AVERY*SUNSHINE - THE SHINE THE WORLD NEEDS

FALL EDITION 2019

TWENTY SIXTY FOUR AVERY'S LATEST ALBUM

A VOICE TO NATIONS

MAESTRO WIFE MOTHER COMPOSER SINGER

A WOMAN OF MORE #KEEPSHINING

Kyrzayda RODRIGUEZ WWW.KYRZSCLOSET.COM

FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS

table of contents

EDITOR'S NOTES

Master your position as a woman first!

COVER GIRL

AVERY*SUNSHINE SPECIAL FEATURE

Women who are brave, courageous and have mastered their lane.

6 KEYS TO BUILDING A BUSINESS WITH I.M.P.A.C.T.

Everybody and their mamas want to be an entrepreneur. While that isn’t a bad thing, too many people are trying to profit without any real purpose. They are willing to sell whatever people are willing to buy whether it works and whether they believe in the product/service… or not.

SWEET SURRENDER

To surrender means to stop resisting. It means submitting to the higher calling that we have on our lives. When we surrender, we relinquish to God those people and things that we’ve held on to so tightly. Handing over our pasts, the blueprints to our future, our loved ones and our heart’s desires to God doesn’t mean we give up on them. Read more.

THERE'S MORE TO YOU

@womenofmoremag

And God made Woman. . .

I am fascinated by how millions of women around the world have mastered their roles and responsibilities over their lifetime - from their roles within the home to their workplace. However, the one area so many have missed mastering is being a woman. Including myself.

Over my lifetime I found that I was good at what I was responsible for; not perfect, but good. The one area I had challenges with was being ME, a WOMAN. Which brought on a lot of struggles, challenges, delays, procrastination, self-sabotage and self-doubt. Sometimes, as women, we wear the badge of being a great wife, mother, and grandmother and our list of accomplishments at work is way too long to write. But when we have our own internal challenges, we are lost, devastated, depleted and without words or strength.

Are we mastering the wrong thing first? Our we pursuing the wrong thing first? Could it be that our main problem is that we missed or overlooked ourselves?

If so, that MUST STOP RIGHT NOW. We are necessary.

We are powerful.

We are strong.

We are smart.

We are overcomers.

We are beautiful.

And the list goes on and on.

Once we master being a woman, we will see a shift in the right direction within ourselves, families, communities, and nations. Will you make a commitment today and MASTER BEING A WOMAN FIRST?

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

THERE'S MORE TO YOU

editor's message

SPECIAL FEATURE

Chef BABETTE DAVIS CHANGING THE ROAD MEET CHEF BABETTE

Chef Babette is a mother, grandmother, motivator, and inspiration to many people that aspire to live a healthy lifestyle. I am also a humble soul that is forever a student. I know what I know and am willing to share but I do not know everything and for that reason, I am always open to learning.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR RESTAURANT, STUFF I EAT I was introduced to a vegan lifestyle by my husband in 1992. My interest was peaked immediately. I loved shopping with him. I recall the time spent in the grocery store. Going to Whole Foods was a field trip for me. He turned me on to all sorts of new things and I started experimenting in the kitchen. But I also started feeling better. My skin rashes disappeared, my digestion issues were gone and mental clarity became my best friend. I eventually began to do my own research. I began studying food combining and the effects of sugar and dairy on the body. I read a book entitled "Fit For Life"

by Harvey and Marilyn Diamond and that was my official turning point.

After reading that book, I went all the way and became 100% vegan. I started sharing the food and lifestyle with family and friends because I knew at that point that food was medicine. I eventually spent some time in Japan and during many early morning mediations, it was revealed to me that sharing this lifestyle was my destiny. When I returned to the states I consulted a good friend and we decided to begin catering.

That eventually led to a customized cart after four years in business and eventually I was led to my current location in Inglewood on Market Street. Everyone thought I was a fool.

"People in that community don't eat vegan food!" I heard this constantly but I felt that if the food was available the community... they would come.

I took out 75% of the equity in my home and opened the doors to the restaurant. My motto was and is, "I will not feed anyone anything that I would not eat myself." Hence the name of my restaurant, Stuff I Eat. The quality of food and the love put into it means the world to me. I am so humbled and grateful to my community and those that travel to our spot for a good, wholesome, organic (when possible), clean meal.

WHY IS IT NECESSARY NOW MORE THAN EVER FOR WOMEN TO STAND UP AND STAND OUT? Women are the essence of life. We live in a male-dominated world and that's ok. Men serve their purpose, but women are the Ori (Originators of life)Â and we live in such a hostile time that it is important for women to exert our energy to balance things out.

WHAT WOULD YOU WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I love going home after work, laughing with my daughter and snuggling in my bed. I love gardening and politics. I appreciate true friendship and most of all the simple things in life.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO WOMEN AROUND THE WORLD ABOUT BEING A WOMAN OF MORE? Remain humble and always be a student. Never stop growing and sharing.

"I WILL NOT FEED ANYONE ANYTHING THAT I WOULD NOT EAT MYSELF."

FOCUSED

After "Cash In On Cashews", we decided that it would be a great idea to do a series of themed books, with the same concept. The next book is "Stuff Your Stuff" and it's all about stuffing food. It's fun and yummy!

DETERMINED

TELL US ABOUT YOUR COLLECTION OF COOKBOOKS "Cash In On Cashews" is intended to be a fun book that highlights the versatility of the cashew nut. The book is full of what I call, Ice Box Desserts. You can simply start with one base and build over 50 desserts.

My daughter helped me co-write the book and the title was actually her idea. Again, it was inspired by how many desserts I could make from one nut. That's definitely cashing in on the cashew!

PASSIONATE

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR JOURNEY? Success is a journey, not a destination. I have had an amazing journey.

I've had the opportunity to inspire many people and that's what this is all about; creating health in my community. I've met wonderful people, I've traveled and I am constantly learning. The low of this work is the tireless hours spent. I have a lot of energy at my age, but I do get tired.

The restaurant business can be gruesome, but I would not trade my experience for anything, they are a sum total of me.

CROCS

WRITTEN BY JASMINE BREECE

YELLOW

As a black woman, I am responsible for running my race every day.

I’m carrying a weight - a burden that I don’t want to consider a burden - but gets treated like a burden by everyone who doesn’t carry it. Like walking around in yellow Crocs. While people that don’t know me still judge me about buying and wearing them, I am comfortable. I am comfortable in my Crocs and I have no shame, yet I am so aware of all the facial expressions and stares I get. But instead of being able to take them off and breathe a sigh of relief, I. Never. Can. Because I can’t take a break from being Black. I can't choose another skin color or race, or decide on a skin color more suitable for a job interview or to look at future homes.

I know I will be judged regardless of what I say or what I wear because my skin still looks the same, and to them, it’s not fair enough. But dammit, I want so badly to move. I want that dream job. So, I put away my Crocs and put on some heels. And sometimes, just sometimes I want to put away this skin. This hair.

Just strip me bare. For just a day or two. Or even just during the interview process for that dream job. The one I pray will have other Black employees. I hope I will be one of them one day. But until then, I’ll wear my Black and my Crocs, because the irony of it is that the shoe fits, so I'll rock it. Blackness has a funny way of adding so much character to life. I am living color. Blackness is so much color in a black vs white world. Bringing life wherever it goes with the swing in its hips and that soulful song from its lungs.

Feel the warm love in its heart; its strength and power, and empowerment; its voice-snatching, eye-catching, attentiongrabbing vibes, and energy flowing through it like it's doing a job and doing it well. Blackness is so black and so distinct from the rest of the world. It is bold and unapologetic in every phrase that it speaks. It speaks volumes that you can’t ignore. Just like my yellow Crocs, even though I am so much more.

NEW CONTRIBUTOR

JASMINE BREECE @JASBREECE @JOURNEY2DREAM

CHAMPION QUEEN BOSS

E N T I R E M B L Z O Z C A Y

RE U T EA F IAL C SPE

WHO IS YAZZMINE COLBERT?

I am a woman on a mission to change the lives of many. Not just the lives of my customers and clients, but the lives of anyone attached to me including my friends, family, and colleagues. On that beautiful January afternoon when God told me what my purpose was, I didn't listen. Instead, I ran from it and got comfortable working a 9-5 with benefits. It wasn't until He reminded me that I was meant to be a champion that I started to pursue my purpose. I am thankful to be walking in my purpose ever since.

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE HIGHS AND LOWS IN YOUR CAREER? Some lows would be missing out on a $10K deal because I felt I wasn't ready to take on such a huge project, which I wasn't. Also, at one time I was grossly underpricing myself and was leaving coins on the table by not charging based on value. Today, I know better. Some highs would be signing my first 4-figure client and every client's contract since then has been 4-figures or more. Another high would be gaining two business partners for another business venture that complements my first business.

@YAZZCOLBERT

TELL US ABOUT 'YC CREATIVE ENTERPRISE'.

We are a trusted boutique public relations and marketing agency for lifestyle, entertainment, and non-profits. We help brands and events go from unseen to noticed by creating communities of raving fans who love and support their brand.

WHAT WOULD YOU WANT PEOPLE TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I want them to know that I am a God-fearing woman who has a purpose to change the lives and circumstances of anyone who is connected to me. Secondly, I am brilliant and I recognize the value I bring to my community. I am picky about the clients my team and I take on. We must believe and support your brand before we can work with you. We are not for everyone.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO WOMEN AROUND THE WORLD ABOUT BEING A WOMAN OF MORE? As a woman of MORE, you are taking a stance to become the woman you always dreamed of becoming. Because of this, you are required to do more, be more, give more, serve more, listen more, change more, and move with a purpose more. If you're not ready to do that then you're not ready to accept the responsibility of being a woman of MORE. WOMEN OF MORE MAGAZINE

SETTING THE STANDARD WRITTEN BY TARIA PRITCHETT

A woman can be, do, and have MORE once you have established clear boundaries and standards to follow. What areas of your life could use an OVERHAUL, a little SPRUCING UP, and a little INCREASE? As long as you SETTLE or SIT BACK: Waiting, wishing, wondering, and worrying, you will never get to achieve your vision. If you’re guilty of even just ONE of the items mentioned above, that means your STANDARDS are not high enough.

Standard – a level of quality or attainment Where have you set the bar MENTALLY? EMOTIONALLY? SPIRITUALLY? PHYSICALLY? ROMANTICALLY? FINANCIALLY? PROFESSIONALLY? Is your bar higher in some areas and not others?

Why or why not? Those areas you are lacking in right now… it’s time for an UPGRADE. Your standards set the TONE for how you think about yourself, feel about yourself, how others treat you, and what you ATTRACT into your life. Your standards are all in your mind, body, and soul. They make up the energetic vibration that is YOU.

If your vibe is negative, doubtful, and overwhelmed… chances are you will attract some unwanted consequences into your life such as feeling unworthy, struggling in your business, lack of financial stability, extra weight gain, hesitation, and the list continues on.

If your vibe is positive, peaceful, and happy chances are you will attract more blessings and opportunities into your life such as a higher quality and loving man, additional streams of income, building a better brand, more loyal friendships, and a healthier body.

Your standards matter. They are the driving force behind who you are as a woman because they reflect what you believe. What you believe becomes what you think and the habits you develop which ultimately display your character. Others will address you based on the standards you have set.

As a woman of MORE, you need to set the standard. Think of it this way: Set the tone Talk to yourself like you love yourself Align yourself mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally Never settle for less Don’t take mess from anyone (but cause no harm to others) Always set goals with intention and follow through Respect, honor, cherish, and value yourself Develop your areas of weakness and insecurity Stick to your vision and dreams Always remember your life will REFLECT the standards you have in place. If you want MORE out of life, then do MORE to ensure your standards and beliefs are in alignment with the best life you want to live.

t e e Sw

SURRENDER

In today’s world, many people associate power with control and surrender with weakness. It’s why we try so hard to control the many different components of our lives. We embark on various journeys throughout our lifetime in an effort to control the outcome in key areas such as love, relationships, career, and finances. I believe, however, we’re most powerful when we’ve surrendered the most. God tells us in Jeremiah 29:11 that He already knows the plans He has for us and that they are plans of peace and not of disaster.

His plans are designed to give us a future and a hope. Why, then, do we struggle so hard with surrendering ourselves and our lives to God? When we operate on our own, we fight battles we can’t win. We forfeit the maximization of our gifts and talents because we use them for our benefit, not God’s. We remain boxed into spaces that were only meant to serve as training grounds, not places of permanent residence. When we try to singlehandedly control our destinies, we spend prolonged amounts of time in relationships that were intended to teach us lessons, while missing out on the ones that provide true blessings. In order to live our most abundant lives, we must surrender.

CONNECT WITH ME @RainbowHuff @rainbowishername

WRITTEN BY RAINBOW HUFF

To surrender means to stop resisting. It means submitting to the higher calling that we have on our lives. When we surrender, we relinquish to God those people and things that we’ve held on to so tightly. Handing over our pasts, the blueprints to our future, our loved ones and our heart’s desires to God doesn’t mean we give up on them. It means that we value them enough to place them in the hands of the One who has true control and can work miracles in and through them. God will put His super on our natural once we’ve fully and freely moved out of the way to give Him access to do so.

It’s been my experience that the very person or thing we hold on to with the firmest grip is the one we need to surrender the most. Is there something or someone that you know should be surrendered to God? Have your hands been so tightly clenched that you’ve unintentionally blocked access to blessings that require your open hands to receive them? If so, I’d say now is a good time to surrender. In fact, don’t just surrender. Surrender with reckless abandonment. Our reckless abandonment leads to His reckless abundance. God is able to do exceedingly and abundantly above all that we could ever ask or imagine. We just have to trust Him. With trust comes surrender and with surrender comes true power.

Set yourself up to see the ultimate power at work in your life by handing over the reins to God and operating from a place of sweet, sweet surrender.

WOMEN OF MORE MAGAZINE

Kyrzayda RODRIGUEZ WWW.KYRZSCLOSET.COM

FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS

Mindfulness is More than Meditation - It is a State of Mind WRITTEN BY DR. TORRI LOVE GRIFFIN, LPC Mindfulness is a trending topic these days and people of all ages are getting in touch with themselves with this form of stillness in meditation. Surely, you’ve had an opportunity to try it… get in a comfortable position… relax… breathe in… breathe out… notice what you see… notice what you hear… notice all those interesting scents around you… feel the surface beneath you… focus on right now. Just now. Wow. Now, that’s refreshing! Who knew there were so many wonderful things going on right now, just outside of your awareness?

That’s one form of mindfulness.

But there is another one I would like to draw your attention to and that is being mindful of yourself in relation to others. Let’s look at the definition before we go on.

According to Webster’s Dictionary, mindfulness is the quality or state of being conscious or aware of something.

CONNECT WITH ME @DRTORRILOVE

Conscious and aware of something… hmmm. Granted, whatever you decide to become more conscious and aware of will take focus and determination, just like in the mindful space you created earlier. But what about the state of your relationships. Are you being mindful about the words you speak and their impact? Are you being mindful about the way you present yourself when you are around others? Is it mindful to leave a small tip for a waiter or waitress who might be having a bad day?

You, as women of more, have to consider—be mindful of—the way things are once you have passed through and left your mark on a situation.

TAKE THE NEXT THIRTY DAYS TO BE MINDFUL

Remember when mama used to say, “baby, leave things better than you found them,” and you wondered why YOU had to be the bigger person and be conscious when everyone else got to act out! Yes, she was asking you to be MINDFUL. Even you want your children to be mindful—as quiet as it's kept. You actually enjoy it when someone is mindful in your presence and you can choose to pay it forward and be mindful when you have an opportunity. And you always have opportunities.

Here’s an idea. Take the next thirty days to be mindful and see if you can single-handedly change your portion of the world. Compliment a stranger. Smile at a child. Pray quietly when a situation breaks out near you. Tame that temper. Call your sister. Let that driver in front of you even though they broke protocol. Speak to that ornery coworker, anyway. Slow down. Help clean up. Leave a dollar bill on a counter and watch from afar at the reaction of the person who finds it.

Make it your business to go to that uninteresting event just so you can sit and chat with an old friend for an hour. Smile inside and show that you care about your world and the people in it.

The state of mindfulness requires an understanding that NOW is really all you have and what you do with it impacts people in positive, neutral and negative ways. Make a conscious decision to be mindful… now… after now… after now.

FULL OF LIFE

THOUGHTFUL

KIND

DIVINE SOULFUL GENUINE RELEVANT DELIGHTFUL

OVERCOMER

GRACEFUL

Avery*Sunshine believes whole heartedly that God has guided her life every step of the way. And I believe that as well. She discovered her gift by happen stance, but I believe it was all divine. As she discovered her gift to play the piano, life also brought her to realize she was a gifted writer. Her friend at the time, now her husband, Dana “Big Dane” Johnson told her she should do something with her writing. And with that nudge, she went from writing to being a global singer and musician.

She has collaborated, sung for and with so many legendary artists from Aretha Franklin, Jennifer Holliday, David Foster, Anthony Hamilton, and too many more to list.

When Avery*Sunshine sings it feels like you are part of the song (which I call the story). Her music is illustrated with real life scenarios. She gives great advice and candor while singing.

If you haven’t seen her in concert, you are missing it all. She sings and plays with every fiber in her. It’s a beautiful sight to behold. Not only is she singing and playing the keys, she sometimes becomes a choir director. She will have you singing along as a big choir!

I asked Avery*Sunshine about the meaning of her latest album, “Twenty Sixty Four.” She explained, “Dana and I always said we would never ever, times infinity, get married again. We even slapped five on it. Then Dana said, ‘one day we’re going to get married.’ At that moment I was surprised, but also willing. So, I prayed and said God if you give me till 2064 with this amazing man - I’ll be 89 and he’ll be 91 - I promise I’ll stop cussing and work out every day.” So beautiful and honest, just like Avery*Sunshine.

Avery*Sunshine’s life wasn’t as simple as it sounds, she made the adjustments, believed, and trusted God through it all. From getting married at a young age, getting a divorce with two children, navigating through her new life while healing through her disappointment. She got up and became who she was created and destined to be.

I asked Avery*Sunshine what would she say to inspire women around the world. This is what she said. “If your shoes hurt, take them off. She stared at me and said it again. My head tilted to the side because I didn’t get it. And then she said, if something is hurting you why would you continue to go through the pain when you have an option to remove yourself from it.” I smiled and said, “yes!”

FOR THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH AVERY*SUNSHINE VISIT

@WOMENOFMOREMAG @WOMENOFMOREMAGAZINE @MICHELLE WASHINGTON

The theory of manifestation states that your thoughts lead to your feelings, your feelings lead to actions, and your actions lead to results. Are you satisfied with your current results or do you want MORE? For years, many of us have been conditioned to think and/or act a certain way but is that truly who you are or is it who you learned to be? Think about it for a moment…

MANAGING YOUR MANIFESTATION WRITTEN BY YVONNE CHAMPION

@LETTEMEKNOW

While growing up, a parent may have told you before a trip to the store, “be on your best behavior, don't embarrass me and don’t touch anything." Being the great child that you were, you did as you were told and never gave your parents any problems. Right? For the rest of us, there was at least one time you wanted to test the limits and assert your own will, not realizing what you were told was not simply a statement, but rather a warning.

I was six at the time and didn’t have a conscience clip stored in the thought files of my mind, so I, like others, allowed these three elements to influence my thoughts: ● Doubt ● Supposition ● Temptation First, doubt set in and I questioned the validity of the warning. Are you sure I have to be on my best behavior?

Next, supposition allowed me to create an entire hypothesis with my limited evidence. We're in a crowded store and everyone is watching, so what if I'm not on my best behavior, what can she really do to me in front of all these people? Then, the fascination of the temptation led me to convince myself it was alright. Those apples at the top are shiny red and way prettier than the dull ones at the bottom. So, go ahead; just this one time.

All this happened in my thoughts and I concluded I wanted that big juicy one at the top and proceeded to climb the fruit display; resulting in a situation I never saw coming. The next time I was given the same warning, something happened. Instantly, my program files activated and replayed that previous experience providing an awareness I initially lacked. The totality of the recall allowed me to override the rebellious thoughts that resurfaced, resulting in an instant reprogramming of my thoughts.

How do we reprogram our thinking? First, through awareness. Becoming aware of the thoughts, stories, or recordings that have informed your current situation will position you to take control of your thoughts. Once you begin to control your thinking, you can better manage your feelings and assess, based on the evidence you have, what actions you should take. When your actions are more intentional and purposeful, they will begin to yield the results you desire.

Engage in this practice of self-management daily, giving yourself permission to think, feel, and act differently so you can get different results. Replace victim thoughts with victorious ones, insecurities with strength, and trauma with triumph. Surround yourself with people and beliefs that support YOU. Now is your time to shift your paradigm of thinking and begin manifesting the MORE that you desire.

WOMEN OF MORE MAGAZINE

IS YOUR STORY BOOK WORTHY? WRITTEN BY INDIANA TUGGLE

Nothing says happy Saturday than awakening to a great cup of coffee, a good pancake breakfast, my laptop to spend a few hours writing, then ending the evening with popcorn and Lifetime Movie Network. Lifetime is inundated with real-life stories of trauma, drama, suspense, action, and of course tearjerking. As a Christian writing coach and publisher, I am often besieged with emails and inbox messages from writers proclaiming that their book is Lifetime movie and best seller worthy. While I am not the one to be a killer of dreams or spoil a happy ending, familiarity of one’s life to that of a movie or great book is hardly the only essential characteristic to making that goal a reality. We don’t have the time to get into the marketing, promoting, publishing, pitching, etc., involved in making a book a best seller or obtaining a movie option.

Before either of those can happen, there must first be a great story to write. I specialize in Christian inspirational/motivational books to include non-fiction, fiction, memoirs, self-help, etc., and I have gathered what I feel are the top three questions to be considered to ensure a story is book worthy.

CONNECT WITH ME @INDIANATUGGLE @AUTHORINDIANATUGGLE WOMEN OF MORE MAGAZINE

1. Are you able to show the transformation as opposed to just telling the story? Writing is about taking the reader on a journey. To impact or motivate a reader to change, the story must unfold in a way that helps the reader to identify with the author and/or character. The story must evoke empathy, not sympathy. Empathy inspires, but sympathy will only get them to pass you a tissue.

2. Are you able to outline or detail the process for change? After hearing a story of a person enduring a traumatic experience, I often ask “What did God do or how did you come out?” The writer is left bewildered with this question. Christian writing is not about listing scriptures that enabled you to endure a hard time. It’s about showing how God’s word impacted your life and caused you to take charge of your life to make powerful moves. Your story should be one of fresh revelation to show how God is still performing miracles, delivering, healing and leading us to an abundant life today!

3. Is your story devoid of anger and malice intent? A great story is not just about what happened or who did what, but how the author/character turned lemons into lemonade. God is not glorified in personal vendettas to expose others for personal gain. Don’t allow the enemy to use your book as a tabloid article. Do you have to be completely healed or have released all your anger to write your story? No, but you must have a heart ready and open to healing. Sometimes the call to write is so you can release those feelings, forgive and move on; but as I mentioned in number 1 above, the transformation should be evident as you allow God to work through you. Remember, once you decide to write a book, it is no longer about you! It is about how others will be impacted through you.

FROM LADY-LIKE TO LEADER-LIKE WRITTEN BY DR. MALAIKA TURNER

I had the pleasure of growing up with my paternal grandparents, who I always say, rescued me from what could have been. Mr. and Mrs. Earl J. Moses, Sr. They were my angels - the coolest grandparents you’d ever meet. And like most old-school grandmothers, she took the lead in teaching me the things little girls, traditionally, learn from their mothers. Little did I know those lessons would have a lasting impact on my professional career. If her lessons were a book, chapter one would be titled “Three Keys to Acting Ladylike.” Now, I am almost positive there are feminists out there who would be offended by the term “ladylike”. However, it’s important that I share my story authentically, as the lessons are relevant and relatable. Also, to my grandmother, “lady-like” wasn’t defined as a limiting subservient behavior. It meant carrying yourself confidently and displaying strength with grace.

PHOTO BY CREATIVE HUSSAIN @CREATIVEHUSSAIN46

LESSON 1: Speak clearly and intelligently. Pronounce consonants and vowels clearly, unless otherwise expected by the English language. It was important to speak up and be heard, however, it was just as essential to listen and be attentive.

James said it best in his biblical book, ‘be quick to listen and slow to speak...’

LESSON 2: Walk with your head high and shoulders square. She was such a stickler about posture that she would have impromptu walking practices in the living room. A book would be placed on my head, and I’d have to walk without dropping it.

Frustrating then, but it paid off as an adult.

SPEAK UP. You have something to say that will change lives.

You are full of ideas and it is your time to speak clearly and concisely. When the opportunity is afforded you to share your idea, present your thoughts, sketches, and plans, DO IT! Practice your tone, record yourself, and commit yourself to use your voice. Practice tone, pronunciation, and overall presentation.

What do you have to lose? People are waiting to hear from you and you owe it to yourself to use your voice!

WALK CONFIDENTLY AND UPRIGHT. An essential part of gravitas is how you approach a situation. Body language is crucial when communicating who you are and what you offer. If you’re pitching an idea to your team, presenting to a committee or speaking at a conference, your presentation starts before you LESSON 3: even say a word. How you approach your audience is Speak to people and look them eye-to-eye. This was about showing and commanding respect. It was also imperative that I EVERYTHING! NON-VERBALS are EVERYTHING! They tell people more about you than the words coming from your mouth. be pleasant and kind to others as I’d never know when they may have to bring me a drink of water.

HOW YOU TREAT PEOPLE MAKES A DIFFERENCE. Maya In hindsight, these lessons have molded me into the Angelou said it best, “I’ve learned that people will forget what professional leader I am today and I’d later learn that they you said, people forget what you did, but people will never forget would be the core ingredients for my gravitas. Gravitas is that how you made them feel.” Your gravitas should attract people to “thing” that you can’t physically touch or feel but you know it you, your ideas, and your mission. The seeds you plant will yield when you see it. Oprah has it when she walks in a room. something. If you plant seeds of kindness, thoughtfulness, and Maxine Waters brings it to every interview. Cicely Tyson is in care, you will get that in return. You want to treat people in ways her 90s and she brings it when on or off camera. I’m not these that will cause them to WANT TO WORK WITH AND women, but I know that my gravitas has been shaped by the SUPPORT YOU and not against you. lessons from my grandmother. So, how can my grandmother’s lessons help you as a working woman, entrepreneur, trailblazer, influencer, etc., improve your My grandmother was the trainer-of-trainers, and I imagine that gravitas? Well, let’s transfer these lessons to your unique in another life she would’ve been a sought-after educator situation: training others how to improve their gravitas and its impact on their success. So, now how about you? Are you ready to improve So, how can my grandmother’s lessons help you as a working your gravitas and attract meaningful relationships that will yield success and change the trajectory of your career path? When woman, entrepreneur, trailblazer, influencer, etc., improve these lessons are implemented, your lady-like qualities will affect your gravitas? Well, let’s transfer these lessons to your your leader-like career. Are you ready? situation:

SPECIAL FEATURE C O M M I T T E D ,

A M B I T I O U S ,

A N D

C O N S I D E R A T E .

Demetris Curry PUBLISHED AUTHOR, SPEAKER, AND INSURANCE WELLNESS STRATEGIST

WWW.DEMETRISCURRY.COM @DEMETRIS_CURRY

@CALLDCURRY

@DEMETRISCURRY

Demetris is for exhibiting a one-of-a-kind integrity in the field of insurance and finances, and leading with a remarkable and rare passion to serve, she began to understand early in life the importance of financial security and the effects of the lack of protection preparation in families. We asked Demetris some questions that will paint a clear picture on who and how incredible and necessary she is in the world.

WHO IS DEMETRIS CURRY?

I am just like you. I am a mother. I am a wife. A business owner. I am a woman who strives for greatness. I have been there - starting off with limited resources, feeling my way through learning about finances, investments, insurance, etc. - but where one begins does not dictate where they will end! The very fact that I can help other women across the country get to where they strive to be, where they thought they could never be is exciting and it’s an honor to do so.

WHEN AND HOW DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR MORE? As a child, I lost many people in my life from my grandmother to cousins to unexpected loss but never really had a clue of what it meant financially to those left behind. It wasn’t until I was in high school that I learned first-hand from experiencing and seeing my mother, an only child to my grandfather and single mother of two children, pull resources from wherever she could to pay for his memorial service. She emptied her savings account, took cash advances from charge cards, let bills get behind and more just to get through the tragedy of his passing from cancer. That time in my life was so difficult. There was no financial support to help me prepare to go out in the world until my mom could get back on her feet from that devastating loss. This is where the foundation of Demetris Curry was laid as I aspired to educate and assist families and individuals to make decisions that help propel them in the future to create early retirement, cash accumulation they can control becoming their own bank, and truly changing the traditional thinking of limitations as normal.

Since my early years, the story for so many, including those I know and love, has been financial hardship. It’s not a pretty picture no matter how you look at it, which prompted me to tap into my 20+ years of banking, finance, and insurance experience to help others strategically implement their vision. I am my own client and biggest critic so I dig deeper into the lives of my clients to ask the questions they may have never had asked before finding their what, when, where, why, how, for how long, and at what point have you had enough of the same thing!

WHAT SHOULD WE BE PAYING ATTENTION TO WITH REGARD TO OUR FINANCES?

It’s important to pay attention to spending habits, the return you get on the things you spend on, and the efficiency of any product you are using to help you meet your goals.

HOW DO WE MASTER OUR FINANCES?

One of the hardest things to do is change a habit and adopt a new one to the point that it starts to become a LIFESTYLE. Change takes planning. It takes commitment. It takes diligence, accountability, and it takes YOU wanting better and refusing to have anything less. When analyzing your financial spending using the Life Insurance Retirement Planning strategy, one must pay attention to their current debt balances, spending habits, discretionary income, and what risk management coverages they have in place.

Look at what you’re spending money on daily, weekly, and monthly. Are these areas giving you a return on your investment or is there a slow leak?

If you see no advantages to the line of spending, redirect where you’re putting your money.

Discretionary income is discretionary income whether you use it for fast food, shopping for that next beautiful dress, or putting it towards a taxadvantaged product that benefits you from the upside of the market yet a protective floor in a downward market. Master the habit of spending less on things you see no benefits in by redirecting a bit towards building for your future goals rather than trying to eliminate that spending totally.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO INSPIRE WOMEN AROUND THE WORLD? Women, we are amazing no matter our beginnings. As you decide to change or upgrade your risk management, strategic plans for hitting your goals and raising families that have more opportunities from the seeds you are now planting on their behalf, remember that decisions first begin with a made-up mind to make changes. You are well-equipped to do anything you put your mind to. Continue to implement the hardest part and that is taking that first step to bigger things. That’s it! That’s the hardest part. You can do it!

Demetris Curry

“Time heals all wounds,” is a very popular quote. So popular, that it’s been used in songs and on the big screen. Despite its popularity, I couldn’t disagree more. This quote gives the impression that all you have to do is relax, wait, and one day you’ll wake up to your healing. If it were this easy, there would be very few of us walking around with old scars. Time, in and of itself, doesn’t heal painful wounds. We have to participate in our healing. For example, if you had a cut and didn’t treat it, over time it would get worse or infected. Emotional wounds are no different.

Healing requires work and patience. When we rely solely on time to heal our wounds, we are simply trying to forget the pain. That only allows your pain to go unaddressed, giving way to harmful habits, denial, self-sabotaging behaviors, and patterns of pathology that eventually lead to more guilt, pain, and personal suffering. I am sharing three of the steps that have helped me to heal and recover from some of my most deeply rooted pain.

1. ACKNOWLEDGE THE TRUTH OF WHAT YOU ARE FEELING I’ll admit that I’ve been guilty in the past of living in a state of denial. Pushing feelings deep down and greeting the world with a smile that says, “I’m ok.” Moving from denial to full acknowledgment of your true feelings is crucial. Give yourself permission to stop being an actress playing a role in your life. Sit in the pain, feel it, and allow yourself to respond accordingly. If you have to cry or scream, DO IT. Recently, I allowed myself to acknowledge some suppressed pain that filled me with anxiety. I yelled and cried hysterically. Did I feel a little crazy? Absolutely, but outwardly expressing my pain opened up the door for me to relate those feelings to a specific cause and begin dealing with them.

2. SEEK THE HELP OF TRAINED PROFESSIONALS Asking for help is not a sign of weakness but of strength and understanding of your personal limitations. The journey to healing is not always one that can be done alone. Support groups are a great way to hear from others who can relate to your pain. One on one therapy is an excellent way to talk about your feelings in a private setting without judgment while allowing

A TIME TO HEAL

WRITTEN BY SHAUNDYLL ROGERS

you to get a fresh perspective and understanding of how you have been impacted by the painful event(s).

3. FORGIVE I heard a speaker say, “Unforgiveness is like drinking poison expecting the other person to die.”

Forgiveness is key to your healing. It unlocks the chains that have you bound to your pain.

Forgiveness does not mean acceptance of what occurred or reconciliation. It does, however, mean that you are no longer willing to hold someone hostage to your pain, even if that person is you.

Forgiveness transforms anger and hurt into healing and peace.

These steps are not all inclusive of what you can do to promote your personal healing, nor is healing a one size fits all approach. Healing, however, does require your participation. So, figure out what works for you, be patient in the process, and let the healing begin.

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6 I.M.P.A.C.T. KEYS TO BUILDING A BUSINESS WITH WRITTEN BY: DR. CHERITA WEATHERSPOON

Everybody and their mamas want to be an entrepreneur. While that isn’t a bad thing, too many people are trying to profit without any real purpose. They are willing to sell whatever people are willing to buy whether it works and whether they believe in the product/service… or not.

Of course, we want to make money in business. However, if you want a business with staying power, one that will not disappear with the next trend, that you can commit to for the long term, and brings fulfillment as well as freedom, you must focus on more than the transaction. You must focus on transformation. That is what building a business with I.M.P.A.C.T. is about.

I.M.P.A.C.T. is an acronym for the six key components of a business that is transformational for both you and your clients. Within each of these components are questions you must answer to ensure your business has I.M.P.A.C.T.

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Mission – Here we are focused on the what; specifically, what you do with your intent. What are you going to do in your business? What are you going to do for your clients? What do you want to accomplish in your business, for both you and your clients?

Power – This is about your uniqueness. What makes you qualified to do this work? What makes you different from other people who are doing similar work? What can people expect from YOU? How can you communicate your power to attract your target audience and ideal client?

A-Game – This is about your how. How are you making an impact?

You’re A-Game is the simplest way to describe the difference you make for your clients. There are three A-games: acclimating, accentuating, and accelerating. Acclimating is helping your client to maintain or manage their current state or situation; and in some cases, preventing a decline or regression. Accentuating is improving a process or situation, adding to what your client already has in place, or reducing/minimizing something bad so the good can come to the forefront. With accentuating, you are making a situation, circumstance, challenge or problem better in some way. Accelerating is speeding up your clients’ change process, goal achievement, completion, or results. It is taking a client from Point A to Point B more quickly or efficiently than they would get there on their own.

Change – The focus here is on the outcome or result. Where are they now (Point A)? Where do they want to be (Point B)? What is the change/transformation that occurs between those two points? What is the result or outcome of that change? How are you going to get them there? What is this process called? Out of these answers will come your change process, model, or framework for your signature offer.

Time – How much time do you need to get your client the result you are promising? It doesn’t necessarily have to be a short period of time, but you should be able to define a timeframe for helping your client get the result they desire.

If you are preparing to launch your business, these six keys will help you build a business that brings you fulfillment and freedom while delivering transformation to others.

If you’ve already launched a business and are feeling dissatisfied with what you do or the impact you are having, get clear on who you are, what you want to do, who you want to serve, how you want to serve, and what the transformation is you want to create for others.

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Dr. Cherita helps women entrepreneurs create designed-forher business models that meet their impact, income, and independence goals without overwhelm and overworking.

Intent – Here we are focused on the why. Why are you starting a business? Why are you starting THIS business? Why is it important to you? Why does it matter to the people you want to serve?

WHEN FEAR KNOCKS ANSWER WITH FAITH WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO WOMEN AROUND THE WORLD ABOUT BEING A WOMAN OF MORE? Be you, be strong, be good and be wise. Don’t ever forget how strong you really are. Don’t allow life’s challenges to get in the way of doing what you love. Go after your passion and invest wisely in the things you Love. Your story is unique to you. Speak up for what’s right and show the younger generation how powerful we can be when we stick together.

@ARRAYOFFACES

WHO IS SHARRON CLEAR?

Sharron Clear is an Atlanta-based, multifaceted content creator, digital storyteller, fashion and lifestyle blogger. However, most importantly Sharron Clear is a mom, sister, daughter and woman with drive and passion for others. Sharron is a strong, self-made single mom of three whose story begins with southern roots and California dreams. Born in Tennessee, I’m the youngest of four athletic girls and am a self-professed “girly-girl athlete”. Losing an older sister at the hands of a drunk driver, I became an advocate early on for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and other similar organizations. My family moved around quite a bit, sending us to various schools and instilling in me a love for meeting new people and trying new things.

Adventurous and outgoing, I spent my young life mostly outdoors exploring and having fun.

With a love for fashion and an eye for trends, I always loved dressing up. At the age of 4, I remember asking my mom for a purse to accessorize my outfits. Into “thrifting” before it was cool, I obsessed over seeking out unique finds nobody else had. I gained notoriety for my outside-the-box style ideas: men’s shorts, oversized shirts, vibrant colors and unique designs.

Earning a reputation for being one of the best dressed throughout my school years, friends would often approach me for fashion advice. In my free time, I would sketch beautiful gowns and other upscale pieces, even designing my own prom dress. I learned more about the fashion world working for retail stores, being responsible for styling and merchandising, and helping customers with all aspects of putting together on-trend looks. I learned having a good sense of style and helping others to put a look together that was right for them gave them confidence, too! Today, I would describe my own style as “edgy, bold, and outside the box.”

Having studied mass communications and journalism at Tennessee State University, I earned my Bachelor’s degree and MBA from Saint Leo University and am close to earning a second MBA in Instructional Design. I also worked as a college professor for five years.

WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE HIGHS AND LOWS IN YOUR CAREER? After my personal situation changed, my finances crumbled. I realized I had to do things differently. I worked multiple jobs to make ends meet. From late night grocery stores stocking shelves, to delivering groceries, mystery shopping, telemarketing, promotional modeling; I was determined to make it. I completed my B.S. degree then went on to obtain my Master’s degree. From there, I worked in corporate and as an adjunct professor. I eventually started branding myself and started my business Array of Faces.

WHEN DID YOU DISCOVER YOUR MORE? I discovered my More when I stopped allowing fear to cripple me and answered it with faith. I realized, “why not me!” I did my first photoshoot in 2013 and my photography told me “Sharron you have a story to tell.” But is wasn’t until 2017 that I gradually began to share my fashion story. I’m now beginning to open up more about my life before and beyond just fashion.

YOU HAVE OVERCOME A LOT IN YOUR LIFE, HOW DID YOU DO IT? With experiencing the loss of my sister at the hands of a drunk driver, post postpartum depression, divorce and near homelessness, I must say it was my faith and perseverance.

After my divorce, I knew I had to keep living for my boys.

They needed me. I couldn’t run home to mom. I really felt I couldn’t call on anyone to save me but God.

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ABOUTARRAY OF FACES

The seeds of Array of Faces were planted over six years ago but was halted by fear, severe procrastination and an unwillingness to step out on faith. The idea was to share all the things I love and combine them into one. My love for fashion, lifestyle, motherhood, interior design, travel, fitness and beauty. I wanted Array of Faces to be a destination for the girl boss to shine one day at a time. As a thrift master and severe budget shopper, I wanted to share the idea that you don’t have to break the bank to look good. And I always thought when you look good you feel good.

In 2017, I began documenting my everyday #GirlBoss style on Instagram; growing an engaged audience of over 59k followers. Gaining widespread attention for my positive outlook and unique approach to fashion, I have since collaborated with global fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands such as TreSemme, Aerie, Aveeno, Vici Dolls, Gap, Walgreens, GoDaddy, True Religion Eyewear, Walmart, ROKU, IHG Hotels and Resorts, and many more. A fighter and self-made inspiration, I create content, in vibrant color, that uplifts and motivates others to do what makes them happy.

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