administrator in an all-girls Catholic high school. In 2020, she was blessed to be selected as the Head of School at St. Scholastica Academy, so her career has come full circle back to the Archdicoese of New Orleans. Sheri has been an educator for 30 years. Most of her career has been spent in all-girls environments. Sheri attended an all-girls high school, she and her husband raised two daughters who attended allgirls schools, and her professional experience has primarily been in an all-girls school environment. All girls single gender education is something Sheri Gillio is very passionate about.

Empowering Young Women:

St. Scholastica Academy’s Tradition of Molding the Future

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

“It is truly a pleasure to watch young girls go from shy underclass students to confident young women ready to embrace the challenges of the world.” - Sheri H. Gillio, M.Ed.

Empowering young women is not just a cliche at St. Scholastica Academy. As the only all-girls Catholic high school on the Northshore, SSA is molding young women to make a difference in the world. Students are immersed in 120 years of sisterhood rooted in the Benedictine tradition of prayer, work, study and community. The all-girls demographic allows students to focus on using their God-given talents in many areas, including academic excellence, community service, spiritual development, clubs, leadership, athletics and the arts, all while forming bonds that last a lifetime.

best when they work together through productive learning struggles.” While participating in collaborative activities, students learn how to relate to others, a valuable skill in any profession.

“SSA has prepared me for the next chapter in my life by challenging me in my courses and pushing me to places I did not know I could reach.”- Lucy Edwards 2019

St. Scholastica Academy is able to give girls a better learning environment because “we recognize the unique learning styles of girls, so our programs cater to the ethos of how girls learn best,” says Gillio, an educator for 30 years and Head of School at SSA since 2020. “Combining strong female role models and hands-on learning experiences affords students the ability to learn the ‘how’ of something while also learning the ‘why.’” Gillio further explains that SSA’s educational programs are centered around collaboration. “Girls are social beings and learn

All core subjects are meticulously aligned; for example, students read and analyze the non-fiction and literary works of a time period in English class while simultaneously learning the historical context of that time period in history class. Additionally, an integrated approach to. learning the STEM disciplines is utilized in the math and science alignment. More specifically, SSA adopted the Physics First sequential model, which offers a full year of physics to freshmen prior to taking chemistry or biology. This program, coupled with the incorporation of LSU’s College Readiness Program in mathematics, has exponentially increased ACT scores in math and science.

In addition to Louisiana State University, St. Scholastica also partners with Southeastern Louisiana University, the University of Texas Austin, and Northwestern State University in offering 13 Dual Enrollment and Advanced Placement courses. This offers students an opportunity to earn college credits before graduating from high school. Elective courses include choices in every discipline and include creative writing, journalism, law studies, psychology, introduction to entrepreneurship, medical math, ceramics, digital media, dance, musical theater, anatomy, computer science, engineering, foreign language, TV production and many more. SSA’s curriculum encourages problem-solving, searching, expressing, innovating, critical thinking and pushing boundaries. At SSA, the possibilities are truly limitless.

When young ladies graduate from St. Scholastica, they do so ready to embrace whatever the future may hold. This is due to the vast array of opportunities SSA gives to its students, not only academically, but in areas of leadership, as well. The Student Council is a primary example of girls honing leadership skills while being held accountable by their fellow students. Every sports team also utilizes a captain/co-captain model, which allows student leaders to also serve as role models to their peers. SSA’s extracurricular offerings are so diverse that 90% of students are involved in a club and/or sport! St. Scholastica once said, “She could do more because she loves more.” SSA students, faculty, staff, and administrators strive to live out that motto every single day.

“Personality begins where comparison leaves off. Be unique. Be memorable. Be confident. Be proud.”

SHANNON L. ALDER

JenniferPacione

985-373-4134

Walk into a home with windows, and you’ll realize how important window treatments are. For owner of Shading Places, Jennifer Pacione, this aspect of interior design was a hobby that became a business—and the perfect way to balance work with the needs of her family. “My driving factor in launching Shading Places was to be self-employed so I could be more available for my children,” she says. “I’m a mom and wife first, businesswoman second. Owning my own company means that I’m able to be home when my family is. Most of the time, I’m cooking dinner or cleaning up the house, all while working on an estimate for a client or ordering fabric. I may be working late in the evening, but I’m home. It’s a luxury to me!”

As an entrepreneur as well as a mother, Pacione sees the importance of the example she sets for others. “I aspire to be the woman that truly has peace and joy in their life and a positive, supportive woman that supports and encourages other women.”

Being a business owner naturally presents challenges, but Pacione takes all the challenges that come, “One day at a time. There will always be challenges. I try to always find a positive to get me through the day. Life is too short to sweat the small stuff,” she says.

Having pursued a passion, Pacione finds her greatest reward in her clients’ reactions. “When I see the look on their face and how excited they are at completion, it brings me such joy!” she says. “I love starting new projects and helping my clients’ vision come to life.”

Susan Geoghegan

Before she made the transition to working as a State Farm agent, Susan Geoghegan was a teacher at Isidore Newman School who loved her job—but after being pursued by a recruiter for more than a year, she finally took the leap and has never regretted the change. “Being a State Farm agent presents diverse challenges every day,” she says. “I see each day as an opportunity to achieve great results for our clients and for ourselves. Our team works hard, enjoys many benefits, and shares them with their families. At the end of the day, we always share what we have learned or accomplished.”

In her life and in her work, Geoghegan tries to emulate her father as well as the most influential woman in her life, her mother, who was such an example of grace and strength. A board member of the Northshore Humane Society and Spaysmart, she is passionate about animals and is ready for the challenge of ending euthanasia in Louisiana. Challenges, in fact, are something she approaches head-on. “Life is like a game of football,” says Geoghegan, whose father was a professional football player for the New York Giants. “I saw how hard my father worked to stay fit and be a legend, and I learned to always focus on the reward, never the sacrifice. Sacrifice is just a part of daily life necessary to achieving a goal or making an impact on the world around you. Never give up, do it right. I’ve failed, but failure made me only want to work harder—and failure is only temporary.”

Fun Fact: Susan maintains a healthy lifestyle and even completed a triathlon for her 75th birthday!

6601 VETERANS MEMORIAL BLVD, STE 17 METAIRIE, LA 70003 · (504) 883-5553 SUSAN.GEOGHEGAN.B3AY@STATEFARM.COM

Dr. Ashley Geoghegan

Dr. Ashley Geoghegan began her career as a veterinarian in a place most people would never think of: the military. “I took care of the military working dogs at each base,” she says. “We treated them like elite soldiers, and they had the best western health care available. But I was only at each base a few years, so the full picture of health for my patient wasn’t realistic.”

When she left the military, Geoghegan started a mobile veterinary practice, essentially driving a 26-foot, full-service hospital to each client. “I was spending more time with the owners and asking lots of question about lifestyle and diet,” says Geoghegan, who is now more affectionately known as Dr. G. “A decade later, I felt like I was treating the very same issues over and over again. It was about this time that I found alternative, Eastern medicine, and it felt like home to me. This is when the idea for VetNaturally was born—and nothing else like it existed. Instead of masking problems, I was healing them.”

At VetNaturally, Dr. G and her team practice integrative medicine that combines the practices of Eastern and Western medicine. “Reversing liver or kidney disease, helping an old, arthritic, painful dog move beautifully again, helping an anxious dog thrive in the world, or allowing pets to live with cancer instead of die from itthese treatments are incredibly gratifying” she says. After 23 years of practicing, Dr G is still passionate about her profession…especially with the new patients and clients. “As I place that first acupuncture needle,” she says, “I can’t help but smile because it’s the start of our healing journey.”

123 GIROD ST • MANDEVILLE, LA 70448 985-718-9991 • VETNATURALLY.COM

Michelle Mayne Davis, Esq.

By Liesel Schmidt

An attorney at Truitt Law Firm, Michelle Mayne Davis, Esq., has been a lover of the law for as long as she can remember. “I always joke that I was two years old when I decided to become a lawyer,” she says. “I’m sure it had a lot to do with my penchant for arguing my point to prove I was correct. My dad always says, ‘If you think the sky is blue but Michelle thinks it’s green, she will argue her point relentlessly until you are eventually convinced that the sky is, indeed, green.’”

Clearly, she doesn’t back down from a challenge—in fact, Mayne Davis thrives on them and has a very effective method for overcoming them. “I try to remove the emotion and feelings that usually accompany any challenge, albeit personal or professional, and approach that challenge very logically and methodically: identify the problem, search for solutions, decide on a course of action, and act accordingly. If that doesn’t work, I reassess and readdress. It’s only after the challenge is overcome that my guard comes down and I address the emotions and feelings that were suppressed during the process. I find that acting on emotion and feelings rather than facts and circumstances often only leads to bigger challenges.”

Stressful as her work often is, the passion that led Mayne Davis to the law is something that she channels in all areas of her life.

“If I’m not passionate and advocating for a client, then I try to be passionate and advocate for my family, my profession, and my community,” she says, “always evolving and growing as a person.

Q/A

WE: What celebrity/historic figure would you want to be stuck next to on a long flight?

MMD: Abigail Adams. Married to a lawyer and eventual President, she was the strongest female voice throughout the American Revolution and her husband’s key political advisor. It would be fascinating to hear about her experiences during the formation of our country, her advocacy for women’s equal education and property rights, and her belief that women should take part in decisions rather than just serving their husbands.

WE: What one word describes you?

MMD: Tenacious.

WE: What is your favorite movie?

1321 OCHSNER BLVD., SUITE 200

COVINGTON, LA 70433

985-273-0900

WWW.TRUITTLAW.COM

MMD: Somewhere in Time.

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

Riding in Cars with Girls:

Laurie McCants

Ask any marketing exec, and you’ll find that women drive most of the purchasing power in the majority of American households—and the same holds true for cars. Men love their muscle cars and heavy-towing trucks, but when it comes time to start a family, their wives are usually the ones insisting on family-friendly cars to haul the kids, the stuff, and anything else that may be involved in family living. But single women are also a force when it comes to car buying for themselves. In fact, most women in America are license holders and car owners, and we’ve educated ourselves not to be duped by the dealers who “see us coming.”

Fortunately for all of us who have estrogen coursing through our veins, car dealers are no longer solely of the

favorite car for 2022 is definitely a Mercedes G63, especially with the limited production and the cool colors they offer,” she notes. “These are in high demand but are so much fun to drive.

male persuasion. In fact, there’s a growing number of female dealership owners, bringing their own brand of business savvy and—we’re going to say it—sensitivity to the mix. Realize it or not, that makes a big difference to women who are so used to walking into a dealership feeling as though they’re viewed as naïve purchasers to be taken advantage of.

For Mercedes Benz of Covington owner, Laurie McCants, being a woman in the automotive world may make her a bit of a trailblazer, but she’s used her business acumen to build one of the top dealerships in the area. First opening Honda of Covington in 1998 followed by Covington Powersports in 2013, McCants opened her Mercedes dealership in 2018 with partners Greg and Juanita Baranco. “I originally started out

“My

in banking but found the car business to be much more challenging—and, of course, more fun,” McCants says. “I have always loved cars, and while it has always been a boys’ club, I have found more female dealers and operators these past five years or so, so the industry is opening up and trending more in our direction. That’s incredible to be a part of.”

Challenges are naturally a part of business ownership for anyone, and being in the car industry brings its own set of hurdles to clear. “Our biggest challenge in the past two years is recruiting new talent and, most of all, experienced technicians,” McCants explains. “There needs to be a new generation of technicians with the trade schools because they can easily make over six figures once they are at the top of their game. Another issue frustrating dealers as well as consumers is the global chip shortage that has caused a lack of inventory on the car lots. All of this impacts the automobile industry immensely. It has been very difficult having enough inventory for customers to have a normal selection to choose from but even more difficult getting enough manpower and the parts needed in a timely manner.”

Still, McCants is passionate about her work and the people that have become part of her working family. “I love my employees and love them even more when they are as competitive as I am about being the best we can be in any category,” she says.

Naturally, McCants has her favorites when it comes to cars. “My favorite car for 2022 is definitely a Mercedes G63, especially with the limited production and the cool colors they offer,” she notes. “These are in high demand but are so much fun to drive.

“Honda has so many new models as well, and with each redesigned model they look better than ever. “

In the coming months, McCants is looking forward to growth in her dealerships. “Mercedes is already in the middle of a huge expansion after only 4.5 years, and Honda is getting set to do an entirely new ‘image upgrade.’ It’s incredibly exciting.”

“The response I have received from working with Social NorthShore is amazing! Photography, photography, photography...I love it!”

TAYLOR ALFONSO

Owner of Stella & Grace

IT FROM OUR CLIENTS...

Really Works!

“Social NorthShore always makes the process so easy each month. Thank you for being a joy to work with! ”

MICHELE COOPER M.D.

Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

“We love working with the team at Social Northshore. They make the process so easy for us, and truly care about our success!”

KRISTEN CALLAHAN

Owner of Kiki & Lolli’s

ARE YOU READY TO START YOUR SUCCESS STORY? CONTACT JEN@SOCIALNORTHSHORE.COM

Chloé Potter & Claire Tassin

As a social butterfly with a zest for people and life, it was no surprise that Chloé Potter found her way into the world of weddings and events early in her career. After many years devoted to the hospitality industry, she knew it was the right time to launch her own business, Glo Events, a curated event design experience specializing in candles and décor. “I have always been a creative. I am passionate about my craft, my clients, and their special celebrations. Being a part of their most important day is a responsibility I do not take lightly.”

When she dove into entrepreneurship, she was freshly divorced, a single mom of three, and still working a full-time job running three local venues and a catering company. She knew from the beginning she would need a supportive team that would care as much about her business as she did. No one could fill that role better than her mother, Claire Tassin. “My mom has always been my biggest inspiration. She has overcome many obstacles in her life, and witnessing her strength and positivity set the tone in which I would strive to live my life. She’s always been my biggest fan. Having that support from an early age helped me develop the kind of confidence that it takes to be successful.”

Chloé describes her mom as a “radiant soul who has a special way with people.” She knew that this, combined with her loyalty and hardworking nature would be the ingredients to Glo’s success. “I get to work with my best friend every day and will never take for granted these moments we have together.”

Q/A

WE: What celebrity/historic figure would you want to be stuck on a long flight with?

Chloe: Pretty much any of the SNL actors/actresses, especially from the ’90s through the early 2000s.

WE: What song would be on the soundtrack of your life?

Claire: “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” by the Rolling Stones.

WE: What one word describes you?

Chloe: Vibrant.

WE: What is your spirit animal?

Claire: A hybrid of a unicorn, mermaid, and butterfly.

Lauren Carbo and Brandi Gill McAndrew

By Liesel Schmidt

The aesthetics and beauty industry are driven by how they make people feel, giving them confidence they might not have had before, simply through treatments or services designed to enhance their natural attributes. “I’ve always loved making people feel great about themselves,” says Lauren Carbo, MSN, APRN, FNP-C and owner of Aesthetics Haus. “Working as a registered nurse had a lasting impact on me with helping others, during some of their darkest times. In aesthetics, you can make people feel better about things that bother them—for instance, improving skin care and providing full facial balancing allows people to exude a certain confidence about themself. I admire beauty in my daily life, and aesthetics is an art that allows me to help people while also enhancing cosmetic features. It’s a joy to come to work alongside great women that empower our patients and each other daily.”

Adds co-owner Brandi Gill McAndrew, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, “I have always had a love for all things beauty, but nursing was my ultimate passion. During the time I was travel nursing, I came across a medspa in Texas and instantly knew that I wanted to own my own one day. From then on, I envisioned and manifested the Aesthetic Haus. I strive to make every patient feel comfortable and confident in their own skin. My passion for aesthetics is the whole reason for my success. While others are watching video posts on social media, I’m home watching videos on injections. Continuous education and learning new techniques fires up my soul. I am constantly learning new and modern techniques to bring only the best results to my patients.”

1901 HWY 190 SUITE 9

MANDEVILLE, LA 70448

985-778-0552

Q /A

WE: Cake or Pie?

LC: Definitely cake.

WE: What is your favorite movie?

BGM: Miss Congeniality

WE: What is your favorite season, and why?

LC: Fall. I love the weather in the fall and the events in the community during this season. It is just a happy time of year with get-togethers and football season.

WE: What celebrity/historic figure would you want to be stuck on a long flight with?

BGM: Dr. Zein Obagi, so I could pick his brain on ZO skin health products.

WWW.THEAESTHETICHAUSNORTHSHORE.COM

Reagan Charleston Thomas is an attorney working in a national mass torts firm & is the owner of Reagan Charleston Jewelry, which is a collection of original sterling silver and bronze jewelry designed by Reagan and her sister, Reina, all handmade in their New Orleans area studio. The Reagan Charleston Jewelry store is located in Canal Place above Louis Vuitton and is available online at ReaganCharleston.com. Reagan starred in the Bravo reality series Southern Charm New Orleans. She currently lives in New Orleans with her husband, Reece, and her two children, Reece Ellis and Rexford. She spends her free time working on charitable fundraising for organizations such as Sideline Pass, of which she is a Board Member, Mardi Paws and Split Second Foundation.

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I’m Every Woman:

How to Empower the Women Around You

There’s a saying that you cannot build yourself up by tearing others down, and in a world where we so often see people trying to get ahead by any means necessary—even fighting dirty—that is incredibly important to remember. We, as women especially, are in a crucial position to build each other up and empower one another, and that is a particular responsibility of those of us who are already in positions of power. If you’ve made it, if you’ve risen to the glass ceiling and left it shattered on the ground, help others find their own strength to do that. You have wisdom and experience to offer, so share it. Your generosity will be rewarded.

Empowering other women means listening, collaborating, and encouraging them in their ambition and dreams, which builds selfesteem and confidence in them and can empower them for the rest of their lives.

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

LISTEN WITHOUT JUDGMENT

One of the best ways to empower other women is by listening and being supportive of them when they come to you about their problems. With all of the pressures women are under in their lives, it’s important that they feel they have someone they know will listen without judging or criticizing them. Think about how much it meant to you— and still does—to have someone you could do that with yourself. You may not know from experience what they are going through, but taking the time and effort to understand them goes a long way.

ACKNOWLEDGE AND ENCOURAGE THEIR STRENGTHS

Compliments are a form of affirmation, and even what you consider to be a “little” compliment can empower someone else and make them feel good about what they’re doing. The smallest bit of praise can elevate someone’s self-esteem and inspire them to do even better.

BE SELFLESSLY SUPPORTIVE

Just as you give a gift without expecting anything in return, so should you offer your support without expectation of reciprocation. Acts of empowerment aren’t always appreciated in the moment, so you may never receive acknowledgment. Just take satisfaction that you have done something for someone else and empowered another woman just as you were once empowered.

TELL YOUR STORY

Everyone has been through challenges in their life, and everyone has a story that someone else needs to hear. Sharing that story is part of empowering other women, because you’re sharing experiences that can inspire them in their own lives. Let them hear your struggles and how you overcame them and how much stronger you are. Sharing is an even more powerful experience if your story is relatable to them and encourages them to find their success.

BECOME A MENTOR

Think of all the women who have inspired and impacted you in your life. When you become the person that other women can look up to and lean in to, you’re empowering them—which, in turn, shows them how they can empower themselves by learning from the life experiences of other women. Mentorship is an act that plants a seed of hope and inspiration in others.

ENCOURAGE INNER STRENGTH

Self-confidence, courage and self-reliance are all traits of a strong woman, and that strength sometimes needs to be found through the encouragement of others. Offer your support and encouragement to the women in your life and help them see how strong they are.

BE GENEROUS WITH YOUR KNOWLEDGE

This doesn’t mean you belittle someone else by showing off how smart or knowledgeable you are. Just the opposite. It’s providing other women with information that can

empower their lives and take them to a path that they might not have seen before. It’s teaching and showing them how they can empower themselves in life through things including education, networking and leadership training.

BE A FIGHTER

Despite what you may think, fighting for others who can’t fight for themselves is a way to empower them, because they are shown that they are worth fighting for. When someone is being mistreated, they need for justice to be served, and sometimes they can’t seek that justice on their own. Be someone who fights for the women around you.

STAND UP

Everyone has something that they believe in, and standing up for those beliefs shows that you have the strength to defend your convictions. That is empowerment in yourself, which shows other women an example to follow and how to be empowered in their own convictions.

CrystalCook Ferris

By Liesel Schmidt

As the owner of Rehab Dynamics and the DRIPBaR Covington, Crystal Cook Ferris is a firm believer in the power of physical therapy as well as the benefits of IV therapy. But her passion comes from a personal place, having been a volleyball and basketball player throughout high school. “I hurt my ankle in high school, went to PT, and fell in love with it,” she says. “That’s when my path was decided, and my goal ever since has been to help as many people as I can.”

Cook Ferris went to PT school in St. Augustine, Fl, worked as a travel PT and then bought into Rehab Dynamics before fully purchasing it ten years ago. It was only recently, when she started travelling more that she started getting IVs to help stay healthy and energized and realized that it would be a great addition for her Rehab Dynamics patients as well as the community. In February of 2022, Cook Ferris opened THE DRIPBaR Covington.

“The relationships that I’ve made with our patients, clients and my staff keep me passionate about my work,” says Cook Ferris. “To see a patient light up when they can do something that they couldn’t do three weeks ago is amazing! Seeing a client perk up and start feeling better after getting an IV also gives so much gratification. I’m also always trying to find the newest treatments and technologies to keep our clinics up to date with the latest and greatest.”

Q/A

WE: What is your favorite movie?

CCF: Dirty Dancing

WE: What one word describes you?

CCF: Driven

WE: What is a hidden talent of yours?

CCF: I can juggle!

WE: Cake or Pie?

CCF: Cake, hands down.

476 FALCONER DRIVE COVINGTON, LA 70433

985-247-8057

THEDRIPBAR.COM /NORTHSHORE-COVINGTON

476 FALCONER DRIVE COVINGTON, LA 70433

985-871-7878

REHABDYNAMICSLLC.COM

Molly Koenig & Margot Rainold

By Liesel Schmidt

Using their respective strengths in synchronicity, Molly Koenig and Margot Rainold partnered together to form M &M Residential, a top-selling real estate team under the McEnery Residential brand that stands on the McEnery standard of incomparable service and exceptional expertise. “With Margot’s many years of selling real estate coupled with her interior design experience and my lifelong relationships and local involvements on the Northshore, we knew that our partnership would bring a new, fresh and unique skillset to the community that is highly focused on service,” says Koenig.

Adds Rainold, “For the last two years partnering with Molly, we have really hit the ground running. Every day is different and fun, and because there are two of us, we are able to take on any listing or buyer from the Northshore to the Southshore and in Mississippi.”

Both women consider their mothers to be the women they most try to emulate. “My mom has the biggest, most genuine heart of anyone I know,” says Koenig. “She wants to see others succeed and taught me to always treat others with love and respect, no matter the circumstance. I strive to emulate my mother in all my relationships, especially client relationships.”

“My mother is always kind and loving to everyone she meets,” says Rainold. “I try to echo that in my personal and professional life. Real estate transactions don’t always go smoothly but if you treat everyone with respect and share the common goal of making your clients happy, everyone wins.”

Q/A

WE: What is your favorite season and why?

MK: I absolutely love fall, especially where we live. Cooler weather, football, block parties, outdoor concerts, art festivals and 5k races.

WE: What celebrity would you want to be sitting next to on a long flight?

MR: Bob Dylan.

WE: Do you have any hidden talents?

MR: Ping pong.

WE: What would you say is your hidden talent?

MK: Home organization. I wake up in the middle of the night thinking of ways to organize my laundry room and make it more efficient.

LISTEN UP!

A PLAYLIST FOR GIRL BOSSES

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

You know how there are certain songs that come on the radio or your streaming app that just make you feel like you could take on the world? Something in their lyrics, their beat, whatever that just resonates with you and makes you feel like a complete boss…you know the ones. You listen and you think, I’ve got this. “This,” of course, being whatever you’ve got in front of you to tackle. It gives you motivation and drive. That is just what you need on your playlist. To help you be the boss we know you are, we’ve very thoughtfully compiled an essential playlist for you…listen and go forth to conquer the world.

Run the World (Girls)

Beyonce

Independent Women

Destiny’s Child

The Man

Taylor Swift

Good As Hell

Lizzo

Girl

Maren Morris

Unbreakable

BNGRS

Unstoppable

Sia

London Bridge

Fergie

Survivor

Destiny’s Child

God is a Woman

Ariana Grande

Single Ladies

Beyonce

Stronger

Kelly Clarkson

Confident

Demi Lovato

Man I Feel Like A Woman

Shania Twain

Scars to Your Beautiful

Alessia Cara

Rise Up

Andra Day

Fight Song

Rachel Platten

No Scrubs

TLC

Rise

Katy Perry

Superwoman

Alicia Keys Fighter

Christina Aguilera

Diva

Beyonce

Stronger

Britney Spears

Look at Her Now

Selena Gomez

Can’t Hold Us Down

Christina Aguilera

Roar

Katy Perry

Respect

Aretha Franklin Brave

Sara Bareilles

IDGAF

Dua Lipa

ABCDEFU

Gayle

Shake it Off

Taylor Swift

Girl On Fire

Alicia Keys

You Oughtta Know

Alanis Morissette

Obsessed

Mariah Carey

You Should See Me in a Crown

Billie Eilish

Wannabe

Spice Girls

The Greatest

Sia

Rain On Me

Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande

Feelin Myself

Beyonce feat. Nicki Minaj

Firework

Katy Perry

Just Like Fire Pink

You Don’t Own Me

Lesley Gore

Goodbye Earl

The Chicks

“Fearlessness is like a muscle. I know from my own life that the more I exercise it the more natural it becomes to not let my fears run me.”

ARIANNA HUFFINGTON

Kimberly Walker

As Chief Nursing Officer at Slidell Memorial Hospital and Ochsner Medical Center–North Shore, Kimberly Walker has a great deal of responsibility to the hospital’s patients as well as to the many nurses under her charge. “I became CNO a year before the pandemic hit, and when it did, I found myself having to come up with innovative ways to care for the enormous surge of patients,” she says. “I also had to stay strong for my employees. They needed to know that everything was going to be okay, and that I would be walking right alongside them. I found creative innovations and ways to meet everyone’s needs, and it developed me into the leader that I am today.

“Although I no longer provide direct patient care, I coach, mentor and help those that do take care of patients,” she continues. “Indirectly, the decisions I make will impact millions of patients in the future.”

Walker credits her grandmother with a great deal of influence in her life. “She was a teacher for children with special needs,” she explains. “I used to visit her classroom and was in awe of her patience and kindness. She taught me the importance of understanding all walks of life, and she would say to me, ‘Never judge a book by its cover because you will miss a precious story behind that cover.’”

To her younger self, Walker would offer this valuable insight: “Listen to your gut, and always trust but verify. Your gut will guide you if you stop and listen to the signs.”

EugeniaGangi

PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER OF NOLA REAL ESTATE MARKETING & PHOTOGRAPHY

Successful real estate agents know that a positive client experience is the best method for faster sales, repeat customers and tons of referrals. At NOLA Real Estate Marketing, it’s our mission to handle the many marketing details that agents don’t have time for so they can focus on their clients’ needs. Together, we create the ideal experience for their clients. YOUR SALE IS OUR GOAL!

At NOLA Real Estate Marketing, we combine our knowledge and experience in real estate, media and film and unite these complex industries with topnotch skills in marketing, copywriting and graphic design to command a presence, impress buyers and expedite real estate agents selling their listings.

Online, mobile and social media marketing have established an undeniable industry stronghold. Savvy real estate professionals seek the most innovative real estate digital strategies to boost market presence. Our agents find that our high-visibility, comprehensive packaging for their listings increases their credibility and gains them referrals and leads.

“Think like a queen. A queen is not afraid to fail. Failure is another stepping stone to greatness.”

OPRAH WINFREY

Q /A

WE: What is a hidden talent?

LR: My many kitchen escapades. Unfortunately, my flops constitute survivor walks on the culinary wild side.

WE: Cake or Pie?

LR: BOTH! I love creating designer pound cake flavors like German chocolate and limoncello or attempting a bittersweet chocolate pie with “mile high” meringue.

WE: What is your favorite season and why?

LR: SUMMER! I relocated from the North to New Orleans, where the weather was warm and welcoming, even in winter. I’ve never regretted this life-altering decision and, as a “summer preferred” transplant, I happily call the NorthShore home.

Lisa Robinson

By Liesel Schmidt

For Bennett Hodgins Law attorney Lisa Robinson, the law may not have been her first career path, but it’s been a journey that lead to her true passion. “After working in a different industry where I routinely encountered complex legal issues, the benefits of a legal education became readily apparent,” she says. “As a single mom, however, this dream seemed unobtainable until I was accepted into the evening program at Loyola University New Orleans College of Law, allowing me to continue working full-time and attend classes at night. I transitioned into law practice a few years after graduating.”

As apt a word as “complex” is for describing the law, her work has taught her a great deal about overcoming the challenges that come her way. “I approach them with an open mind, as

challenges present opportunities for change and incite the critical thinking needed to craft effective resolutions,” she says. “Law practice marries technical skill with the art of lawyering, but a universal remedy doesn’t exist, as each client’s situation is unique. Achieving proficiency in both is an undertaking worthy of the effort required.”

Now years into her legal career, Robinson is still just as passionate about her work as she was when she first embarked on the path to getting her license. “Law is a ‘helping’ profession, and as such, successful resolution of our clients’ legal concerns is a driving force to achieve excellent outcomes on their behalf. That is where the reward lies.”

Melissa Cambre

By Liesel Schmidt

Returning to work after her four kids were teenagers and ready to be independent, Melissa Cambre took a big leap into a new career: the law. “My father was an attorney, so I have always been interested in law,” she says. “When I was ready to get back to working outside of the home, I did some research and discovered that LSU continuing education has an online paralegal studies program. I decided to enroll before entering the workforce again.”

Now a paralegal at Bennett Hodgins Law, Cambre carries with her the example of a strong mother with a heart for others, as well as the many women in her life that have shown her a desire to excel in life and live that life with balance. Challenges are something she approaches with measured response. “The ‘five second rule’ has helped me tremendously when it comes to facing tasks and

Q /A

WE: What celebrity/historic figure would you want to be stuck on a long flight with?

MC: Dolly Parton – she is unapologetically authentic and so full of talent, compassion, and love.

WE: Cake or pie?

MC: Pie, but savory… preferably crawfish pie.

WE: What is your favorite season and why?

MC: Summer. I love to be warm and enjoy the outdoors.

challenges head-on,” says Cambre, who has served on the advisory board of the Lympho-Maniac Cancer Fund and actively volunteers with her children's schools. “Basically, it means counting down from five and then tackling whatever it may be. This simple practice helped me realize the fear of failure or intimidation of any certain item on my to-do list is usually more built-up in my head, and in reality, I can do the difficult things just by beginning them and then taking it one step at a time. I’ve also learned its okay to ask for help.”

impacting women

What is your occupation/title & what are the responsibilities of your job and position?

I am currently the City of Covington Councilwoman for District D. As a councilperson, we manage the city’s budget, vote on ordinances, respond to our resident’s needs and serve as a direct line of contact between the city administration and various departments within the city. We are the city resident’s voice and help them and the city resolve issues.

What do you love most about what you do?

In a nutshell, helping people and making immediate impacts on their lives. Local government is very different than big government in that I am able to make a direct impact on many issues. Most days a resident will call with a problem and I can make a phone call to one of our city department directors and get their issue resolved. With larger issues, I am able to work with the council, city administration, parish, and state officials to work towards a resolution.

What organizations are you involved in?

I’m a member of the Covington Business Association, which consists of business owners and individuals who support one another and have fun doing it. I am also in the Louisiana Municipal Association, and then my husband and I started the Covington Celtic Club which puts on the St. Patrick’s Parade in downtown Covington the week before St. Patrick’s day. This year it’s on Sat, March 11th at 12pm! I also put on the Krewe of Olympia wives luncheon which has turned out to be one of my favorite Covington days each year. I also ride in the Krewe of Iris parade in New Orleans… I clearly love Mardi Gras!

Tell me about your family...

I have 2 daughters, ages almost 8 and 5 and a husband who is my biggest cheerleader. We’ve been together since SSA & St. Paul’s and have been married almost 14 years. We are a team in everything we do and our girls know that we are best friends…we always tell them “Don’t ask the other one! Our answer is the same!”

CODY LUDWIG

City of Covington

Councilwoman for District D

They both play soccer at CYSA and we each coach one of their teams. We both played soccer growing up so we’re excited to watch them progress... they are already really talented and top scorers on their teams!

What legacy do you hope to leave?

The interesting thing about Covington is how small it is. Yes, it’s growing technically... but it’s still small enough that one person can make a large impact. Between my fundraising for the Covington Boys & Girls Club, our involvement in executing several entertainment events around town and my work on the council I truly feel like I will have left Covington in a better place than I found it. That’s what we’re here on earth to do right? Leave it better than you found it!

How do you feel being a working mom enriches your children's lives?

It is important for them to see me doing things that are typically male roles in the work place. We often talk about the importance of equal opportunity and having girls involved in decision making and having a woman’s perspective. I am raising them to be kind & compassionate yet tough and to know when to stick up for themselves. I also feel like in a world of instant gratification where kids get handed everything, seeing hard work and instilling a strong work ethic is important now more than ever.

What has been your biggest lesson in your work?

That no matter how hard you try sometimes, you cannot please everyone. As someone who is used to being able to get things accomplished, that is a hard pill to swallow. But the important thing is doing your best and most of the time people are pleased with the result or solution you provided.

Dana Palo

When you are not keeping up with your health, do you feel your best?

Our health and wellness are inextricably linked. And it takes a personalized, targeted approach to attain these aspects of self-care. As a medical practitioner, Dana Palo, CRNA, takes a great interest in both. As the co-owner of Beon, she has made health and wellness the cornerstone of her business. “My husband and I are both in medicine, and we’re always looking for ways to help people improve their health and wellness and stay ahead of the pain,” she explains. “We truly understand how important it is to get ahead of the wellness curve before an illness takes over.”

She saw firsthand how important it is to “stay ahead of the pain” when she began performing the cryoneurolysis procedure for patients who were undergoing knee replacement surgery. Here she describes the procedure to us: “With an ultrasound I find the nerves around the knee and then, using a handheld device, I apply the right amount of extreme cold to the nerves to disrupt the myelin sheath around the nerve. By disrupting the myelin sheath, nerves cannot conduct pain from the knee to the brain. This has an immediate effect and can last ninety days or more. This makes for a smoother, much less painful, recovery after knee replacement surgery.”

It is this philosophy of staying ahead of the pain that makes bēon more than a traditional day spa. Think of us as a wellness retreat whose goal is to optimize and maintain your peak physical and mental health, as well as prevent future illness.

Though staying on top of the latest technologies, treatments, and trends in the industry can be demanding, Palo maintains her passion for what brought her to this field: “I love taking care of people and I want people to feel their best,” she says. “I feel like I have this light in me, and I want to shine that light on others. I’m always trying to grow and learn new things in search of how I can better myself and better the lives of others. We are so happy to bring the future of self-care to this community!”

WE: What is your favorite movie?

DP: Girls Just Want to Have Fun

WE: What one word describes you?

DP: Happy.

WE: What is your favorite season and why?

DP: Spring. It makes me want to get outside and enjoy the beauty all around us—and the crawfish!

Abi Caswell

By Liesel Schmidt

Cakes, cookies, pastries…all of them start with one simple thing: batter. For Abi Caswell, batter is the very heart of her bakery, aptly named BATTER. A passionate baker, Caswell took a leap of faith to take her talent and turn it into a business; and that leap of faith has been something she’s incredibly proud of. “There were so many aspects of starting up— not only taking a risk, but also getting funding, finding commercial equipment within a budget, sacrificing time with family to get it up and running,” she says. “But it was such a labor of love, and I am so proud of myself for getting it done! Through it all, I found that it really takes a village, and I wouldn’t have been able to do it without my husband, our families, and my team.”

As much of a struggle as it may have been, Caswell had some very strong inspiration driving her. “I watched my mom struggle for years as a single mother, and that has propelled me into working as hard as I have,” she says. “Without watching her hardships, I don’t know that I would have been inspired to create this life for myself.”

As much as she loves her work, Caswell strives to better herself and her business each day. “I’m constantly tweaking our marketing, our routine, our products, etc., to better meet the needs of our consumers,” she says. “I love making our patrons happy and providing them with a wonderful experience. Their happiness, or joy for BATTER, inspires me to work harder every day.”

Q/A

WE: What song would be on the soundtrack of your life?

AC: “Started from the Bottom” by Drake

WE: What is your spirit animal?

AC: A bulldog. All of my life I’ve been labeled as this, because I always go after what I want, and I won’t stop until I get there.

WE: What are your favorite hobbies?

AC: Playing tennis, working out with my husband, watching baseball and reading a fabulous book.

109 NORTH CYPRESS ST • HAMMOND, LA 985-318-7200

 @EATBATTER •  BATTERABAKERY EATBATTER.COM

VINTERELLA,

The Ladies of NORTHLAKE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

northlake

1399

BLVD, MANDEVILLE, LA NORTHLAKEVETERINARYHOSPITAL.COM

At Northlake Veterinary Hospital, we provide top-quality veterinary care, boarding, and grooming to pets in the Mandeville community.

Our staff treats you like family and each pet like our own. We are honored and proud to be a partner in your pet's healthcare team.

As pet owners ourselves, we believe that preventative care with wellness exams are the keys to your pet living a longer, healthier, and happier life.

As a full-service veterinary office, we offer state-of-the-art testing and diagnostics, an array of advanced care, routine and advanced surgical procedures, and many other services to provide your pet with the best possible care.

WATCH HER GO

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

Every successful business out there started off as an idea, a dream, a what if. It took someone with vision to pursue it, to take the hypothetical and make it a reality, to take the risk and dare to dream out loud. That is entrepreneurism.

But how did they get there?

For aspiring entrepreneurs, there is some hard-won advice to follow, things learned by others who have gone before. We offer this sage wisdom and wish you success.

FIND YOUR WHY

The idea for a new business can be found in anything, at any time, in any place. Especially in those places or things that you find to have inefficiencies or flaws. If it’s causing you frustration and there’s not already some solution in existence, you may have found your why. Chances are, other people are encountering the same frustrations you are, and that opens the door to opportunity and innovation.

START AT THE BEGINNING

3 4 5 1 2

The beginning being the issue at hand and the problem that needs fixing or the unmet need, rather than the solution that you’ve already envisioned. This is where you will encounter failure, as you need to explore multiple solutions instead of just the one to arrive at the best answer and your greatest chance at success. This allows you to arrive at an optimal product-market fit that people will embrace.

EXAMINE EVERYTHING

Your research of the market you’re breaking into should be substantial enough to reveal the need for what you’re planning to offer. Network and make contact with prospective end-users, potential competitors and future clients. The database you compile will be essential in helping you analyze the size of your markets as well as the potential demand for your product or skillset and the competition you may encounter.

NETWORK YOUR IDEAS

As much as you may be protective of your idea, being secretive about that idea will do you no favors. As the saying goes, “There’s nothing new under the sun,” and your idea has most likely occurred to others who are also working on a venture similar to yours. Actively seeking and incorporating multiple perspectives and being genuinely receptive to critical analysis will give you an entrepreneurial edge to build it better and foresee potential pitfalls.

EXPERIMENT

Theorizing, examining, and planning are all crucial to becoming a successful entrepreneur, but you must actually take the last step and create something from all of that. Create a trial product, test a beta, distribute samples, set up a social funding campaign or launch a website, and measure your traction. That data will help you make changes and re-test until you have arrived at something that will be viable and successful. Every cycle of testing and change improves on your vision and takes you that much closer to getting off the ground.

WHEN’S

THE LAST TIME YOU SAW A DIGITAL MAGAZINE AT THE DOCTOR’S OFFICE?

P.O.P MAKE YOUR BUSINESS P

People trust print ads more than digital ads

People recall print ads better than digital ads

Print ads last longer

Readers engage differently with physical content : In other words: magazine readers actually want to read the ads.

4 WAYS PRINT ADS HAVE AN EDGE OVER DIGITAL ADVERTISING:

Standing Together: HOW TO BRAINSTORM

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

If you’ve ever been with friends or colleagues and had a meeting of the minds where the ideas for something just flowed—be it a girls’ trip, a party or a work project—you’ve experienced what it is to brainstorm. That’s all it is, a collaborative effort put toward finding a solution to something or developing an idea.

The reason it’s called brain storming is, interestingly enough, because the process is creating a “storm” of ideas or solutions as you try to land on one that is perfect for the need at hand—in whatever context that might be. The trick is knowing how to brainstorm effectively so that you’re not just throwing ideas out there and creating nothing but chaos. When you understand brainstorming and the right way to do it, you’ll find that you can consider all the possibilities available to you in addition to fostering a collaborative atmosphere, avoid creative burnout, collect perspectives outside of your own, build multiple ideas and drive innovation.

Much like any other effective process, there are rules to follow in brainstorming:

QUANTITY MATTERS

The direct opposite of the phrase “quality over quantity,” brainstorming requires as many ideas as possible. The more you have, the greater the likelihood that one will turn out to be the one you need.

DON’T CRITICIZE

Negativity does not belong anywhere in a brainstorming session.

There are no “better” ideas, and criticizing creates restrictions on the ideas being shared because it engenders an environment in which others feel judged. By contrast, removing criticism fosters a safe place to freely share thoughts and ideas without fear of judgment. Because of that lack of judgment, people will more likely share more ideas— even ones that are fun and ridiculous. As off-the-wall as some of them might end up being, unusual ideas are crucial to brainstorming and need to be heard.

EMBRACE THE ODDITIES

As you brainstorm, encourage that every idea be expressed, even if they seem on the bizarre side of the line. While they might not always seem practical, these less-than-conventional ideas can birth innovative solutions that might not have otherwise been thought of. Being supportive also welcomes creativity, which, in turn, creates more ideas.

COMBINE AND DEVELOP IDEAS

Ideas are a great foundation to build on, so use some of your team’s ideas as inspiration.

Combine concepts to arrive at new solutions, and assess each idea to conclude which are possible, original, and accomplish your objective most effectively. Work from those ideas and come up with ways to improve them or create similar alternatives. Even if what you ultimately arrive at wasn’t your original idea, it doesn’t mean that a new idea won’t be an improvement on where you started.

KristenCallahan

By Liesel Schmidt

As a mother, Kristen Callahan knows the challenges of dressing children, not to mention finding clothes that they will like and actually wear; and as the owner of children’s boutique Kiki and Lolli, she offers a solution. “I’ve always loved retail,” she says. “I have been working in it since I was probably 17 years old, but what kept me in this industry is the women I have met and been taught by through my many retails jobs growing up. I carry that into my work now, and each time I meet a new mom and help them in their new journey, that is always such a special part in what I do. I’m not just running a store—I’m making friends, meeting and forming relationships with not only moms and grandmothers, but the entire family. That keeps me passionate about my line of work. Cultivating a place where kiddos feel comfortable and good about themselves inside and out is what my job is all about!”

Of the women in her life, Callahan most tries to emulate her mother, Connie. “She started this business with me, and although we aren’t working at the shop together anymore, she is still my right-hand woman in life,” she says. “She’s been a big help with my son, and I’m sure she will be an even greater help to me with the baby girl I’m expecting this summer. She’s always been my rock, always eager to help anyone in need of a friend, kind, caring, and compassionate. I just hope to do her justice now that K&L is mine.”

Q/A

WE: What celebrity/historic figure would you want to be stuck on a long flight with?

KC: Julie Andrews! She is one of my favorite people (not just actresses) ever! She defines grace and class and is truly a beautiful person inside and out. She has also been around forever, so I’m sure she could keep me entertained for hours with stories!

WE: What one word describes you?

KC: Tenacious! I never give up and keep pushing forward no matter the circumstances.

WE: What is a hidden talent?

70515 LA-21, SUITE D COVINGTON, LA 985-900-2410

KIKIANDLOLLI.COM

KC: My friends have told me that I’m funny! I love making people laugh, and my friends are always telling me I must have been a comedian in a past life or something.

Q /A

WE: What is your favorite movie?

ALT: Gone with the Wind. Scarlett O’Hara was a force to be reckoned with and definitely a woman ahead of her time, just like my grandmother. She represented resiliency and strength.

WE: What one word describes you?

ALT: Resilient. I have had my own struggles in my life, but I seem to keep moving forward and overcoming the obstacles as they come my way.

WE: Cake or Pie?

ALT: Cake—dark chocolate, of course. My grandmother was a big dark chocolate lover, and she passed that love on to me.

Alison Thornhill

By Liesel Schmidt

Weight struggles are an issue that many women face in their life, and after overcoming her own challenges and helping her best friend reach her health goals, Alison Leigh Thornhill realized that she could help others, as well. “I have been a dancer, nurse and military service member throughout my life, and keeping a healthy weight and lifestyle has always had to be a top priority,” she notes.

After going into business with that same best friend, the two launched Restore Health and Wellness, to help others reach a healthier lifestyle. “I love that I get to do my job every day,” says Thornhill. “I love to learn new ways to better care for my patients. Most of all, I enjoy seeing my patients meet goals, whether it is weight loss, increased energy, or improved lab values. We celebrate even the small victories.”

In her life as well as in her work, Thornhill tries to emulate her mother and grandmother. “My grandmother was a tough Irish lady,” she notes. “She taught me the importance of being independent as a woman and being able to stand on my own. My mom pushed me, even when I wanted to give up, to reach my goals and beyond. She believed in me more than I believed in myself most days. I remember wanting to quit nursing school, and she threatened to drive me to school every day and leave me at the front door. Because of them, I think I’m pretty tough. I try to take the hard days day by day and embrace the easier ones. I face each challenge with optimism and strength.”

DNP, APRN, FNP-C

Jessica Bosch

By Liesel Schmidt

Like so many, Jessica Bosch struggled with keeping her weight in check, despite her love of fitness and her active lifestyle. Then, in October of 2021, she made a decision to finally get healthy and lose weight. “Through my own struggles, I realized that I could help so many people reach their goal, as well,” she says. “As a result, my best friend and I decided to start a business in an effort to help people become healthier.”

As the co-founder and co-owner of Restore, Bosch helps others in their own journey to a healthier lifestyle. The nurse practitioner has been in nursing for 20 years and has participated in multiple medical missions trips through her church—five times to Haiti and once to Africa, as well as in New Orleans to provide health care to the homeless populations and the undeserved. Through it all, she has stayed passionate about her work. “I pride myself on my ability to relate to patients and really get to know them as individuals—they become like family to me.”

Q /A

WE: What one word describes you?

JB: Determined. Almost to a fault. I love a challenge, though sometimes I bite off more than I can chew. One of my favorite quotes is, “I’d rather fail at greatness than choke on mediocrity.”

WE: Cake or Pie?

JB: Pie...then cake!

WE: What is your favorite season, and why?

JB: Fall. I just love the cool-but-nottoo-cold weather and all of the colors of the season.

As many challenges as she’s had in her life and in her work, Bosch has adopted a healthy way of coping. “Life is full of challenges, especially the last few years for those of us in health care,” she says. “If I’m really struggling with something, I give myself 24 hours, deal with my feelings, then come up with a plan on how to remedy it. I just try to take challenges in stride—one day at a time, one foot in front of the other. These challenges make us truly appreciate the more quiet, less stressful times that much more.”

MSN, MBA, ANP-C

But Still, I Rise:

Why Failure is Inevitable

in Business

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

Failure.

There’s a whole museum dedicated to it.

It’s a part of life, and it’s also part of business. Much as you may hate it, and as much as you may feel that it reflects badly on your abilities or your competence, even your decision-making or your character, it’s something you need to realize is inevitable. The important thing, of course, is to embrace failure and realize that failure doesn’t mean that you are a failure.

Own it, learn from it, don’t repeat it and move on.

The world of business doesn’t come with bumper pads or failsafes, and most entrepreneurs don’t have soft landings with safety nets to catch them when things go sideways. You have to expect that you will, eventually, spectacularly fail and get hurt by that failure. That doesn’t mean you should give into your fear of failing and abandon your dreams of building something incredible. What should keep you up at night shouldn’t be the idea of trying and failing, but of not trying at all.

Whatever your idea for entrepreneurship is, it’s worth chasing that dream—despite the fact that you may have to make sacrifices, take financial hits and even test some relationships along the way. Just because you may hit some potholes doesn’t mean your business is done. It just means you still have some growing to do, so hang on while you develop into the success you dream of becoming.

Remember, entrepreneurship is like parenthood. You’re trying to create something that naturally has strengths and weaknesses— just like a child. But if you nurture it, it will reward you. It will eventually outgrow even the scope of your imagination if you let it, so take the risk and be prepared for the failures inevitably to come as you get there.

Failure is essential in that, when you fail at something, you are given insight into shortcomings. Failure exposes flaws and weaknesses in areas that need to be improved in order for you to reach success. The important thing when you encounter failure, however, is not to stay there. Dust yourself off and hit the ground running after every setback and open your eyes to avoid those mistakes in the future.

As time goes on, your failures won’t be a reflection on your personal character or that of your business. You will make a name for yourself with one success—and getting there may take failing a hundred times. But no one will remember those in the face of your success. People remember when others succeed, and to do that, you can’t give up. Ever. Don’t let failure prevent you from achieving the one success you need to become successful.

“When you put love out in the world it travels, and it can touch people and reach people in ways that we never even expected.”

LAVERNE COX

Elise, Jamie and Anna Rose McHugh Q /A

WE: What advice would you give to your younger self?

Jamie: Trust your gut! If it's not a HELL YES, it's a no! Don't be afraid to change course if your gut is telling you something. Those are the decisions that can change your life.

WE: What is your favorite thing about your community?

Jamie: Having grown up in the Mandeville/Covington area, my favorite aspect about this area is when I run into old friends and their families. It is always so nostalgic. I also love that my husband and I have been blessed with the opportunity to raise our children in the same area we grew up in.

WE: How are you involved in the community?

Jamie: I am involved with Northshore Go Red for Women. It is an amazing organization focused on women making a commitment to work together to take charge of their heart health and the health of their loved ones.

I have always enjoyed volunteering at my children's schools. I am currently on a committee at St. Scholastica Academy with planning the Falaya Fling. It is a large fundraiser for the school where adults enjoy live entertainment, delicious food, and specialty drinks. It is a wonderful opportunity to meet different people in our community, to support SSA, and it is truly a fun night.

WE: What about your mother inspires you the most?

Anna Rose: Her faith-filled heart and her unconditional love for our family.

Elise: The balance that my mother has for work and family. Her work is a priority, but she is always still there for everybody in our family.

WE: Growing up what did you see as your mother’s strength?

Anna Rose: I saw many strengths in my mom, but what stuck out to me the most was her determination to get things done at work and at home.

Elise: I always saw my mom's unwavering support and empathy towards others as her strengths. No matter what was going on in anyone's life, we all know we can always count on her.

WE: What legacy would you like to leave for your children?

Anna Rose: Having strong faith in God and the power of prayer.

Elise: Always be an honest and empathetic person.

StB

“Life is not easy for any of us. But what of that? We must have perseverance and, above all, confidence in ourselves. We must believe we are gifted for something and that this thing must be attained.”

MARIE CURIE

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