VMH Magazine - June/July 2018

MAGAZINE

VMH Vikki M. Hankins

Anne Marie Cummings

MTV MOVIE & TV AWARDS

Conversations In L.A.

S PLU

Debra Lee

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OR F S P 4 TI NDING BRA OUR Y NY! A P COM

BBMA AWARDS

BET Networks CEO, Steps Down From Her Position

Early detection of mental illness, can ultimately save a life.

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Entrepreneurship - Business Growth

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Billboard Music Award Highlights

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Be Your Own Boss

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Eat Well On The Go

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Conversations in L.A. - A.M. Cummings

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4 Tips For Scaling Your Small Business

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We're The Campbells - Docuseries

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Chris Pratt - MTV Movie & TV Awards

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2018 Collision Tech Take Aways

Photo Credit: Unsplash

VMH Magazine . 811 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles , Calif. 90017

Publisher VMH Media & Publishing Editor-in-Chief Vikki Jones Journalist/Contributors Vikki Jones Garry Jones Contributors (Visiting) William M. Dann Dr. Belinda Ross Family Features Photography Vikki Jones Garry Jones

2018 Billboard Music Awards

Layout Vikki Jones

Highlights

P. 8 Cover Image: Courtesy Anne Marie Cummings Chris Pratt Cover Image Photo Credit: John Russo Janet Jackson Cover Image Courtesy BBMA Christopher Leacock Cover Image Photo Credit: Vikki Jones

Photo Courtesy: BBMA’s

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entrepreneurship… Starting,

growing and maintaining a

business is not easy. The workforce holds a multitude of employees that are miserable on the job and dream of owning their own business. But does this mean you are cut out for the task? Or should you explore entrepreneurship while employed? Below are a few things I’ve found that make for successful entrepreneurship: 1

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Passion: Successful entrepreneurs are born out of passion.

Whether there’s a problem to be solved, meeting a need or unexplained freedom associated with a certain work; entrepreneurs are fueled by passion.

Tenacity: There are highs and lows with business ownership.

One must have the ability to ‘hang in there’ through the lows just as they celebrate the highs. Until you reach ‘that place’ of success, you must have the ability to run your race. Throwing in the towel is not an option; that is if you find your choice of entrepreneurship actually works.

Strategic/Critical Thinking: No matter your resources, business owners have to develop the art of strategic/critical thinking and implement plans with precision. Living in the moment is wonderful for family, friends, and fun, but successful entrepreneurship calls for thinking beyond today.

It is imperative that you have a strategy to carry out your plan. At times entrepreneurship feels like chess; you have to know where to move and when to make your move. This requires strategic/critical thinking.

Competitive Marketing: Understanding your target market is critical to the success of a business. Before you can implement a marketing plan the business owner has to know how to direct their products or services to a specific group of consumers. Figure out the answer to such questions as: Where is my target market? How do I reach my target market? Knowing the answer to these sample questions will save you a few headaches and dollars.

Fearless: Entrepreneurs are risk takers. Fear has no place in entrepreneurship. There are times that taking risks come at a loss, but you learn from this, swiftly recover and head in another direction. There are also times when you hit the ‘nail on the head’ (succeed) with a risk; when this happens, apply more pressure in that area.

Flexible: Be open to embracing change, new ideas, and unfamiliar techniques. If you cannot change with the times, you will get left behind.

Entrepreneurship is very rewarding, in particular when your business makes a difference in the economy, improves communities and addresses social-related issues. The key is growing a successful business that is capable of influence and makes a difference in the lives of others.

A message from Vikki Jones.

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Manage Depression

BBMA ICON AWARD RECIPIENT JANET JACKSON

Janet Jackson and Additional Photos Courtesy BBMA’s

The “2018 Billboard Music Awards,” hosted by “The Voice” coach, Kelly Clarkson, was an emotional and celebratory night of nostalgic and one-of-a-kind musical performances and touching moments all to celebrate this year ’s biggest and best in music! This year’s show aired live on both coasts from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Sunday, May 20 at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m.

PT on NBC. Kendrick Lamar and Ed Sheeran were the night’s big winners, receiving six awards each.

Lamar received Top Billboard 200 Album, Top Rap Artist, Top Rap Male Artist, Top Rap Album, Top Streaming Artist and Top Streaming Song (Audio). Accepting his awards all the way from Dublin, Ireland, Sheeran took home Top Artist, Top Male

Artist, Top Hot 100 Artist, Top Song Sales Artist, Top Radio Songs Artist and Top Radio Song. Bruno Mars, Luis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee and Justin Bieber follow close behind, winning five awards each. Mars took home awards for Top R&B Artist, Top R&B Male Artist, Top R&B Tour, Top R&B Al-

bum and Top R&B Song. For “Despacito,” Luis Fonsi, Daddy Yankee and Justin Bieber won for Top Hot 100 Song, Top Collaboration, Top Selling Song, Top Latin Song, Top Streaming Song (Audio) and Top Streaming Song (Video).

Other multi-category winners include: Imagine Dragons (Top Duo/Group, Top Rock Artist, Top Rock Album, Top Rock Song); Chris Stapleton (Top Country Artist, Top Country Male Artist and Top Country Album); The C h a i n s m o k e r s ( To p Dance/Electronic Artist,

Top Dance/Electronic Album, Top Dance/Electronic Song); Taylor Swift (Top Female Artist and Top Selling A l b u m ) ; Ta s h a Cobbs Leonard (Top Gospel Artist and Top Gospel Album); Ozuna (Top Latin Artist and Top Latin Album); and U2 (Top Touring Artist and Top Rock Tour). (cont. on pg. 12)

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Be Your Own

BOSS

7 tips to help you launch a successful business FAMILY FEATURES

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ntrepreneurship is alive and well, even if the face of small business is evolving with the times. Autonomy in management and making dreams a reality are the reasons most cited by entrepreneurs looking to open a small business.

Nearly half of all respondents in the annual The UPS Store “Inside Small Business Survey” said they’d be optimistic about opening a small business this year. Of respondents who hope to open a small business, top motivators include being their own bosses (38 percent), followed by believing in the power of their own ideas (17 percent) and creating their next career paths (15 percent).

“The American Dream of owning your own business is still very much real, especially when compared to the rest of the developed world,” said Dr. Luke Pittaway, Ohio University College of Business Copeland Professor of Entrepreneurship.

However, how Americans are choosing to open small businesses is where there may be a shift.

“Consumer habits are changing,” Pittaway said. “That’s forcing Americans to consider how they open small businesses, whether it's focusing more on e-commerce than actual store fronts or focusing on selling to a local community or region instead of a broader national audience.”

Starting Your Own Start-Up The process of launching a start-up can throw various unexpected obstacles your way, but there are numerous resources available to support a budding business.

“We understand the challenges of small business owners and offer products and services designed specifically to help and support small businesses,” said Tim Davis, president of The UPS Store, Inc. “Small business owners are unparalleled in their passion for their businesses, and understanding that aspiration is critical to running a successful small business.”

PITCH YOUR SMALL BUSINESS LIKE A PRO

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hen you’re launching a small business, there could be any number of reasons you may need to pitch your idea. You may be courting an investor, recruiting talent or even starting to market your product or service.

Brevity is often essential, so learn how to concisely pitch your business like a pro with these tips:

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

This action plan from the experts at The UPS Store can help you get you on your way to launching a successful start-up:

1. Analyze your target audience.

Start by performing extensive market research to understand your customers' core necessities. Assessing your target demographic gives you a clear perspective on how to serve the people in it.

5. Develop a business plan.

Think of a business plan as a road map that indicates where your startup stands and where it is headed.

If you need funding, it’s also a great tool to articulate your ideas, philosophies and goals.

6. Set up a marketing plan.

Selecting the right legal structure ultimately determines how you handle income taxes and all government reporting requirements.

Many small businesses fall under a sole proprietorship or limited liability company (LLC) while bigger entities may identify as corporations.

Conduct an analysis of your business’s strengths and weaknesses to devise strategies and tactics that account for challenges and opportunities your business is likely to face. The scale of your marketing plan will likely depend on resources you have available and your target audience, but should feature a variety of tactics. Your plan should include printed materials like direct mailers, business cards, newsletters, flyers, banners and posters, as well as digital to cover things like search and social media.

3. Establish your premises.

7. Be competitive.

Choosing the right business setting could be the difference between a cost-effective start-up and a moderately expensive one. Your work space should fall within your monthly budget while still satisfying the needs of your customers.

Examine your competitors to determine the areas in which they thrive and see what makes them successful. Learn from the landscape to improve upon their strengths and gain an upper hand on their weaknesses. For example, implement various pricing models, such as special offers, coupons and rewards, rather than sticking with your initial, low price to remain competitive and profitable.

2. Determine a legal structure.

4. Determine your budget and expenses.

Assessing your available funds enables you to prioritize and assign an appropriate amount to your business assets. This should include necessities for daily operations, as well as secondary expenses, such as traveling and meetings.

With a carefully structured action plan, you can turn your start-up idea into a successful business. Find more tips for your small business at TheUPSStore.com.

Draw out the essentials. Reduce your pitch to a few digestible bites. Make sure you have an intro that is brief enough to get someone’s undivided attention then elaborate on your points, such as your top competitive advantages, and provide more detail about your business as a whole.

Come to entertain. Add an entertainment factor to make your pitch engaging and memorable. Of course, you need substance to go along with style, but keeping your audience focused and doing something to stand out is essential.

Anticipate questions. Prepare yourself to reassure concerned investors and flesh out subjects you may have kept brief for your presentation. Make sure to practice your answers so you sound confident. Grabbing attention is important, but you need to be able to back up your spiel.

Know your audience. This is the cardinal rule of communication. Make sure you do your homework and know who you are addressing.

This shows you value your listener’s time and feedback. Furthermore, insight about his or her philosophy in doing business can be extremely valuable during a pitch.

Practice until it hurts. Take the time to practice your entire pitch, including answers to likely questions, until you know it inside and out. The more comfortable you are, the more likely you are to win someone over in a meeting.

Have the materials to back it up. A written document is your chance to leave a lasting impression and elaborate on your major selling points. It’s also a chance to show your professionalism, so be sure to proofread carefully and package the information for a polished presentation.

When you’re ready to pitch like a pro, give your pitch a go and enter The UPS Store and Inc. Magazine’s Small Biz Salute Pitch Off, a contest that will reward one small business owner with $25,000 and an editorial feature in the magazine. Learn more at theupsstore.com/smallbizsalute.

(cont. from pg. 9)

The two fan-voted award winners were BTS for Top Social Artist and Camila Cabello for Billboard Chart Achievement Award.

The show had special moments, catering to audiences of all ages. Perhaps the most memorable was a medley from ICON Award recipient Janet Jackson, who electrified the stage with a performance of some of her biggest hits including “If” and “Nasty.”

Ariana Grande opened the show with a rousing performance of her new hit single “No Tears Left to Cry.” Host Kelly Clarkson took the stage next, welcoming the audience in the arena and at home to what was sure to be an unforgettable night and was joined on stage by the famous Las Vegas entertainers.

Dua Lipa delivered a visually entertaining performance of her single “New Rules,” which featured a stage full of dancers and a giant flamingo. Jennifer Lopez and DJ Khaled fired up the stage with their new collaboration, “Dinero,” while new dad John Legend had the audience grooving to “A Good Night.”

Khalid pulled double duty, first performing with Normani for his song “Love Lies” and returning to the stage for an emotional duet of “Youth” alongside Shawn Mendes and the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Show Choir from Parkland.

Prior to being joined by Khalid, Mendes took the stage to sing his new pop hit “In My Blood.”

PATIENT -VSDOCTOR MISDIAGNOSIS

Ed Sheeran gave a special performance of “Galway Girl,” appropriately coming to viewers from Galway.

The Chainsmokers and Halsey delivered touching remarks in memory of the late DJ, Avicii, who passed away earlier this year.

Christina Aguilera and Demi Lovato brought the house down with the showstopping world television debut of Aguilera’s empowering new song “Fall In Line.”

The evening featured more memorable group performance including Zedd, Maren Morris, and Grey with their catchy single “The Middle,” Macklemore featuring Kesha on his song “Good Old Days,” and Pharrell Williams and Camila Cabello on “Sangria Wine,” before Cabello performed solo on her fan-favorite hit “Havana.”

Host Kelly Clarkson took a break from her duties to show off her impressive pipes with a single from her new album, “Whole Lotta Woman.”

Global music stars BTS performed the world television premiere of their new single “Fake Love” from their recently released album “Love Yourself: Tear” and were nearly drowned out by the sounds of their fans screaming.

The show closed with a once-in-a-lifetime collaboration between Salt-N-Pepa and En Vogue, who joined together to perform legendary hit songs “Shoop,” “Let’s Talk About Sex,” “Push It,” and “Whatta Man.” Presenters throughout the evening included Hailey Baldwin, Tyra Banks, Alison Brie, The Chainsmokers, Ciara, Andy Cohen, Simon Cowell, Darren Criss, Halsey, Tip “T.I.” Harris, Justin Hartley and Chrissy Metz, Nick Jonas and Mustard, Chloe Kim, Mila Kunis, Padma Lakshmi, Des Linden, Julia Michaels, French Montana, NE-YO, Derek Hough and Jenna Dewan, Bebe Rexha, Evan Ross and Ashlee Simpson, Grace VanderWaal and Rebel Wilson.

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45th Daytime Creative Emmy Awards Red Carpet Highlights Photos by Vikki Jones The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) announced the winners of the 45th Annual Daytime Creative Arts Emmy® Awards.

The gala was held at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, Southern California.

“Tonight’s awards ceremony is a reminder of the depth and breadth of Daytime television,” said Chuck Dages, Chairman, NATAS. “It is with great pleasure that we honor those who work tirelessly to bring us the great programming available on every platform, in every genre,everyday.”

The evening’s star-studded presenters included, David A r q u e t t e ( A c t o r, D i r e c t o r, Producer, Screenwriter), David Osmond (Wonderama), Rodrigo Blaas, Marc Guggenheim and Chad Hammes (Trollhunters), Emily Calandrelli (Xploration Outer Space), Steve Spangler (Xploration, DIY), Michael Stevens (Mind Field), Tom Kenny (SpongeBob SquarePants), Vanessa Lachey, Curtis Stone, and Tiffany Derry (Top Chef Jr.), Michela Luci (Dino Dana), Raven-Symoné (Raven’s Home), Danny Seo (Naturally Danny Seo), Josh Garcia (The Voyager with Josh Garcia), Alie Ward (The Henry Ford’s Innovation Nation), Maureen Fan and Eric Darnell (Baobab). In addition, also presenting from the world of daytime soaps, Annika Noelle, Jeremy Ray Valdez (The Bold and the Beautiful), Victoria Konefal, Lamon Archey (Days of Our Lives), Laura Wright and Wes Ramsey (General Hospital), Kate Linder and Christian LeBlanc ( T h e Yo u n g & t h e Restless), Kit Williamson (Eastsiders), Anne Marie Cummings, Gustavo Velasquez (Conversations in LA), Vanessa Baden Kelly (Giants), and Richard Brooks (The Rich and the Ruthless).

Watermelon Collagen Creamsicle Servings: 1 2 cups cubed watermelon 2 rounded tablespoons collagen 2 tablespoons heavy cream In blender, combine watermelon, collagen and heavy cream; blend.

Pour into glass to serve.

Eat Well On-the-Go Perfectly portable watermelon dishes FAMILY FEATURES

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packed schedule often leads to less meals around the table. Between balancing family, friends, work and activities, it can be easy to reach for a pre-packaged snack on-the-go that lacks important vitamins and nutrients.

Instead, when looking for portable, grab-and- go foods, think about a multi-purpose treat like watermelon. Not only can watermelon be diced, sliced, balled or blended, it also provides numerous health benefits. Watermelon contains higher levels of lycopene than any other fresh fruit or vegetable and is a source of vitamins A and C, as well as vitamin B6 and potassium.

Thinking beyond traditional slices, chunks or balls, there are many ways to incorporate watermelon into some of your favorite to-go meals, whether as a side dish or a key ingredient in beverages, salads or wraps. For example, these recipes for Watermelon and Bulgur Wheat Salad and Watermelon Collagen Creamsicle from the National Watermelon Promotion Board can help satisfy your sweet tooth and provide necessary nutrients while tackling the next task on your to-do list.

Find more watermelon recipes perfect for an on-the-go lifestyle at watermelon.org.

Watermelon and Bulgur Wheat Salad Servings: 4 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed 2 cups cooked bulgur wheat 2 cups arugula 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved 1/4 cup chopped mint shaved pecorino romano cheese, to taste Dressing: 1/2 cup olive oil 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

1 garlic clove, crushed 1 tablespoon honey salt black pepper In large serving bowl, combine watermelon, bulgur wheat, arugula, grape tomatoes and chopped mint.

To make dressing: In liquid measuring cup, whisk olive oil, vinegar, garlic, honey, salt and pepper until well combined.

Just before serving, pour dressing over salad and toss to combine. Top with shaved pecorino and season, to taste. Serve immediately.

Wrap It Up Wraps are a perfect on-the-go snack and are easily customizable. Get started with one of these varieties from the National Watermelon Promotion Board or create your own combination. Start with a spread to help the fillings stick together. Place toppings in the center of a tortilla and a watermelon spear on top. Roll the tortilla over the watermelon spear to tuck in all ingredients. Fasten with a toothpick, if needed.

Watermelon Sandwich Wraps 1 wheat, flour, corn, spinach or sun-dried tomato tortilla 2-4 teaspoons chive cream cheese, hummus, guacamole or Greek yogurt 5-8 slices turkey, ham, chicken breast, roast beef or pepperoni 1 watermelon spear, about 1/2-inch thick, 1-inch wide 2-4 teaspoons barbecue sauce, ranch, pesto, Thai peanut sauce, teriyaki, salsa or sweet chili and ginger 2-4 slices feta, pepper jack, swiss or mozzarella cheese

Toppings: watercress olives scallions cilantro romaine lettuce Bibb lettuce jalapenos fresh mint basil shredded carrots Brussels sprouts cucumber slices bacon pine nuts English Tea Sandwich Wrap: Flour tortilla, chive cream cheese, ham, watermelon, watercress Greek Wrap: Tortilla, plain Greek yogurt, feta cheese, watermelon, black olives Latin Watermelon Wrap: Flour tortilla, guacamole, ham, watermelon, pepper jack cheese, cilantro, scallions, jalapenos Southwest Chicken Wrap: Corn or flour tortilla, guacamole, chicken,

watermelon, salsa, bacon ranch dressing, pepper jack cheese, romaine lettuce Watermelon Caprese Wrap: Flour tortilla, pepperoni, watermelon, pesto, mozzarella cheese, basil Thai Peanut Chicken Wrap: Corn tortilla, chicken, watermelon, Thai peanut sauce, Bibb lettuce, carrots, cilantro Southwest Veggie Wrap: Spinach tortilla, guacamole, watermelon, barbecue ranch dressing, swiss cheese, cucumber, cilantro Mid-Eastern Veggie Wrap: Corn tortilla, Hummus with pine nuts, watermelon, mint, cucumber slices Ginger Chicken Wrap: Wheat wrap, chicken, watermelon, teriyaki ginger sauce, sweet chili and ginger sauce, Bibb lettuce, Brussels sprouts Hawaiian Wrap: Spinach wrap, pineapple cream cheese, ham, watermelon, sweet chili and ginger sauce, cilantro

Debra Lee

Steps Down from BET Networks After a trailblazing career in television and entertainment spanning over 30 years at BET Networks, a unit of Viacom Inc. Debra Lee is stepping down from her position as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of BET Networks, effective Monday, May 28, 2018. Lee, who began her career with the company as its first VP and General Counsel in 1986, was elevated to President and COO in 1996 and became Chairman and CEO in 2005.

industry and continue her role on corporate and non-profit boards. In addition, Lee also plans to continue her commitment to diversity and inclusion by advancing the rights of women and girls as well as people of color through her work with Times Up and The Recording Academy Diversity & Inclusion Task Force, to name a few. Lee’s annual gathering of prominent African American women, Leading Women Defined, will also continue under her leadership.

Debra Lee Statement: “In 1986 I joined BET Networks to be its very first in-house counsel. As a young corporate attorney I saw my role as the protector of the BET brand and its employees and today, more than 32 years later, I still see myself as the protector and defender of a brand that I have helped to grow as a top destination for audiences across the globe. I have called BET Networks home for over three decades and this team is part of my extended family.”

Lee’s determination to make a real difference and give back greatly influenced BET Networks’ reinvigorated approach to “In addition to the legacy I have built for BET Debra Lee, Photo Courtesy BET Networks developing authentic programming that both Networks in the media landscape, I am also entertains and inspires the African-American extremely proud of the legacy of values that I community. She worked tirelessly to raise the consciousness of helped to instill at the network during my tenure. My belief that viewers by respecting, reflecting and elevating the BET we can do well and do good has been a guiding principle and one Networks audiences in a meaningful way. During Lee’s time at that I hope you will continue after my departure. Together, we the helm, the network has enjoyed record-breaking success, have built a world-class brand that connects with fans through including the 2014 series premiere of “The Game,” the mostthe power of storytelling and we have attracted and nurtured top watched sitcom premiere in cable TV history with 7.68 million talent across the globe.” viewers, and the 2017 hit mini-series “The New Edition Story,” which brought in 28.4 million viewers from the initial run “I feel a tremendous amount of gratitude to our parent company, through subsequent encores, making it the highest-rated TV Viacom, for their continued belief in the power of the BET brand biopic of all time. On Lee’s watch she oversaw the launch of the and their unwavering support of my long and fulfilling career Network’s website, BET.com, developed BET Her, the first here. I would especially like to thank Bob Bakish for supporting network for African-American women, and acquired television me as I start the next chapter in this exciting journey.” rights to “BLACK GIRLS ROCK”!™ Lee also launched Leading Women Defined, an annual conference where notable “I could not be prouder of the enormous amount of talent and African American women, including Former First Lady Michelle creativity at BET Networks today and I will always be BET’s Obama, Venus Williams, Issa Rae and Erykah Badu, to name a number one fan, rooting for each and every one of you as you few, gathered each year for insightful debates and conversations continue to break barriers and share your authenticity with the on issues that impact their community and families. Additionally, world. I leave with pride, gratitude, and joy for a life-changing she championed BET’s breast cancer campaign “BET Goes professional and personal journey. Continue to do it “for the Pink,” the education platform “BET Next Level,” award-winning culture” and much success to you all. You deserve it.” voting campaign “BET Vote Your Voice” and several telethons for Florida, Haiti and Katrina under the “SOS: Saving Bob Bakish Statement: OurSelves” initiative.

“Debra’s vision and creativity have cemented BET Networks as Lee’s focus on diverse, high-quality scripted programming that a premier network for African Americans and lovers of black positively highlights the African-American experience has set culture. As BET continues to move forward, we will always be BET Networks apart from other brands desperate to reach the grateful to Debra for her leadership and commitment to creating coveted black audience. Shows such as “Being Mary Jane,” “The top-notch entertainment that both entertains and empowers. Her Real Husbands of Hollywood,” and “In Contempt” have helped passion for the BET brand has resulted in countless wins and has BET Networks remain the #1 network among African-American allowed BET to stay competitive in a growing media landscape.” viewers for the past 17 years. Lee’s commitment to music and live entertainment led to the creation of one of the most popular "While we will all miss Debra tremendously, we respect her award shows on television, “The BET Awards,” as well as the decision and understand her desire to leave at the very top of the launch of the first festival weekend under the Viacom umbrella, game with a legacy of significant contributions that spans The BET Experience. Her impact on the music industry led her decades. I have seen first-hand how the network has grown to become the first woman to date to receive the Recording under her direction, and I know that she will bring that same Academy’s prestigious Salute to Industry Icons Award. innovative thinking and strategic vision to her future pursuits.

Debra has groomed an amazing group of senior executives, and I Following her departure from the company, Lee, a wellam confident that BET Networks will continue to flourish under respected industry executive, plans to stay involved in the media their leadership.”

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created, written & directed by Anne Marie Cummings “Sometimes the load is heavy and sometimes its light, and when its heavy, I roll up my sleeve to get the work done. And as “Conversations in L.A.” grows, I know that I need to continue to build a team around me, who will support my vision and understand the language I speak as an artist.” “…at its very core, “Conversations in L.A.” is about how we need to turn to each other and have a conversation about what’s really important. Forget what’s on the surface – let’s talk about what’s real.”

Photos Courtesy Anne Marie Cummings

Interview Conducted by Vikki Jones| Passionate, driven and multi-talented Anne Marie Cummings is the founder of Immediate Vision Productions which merges theatre and film to create new and exciting projects for film and television.

The Daytime Emmy-Nominated actress has spent the past twenty-five years involved in the theatre (as an actress, writer, director, artistic director, and producer).

After moving to Los Angeles she’s taken the best of everything she knows about the stage and applied it to the screen.

The 5X Daytime Emmy-nominated series, “Conversations in L.A.” is Cummings’ first digital drama series. In 2017 it received three Daytime Emmy nominations: Anne Marie Cummings for Outstanding Lead Actress; Gustavo Velasquez for Outstanding Lead Actor; and Vanita Harbour for Outstanding Supporting Actress. In 2018 it received two Daytime Emmy nominations: Anne Marie Cummings for Writing and Mike E. Winfield for Outstanding Guest Actor.

Also, as a writer, I let my characters be. I don’t judge what I write onto the page. I don’t judge how my characters think or what they want to say. However, as a society, we judge, especially relationships, and particularly the older woman and younger man relationships.

Many writers, I believe, don’t feel all that comfortable sharing what’s really going on with their characters. Yet I know that people have a lot of sides to them and writing can be scary when you allow yourself to show all the colors of a character.

As a writer, you must know yourself, be honest with yourself enough in order to know how complex your characters are. It certainly makes for interesting story telling and interesting characters. The good guy is not just the good guy, the bad guy is not always the bad guy, and often the good guy is the bad guy, and often the bad guy has a good heart, at times.

So “Conversations in L.A.” exists because I want observers of this story to not only identify with all the characters, but to feel at ease with their own complexi-

She took a moment to speak with VMH Magazine.

Here’s what she had to say: VMH: What was you thought process and 'why' in creating Conversations in L.A. ?

Anne Marie: Once I made the decision that each episode was going to be a conversation, I knew that the tone for each episode would be intimate and that the characters were going to be in high-stake situations; emotionally, physically and often times morally or even ethically. While this series is a story about a middleaged woman who is re-imagining her life in the mid-life phase, as well as a story about her relationship with a younger man, the conversations all the characters have are extremely deep and real.

More on my thought process…as a writer I don’t question where my passion goes, so when I stare at the blank page, the characters just appear, the conversations just happen. I don’t edit my thoughts, and this is how it has been for the entire process of writing “Conversations in L.A.” What this means is - in essence, the conversations the characters in this series have are conversations they need to have.

ties. By witnessing characters struggle and grapple with dilemmas we all experience, that are timely, it helps observers define for themselves what they too may be going through - - it helps them think and get real with 20

themselves.

When we hear people being honest and real, we too tap into that same thing within ourselves.

VMH: With so many active roles in your work, how do you maintain work/life balance? And what is your best remedy for health and wellness as Conversations in L.A. continues to grow?

Anne Marie: Interesting question. First of all, I believe that society has created this notion of work/life balance, meaning that every day, seven days a week, we have to balance it all. However, to me, that is a very unrealistic notion, because, most people cannot balance work and play seven days a week at an effective level.

Now there have been times and phases in my life where it has been 50/50, but I recognized, when I started this project, that all my talents were coming together as a writer, actress, director so while this is a huge commitment, and I do where many hats, this is the job of a showrunner, and with this job, I know I’m being stretched artistically, and I, at this particular point in my life, would rather have this, than watch movies every night.

So to answer your questions, I sacrifice many things to do this work. And what that means is a disciplined schedule. I’m disciplined about sleep times, watching the clock, and setting goals all day long, getting X amount of things done by X time, scheduling my exercise, sometimes exercising less than I want, grabbing food to go instead of cooking at home, and sometimes even less sleep for specific periods of time.

All this being said, I do schedule a break in between shoots, whenever I can. Sometimes the load is heavy and sometimes its light, and when its heavy, I roll up my sleeve to get the work done. And as “Conversations in L.A.” grows, I know that I need to continue to build a team around me, who will support my vision and understand the language I speak as an artist. I, fortunately have that right now, with many of the people I’m working with, but it took me two-and-a-half years to build that team.

VMH: In choosing the cast for Conversations in L.A. what has been your primary focus?

Anne Marie: Talent and choosing the actor that’s right for the role.

VMH: If Anne Marie wants to leave a comment outside of the video and the questions, she's welcome to do so!

Anne Marie: Generally speaking, when I write the episodes in “Conversations in L.A.” it’s because there’s something that needs to be said between two people, there’s often a debate of some kind, and, that’s how we are as human beings.

When was the last time you had a conversation with someone when they fully agreed with you? That’s rare, especially these days. I think most of the conversations we are having as a nation, within communities, and individually, is riddled with drama and complexity. I mean look at all of us! Life is complex. Life is challenging. There’s a lot of things that are unfair and we humans struggle to figure it all out. We weren’t born with manuals that tells us how to cope with all this stuff we humans do.

So at its very core, “Conversations in L.A.” is about how we need to turn to each other and have a conversation about what’s really important. Forget what’s on the surface – let’s talk about what’s real.

Thank you!

Click to learn more about Conversations

in L.A.

Can your company's existing tech handle your growing business? For instance, if you grow your website traffic, you'll need more powerful servers and increased storage capacity.

Having trouble assessing how your hardware needs might change down the road? Working with a tech-focused small-business adviser, such as the free program offered

by Dell's Small Business division, can help you avoid costly mistakes as you move your company into the next phase of growth.

3. Find free financial resources to aid growth When your business is on the up and up, the money coming in from increased sales will help cover your increased expenditures, but it may not be quite enough to scale. If you're looking for additional routes to cover costs without relying solely on your profits, there are a few options.

As the U.S. economy continues to move at a healthy pace, many analysts are projecting a 2.5 percent growth for 2018, which would represent the best two-year run since 2005.

A big contributor to this growth, and to the high U.S. consumer confidence, which reached a 17-year high in Nov. 2017, were small businesses. And they remain well positioned to benefit from the current economic boom.

To take advantage of the favorable economic environment, consider these four moves to set your small business up for success.

1. Leverage software to optimize efficiency While newer businesses can make do with basic tools like spreadsheets, you'll need more advanced software to manage operations successfully.

For instance, automating your manual processes can help you run your business more efficiently and help grow your bottom line. Implementing a network of systems can exponentially increase communication and smooth workflows between growing teams.

2. Futureproof your hardware to avoid buying twice Having the right hardware can be one of the most important drivers of success. In fact, the right hardware means employees can do their jobs better and more efficiently, saving you capital and time.

Consider reaching out to supportive networks and financial institutions for loans and potential new investors.

Some companies like Dell offer lines of credit to small business owners, enabling you to quickly get the equipment your business needs now, without heavy upfront cash outlays. Or consider leasing your hardware. Instead of tying up your capital in equipment acquisitions or utilizing bank loans, lease options allow you to pay for your IT needs in low monthly payments while retaining your cash for investing in higher return opportunities.

4. Build a team that will flex with your company When scaling your team, do not sacrifice company ideals just to increase head count. Maintaining the company culture will help keep your company focused on achieving its mission, ensure passion does not burn out and help with retention.

Also, don't overlook hiring to address the HR and operational management aspect of your business, as you can't and shouldn't - do it all yourself. Tasks like payroll, onboarding and day-to-day work should be handled by a support team that lets you run the show and focus on the future.

With consumer confidence high, your business has an opportunity to scale. Take solace knowing there are resources to help you navigate this complex process, and that you don't have to do it all on your own - after all, you have enough on your plate as is.

7 Ways to

Create a High-Tech, Healthy Home

H

FAMILY FEATURES

ome technology devices have come a long way, and many homeowners are discovering that their features aren’t just for convenience and comfort. A growing number of technology-enabled home features promote a healthier living space for you and your family.

From boosting indoor air quality to cutting back on dust, dirt and germs, these ideas are the perfect way to add functional upgrades that improve your quality of life.

1. Minimize floor debris.

The floors in most homes are grounds for an unsettling array of dust, dirt and other unsavory elements, many of which are tracked in from outdoors. A robotic vacuum can help you keep these and other allergens like pet hair under control with next to no effort.

Some models even know when they’re low on battery, return to

their docking station to recharge then rely on memory to pick up just where they left off. Many are also self-emptying for a virtually hands-free cleanup job after the initial setup.

2. Create climate zones.

A zoned approach to cooling and heating systems allows homeowners to cool and heat their homes in multiple zones, reducing energy consumption in spaces used infrequently.

Today’s systems take climate management one step further. In addition to regulating the temperature, a system like Mitsubishi Electric Zoned Comfort Solutions offers advanced, multi-stage filtration that constantly cleans the air to capture and remove contaminants which may trigger allergy and asthma symptoms, spread germs and impact air quality. In addition, features like platinum deodorizing filters on select systems use nanotechnology to absorb and neutralize odors.

3. Wash away germs.

It’s only natural that a device you use to wash dirty hands is often one of the most bacteria-laden elements in a home. However, if you don’t have to touch a faucet, concerns about germs may diminish.

Hands-free faucets are hardly new; they’ve been the norm in public restrooms for years. Now these models are more accessible (and affordable) for homeowners, offering the same germ-minimizing and water conservation benefits as their commercial counterparts.

4. Monitor for danger.

In fact, Mitsubishi Electric ducted air systems use less ductwork than traditional systems. Less ductwork results in less chance of air leakage, which reduces energy loss, and less contaminants building up in the ductwork. For homeowners looking to go the ductless route, the simplicity of an option like the MLZ One-Way Ceiling Cassette indoor unit is an aesthetically friendly solution that blends into the ceiling. This system easily slides between standard 16-inch joists.

6. Let there be light.

Fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are obvious essentials for any home, but smart models take protection even further by letting you know about a problem even when you’re not at home. By connecting the monitors to a smart device, such as your phone, you can be alerted to potential concerns before they become major threats to your health or even life. An added bonus: many models will also send notices about issues like low battery life, so if you get the alert while you’re already out, you can save yourself an extra trip.

Most experts agree that natural light is good for your overall wellbeing. Among the benefits are its mood-boosting abilities, and some research indicates it’s better for your eyes than the harsh glare of artificial bulbs (assuming you don’t stare directly at the sun, of course). Make it easy to fill your home with ambient natural light using smart technology for your window coverings, including blinds or drapes. Whether powered by a remote control or your smartphone, you’ll have the ability to create a lighter, brighter room at your fingertips.

5. Reduce ductwork.

7. Don’t overlook the outdoors.

Humidity can cause heating, ventilation and air conditioning ducts to become damp and breed mold, mildew and bacteria, but eliminating or reducing ductwork means less dust or bacteria circulating throughout your home. You can further manage air quality with options such as a Mitsubishi Electric Zoned Comfort System. These cooling and heating systems are available in both ducted and ductless configurations and use filters that are easy to access, remove and clean. Typically homes only use one type of cooling and heating system, but some home designs, such as room additions or retrofits, may require a hybrid system with a mix of ducted and ductless products with short duct runs and robust filtration.

Explore more health-conscious solutions for your home at MitsubishiComfort.com.

A lawn that is over-watered is a breeding ground for mold, insects and other threats to your health. A smart irrigation system can help regulate your sprinklers to monitor the weather and avoid unnecessary watering. In addition, some models allow you to program the exact type of grass or vegetation to help keep tabs on lawn and flower bed moisture levels and make automatic adjustments to strike a perfect balance between drying out and oversaturating.

"I am excited to let people in and share our family's story‌�

"We are a normal family that wants a healthy relationship with healthy and happy kids that will impact the world,"

-Warryn Campbell

- Erica Campbell

Erica & Warryn Campbell Photo Courtesy of TVOne

WE’RE THE CAMPBELLS, Docu-Series TV One is set to premiere its latest original docu-series, WE'RE THE CAMPBELLS on Tuesday, June 19 at 8 p.m.

ET/7C. The nine episode docu-series will give viewers an intimate glimpse into the lives of Gospel entertainment power couple Warryn and Erica Campbell, as they tackle the everyday struggles that come with balancing family and work, nurturing their marriage, building their individual careers, and fostering their faith; all while raising their three children Warryn, Zaya and teenager Krista. TV One will also feature the couple in its ongoing online series #BLACKLOVE and a digital exclusive after show ...WITH WARRYN & ERICA. The weekly online companion content will get up-close-and personal with Warryn and Erica, as they reveal how they have dealt with common issues that could make or break any relationship.

The patriarch of the family, Warryn Campbell, is an awardwinning veteran music producer for today's most influential artists, Pastor of the California Worship Center, and founder of the record label My Block Inc. When Warryn is not leading prayer and worship service, he is mentoring his upcoming music artists.

Smith, Sr. Director of Original Programming & Production for TV One. "Audiences of all ages will identify with this docu-series and see themselves in members of this family, as they deal with the same issues we all do and get through them with humor and humility."

As Gospel musicians, raising a family in the spotlight and dealing with issues of faith, sexuality and societal norms in the age of social media can be a challenge. WE'RE THE CAMPBELLS highlights the Campbell family on an intimate level, as well as introduces the large circle of family and friends that help keep things running smoothly, including Thomasina "Miss Honey" Atkins and Sandra "Momma" Campbell, the loving and often opinionated mothers of Erica and Warryn.

WE'RE THE CAMPBELLS is produced for TV One by Entertainment One (eOne). Executive Producers are Tara Long, Mark Herwick, Kim McCoy, Warryn Campbell and Erica Campbell; Co- Executive Producer is Narvin Russaw.

For TV One, Tia Smith is the Executive in charge and Sr. Director of Original Programming & Production; Donyell Kennedy McCollough is Sr. Director of Talent, and Robyn Greene Arrington is Interim Head of Original Programming and Production.

"I am excited to let people in and share our family's story," said Warryn. "It is super important that folks will get to see a strong, beautiful Black family, a loving couple and nothing but the Hand of God and the Grace of God on our lives through everyday situations both good and bad."

Dividing time between her family's life in Los Angeles and her work life in Dallas, Erica Campbell is not only a doting wife, mother and sister, but also a host of the popular nationally-syndicated program Get Up! Mornings with Erica Campbell on Reach Media, which she tapes daily. In addition to these roles, she is also one-half of the awardwinning Gospel music duo Mary Mary, writing a new book, promoting her hair extension and wig collection and serving as First Lady of the family church.

"We are a normal family that wants a healthy relationship with healthy and happy kids that will impact the world," says Erica. "I think families will see us deal with the same things they encounter in life. I'm so very excited.”

“Getting an inside look into a close-knit, powerhouse family like The Campbells is a rare privilege," says Tia A. 31

MTV MO VI E & TV A WA RD S

Chris Pratt, one of Hollywood’s most renowned and sought-after actors, is honored with the Generation Award during the 2018 “MTV Movie & TV Awards.”

Hosted by Tiffany Haddish…

Named as one of TIME’s “100 Most Influential People” in 2017, Pratt achieved stardom as ‘Andy Dwyer’ on NBC’s Parks and Recreation and has since attained groundbreaking success in his transition to film. In 2015, he headlined Jurassic World, the fourth-highestgrossing film of all time, and will reprise his role as Owen in Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, which arrives in theaters on June 22, 2018. Pratt also received notable acclaim for his role as ‘Star Lord’ in Marvel’s installments of Guardians of the Galaxy and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, with both films grossing a combined $1.6 billion at the global box office.

The ‘Star Lord’ has recently returned to the role in Avengers: Infinity War, which has received astounding success since its opening. He also delivered remarkable performances alongside Jennifer Lawrence in Passengers, in Antoine Fuqua’s The Magnificent Seven and through supporting roles in the films Moneyball, The Lego Movie, Her and Zero Dark Thirty.

The Generation Award has been dedicated to showcasing outstanding talent and their noteworthy contributions to film and TV. For over 25 years, the remarkable body of work of recipients speaks directly to a generation of MTV viewers. The award celebrates beloved actors whose diverse contributions to both film and television have turned them into household names in the industry. Past recipients of the award include the “Fast & Furious” franchise, Will Smith, Reese Witherspoon, Robert Downey Jr., Mark Wahlberg, Sandra Bullock, Jamie Foxx, Johnny Depp, Ben Stiller, Adam Sandler, Mike Myers, Tom Cruise and Jim Carrey.

Joel Gallen/Tenth Planet Productions will serve as Executive Producer with MTV’s Amy Doyle, Garrett English and Wendy Plaut for the “2018 MTV Movie & TV Awards.” Rick Austin will also serve as Executive Producer. Vanessa Whitewolf serves as Co-Executive Producer. Melanie Block is Executive in Charge of Production. Amani Duncan is Executive in Charge of Music.

Official sponsors of the 2018 “MTV Movie & TV Awards” include Doritos®, MTN DEW®, SIMPLE Mobile®, Taco Bell®, Toyota and truth®.

Is Anybody Listening?

Written by Dr. Belinda Ross

Let’s admit it, we are all afraid. Children cannot go to school, we can’t shop in the malls and grocery stores, we can’t eat in a restaurant, we can’t go to a concert or movie, we can’t drive on the freeways, we can’t sleep comfortably in our homes, WE CANNOT GO TO CHURCH without fear that someone will invade our territory and freely take a gun and end our lives.

What happened? Where did we go wrong?

Unfortunately there are too many jokes about mental illness and ultimate denial. There is an alarming sense of arming ourselves with weapons not even knowing who our enemies are. If we think guns will combat the ills of this nation, we are sadly wrong.

Is anybody really listening? As children of the recent shootings where seventeen were killed and other children across the nation take a stand to get their voices heard, some school districts are considering punishing them for crying out in pain.

through what already has to be one of the most traumatizing experiences any one could go through, though I understood, I felt so sad and hurt for them. It was the same image that played out in Columbine. From Columbine to now I am not sure what we have learned about protecting our children from gun violence in the institutions of learning in America.

Something has to change. Unfortunately our children will need the subject of gun violence in the curriculum. We have earth quake drills, tornado drills, and fire drills.

Now some schools already have active shooter drills.

Along with that should be some courses that address compassion for and understanding of others.

Issues of empathy and integrity could also be entwined in curriculum. Today this is just as important as math and science. I doubt it if math and science would get you killed in elementary or high school. However, not learning how to treat others, do the right thing when no one is looking, putting your feet in someone else’s shoes, can also be fundamentals of learning. A simple one time workshop will not get it. Let’s be real. Let’s think about how we can perhaps save lives early and be proactive.

#GUNREFORMNOW

OUR CHILDREN NEED US

Who cares about policy? They should be applauded and supported in every way. We may not see all of the physical scars but the emotional scars will last a lifetime. My God, what do we have to look forward to?

It is my hearts belief that as much as this country proposes “IN GOD WE TRUST”, it is only on a green piece of paper. We have not demonstrated that tone in all that we preach and truly left it out in what we teach. We are so afraid to acknowledge the real power of a Godly nation and I don’t mean a “Ritual” nation. A ritual is a procedure. Godliness is a process of a soul searching experience. God cannot be left out of any plan to change this face of destruction.

We must dig deep into our heart of hearts and stand for what is good and right. We don’t have to die this way. We don’t have to suffer this way.

Excerpt: As I watched the children walking out of the school with their hands up like criminals after going

“God cannot be left out of any plan to change…”

Dr. Belinda Ross

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

BUILD A BUSINESS Your Way

C

FAMILY FEATURES

reating a business from the ground up is no small endeavor. From planning to financing to putting standard business services in place, there’s a lot to tackle. All of that is in addition to operating the day-today business.

To overcome these obstacles, franchising is an ideal solution for many aspiring business owners. It provides the advantages of business ownership, but with the added support of a recognized brand and an established method of doing business. Partnering with a franchise like The UPS Store offers numerous benefits.

Flexibility. Opening a franchise allows you to enjoy the freedom and flexibility of making your own business decisions and being your own boss, while working toward your goals of personal and financial independence at your own pace.

Start-up resources. Getting a new business off the ground

requires a wide range of activity, from site selection and lease negotiation to hiring and training staff. A franchise can help you navigate these early decisions and needs with a deep pool of experience and knowledge to help overcome the hurdles you may encounter.

Training. Even a well-educated business owner has room to learn. With a franchise, you have the opportunity to receive in-depth training in areas such as business operations, technical systems, human resources, marketing and financial management.

Networking opportunities. Connecting with other franchisees at area meetings, regional conferences and national conventions helps you stay informed of industry trends, discover new tools and resources, and develop lasting relationships with fellow franchisees.

The result is a peer group that has intimate knowledge of your business model that can serve as a valuable resource as your business grows.

Product development. Part of developing your business is understanding your customers’ needs and introducing new products and solutions. As a franchise owner, you can contribute insight to the process but focus on running your business while development experts dedicate themselves to researching and innovating new products and services that can help you better serve your customers.

Marketing support. Many franchises conduct national advertising campaigns to build brand awareness, while regional efforts and local store marketing can build excitement in your market. A layered marketing plan extends the reach of your marketing budget and lends credibility to your business.

Financing assistance. Funding your franchise according to your unique goals and background can help eliminate many of the financial pitfalls that those without experience or industry expertise may encounter.

Learn more about franchising and the options available to aspiring small business owners at TheUPSStoreFranchise.com.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

A Milestone Accomplishment

5 Tips for Creating a Business Plan Once you’ve settled on a business model that meets your needs, developing a business plan is an essential next step. These five tips can help you get started: n Think

A focus on small business is driving big results for one national retailer. The nation’s largest franchise system of retail shipping, print and business service centers, The UPS Store, Inc., is now 5,000 locations strong.

“The UPS Store network is made up of dedicated individuals and families who are committed to serving small business owners, customers and their communities,” said Chris Adkins, vice president of franchise development for The UPS Store. “We look forward to welcoming more franchisees into our network as we continue to challenge ourselves to find new ways we can bring convenience and value to our customers.”

Over the years, the retail concept has expanded to include a range of solutions for small business owners, creating a one-stop shop for small-business support.

Small business owners can find resources such as notary services, shredding, mailbox and locker rental, and, in some cases, even inventory management solutions, as well as the packing and shipping services that business and non-business customers alike can utilize.

long-term. A solid business plan should account for your start-up, of course, but also the longer range future of your operations.

Consider how you want your business to look five years down the road. Create goals and build in milestones to chart your progress on that longterm path. n Write it yourself. No one can embrace your vision as completely as you can and developing the plan yourself gives you a deep understanding of every aspect of the business, which is essential for good management. Even if you hand over certain responsibilities down the road, being aware of each aspect of your business can make you a stronger, more successful leader. n Review the plan over time. Know that time brings change. The business climate and other variables that influenced your original plan will likely shift over the course of your ownership. That’s why it’s important to revisit your plan at least annually to ensure your original roadmap is still on the right track strategically. n Share your plan with others. Inviting input from an adviser or experienced friend or colleague is a great way to spur new ideas and identify potential problem areas. Be sure you’re prepared to accept constructive criticism to help shape the best possible business plan. n Stick to it. After all the sweat equity you invest in creating your business plan, the worst thing you can do is allow it to collect dust on a shelf. Use the plan to guide you in launching and growing your business. When business is booming and you’re too busy to think strategically, you’ll be grateful to have a well-conceived plan to rely upon.

TOP TAKEAWAYS

Did tech save the music industry?

“Technology is to assist us (in music) it’s not to replace us.”

Christopher Leacock (Major Lazer) Photo Credit: Vikki Jones

COLLISION TECH 2018 COLLISION IS THE FASTEST GROWING TECH CONFERENCE IN NORTH AMERICA. - FORBES

By Vikki Jones & Garry Jones

How do you turn your company into a scaleup?

about talking about how can I do more of what I love and less of what I don’t love… Jessica Hische (Lettering Artist)

The secrets to speed your journey from startup to scaleup…

(Brian Halligan, Hubspot)

The Evolving Art of Storytelling - How do you connect with consumers?

Stories are the most important for me. I’m really excited to see how my team, in particular experiment with how they tell those stories. Whether it’s an an instagram story or an 8,000 word piece for this magazine. I think there’s a place for all these different format.

Two secrets from to move from that little startup mode to a big high growth scale mode: • Culture • Mission Humans are changing the way they work and the way they live, we (Hubspot) wanted to build a culture that matched human behavior. We wanted to build a culture that would be a magnet to pull employees in and retain them.

Mission really matters to the modern worker. When ‘missionaries’ are working hard, they say their ‘passionate’. Mission matters - you need a place where people want to come to work at.

The firs thing we - Hubspot - did was culture and the second thing we did is made sure everyone undressed our mission.

Should you quit your day job and do what you love?

Not everybody can afford to quite their day job and it’s not a l w a y s n e c e s s a r y.

Usually there a lot of good going on at a company and you can salvage that good and replace the bad with other good as long as you have a good relationship with your manager and forthright

The most money you will make is on your own platform. - Samantha Berry (Editor in Chief, Glamour) Additional Highlights:

W

FAMILY FEATURES

hether it’s the kids or grandkids wrapping up the school year, spending a little extra time with mom or traveling with loved ones for a long weekend, the potential increase in quality family time is something many look forward to in May. When everyone is gathered together, it seems at some point the conversation always turns to who’s watching what when it comes to TV shows and movies.

Watching TV or going to the movies together can be a great way to bond, but people are discovering exciting series and films outside of cable channels and movie theaters. Even with busy schedules and differing tastes, streaming services like Netflix are always adding new shows and movies, so there’s sure to be something everyone can enjoy together (no matter how picky some family members may be).

If you’re looking to discover something new or different from what you find on regular TV, here are five reasons to give an option like Netflix a try: 1. No More Fighting Over the Remote. Whether you’re sitting

down to watch as a family or getting cozy on the couch for a date night in, there’s no need to commandeer the remote to ensure you have control of the entertainment choices. With a large selection of shows and movies, streaming services make it easy to find something you’ll love to watch together.

2. Like a Guide Channel That’s Customized for You. If you’re a fan of Blue Bloods, you can either catch up on old episodes, or give an option like MINDHUNTER a try. Or if you’re looking for laughs and love Friends, check out Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. It’s like a guide channel, but because it knows your tastes, Netflix will only display show and film recommendations based on what you have watched in the past.

3. Rediscover Shows and Movies You Love. Experience some of ABBA’s greatest hits with Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan and Colin Firth in the musical romantic comedy Mamma Mia!, or get your action fix with Matt Damon in The Bourne Ultimatum.

If you’re feeling nostalgic but are looking for something

outside of reruns, consider a trip down memory lane with a reboot of classic series like Lost in Space or Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life.

4. Take Your Shows On-the-Go. If you’re doing any travel this spring, discover a new way to stay entertained while you’re on the go. Whether you’re on the road for work or leisure, Netflix lets you watch your favorite shows wherever you are. Just use your phone, laptop or tablet to access the service and pick up right where you left off.

5. Sign-Up is Simple. All you have to do is go online to Netflix. com, choose a plan and provide payment information and your zip code. You may also be eligible for a subscription as part of some existing cable packages, and if that is the case, you may not need any additional equipment to access it.

Find more information about countless shows and movies, sign up for a one-month free trial and set up your account at Netflix.com.

TV SHOWS AND MOVIES ON NETFLIX IN MAY Netflix is adding new shows and movies to the service every day. Whether you’re into comedy, suspense, drama or anything in-between, you can find those genres and more on Netflix.com. Here’s some old favorites as well as new content available to watch this month:

A Little Help with Carol Burnett: Season 1

In this series, Carol Burnett is joined by a group of the most honest and unfiltered people in the world – a gaggle of straight-talking 5-9-year-old kids.

These opinionated “experts” weigh in on a variety of dilemmas brought in by adults. (Available May 4)

Evil Genius: The True Story of America’s Most Diabolical Bank Heist: Season 1

This docuseries, based on a true story, begins with the grisly death of a pizza delivery man who robs a bank with a bomb fastened around his neck, and only gets stranger from there. (Available May 11)

My Next Guest Needs No Introduction with David Letterman

End Game

Explained: Season 1

Steve Martin and Martin Short: An Evening You Will Forget for the Rest of Your Life

Late night legend David Letterman interviews an iconic guest of choice – past guests include former President Barack Obama, George Clooney and Malala Yousafza.

This month, he takes on comedian Tina Fey and radio personality Howard Stern. (Available May 4 and May 31)

This docuseries spotlights a wide range of topical and timely issues that impact lives on a daily basis, such as the gender wage gap, geopolitical politics, the rise of cryptocurrency and why diets fail.

(Available May 23)

Directed by Academy Award-winning filmmakers Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman, this verite-style documentary short follows medical practitioners working on the cutting edge of life and death, who are dedicated to changing the thinking about both. (Available May 4)

Comedy icons Steve Martin and Martin Short team up to provide viewers with musical sketches and conversations about their lives in show business and stand-up comedy. (Available May 25)

MINDSET, THE ECONOMY & THE INTERNET OF THINGSÂ

by Vikki Jones

A large number of businesses that have been around for decades, ranging from Macy’s and JCPenney to RadioShack and Office Depot, are closing at a record pace. People are quickly losing jobs, with families panicking and retail workers understandably concerned about how they are going to pay their bills.

So, why are longstanding retail stores falling like dominoes? Some aggressively blame technology

and its inhibitors, such as the internet, people like Mark Zuckerberg, entities like Amazon, and financial systems like PayPal. But the question has become, are they to blame, or does the fault lie with traditional thinking and methods of conducting business?

The internet has opened a wave of opportunity for oppressed thinkers that longed to have a hand in sales and creativity, often in the form of new

inventions. Born out of zealous ambition, Facebook, along with social media platforms such as Twitter, Snapchat, and LinkedIn, connects the globe in ways that were once unheard of, and a record speed.

Place these platforms at the fingertips of entrepreneurial spirits and it should come as no surprise that competitors for brick and mortar stores have emerged, often on an entry-level basis.

With ideas no longer oppressed, gatekeepers are being pushed aside and the status quo centering on the chief financial officer level of big businesses has changed.

What we have here is the rise and fall of two very powerful forces—a modern day David and Goliath.

When you have an untouchable mindset, you begin to fail. It may not be quite as evident at first, but as time progresses, onlookers are able to see the failure. In the sales department, g e n e r a l m a n a g e r s o f t e n c a n ’t determine why the quota is not met and why their local store location is threatened with closure.

Traditional thinking never wins in a rapidly evolving climate. When an executive is stubbornly set on making an old system work in our modernday, tech-savvy world, it sets everyone beneath them up for failure.

This can come in the form of low sales, job loss, and more.

Time has brought about new ways of watching movies, communicating, and paying bills. Each of these daily rituals can be done online, and the same is true in the business sector.

Personally, I love some of the

traditional practices in retail, but I also recognize the limitations that it places on the average person. With that said, I’ve embraced simple, easy, and less time-consuming ways of shopping and doing business, despite those that felt it couldn’t be done.

The economy is much more productive as a result of new ways of doing business that further involve community improvement, social change, and small businesses. While it has had an impact on some of the larger chain and brick and mortar stores, I wholeheartedly admire everyone who has an idea, works hard, puts it into motion, and succeeds as a result of internet tools like Facebook, Etsy, and personal websites.

The old way of thinking that can often yield resentment towards social media, technology, and ecommerce practices has to become more open and inviting to everyday innovators. It can be difficult to accept that old habits or methods of thinking are being put on the back burner, but I’d rather let go of a thinking pattern than see those around me suffer the consequences.

It’s never too late to learn new things; it’s an integral part of life.

No matter one’s age, upbringing, or familiarity, when you open your mind, you are opening yourself to a world outside of yourself. Learning to accept the new norms and let go of the old ways of doing things is important, as it ultimately affects those around you, as well as the economy.

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