Welcome To Wellness

WELCOME TO WELLNESS!!

2011-01-26T21:37:00.002-06:00

This House is for US ~

My latest news is SocialRevUp.com ! A forum to connect brands with the best bloggers. We also hold networking events and workshops! Register for our upcoming conference July 21, 2011 Hard Rock Hotel Chicago, IL EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!

What began as a journey in 2007 to provide enlightening conversations, interesting tid-bits and fun has become a way of life!!!

I have met fascinating people - just like you -

I hope you will sit and stay awhile or even leave something about yourself. There are plenty of interviews chronicled for you to enjoy, so please feel at home!

Don't hesitate to inquiry ~ would LOVE to feature you here in this HOUSE!

Ann Evanston Is A Warrior-Preneur! 2011

2011-01-26T21:33:00.002-06:00

For many of you who have been reading since 2007, Ann Evanston is a "House"-hold name.

We "met" via the web-world on a women's networking site and have been friends, support-mates, and cheering partners ever since. Ann was one of my first interviews. Her "Feistiness" sparked not only passion within myself, but across the social-media-sphere. It was featured in Exelle.Monster.com and let's just say, things catapulted from there and we have both been flying ever since!

Ann took a moment out off her extremely busy schedule, which includes coaching me!, to give us an update. I am certain you will be inspired!

House - Ann, tell us a bit about what 2010 was about for you and your business.

Ann - Wow 2010 was a year of grounding. In 2007, when I decided I wanted to work more with entrepreneurs than corporate leaders, I had to radically change my focus and really get the word out. In 2010, that all settled in. No one asks “what do you do” anymore! They know! And with the rapid growth of the Social Networking Coaching Club (which had its 2 year anniversary in Oct 2010) I certified 2 new coaches!

House - What is Ann Evanston the "brand" about?

Ann- The Ann brand is all about “Smart, Savvy and Sexy”. It’s about Leadership (knowing your PERSONAL power), Ownership (taking Responsibility) and Empowerment (getting the life you DESIRE). It’s all about watching others step into their voice, discover their REAL edge, even when they think they have I can typically find a greater depth and clarification to it!

House - How do you see yourself and Warrior-Preneur.com impacting the social networking world in 2011?

Ann- Warrior-Preneur impacting the SoMe world in 2011-I like that! I think the greatest impact will be these amazing new coaches certified to get the word out! See those of us in it for years, think EVERYBODY’s doing it - they are not. And the Warrior-Preneur message is special because it’s more than how to tweet, it’s about Education Based Marketing, it’s about relationship building, it’s about being a go-giver, it’s about a system, that when used, gets great results…warrior-style of course!

House - Tell us about your Tory Johnson "Spark & Hustle" connection.

Ann- Networking created that connection! I believe in networking in person and online, and it really works! Speaking on her stage is an honor, one I don’t take lightly! Tory is a woman who has done and continues to do amazing things for women!

House - You are such a great motivator, and friend to women in particular, who are seeking to break out of either a rut, or stagnation in their lives. Why is this important?

Ann- As a woman who has been through it all, abuse, neglect, name calling, being stereotyped, second guessing myself and coming out the other side…I want ALL women to know that.

House- Can you share any other news that we can be on the lookout for this upcoming year?

Ann- WELLLLLL…the AnnEvanston.com speaker site is relaunching. From 1997 to 2006 that is what I did traveled and spoke, all over the world. I stopped primarily because I wanted to be home and secondly because I met so many speakers that were NOT the same person off stage as on. It broke my spirit. About six months ago the stage kept calling, for my story, my wisdom, my feistiness! So we are bringing it back!

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Feisty Ann!!! You can follow her on Twitter @AnnEvanston Facebook YouTube

You TOO Can be a Feisty Warrior-Preneur !!!!

Meet Anna Soo Wildermuth! 11-1-09

2009-11-01T19:33:00.000-06:00

two pictures of Anna Oct. 29, 2009 at Barnes & Noble in DesMoines, Iowa.

Anna with Douglas Burns a reporter Daily Times Herald

Meet Anna Soo Wildermuth author, and personal image consultant!

Anna, you are so sleek and stylish. Tell us about how you came into your own sense of style.

Thank you for the compliments. It is combination of being clear what you like to wear, colors, fit and style. It started very young being conscious of it was important for me to like what I wear and have a style, being sensitive to my environment and the image I wanted to project. I believe everyone goes through style changes and for me it is a revisit every 5 years. I had role models, my dad who had a great sense of style, Doris Day was always a role model – loved to watch her movies and all the wonderful outfits and jewelry was always amazing.

When did it click for you that we all have an attribute that we need to behold?

It began at a very early age and I continue to be sensitive of what works for me.

Love what you wear, always feel attractive, buy the best you can afford, know what colors work best for you and always fit. Your tailor is your next best friend.

In your book "Change One Thing: Discover What's Holding You Back and Fix It" (with Jodie Gould) you speak about some of your early challenges. I was very touched and surprised by some of them. Which one of your earliest challenges impacted you most?

My first outfit I loved and wore it forever before my god mother told me gently you don’t’ mix big flowers with plaid. I was so embarrassed but never forgot it. So sometimes your biggest embarrassments are the best lesson’s learned. Now it is done all the time.

I enjoyed reading because your true self comes through loud and clear. The humor is great. How did you make the decision to share yourself with the world?

I love helping people I want them to know we all are more alike than different. What the difference is what we do with our experiences.

Seeing you work your magic in person was a gift. Precision and class. How can our readers catch you in action?

Most of my work is company sponsored but I am planning on putting together a series of free webinars based on the book beginning in January. Please sign up for my free monthly tips which will announce when they will begin. Also, I hope to have a book signing in January at a Barnes and Noble or Borders.

What, do you think are the most important factors when searching for that new job or your niche in life?

Knowing what you are good at and have a passion for. It takes patience and perseverance. Please visit my blog PersonalImagesInc.Com/Blog which comes out on Friday’s and Monday’s and my monthly tips. The website is here : PersonalImages.Com

Also I will be starting a Change One Thing FaceBook Fan Page starting November 15th.

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Anna, I can't wait for all of the new information ~ Thank You so much!

Dr. Sander Marcus In The House! 10-27-09

2009-10-27T19:36:00.000-05:00

photo courtesy of Dr. Sander Marcus' collection

What a special treat to have a few words of encouragement and focus as many of us are seeking employment and making new life changes.

Dr. Sander Marcus was kind enough to share his background and wisdom. I know we will benefit from his words!

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What were your professional intentions upon enrolling in a Psych program?

Actually, I'm an example of how most people "choose" their career - they just seem to "fall into" a career, based on chance opportunities usually. I know that happened to me. Just a few months before I graduated college (I was a chemistry major), I just happened to see a movie in which one of the characters was a therapist, and the part was written in a very positive manner (unlike how most people in my field are portrayed in film). I walked out of that movie theater knowing what I want to do. I opted for psychology because I didn't want 4 years of medical school. So I got a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and here I am, 40 years later.

What avenues did you cross on your path? How did it help you evolve into this Job Market guru?

I'm not sure I'd refer to myself as a "guru," but over 30 years ago I was hired by IIT to be the University's Counseling Center Director, which I did for 9 years. One of my responsibilities was career and job search counseling, and I've been doing it ever since - first at IIT, then in private practice, and now back in the fold on the staff of IIT's Center for Research & Service (a division of IIT's Institute of Psychology).

Your "Changing Career" advise shares that we must all consider strategy. What are some 'helpful planning' tips?

For career planning, there are many things to consider in making a decision. The most important thing is to gain a perspective on one's personal characteristics, motivation, values, goals, aptitudes and abilities, interest patterns, and knowledge of careers and the job market. Once you have a line on these factors, and then take a step back and see where the important criteria are in your individual situation, then you can make an informed career choice.

I know that's a little general, but there is no such thing as a standard human being, and everyone's situation is different.

What are some productive ways to narrow ideas and gather pertinent information to bring clarity to a successful job search?

I think that you have to get clarity about the kind of job title you are looking for, how you see your "role" (i.e., a helping role? a sales role? a managerial role? a technical role? etc.), not only what company but what industry (or industries) you are interested in and where they are going, your pattern of skills and knowledge, and similar factors.

Obviously you enjoy people and helping them overcome challenges, tell us about Illinois Institute of Technology, what you've contributed there, and how we can engage with you directly.

Thanks for the plug. I am the Practice Leader for Career and Educational Assessments Services for the IIT Center for Research & Service, which is a fee-for-service to the outside community. We do not actually work with IIT students (except for a few special projects). The services my unit provides include comprehensive career counseling and testing, job search coaching and

resume writing, achievement motivation counseling and evaluations. Our Center works with companies (surveys, special research, 360 evaluations, consultation, training, pre-employment testing, and related services).

My books are:

"The Psychology of Underachievement: Differential Diagnosis and Differential Treatment," by Drs. Harvey Mandel and Sander Marcus, 1988, Wiley & Sons, New York.

"Could Do Better: Why Children Underachieve And What To Do About It" (a book for parents of underachievers), by Drs. Harvey Mandel and Sander Marcus (with Loral Dean), 1995, Wiley & Sons, New York.

I have also written a 22-page pamphlet (71 Keys to Getting Better Grades Easier and In Less Time), which is published by our Center and is available for $8(including postage). This is appropriate for high school and college age students. I am also the Testing Supervisor for a project that the Center and the Clinical Psychology program have with the Chicago Public Schools(CPS).

We provide all of the admissions testing for children (ages pre-kindergarten through grade 3, and grades 6 and 7) applying to the CPS gifted programs. This our 4th year with this project, in which we test over 5,000 children within a 4-month period (from the beginning of November to the end of February). Put all of these activities together, and I'd say that I am busy. In addition, I am the President of the Rotary Club of Chicago Near South, writer, speaker, and an amateur violinist. I can be contacted at my IIT office 312-567-3358 in Chicago or by email marcus (at) iit (dot) edu.

Cheers,

Sandy

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Dr. Marcus (Sandy) THANKS!!!! (from the House ~ )

Steve Nash Wants You To Self Help Collective! 9-13-09

2009-09-13T09:08:00.001-05:00

Steve M Nash is NOT the Steve Nash of National Basketball Association Player!

He is interesting, giving and funny, not that the other is not-I just don't KNOW him!

This Steve Nash is across the ocean from where I sit, yet another example of the greatness of the internet.

Our paths crossed because of THIS & THIS

I am grateful to Steve for sharing his time and himself to enlighten us ~

♣ ♣ ♣ ♣

Steve, currently your residence is Yorkshire? Tell us about life there. What intrigues you, what are your projects?

Well I am Yorkshire born and bred so I consider Yorkshire, and in particular West Yorkshire, my home. I may move away in the next few years to live somewhere that I feel to be more stimulating, professionally speaking, but I know I will return, eventually, to the hills and dales of Yorkshire. I absolutely love the landscape here (just do a search for 'Last of the Summer Wine' - a TV program that was based near where I live - and you'll see what I mean) - I feel blessed to be able to walk where I can see such fantastic views.

What intrigues me? People intrigue me - why they do what they do, why they don't do what they say they'll do, and why I do exactly the same. People intrigue me, life intrigues me, and I intrigue me.

And so my current project is a self-help website called The Self Help Collective, whose aim is to facilitate the sharing of knowledge or wisdom for the benefit of all. I literally wanted to create a self-help resource where people could help themselves - understand their weaknesses, and strengths, and improve themselves accordingly - and also help others, by sharing what they *do know* about living a successful life.

And... so far, so good. :-)

Tell us about your first web site. What were some of the things you learned that helped your site become successful.

My first website was a website called Diary of a Volunteer, and it was about the two year period I spent working as a volunteer Computer Trainer in Malawi, Africa. I worked under the auspices of an organisation called Voluntary Service Overseas, which is a British organisation that is similar to US Peace Corps.

As for what I learned to make my site become successful: well I learned basic HTML skills; I learned how to write; and I learned how to share personal experiences in a personal way. I'm not sure that website is a 'success', particularly, but I am very proud of this site and it will stay online for as long as I am alive! :-)

What are some of the subjects you write about? What types of things do you typically enjoy covering?

Ah, my favourite topics on the Self Help Collective website have easily been the subject of happiness, and the subject of fear. Oh, I was so smiley when I was writing about being happy, and I was introspective (and concerned) when I was writing about fear.

This quote by Gerald G. Jampolsky kind of sums up both states of being, I think: "Teach only love for that is what you are"

Tell about your goals for "Self Help Collective".

That's easy. I want to get 10,000 unique visitors per day visiting the site. I want them to help themselves via the great self-help content, I want them to help others by contributing their thoughts or views on subjects they feel qualified to do so. The idea being that we all know more than we think.

Financially speaking, I'd like to earn a good living from this website, meaning I'd like to be earning at least £10,000 per month from the site. (I earn less than £100 per month at time of writing!) There are various ways to earn money that don't require charging for content. And I'm going to explore those in the next year or so.

And maybe I could use the website as a platform for my writing - who knows.

What inspired the "Steve's First Haircut" Campaign?

Well, I hadn't cut my hair for 5 years. Literally. Nor had I brushed it. And I have curly-ish hair. So can you imagine what sort of hair I had, after 5 years? Yes, I had dreadlocks and very long dreadlocks at that. (I've never had dreadlocks in my life and I was completely surprised when they appeared.)

So anyway, after 5 years my hair was pretty long - too long! - and I decided to get my hair cut, and I also decided to get my hair cut for charity. So I called it my first hair cut in 5 years to try and drum up some spsonsorship interest.

I raised about £500 in the end, which is around $700US. And I've still to post my after-haircut video, but I will. I got a bit traumatised by my actual haircut, as it happens, as I actually had my hair cut with a pair of garden shears (again, for dramatic effect that I hoped would boost charity earnings) and I did not enjoy the experience, if I'm being honest. :-(

Can you tell us about Steve? Who is Steve? I read somewhere you "wince" when you hear "football" being called "soccer"; tell us about that.

Hmm, well I've shared a little about who Steve is in this interview and on my Self Help Collective and Diary of a Volunteer websites. And I don't want to bore people too much lol. Simply put, Steve is a man who believes in himself, believes in others, and who does not think that gender or age or race need necessarily define who anyone is.

Do you think Americans are a tad whacky calling our "football" football, when clearly it is a running throwing game?

The truth is, there are many games called football - Aussie-rules football, Rugby football, and American football. They're all derived from the same game (more or less) of playing with a ball. So I'm less precious about it than I used to be. But I don't think I'll ever be using the Soccer-word myself for what I call football!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Well, I can't answer this question in full, I just can't. But I do see myself being in a place that I could never imagine being in only a few years ago. An example of that 'place' would be being in my own band. I've never, ever sung or played an instrument but I intend to play in my own band at my own 50th birthday party in May, 2015. And I'd like similar transformations to have taken place in other areas of my life, too, by that time.

Can the things you have uncovered about yourself benefit others? How so?

Always. I firmly believe that each of us has a lesson for everyone else on this planet and vice versa. I believe that my struggle in one area of my life is your struggle in an area of your life. I believe by leading by example and showing others that if I can do it so can you...

What are your goals for your articles? Your writings are very quirky and real. Your personality totally comes out and your quick humor as well.

Thanks, that's very kind of you. I just want to encourage people to be themselves. Everyone *is* unique, after all. And the world is a better place when people act from their own integrity, their own values, and their own quirkinesses. The world does not need any more sheep, really!

Discuss Site Build and what your vision is for your Site Build IT! sites.

Gulp, I've said so much already! Well, to put it very briefly, I see Site Build It! as providing the technology and the supportive environment to enable ordinary people who have a passion and who want to share that passion (in their own voice) to either earn an extra income or a full-time income, from their own website.

Site Build It! does not guarantee success but I truly see SiteSell's SBI! as a fantastic self-improvement tool that enables you to take positive action in your life!

On a typical day, what can we find Steve M. Nash doing?

Well, typically I'm usually writing. Either I'm writing a page for the Self Help Collective website, or I'm writing an article to promote the website, or I'm writing an email, or I'm writing an interview about myself (ahem!)

Otherwise I read - mainly self-help and inspirational books, but I also read novels.

So, finally, here are some of those websites I've mentioned above

STEVE IN MALAWI

STEVE & SELF HELP COLLECTIVE

STEVE & SITE BUILD IT!!!

And here are a few photographs that show me as my hair turned from curls into dreadlocks...

RUN ANNA RUN!! 9-3-09

2009-09-03T11:29:00.001-05:00

UPDATE! On 10-10-10 Anna completed the Chicago Marathon YAY ANNA!!!

Today I would like you to welcome Anna Strazzante! Anna has been gracious enough to share her story - her battle with cancer - it is our hope that you will find strength to help. If you are dealing with your own battles, know that you can make it.

She is an inspiration and I thank her for her courage!!! All photos courtesy of Scott Strazzante ~ THANK YOU, Scott!!

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Please tell us a bit about you before your life was changed.

Before my cancer, my life was like any other working mother of four - crazy.

My husband Scott and I had just moved into a new home in Yorkville, Illinois with our blended family of six. My two daughters Sophie and Caroline and Scott’s children Betsy and Cameron who were working their way through life in a new town, finding new friends and living full-time with new siblings.

I was working 4 days a week as a home health physical therapist and then taking care of the children after that while my husband worked an evening shift as a photographer for the Chicago Tribune.

Daily life was quite exhausting but slowly things seemed to be improving.

How did you see yourself and what was your vision for your life before your diagnosis.

I had always considered myself a very healthy, physically fit person. I ate well and exercised regularly. I worked very hard at my career and even harder at creating a stable and healthy home life for my children.

There is no history of cancer in my family so I never imagined that I would become a victim.

How were you diagnosed.

During early 2008, I had a series of urinary tract infections that despite treatment with a wide variety of antibiotics wouldn’t go away. Despite the presence of blood in my urine, my urologist was still convinced that it was still just an infection.

Later in 2008, after a week of visible blood in my urine I was encouraged by a girlfriend to demand a cystoscopy. It was discovered that I had a tumor in my bladder.

After a biopsy, I was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma, a very rare form of bladder cancer that makes up only 2% of bladder cancer cases. In addition, the rareness of a woman my age being stricken with this cancer only made my case that much more statistically improbable.

What was the impact.

I was devastated. At the time of my diagnosis, my husband Scott was in Beijing photographing the Summer Olympics. Luckily, my mother was visiting from Sweden at the time but not having my husband next to me lending his support made the news even harder to take.

At first, I was in shock and couldn’t bear to even read about the cancer. At my request, my mother started researching bladder cancer and its survivability.

After my husband returned from China, I started doing my own research. My urologist referred me to University of Chicago’s Dr. Gary Steinberg, an expert on bladder cancer. Steinberg’s advice was a radical cystectomy and the construction of a neo bladder made from my small intestine.

At the same time, a second opinion painted a rosier picture. This doctor said that I would only have to have a partial cystectomy.

After several difficult days of going back and forth, the knowledge that bladder cancer has one of the highest frequencies of recurrence led me to follow Dr. Steinberg’s advice.

My procedure was scheduled for September 10th.

Were there others in your life before you who had been challenged by disease? Did you know what to expect, and if so was that helpful in coping?

No one that I knew had ever had bladder cancer. Every day was a new experience and each day brought new challenges both physically and psychologically.

What were the reactions of those close to you?

My husband took on the role of cheerleader. He kept saying that everything would turn out all right. My children were very scared and didn’t want to talk too much about my cancer. Several of my friends stepped up big time and gave me a ton of support.

My mother was a rock. She stayed an extra month and took care of the daily responsibilities around the house.

In situations such as these, do you feel you must be strong for those who love you? What emotions were you feeling? Responsibilities?

My theory was that the most important thing that I could do for my family and friends was to concentrate all my effort on surviving. I was very scared and despite the healing of surgery’s physical scars, I still struggle daily with the incredible emotional scars that cancer has caused.

How did you choose what course to take with your diagnosis?

I chose what I thought gave me the best chance of long term survival. I wasn’t too concerned about the change in lifestyle that not having a bladder would have, I was just intent on living.

Were your treatments presented to you in a supporting manner?

Dr. Steinberg was very forthright in his explanation of what the surgery would entail and what my chances of living a long and healthy life would be. It helped that I was 100% on board with his plan and the reasoning behind it.

What were you treatments? Surgeries? Were you informed on what to expect?

My cancer was so rare and with so few studies on it that there are no follow up treatments after the radical cystectomy and the reconstruction of the bladder. I have had to learn how to empty my bladder every three to four hours by using my stomach muscles and to change some of my daily habits.

How did you come to run?

Around the time of my diagnosis, my children started participating in a local running club. I used to be an avid runner but some nagging injuries dampened my enthusiasm for the activity.

I had always had a thought in the back of my mind about running a marathon but I lacked the needed motivation.

Now I have the motivation.

Running with the goal of finishing the Chicago Marathon has helped me create a mental picture of myself completely healthy. When I am feeling down, I visualize myself completing the marathon and the great joy that will come with that accomplishment - and I feel better.

Tell us about the fundraiser?

After my surgery, I started being very active in the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN). I participate daily with BCAN’s online community of those who have had or are now confronting bladder cancer. I answer people’s questions, try to alleviate their fears and also lean on others for support as I continue my recovery.

When I decided to run the Chicago Marathon, I figured that it would be a great opportunity to increase awareness about bladder cancer and support BCAN.

What are your goals post-bladder cancer?

Of course, I want to remain cancer free and live a long productive life but I also want to help as many other people stricken with bladder cancer. I was very fortunate to have my cancer detected before it was too late so if I can at least make people realize that cancer can strike anyone at anytime, maybe they will get checked before it is too late.

You have specifically empowered a family member of mine, do you feel the love and appreciation the universe throws out as you give to others?

Definitely. So, many people have helped me and still are helping me through this ordeal that I feel that the least I can do is pay it forward. Helping others helps me feel a connection to the world. A feeling that we are one.

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Let us all wish Anna the best.

Feel moved? Donate through the secure network just to your left, or directly at the site here : GIVE FORWARD

The Chicago Marathon is a few weeks away! Get involved. Anna helped my family member get through her bout and I am forever grateful.

Please do what you can to support this endeavor!

Meet Irina Wardas ~ The Natural Counselor 8-28-09

2009-08-28T11:26:00.000-05:00

Irina, I absolutely love your bio. It is chock full of credentials and very important health education. Were you completely inspired simply by bettering your health?

Oh thank you Dwana. I have been doing my best. As a matter of fact, I was inspired by my mother and thanks to her I am a second generation of Alternative Practitioners with a lot of insightful tips full of European wisdom, flavor and experience.

What types of maladies did you first begin to experience and how long did you endure before you sought to address and ultimately alter your self?

Well, I started studying and using natural remedies when my son was 4 years old helping him when he had fever, sore throat, stuffed nose, regular cold or cough.

As for me, after I turned 30, I struggled with failed diets and weight gain; I was overstressed and had hormonal imbalances with non-stop heavy bleeding before I hit menopause; and I had severe PMS issues at a much younger age than most. I gained much knowledge and insight from my unpleasant experiences and have since gained a new outlook on how to take care of myself. I share my experience with my clients, being an exclusive Holistic Health Counselor to support and guide them in getting rid of health concerns they may have, and help them become healthier and happier.

My positive and negative experiences in overcoming difficulties associated with multiple marriages, dating online and in person, being in an abusive relationship, raising my son by myself give me capability, knowledge and expertise to be the best life coach. By the way, my son is in NYC right now, and has a wonderful career in finances. As for me, I am in California with my wonderful and supportive husband and two rescued dogs I love very much.

The Institute of Integrative Nutrition is extremely influential. What was your focus there?
Why did you feel compelled to certify your training in all of these practices? It is so very commendable. Would you recommend it, all or a few for those you list for seeking better overall nutrition expertise?

At the Institute of Integrative Nutrition I studied all the different dietary theories, from the ancient to the modern, through an integrative approach in a program designed for working professionals. It is very important to be certified in this country so I chose the best possible credentials.

Talk to us a bit about "failed diets", "overstress" and hormonal imbalances.

My mother always tried different food recipes to cleanse her body, so I started learning about detox properties of different foods and have realized that we don’t need to go to extremes to cleanse our body- we can do it with the right foods, herbs and spices.

At the same time, I was also learning about stress, foods and stress, foods that can calm you down or visa versa. So my focus became on detox and distress. Stress is number one cause of all illnesses. It is also one of the reasons we have hormonal imbalances and slow metabolism. The solution? We have to reduce stress and detox our body first if we want to be healthier. I have the same approach to weight loss, something a lot of coaches overlook. They help people lose weight, but it doesn’t work in the long run, because weight loss is about lifestyle, not the diets.

As for diets, we are all different, we are not the same age, so how can the same diet help everyone? And I hate the word diet. Diets don’t work because we are forced to eat something we don’t like for a certain period of time. Of course we stop doing what we don’t like. That is why I teach my clients to listen to their bodies, find the right food choices for them, so they can accept, like and be able to stick to them in the future when I am not around as their counselor.

What is the first change you made to your eating habits? Home life? Cleaning products?

I started drinking one extra glass of water a day, it was my first step. Then I started using soap without chemicals and artificial colors and fragrance, by the way, my mother’s influence. She explained to me 30 years ago that if the soap was not white and smelled good, it contained chemicals. As for cleaning products, I lived in Ukraine at the moment so it was completely natural for me to use vinegar and baking soda.

Is there a specific yoga you follow?

My mother was 80 and still was practicing yoga every day starting with Sun Salutation. I also try to do yoga every day, especially a shoulder stand –Sarvangasana to improve circulation and look fabulous. (I recommend this asana to all my clients if they want to fight wrinkles naturally) If I don’t have time or not in the mood, I always do at least 10 Sun Salutations to keep my body flexible.

How can someone be enriched by your program?

In general, my holistic and wellness approach is focused on achieving whole-body health through nutrition, exercise, meditation and preventive care. As a Holistic Health and Nutrition Counselor, I help my clients find balance in every aspect of their life including health, relationship, spirituality, career, exercises and food.

As a certified holistic health counselor, I work with women who are under a lot of stress, especially relationship stress, and are experiencing weight gain, lack of energy, insomnia, mood swings. I help my clients get healthier and it means happier by changing their lifestyle and food preferences. We work in a step-by-step ~ very enjoyable way for long lasting results.

What do you see for those you help?

Better future and by that I mean better understanding of what is to be healthier and happier. I try to help people get rid of their concerns by changing their lifestyle without taking pills. We can be healthy and active and live longer, by it is up to us, it our choice only.

What has been the greatest challenge in changing your old habits? For me, I do not even miss the way I used to live, what do you think it takes to make the best adjustments?

Well, the greatest challenge for me was to resist temptations to try all unhealthy processed foods in the grocery stores when I moved to US 11 years ago. It took a lot of self-control and self discipline at the moment.

Was your family receptive? Children adapt well?

My son is 25 and he still eats oatmeal with raisins and walnuts for breakfast. His girlfriend has changed her eating habits (according to her mother). It is still a lot of improvement can be made but one step at a time is my motto. As for my husband, hmmmm. There are some changes after learning a lot from my website and blog. He drinks only organic milk, tries to read labels, doesn’t eat red meat…Well, I don’t force him, he changes his habit at his own pace, one bite at a time. And I work with women, not with men, anyway don’t I?

Tell us about NaturalCounselor.com. How did you begin, where would you like it to go and what do you see for yourself in 5 years?

NaturalCounselor.com is Holistic Health and Nutrition Services for women - everything they need to get healthier and happier as well as feel and look fabulous:

Holistic Health and Nutrition Programs for Women in person and over the phone: Five-Month Personalized Program for Women Balancing Act, Healthy Relationship – Healthy You,
Single Holistic Health and Nutrition Consultation with Follow Up
Holistic Health and Nutrition eCoaching for Women,
Business Coaching for Holistic Health Practitioners and Counselors/Coaches

As a certified holistic health counselor, I work with women who are under a lot of stress, especially relationship stress, and are experiencing weight gain, lack of energy, insomnia, mood swings. I help my clients get healthier and it means happier by changing their lifestyle and food preferences. We work in a step-by-step very enjoyable way for long lasting results.

Ebooks
“Detox – 101 _ Super Simple Detox, The Ultimate guide for Beginners″

“DeStress – 101- Survival Kit for Busy Women″

Resources with links to websites with information for women
Health Tools for Women including Body Mass Calculator, Body Fat Calculator, Food Calorie Counter, etc.

Holistic health and nutrition tips on detox /cleanse with whole foods, stress and relaxation techniques, weight loss, better sleep, high blood pressure, headaches and migraines, cancer prevention, food as medicine, beauty remedies and facials, healthy cooking with healthy recipes, benefits of whole foods, self-motivation and relationship / dating – you can find them on my website and on my NaturalCounselor Blog.

Books I Recommend - I have selected books that worth reading and might help women feel and look fabulous.

Podcast and Video
Radio Show “Feel and Look Fabulous with Irina”

And in five years from now I plan to have a Retreat center for Women who want to feel and look fabulous.

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LISTEN TO IRINA

How exciting Irina! You can also follow Irina on Twitter @IrinaWardas

Michelle Whitlock's Love Letter To You ~

2009-08-21T09:54:00.001-05:00

My name is Michelle Whitlock and I am a cervical cancer survivor. Like most little girls, I dreamed of growing up, meeting prince charming, getting married and having children. But my life took an unwanted detour.

In Dec 2001, at 26 I was busy climbing the corporate ladder while completing my degree. I thought I had all the time in the world for those childhood dreams of marriage and motherhood. But I was wrong. My world came to a screeching halt with my diagnosis of cervical cancer. I was stunned!

Just a few weeks earlier I had gone in for my annual Pap, just like I had for the last ten years. But this time she performed the then new digene HPV test. The Pap came back normal but I tested positive for high risk HPV. My doctor called me in for biopsies, a leep procedure and conization. I didn’t understand the need for all these other procedures, because like most women, I believed a normal Pap Test meant everything was fine, that I was fine. But I wasn’t fine, I had Stage IB1 cancer. Thank God, my Doctor preformed the HPV test!

The doctor recommended a radical hysterectomy which would leave me infertile. I refused. I didn’t have children, I wasn’t married and I’d only been dating my boyfriend for 6 month. My dreams were unraveling fast.

Determined to fight, I researched my options, got a second opinion and asked my doctor all the tough and uncomfortable questions. I learned about a new fertility sparing procedure, called the radical trachelectomy. I chose that option!

But just two years later, in April 2004 only days after my boyfriend proposed, my worse fear became a reality—my cancer was back. My doctor immediate insisted I have a radical hysterectomy. I kept thinking not now, this is suppose to be my fairy tale ending. Desperate to preserve my fertility, I sought out a second opinion and did more research. My new doctor helped me find a reproductive endocrinologist. My doctor reluctantly agreed to give me eight weeks before my surgery. During that time I started fertility treatment, harvested my eggs and froze 7 embryos. One week later I flew to Jamaica and got married and ten days after that checked in Methodist Mid-Town Hospital and had my radical hysterectomy, partial vaginalectomy and lymph node dissection followed by weeks of chemo and radiation.

I found myself at twenty-nine with a whole host of new conditions courtesy of my cancer treatments: menopause, sexual dysfunction, and radiation damage to both my bowels and hips. I found myself faced with the reality that I would never be able to create life inside me. It was devastating both physically and emotionally. I spent my first few years married trying to piece back together my shattered life with the help of my loving husband.

Today, I am 41/2 years in remission and grateful to be here. My husband and I are trying to have a child with the help of a gestational carrier (surrogate). 8/4/09—We are 25 weeks pregnant finally!

Cervical cancer changed my life forever but No other woman needs to lose her life or fertility to this disease. Today, we have the tools for prevention and early detection. Please join me in spreading the word because together our voices are stronger than mine alone.

www.MichelleLeeWhitlock.com

Meet Michelle Whitlock!

2009-08-20T10:03:00.000-05:00

One of the many fabulous things about the Blogher Conference 2009 was meeting extraordinary people and hearing their remarkable stories.

One such story I encountered was that of Michelle Lee Whitlock.

Michelle, thank you for being a strong and dedicated advocate for women.

Thank you for your courage.

Thank you for telling us the truth and for making statements on our behalf.

Here's the House chat with Michelle.

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Michelle, you have written a book "Reframing a Tragedy" cataloging the difficulties you have faced. As a young person, you faced challenges not typical of a young woman. Did you have time to dream about your future?

Dreams...what every young women should do. Our dreams push us, motivate us and shape our lives. However, there was a time I had to create an "insurance policy" for my dreams and then put them away while I focused on the present only. My insurance policy came in the shape of 7 frozen embryos tucked away for another day, while my present day was a battle for my life against a preventable disease--cervical cancer.

What were your wishes and goals before you had to face medical problems?

Before my cancer, I was very focused on my career, climbing the corporate ladder, the gym, and traveling. I thought I had all the time in the world for my childhood dreams of marriage and motherhood.

You had amazing strength and character prior to your bout with cervical cancer. Did this further your strength or deplete you?

Coming from a dysfunctional and financially challenged family, I learned very early to fight myself and never give up. My cancer just strengthen my believe that life is precious and so valuable. It reminded me to be conscience in all my choices, grateful and live each day as if it were going to be my last. I am strong, better, more alive, and appreciate the little things in life because of my walk with cancer.

Had you had prior knowledge of reproductive challenges that could overhaul and change our lives?

I had been diagnosed with Endometriosis at 20, but I never saw it as a reproductive challenge as I did painful periods. I believed a normal pap meant I was okay, that everything was fine, as do many women. But it does not and I soon learned I was not okay.

Were you an advocate for other issues before Pearl of Wisdom?

I have been an advocate, educating women about cervical cancer and HPV since Spring of 2005. So when the Pearl of Wisdom campaign kicked-off here in the U.S. in Jan 09, it was a natural progression for me to get involved. This campaign is a grassroots effort, girlfriend to girlfriend, mother to daughter, daughter to mother, woman to woman. It is about preventing cervical cancer through HPV awareness. No other woman needs to lose her fertility or die from this preventable disease. However, cervical cancer is still the second most common cancer in women worldwide. Help us stop this disease.

Your book details your supportive relationships, can you tell us a bit more?

I believe the most important member in your family is your spouse. They are the only member you actually get to pick. I am blessed to have chosen well. My husband has been better than any medicine available. He walked side by side with me during my battle and when I was too tired, he carried me. And when the battle was over he gave me the support I needed to rediscover myself and my sexuality after all my treatment. My friends lined up to hold my hand, chat with me and kick me in the pants when I felt sorry for myself too long.

How were the other women in your immediate circle impacted by your cancer?

It made them stand up and take notice. This cancer could have happened to any one of them. We held hands and learned together. Many of them have had abnormal paps and suffered from cervical disease themselves. In fact, about 1/2 million women in the U.S. are diagnosed with some cervical disease annually, which often result in painful procedures including biopsies, LEEPs, conization and more.

Tell us about your research. Where did it lead you? What did you find out about yourself?

I realized that doctors are not GOD; they are highly skilled and trained humans. They are a great resources, partners, and tools in the battle to stay healthy. But every woman, including me, needs to be her own advocate, ask the tough questions, challenge her doctors, seek additional opinions and always express her emotions and dreams. Our diseases are just a part of us, they do not make the whole person. For me, researching, asking questions and challenging doctors lead me to the oncologist that saw not only my disease but a young twenty-something woman desperate to save her fertility. I learned that even when we feel out of control or like a victim we can make choices to regain our balance and still achieve our dreams.

What do you envision for Pearl of Wisdom?

I dream women every where will stand up, take notice of the campaign, learn the facts and share a pearl of wisdom with the woman in her life...This is a PREVENTABLE disease...Almost every case of cervical cancer can be prevented through programs using the Pap test, the HPV test, and the HPV vaccine. But many women around the world don’t know about or have access to these tools. As a result, 500,000 women develop cervical cancer and almost 300,000 die of cervical cancer – every year.

The Pearl of Wisdom Campaign to Prevent Cervical Cancer is a united, global effort to raise awareness of the opportunities now available to prevent cervical cancer. Our campaign reaches women, health care providers, policymakers, health advocates, and the media.

We recognize that by working together, we can more effectively:

Raise awareness of the tools available for preventing cervical cancer

Encourage women to take full advantage of these tools

Advocate for the implementation of these tools for girls and women everywhere

Join us, starting now, as we work together to prevent this unnecessary disease
and death

What is your hope for womenhood and the ravages of female cancers?

I hope women everywhere will learn to protect themselves, see their doctors annually, speak up and advocate for their own health care and know today with the advancements in science, there are many ways to "save" our fertility. I hope all doctors will remember we are people with hopes and dreams...we are more than our diseases...help us treat the whole person.

What is your assessment of the focus, or lack thereof within the medical system, preventative care, awareness and testing for women?

We have to come together, in a united front as politicians, lawmakers, health care workers, educators, women, citizens and humans to create access for ALL women. No one should die from a preventable disease.

Is there a dawn from the "Tragedy" you reframed? Tell us about where you go from here.

My dawn is present in the eyes of another woman who has just learned how to protect herself from this disease. It is in the voice of another survivor, who has discovered the power of telling her story, it is in the hands of every health care provider that utilizes the tools available to protect their patients and it is in the knowledge that cancer may have stolen my ability to carry a child but it did not stop me from creating my own biological child. When my surrogate gives birth in November 2009, and I place my baby girl in my arms, and in her see all the love between my husband and I, it will be my dawn.

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Beautiful ~ Thank you again.

Check out Tamika and Friends for more support.

*MEET MICHELLE*

Leave a comment about your cervical experience. Good & Bad. Say "Pearl" and I will contact you to send you your very own "Pearl Of Wisdom" compliments of our House guest Michelle!

A Conversation with the musing Brad Bechler ~ 7-29-09

2009-07-29T08:53:00.000-05:00

The Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina is one month away.

Now is the time to encourage thoughtful conversation.

Mayoral candidates are taking aim in New Orleans, and the entire Gulf Coast is still attempting to recover,maneuver,and bring forth change.

In the upcoming months,please challenge those who might care to begin a discussion about the remnants of Katrina's impact, how it continues to affect the United States and how we can contribute.

I have added a hashtag on Twitter #Dont4getTheGulf for real-time exchanges concerning what you plan to do, sharing with others as the anniversary nears and to get an idea of what The Gulf's needs still are.

Here is our interview with Author and Poet Brad Bechler.

I am so honored that he shared this time with us.

Brad, to me this was a book of songs that sang and wore my soul to the core.

Some songs were high, some were low, some were wet, dry and some made me cry.

When you were writing words to "When Will The Sky Fall?" were you representing your feelings toward the beast that is Katrina, the beast that was our government, or both.

Initially, the book was a response to the isolation, shock, seemingly loneliness, and anger. Much of my emotions were rapidly evolving as new information was processed through time, word of mouth, and eventually, the airwaves when we received electricity. As with many people, the initial response is to be angry at the Storm, itself, or that which manifests itself in the physical realm. However, the rational side of me paused for a moment, and took on a broader scope, teaming with deliberate, objective thoughts. I, soon realized that the battle was not with an “Act of God”, but a salient one to some, but overt one to me…..hatred, ignorance, inequality, led by our Government. Bear in mind that the government consists of People who, historically have ruled our country since its inception. Drilling down a bit, it is the practice of a dominant class who, in Katrina’s wake, revealed just how divided we are along Race & Class in America.

Do you think Katrina "washed" clean and exposed what the United States was trying to hide and exposed deep seated hate for those less fortunate who ultimately were unable to get out of New Orleans, or chose to stay?

Indeed, it did. I think this was the paradox of the century. Historically, when epic events disturbed our Nation like, Pearl Harbor, The Oklahoma Bombings, 911, and man Natural Disasters, we rallied together as we did during the early days of our country when the founding fathers created this seemingly, “Perfect Union” of the People, For the People, and By the People. No matter what the challenge, we bonded together for a common cause, enlisting our values and hearts to drive us towards solidarity. However, Hurricane Katrina was vastly different in that it inadvertently revealed the Social Divisions that lay dormant, just underneath the surface. As a result of the optics of the handling of the storm, it revealed deeply seated racism, and festering ill will towards human beings. Human suffering took a backseat, if you will. It was the “Perfect Storm” in many ways. This type of event was theorized to occur many years ago. Scientists and experts in the field of Tropical Weather warned officials many times over that a storm of the caliber of Katrina would be catastrophic. Of course, these warnings fell on deaf ears. Geographically, classes of individuals in lower strata, economically and socially, settled on lower elevations, while citizens in higher strata enjoyed the comfort and safety on higher ground. Deliberate or Convenient?

In your heart do you feel our beloved New Orleans was a vicitm of unfortunate circumstance or was the city left to drown?

I do not believe anything is absolute. Making a presumption on the latter would be bordering on Anger and irrational thought. I believe it is a combination of factors, history, and conditioning. We cannot rule out race as a factor in the Government’s lack of response. Nor can we rule out race being a factor in the media’s rendering of the event. Objectively, not many prudent people saw this coming. Historically, many near misses have compelled many to just bed down and weather the storm as opposed to bearing the stress of evacuating with the “threat” of every storm. In other words, Yes and Yes.

Had it not been for those who came to help, what do you think NOLA's fate would have been?

Hard to say. It could have taken on many forms: A totally redefined city bustling with commerce, streams of revenue/economic opportunities, and radically different demographics. It could have also been a city with a much higher death toll, and more widespread property damage. Or, it could have become a city of Angels.

What were you feeling when you penned "Joyful Refuge".

“Joyful Refuge”.

Here, I am taking you on a reflective/nostalgic journey of the city, its history, people, food, music, and the idiosyncrasies that defined life in the city. In the wake of Katrina, much of what was left was the trash and debris strewn about, once someone’s treasure. The trash told a story, and if you were lucky, it forced a smile.

I love "Dinner with Mr. Crow". You say "'Why am I whispering? You ask. Well, sir, the city sleeps now,'" When I went to NOLA in 2007, that is exactly how I felt, as if she was sleeping , like "shhhh". I was jolted hearing salsa ringing out on Bourbon Street and there was an uneasiness that remained in Jackson Square, has some of the old flavor returned?

Like life, homeostasis is the natural order of things when things get out of whack. When we fall out of balance, there is an innate tendency to repair damage or bring about calm. Life after Katrina is no different. Sadly, what defined the great city was not just the music, but the creators of the music that we cut a rug to. In many clubs and venues around the city, there are attempts to bring back the easy spirit of the past. But, the past cannot be recreated or destroyed. It only moves around and masks as something different.

"Porch". In its last verse reads "Father's on the porch turned breasts of chicken, with yams, ribs, and pineapple, searing with juice and clover." Can down home still be found?

Of course it can. The beauty of “Down Home Living” is that it is mobile. It goes with the spirit that carries it. It begins and ends in the heart. There, nothing can tear it apart.

Tell us about "Voodoo Goeth"?

As you know, the city of New Orleans has a long history of Voodoo practices, most of what was fictionalized on television, literature, and folklore. It was what tourists the world over marveled about when they descended on the city in big numbers. It was what made the city famous, among many things. As the people, the salt of the earth fled, the soul and spirit of things like Voodoo went along with them. This poem is my dedication to the spirit of what defined the city. When you juxtapose the history and current conditions along side each other, there is an ominous difference.

"Attic" is most powerful. There were many stories related about last breaths in the attic, what was your story?

This poem is one of my favorites in that it revealed just how compassionate many who perished were about their home, their great city. Because many were devout on not fleeing their precious homes for whatever reason, many perished in their homes as they escaped the rising waters. As I traveled along the Gulf Coast surveying the damage, and talking to Survivors, many of these stories of loss were told. If you can imagine water rising so rapidly that your only recourse was to climb into the attic as a last effort to escape. When those efforts failed, and attempts failed at clawing their way through the roof, the attic became their final resting place. This poem spoke to the will and strength of those who perished, at the institution of running. For many, they have ran all their lives from the earliest days of involuntary servitude. Some escaped to freedom, while many paid a heavy price. Attic, is the end of the road for running to many who lost their lives. It was symbolic of facing the storm, this time, a natural one.

What are your 2009 Anniversary of Katrina plans?

To be the voice of tribute to those who Survived and those who lost their lives. I am spreading the message of remembrance of this great moment in our history that I fear is being forgotten. By talking about what this storm did to and for America, it fosters a discussion on healing and restoration. I am using venues like this, radio, television, print media, and social media to galvanize the nation to making a positive change on how we deal with diversity. My prayer is that we get a little closer to being “One Nation Under God”. I am also involving myself in many non-profits/fund-raising efforts for awareness and nation building. At the end of the day, I am trying to get people to dig a little deeper to overcome things in their lives that is holding them back from greatness, balance, and inner peace.

What are your hopes as the mayoral campaigning revs up?

That the office of the Mayor, whether it is the current Mayor or an incoming Administration, gives more to the welfare of people than to processes. And, that the people can rely on sound leadership that supports them, competently, in times of disaster.

Do you have a vision for New Orleans? What are your wants from the candidates?

My vision of New Orleans is one in which fresh, new talent can come into the city and bring along with them, innovation, bi-partisan politics, and transparency. If we have great leadership, the culture can build itself around the ideals of change. A People’s committee/consortium should be formed to address the growing demands of change. In this way, the leadership can have more open communication with people so that their prescription for change impacts the greater good and is timely and appropriate.

My favorite is "Next", do you recall how you gave birth to it?

It was my attempt to share with readers that life is not static, and is merely defined by the event that garners the most shock value or attention. Because we are in an age in which we are forced to process information at a more rapid pace, we tend to forget events in recent history when another comes along. It is my attempt to not have America become complacent, as there is always another catastrophe looming.

Will you ever move home? Can you tell us what you are working on?

I will never move home again. What defined me was the road I took and the circumstances along the way that got me there. Because most of that is gone, home for me is in the heart and wherever I lay my hat. The memories will always be there, but the history cannot be found there, if pieces are missing.

In addition to my current world-wind of promoting this book, I working on my next work, a dramatic piece of fiction, similar to the work by Nicolas Sparks. Remember, I am a novelist first, a poet second.

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Brad this has really been a heartfelt and wonderful conversation about a city we both love.

For more with Brad Bechler OR to purchase "WHEN WILL THE SKY FALL"

Click here : Brad Bechler

Author, "WHEN WILL THE SKY FALL?"

http://www.bradbechler.com

______________________________________________________

Ann Evanston Is A Warrior-Preneur! 5-3-09

2009-05-03T16:28:00.000-05:00

When I think of Ann Evanston, I immediately envision water. Ann is like water in that she gracefully fills up whatever space she is in, be it telecommunicating, on the web or in person, while she conducts a seminar. You feel her and her presence is known.

Ann is powerfully demure (it's possible) not easily contained, smooth, and douses any fire from fear. Need a life coach, mentor, leadership adviser or just a good friend and you can find it in Ann. ANN IS A WARRIOR-PRENEUR who has graciously honored my request to visit the House!!! I am SO excited that this vibrant spirit has taken a moment from empowering folks across this great land to share a bit of herself with us! THANK YOU, ANN ~

You mentioned that you are from Chicago. Can you tell us about your upbringing her in the Mid-west?

Well, yes and no. I am 2nd generation Italian and my entire family is from Chicago. I was born during the Vietnam war though and as a military family we moved. But my heart is with my extended family in Chicago and I go at least once a year to visit them.

What is the essence of Ann?

I am strong, confident and determined. But like any other woman, peel away the layers and my heart is fully involved in everything I do. I cry, I laugh, I love . Life is feeling, I could not imagine not having heart.

When did you know that you could reach people and empower them?

I have always been influential, but realizing you have the ability to empower others is another thing. I think I first realized it in college while writing my undergraduate thesis. I interviewed wives and girlfriends of prison inmates. My abilities to make them feel valued, listened to and respected allowed them to share hours of information no one ever thought they’d share. The thesis has actually been published 3 times in journals!

Your feistiness is contagious, how do you keep the fire burning?

I didn’t grow up easy, but the fire has always been there! I think being feisty comes through because of 2 traits; a belief in TRUTH- people don’t describe me as honest but as “THE TRUTH” and a belief in HUMOR - life is meant to be full of laughter. Put them together and feisty is what you get!

What is a Warrior-Preneur in today’s world?

Independent, confident, savvy, creative, solution-oriented, influential, spiritual, self-aware, loving, maverick, life-long learner, strategic. A Warrior-Preneur knows they are in charge of their lives, their success, their happiness, whatever path.

Many women take a stance of inferiority or sheepishness in the work place and in their lives, what do you say to them?

STOP IT! Esteem and confidence is yours to take! If you think your life sucks stop thinking like that! Whoa THAT IS Zena!! Victimitis, the disease of blaming everyone else needs to look at their own thoughts that might be creating that reality.

I know we have to read your book "The Power of Leadership, 'Being the leader, Producing results'", but can you give us a teaser? How can an introverted woman tap into her inner warrior?

The book is a compilation of several authors on how leaders produce results. I am amazed how many small business owners do not realize they are leaders! As I described a Warrior-Preneur, you can be introverted or extroverted. Ultimately the key for any woman is to build confidence. There is power in introverted strength or extroverted strength and combined with the loving heart, a woman is truly a warrior.

You give seminars, conference calls and encourage women to take full advantage of social media, what are the greatest aspects of this advice?

I think women should take advantage of everything life has to offer, which is so much more than social media! I want women to realize that no matter what they are taking advantage of:

♀They do not need to be afraid

♀They have a voice worth hearing

♀Their greatest asset, wanting to help others, is their smartest strategy when social networking

♀That “media” is just technology and they can learn it and use it in powerful and fun ways!

It is so obvious that your work is your fun, but what else does Ann do, say on a beautiful evening or just out with friends…where would we find you?

Well, I am a home body! I travel so much, that I love being home, reading, enjoying my view, cooking, drinking wine with friends. When I do leave for fun I love the wine country! It’s always an adventure! I am a tremendous cook. Not a recipe kind of cook; I love to try things out. All my family says I should do a cookbook or site!

Give us a break-down of each of your sites. What is your vision for Social Networking Coaching Club.com?

I want to take coaching to the next level. I remember when coaching was only done face-to-face, then the telephone was offered as an option and most do it like that today. Online is a “just-in-time” coaching opportunity at an affordable rate so more people have access to it.

How does Zenawomen.com interpret you and where you see women in the next ten years?

I want women to realize that smart, savvy and sexy comes in all shapes and sizes. I want women to realize that as soon as we become a true warrior tribe, loyal to each other, our lives will be so much easier. I want women to become loyal and committed to WOMEN! My goals for my business is to certify warriors to facilitate my courses to others around the globe.

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WOW! THAT'S fantastic! I feel as if I could rule the world right now, and I haven't had my java yet!

Ann has been such an inspiration to me and I hope you all enjoy her. You can find Ann on Twitter: @ANNEVANSTON, at any of her sites, ZENA WOMEN, SKYPE +15103566340

OR YOUTUBE. The Youtube channel comes HIGHLY recommended~

Find the Warrior-Preneur in YOU TODAY!

Find Your Balance Health Today! 3-30-09

2009-03-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

Michelle Pfennighaus is a health counselor and yoga instructor who has devoted her life to helping others and their pursuit of healthier living. She has a wonderful blog over at FindYourBalanceHealth.com that encourages eating habits that benefit busy lifestyles. She has agreed to share some of her wisdom, photos and endeavors with us!

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Michelle, how long have you put your energy into healthier living?

I've always been somewhat concerned with exercise and eating well, but it really picked up about 3 years ago. It's been an amazing journey!

What was the catalyst? How were you moved to seek out nutritional betterment? What led you to eat a fuller and purposeful menu?

According to my doctors I was fine, just as healthy as anyone else. But I knew I had digestive trouble – it was fairly obvious when I realized that not everyone was doubled over in pain after a meal, just me. One day I was home sick with a particularly terrible sinus infection and I saw Christina Pirello on public television. She was cooking up a macrobiotic meal and talking about how miso helps digestion. I immediately looked her up on the internet and started doing research.

But it was actually a conversation with my grandpa that pushed me to take the first step. He told me that my grandma (who died of digestive-related cancer) always had trouble eating dairy products. Because I take after my grandma in many ways, I thought that maybe I should try to eliminate dairy from my diet. It worked! And that was a very convincing first step.

How did it change your life? Your health? Your outlook? Your relationships?

Wow. It's hard to explain. Literally everything changed. I started to feel so much better as I cleaned up my diet one variable at a time. As I felt better, my mood improved. It was like a dark cloud lifted. I had more energy and motivation. I realized that it was possible to live a life 100 times better than the life I had before. It was so exciting – it still is! Part of my excitement is in knowing that I am armed with knowledge to make conscious decisions about how I treat my body. It was like uncovering a secret code. I knew right away that I wanted to bring this information to more people, which is how I started blogging and ultimately enrolled at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition.

Tell us about your training at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition.

It's an amazing school – people come from all over the world. At IIN they teach that health is a combination of diet AND lifestyle. So, there are foods like chicken. And then there are what we call Primary Foods, like relationships and career satisfaction. At IIN we learn to work with the whole person, not just the diet. It really rings true for me because while I was changing my diet I also started doing yoga and learning to de-stress my life. I believe my success was a combination of diet and lifestyle changes.

How has this affected your friends and family?

Positively! I am a much happier person, a more whole person, and more fun to be around. Having energy for my friends and family is something I didn't used to have.

What are some of the first and easiest steps you took to move into a healthier mode of living?

Like I mentioned, my first step was cutting out dairy for 2 weeks. It was just a trial. I started doing things as little science experiments, like noticing if what I ate for lunch made my stomach hurt later on. It really started as an investigative process. When I work with clients now, I emphasize taking small steps and becoming conscious of one's body.

What were some of the first positive things you noticed about you once you began your movement?

My moods really evened out. I had always been a cynical, moody kind of person. Once I started eating better, I started feeling more sunshine in my life. Now, I am hardly ever in a bad mood.

Have you ever regretted any of these changes?

Absolutely not. It wasn't always easy to try new things or pack a healthy lunch when all my friends were eating in the mall food court. But it has been the best thing I've ever done, hands down. I believe all my clients who stick with my program will feel the same.

What would you say to the readers who desire to make a happier existence and healthier lifestyle?

I'd say, you aren't alone! People talk to me every day about their desire for change. Most people find that they feel stuck or get in their own way when it comes to implementing change. That's why I work with clients to support them in a step-by-step plan towards their goals.

How can they contact you and what do you encourage them to consider before actually signing up with you as a client?

If you are interested in feeling happier, having more energy, and addressing your unique health challenges, you can email me at michelle@findyourbalancehealth.com or visit my website. I encourage you to think about your goals and how it would feel to achieve them. Consider, "What is more important than good health?"

What is your wish for your clients?

People who come alive with good health tend to spread the word and affect change in their families and communities by being excellent examples long after completing the health counseling program. That's my wish!

__________________________________

Thanks Dwana!

Best,

michelle

Michelle Pfennighaus, RYT

Health Counseling & Yoga

FindYourBalanceHealth.com

Michelle, Here is to us all having Healthier, Happier Lifestyles!! CHEERS!!!

For The Love Of Pastor Jonah 4-12-08

2008-04-12T08:43:00.000-05:00

I am so full of love that often I feel as if I will just burst at the seems. Seriously, my mind flitters at all times on who I can help, what I can do, am I loving my son too much, my dog, my passions! LOVE can be detrimental to your health, let me tell ya!

Love can also keep this twisted world turning. With every act of visciousness there can be a turnbine of love that can spew that evilness away and touch someone's life and change the tone of a day.

I am a floater. I fluctuate across the internet, picking up information, meeting people and having my life touched in ways I could never fathom. On one of my excursions I met this man.

This man is Pastor Jonah of Kericho,Kenya.

As America has been suffering quite a bit lately, been consumed with our debt, tragedies and morose helplessness ~ just imagine the rest of the world. We must pick up our boot straps and hustle again so we can help each other and help ourselves!

Pastor Jonah has graciously taken time out from his mission to share with us something that is far greater than ourselves ~ LOVE!

In our exchange, I have learned the true testiment of our lives ~ Keep Loving and do all you can to make a difference.

*****

Thank you Pastor Jonah!How did this come about for you?

How i came to do this:

I grew up in a very poor background. i was educated thru' help from other people,

and even sometimes strangers, this somehow made me to think of a small way i can help the less fortunate in the society as well.

Tell us about the people of Kericho. What do you see in their future? What are their needs and desires? Of Ogembo? What is the population there? With all of the unrest, how many orphans are in dire need at this moment?

The people in Kericho, kenya

The place of my focus now is in kericho, the town has a rich soil and very good for agriculture. It's potential is still yet to be seen, since Loans that were once advance to farmers has dwidle, we are optistimic though that farmers can be help in someway to start out with their farm work through somekind of soft loans.

The people are optimistic and they have a rich work ethic in themselves, they want to make it in life.

The best hope is to cultivate a culture of Education, Farming and the rest will be put to a rest...and poverty will become a gone issue.

Post election violence

With the results of the flawed election, violence erupted, and this made so many people loose their jobs...., houses, and even land.

over 20,000 people were left homeless in my city ....we are still takin care of them as for now. The population of kericho is about 400,000. No census has been taken more recently..

With the elections going on here in America, the focus has been turned away from what we need to be concentrating on , such as the crisis of our neighbors. If you had one prayer for our world, for Kenya, and for children, what would it be?

My greatest prayer is

Let's love one another....in this world so we can live together. with my travels in russia, asia and other parts of africa, we seem to cry for one thing, LOVE, and acceptances. Let's lift our neighbours hand, and let them work again.

about american politics, they are in the papers often here too, since one of the runners for the presidency....we are told, his father was from here ......actually about 60 miles from kericho.

On one of your posts, dated March 11, 2008, you spoke of "Simba" the dog who had been brutally injured defending his family. How is Simba? How many other animals are being victimized along with their families?

Simba,

simba is a great dog,

he is now getting better, and we do hope that with the help of medics, he will be ok. the cut is slowly getting better and better. We are happy for this development.

we have heard of displaced cats, dogs, and even cows who were not milked for days.

it is still a hard experience.

How is the school drive going? What will the children be learning?

school drive,

the kids will be learning how to draw and color etc, it is kind of making the kids busy at the same time discover their talents.

Please expound a bit about the religious make-up and how Christianity's significance is parlayed. Are children encouraged to be Christian or is it freedom to worship as you desire? What is the designated religion of the area, if any?

Religion

Religious parity is biased towards christianity. Missionaries from the Christian side were among the first one to come over to this part of the world. about 80% profess to be christian, though alittle below 40% practice, Muslims and Budhism and others are also here.

Tell us about Ms. Penny. She seems so wise and spirited. What are her desires for the mission?

Ms penny,

she has been instrumental in setting up the site, and visited africa as well, though shortly.

How do you see the United States helping Africa? Is it better to work from within accomplishing groundwork through missions or urging our legislators and government to act in a specific way or both!

About the USA,

it seems that country has helped the world so much. we forever remain greatful to their great help. Am not an expert in anyway to give directions on how to help, we just pray that all will be well with the politicians and they continue to help us in the best way they can see fit.

thanks a lot.

thanks for the questions,

i tried to answer them ...as far as i can english is my third language,

Jonah

This has made my month! Now go out there and love someone!

I would love to hear about it too, so let me know!!!!

Jonahsmissions

You may contact Pastor Jonah in Kenya by email missions120{at}gmail{dot}com for more information about urgent or ongoing needs of the missions. Pastor Jonah would also love to hear your comments and suggestions for the blog, receive your prayer requests or hear your ideas as to how you might partner with the Missions of Hope.

ENJOY THE DAY!

I Love Fleur de lis ~ Thanks Rene Fletcher & Fleurdelirious! 2-24-08

2008-02-24T08:14:00.000-06:00

Rene Fletcher, CEO and President of Fleurdelisfashions.com is running quite the online sale!!!

Her passion for New Orleans, the fleur de lis AND fashion has collimated into quite the spectacular vehicle for entrepreneurship, promoting great products, and fun.

I was able to get Rene to stop in for a few to share this wonderful concept of taking what you love and turning it into a prosperous tool from which you can make your living, share your vision and enjoyment for life, all while inspiring someone else's next idea!

Rene, tell us about the blog!

The blog started off as a way to highlight our products to a broader audience than just our site. As we expanded, we have come to include stories about New Orleans, and anything having to do with the fleur de lis symbol. We have gotten some great feedback from our readers and we enjoy the feel of the blog. The combination of promoting our site and writing great articles about the fleur de lis are a fun way to stay in touch with our readers.

Is your store exclusively on line?

Yes, right now we are an online store only. One day we hope to open several boutiques where our customers can come shopping.

As women entrepreneurs, what advise can you give for an aspiring entrepreneur?

The best advice I can give is: Don't be afraid to try. Start off small, learn as much as you can. The more things you can do yourself the more money you can save. Give yourself at least two years to figure out your successes. The first year is strictly learning what works and what doesn't. The second year is when you know whether or not you can make money at it. The last piece of advice I can offer is: Do something you love. You have to love what you do to spend the amount of time it will take to run a successful business. Also, no one wants to work for an owner who is not passionate about what she does.

Can you tell us how you became "Fleurdelirious"?

We started out collecting a few pieces of jewelry to sell to our friends as the symbol was so popular in New Orleans. After the storm, it's popularity was overwhelming to our area. We were crazy about it before Katrina, but truly obsessed after!

Is it out of pure love for NOLA?

Since our love for our city was enriched after Katrina, we wanted to find a way for residents who were spread about the country to be able to connect to New Orleans. That's when we opened Fleur De Lis Fashions.Com. We wanted to offer affordable items so that even if all someone could spend was $9.99 we were able to offer something for them. Every product in our store is under $50.00 for this reason. We want people to be able to find beautiful fleur-de-lis items that are high quality at great prices.

Are you smitten with the symbol itself?

ABSOLUTELY!

The historical information on the website is fascinating? Of course, loving the symbol myself, I was aware of the background, but if there something we could share with the audience about the Fleur de lis as it is seen today, what would it be?

This symbol has hit the fashion scene in a big way! If you pay attention to different television shows and celebrities you will see it everywhere. Just the other night on American Idol, host Ryan Seacrest had on a fleur-de-lis T-shirt. While in New Orleans we feel like we own the symbol, we don't. It's popular all across the world now.

Are you familiar with the artists? Are they from NOLA?

Most of the manufacturers of the products we sell are not from NOLA, but have family or friends here. They too understand the importance of keeping prices affordable.

What are some of the favorite items?

Some of my favorite items include our Fleur De Lis Crystal Gemstone Brooch, which is on sale right now for $19.99.

This pin is of such high quality for the price you can't beat it. It truly exudes class and style with royal meaning. Another favorite of mine is any of our fleur de lis handbags.

They are so unique! Customers always tell us how they get stopped on the street and asked about them. It's not something you will see everyone have.

Best sellers?

Some of our best sellers include our Black Fleur De Lis Watch.

This watch sells for $29.99. It's so much fun because it matches easily to so many of our jewelry items. Another best seller is our Fleur De Lis Silver Rhinestone Shirt. This attractive shirt has been seen on celebrities like Jessica Simpson and Eva Longaria. It's hip and fun. The shirt sells for only $28.99. We can hardly keep it in stock!

WOW, Rene! Thanks for taking time to share this wonderful online shopping with us!

Keep us posted on sales and new arrivals! Or guys and gals, feel free to check out Rene at the following sites!

Rene Fletcher
CEO
THE STORE ** www.fleurdelisfashions.com"Style & Elegance at Affordable Prices"

THE BLOG ** www.fleurdelirious.blogspot.com

Friends On Friday Presents Dan Duster! 2/8/08

2008-02-08T21:00:00.000-06:00

"Highlight the Positive, Learn from the Negative, and keep Moving Forward"
--------------------------------------

Dan Duster is the magnetic motivator who has inspired many to achieve their dreams.
I have heard him speak and he engages while giving power to the commoner. I enjoy speakers who make you feel comfortable while giving you invaluable tips to fortify your life. I had a chance to pin Dan down. He is always on the go! But thankfully, he had a few moments to shed some light on our quest to mobilize and enhance ourselves all while making the best of this thing called life!

You worked in the corporate world for quite some time, and then left. You had a dream and a vision. How have you nurtured this into 3D Development Group?

I've been very successful in sales with top companies such as IBM, Coca-Cola, Abbott Diagnostics. Having gone through their training programs, I always liked training, motivational speaking and helping people achieve their goals. I had done youth motivation since around 1990 when I worked with IBM and always thought about trying to somehow do it professionally. After a long career in sales, in 2000, I got a contract at Verizon in Virginia as sales coach and loved it! There, I created my own workshops for the service reps to help them improve their sales. Within a year, I helped their office move from 4th in their district to number 1. That gave me the confidence to know that I could be effective. So, I moved back to Chicago in 2001 and started 3D Development Group.

In my keynote speech on Personal Achievement, I call myself Dan Duster “the Barrier Buster” – Obliterating Obstacles on your Path to Prosperity. I help people set and embrace their goals, then I help them realize they have the motivation, creativity and resources to achieve any those goals.

What do you share with people in order to get them to realize their own visions?

The first thing that I have people do is create their visions. I ask them to imagine where they would like to be in say, 5 years (whatever timeframe they are comfortable with). If you are in your ideal place, there are no barriers, no distractions; you are exactly where you want to be, doing what you want to do...what is that? I'll have them describe it to me in detail and make them experience that moment. They can go to my website http://www.danduster.net to get a free copy of "How to Achieve the Success that you Deserve" or call me at 773-456-1064 and I'll send them one.

You are related to Ida B. Wells, who was an extraordinary activist, feminist, and one of the founders of the NAACP. How has this impacted your life?

The first thing that comes to mind is COURAGE. She was a courageous person to do everything that she did and stand up in the face of adversity and literally life threatening dangers. She was constantly fighting for justice and equality, and she fought with everyone. Blacks thought she was too aggressive, white women felt she was too demanding and outspoken (with regards to the women's suffrage movement) and men in general thought she overstepped her bounds as a woman. So, when I consider all that she went through, the challenges that I face today seem pretty small.

She directly instilled the value for education in our family. 3 out of 4 of her children graduated from college; my grandmother’s children (my father and his sister and brothers) all graduated college and have advanced degrees; all of their children attended college and about half of us have advanced degrees. We grew up being asked: “What are you going to do after college?”

She also instilled the values of family, integrity and standing up for justice. Most of my relatives have been involved in some type of organization or effort to enhance the community.

I’ve delivered keynote speeches across the nation, talking about her struggles and triumphs in the late 1800’s to motivate audiences to overcome the obstacles we face today and Stand Up against injustices in the workplace, our schools and our communities. The themes of the speeches are Be WELL and Stand UP!

I talk about her principles of leadership;

Be W.E.L.L.;

Be Wise with your Choices,

Be Excellent with your Actions

Live with Integrity

Lead with Courage

Stand UP!:

Don’t be a “Guilty Bystander”; Do something to stomp out injustice whenever you see it!

What do you say to the upcoming generation of colored young men about fortitude and civic responsibility?

Wow, that's a great question! Fortitude is crucial; that's what I talk about in my Be WELL speech. I let them know that great leaders from the past often had to take a position that wasn't popular and be able to deal with folks calling them crazy, threatening them and/or abandoning them. That's when a person's true character shows; not in times of comfort and agreement, but in times of struggle and adversity.

Young men have several civic responsibilities. They must get an education so they can have options in the future and be able to be the leader in their families. They must contribute to their communities and their families; They must be willing to uplift, protect and respect the women in their communities; it's up to them to make this world a better place. They must continue the pursuit for justice and equality that our forefathers fought so hard to achieve. They are literally responsible for the future of our country; they must accept that and take action!

You have also spear-headed another venture, tell us about it?

I'm starting a speaker’s bureau / incubator Local Motivators for people interested in becoming motivational speakers and for current speakers who charge less than $5,000. I've found that there are a number of people that would like to be motivational speakers that need help cultivating their story and then marketing themselves to organizations. There are a number of organizations that want local talent to speak to their groups at a reasonable rate. I'm servicing that need.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thanks Dan!!! We'll be checking in with Dan from time to time getting updates, seminar information and tips on bettering our lives!

Dan Duster
President - 3D Development Group
9046 S. Blackstone Ave
Chicago, IL 60619
773-456-1064
877-3D-IMPACT
www.3ddevelopmentgroup.com
www.danduster.net

Friends On Friday Presents ~ UPTOWN LIZ 2/01/08

2008-02-01T20:56:00.000-06:00

Ramona, I admire your courage and your strength. Thank you so much for sharing your story. What is your most vivid adult image or memory of Liz?

I have so many, but my vivid memories are of her incredible sense of humor and her cackle/snorting laugh.

You mentioned in an article that you two had plans to be in business together, can you tell us about your dreams and aspirations as a team?

This didn’t go too far. It is something she had been thinking about and mentioned to me a few times. The one time she did, really talked more in depth, she was already sick. Because of her illness, we were never able to plan or put anything into motion.

As little girls, what were you two like? Did you dress-up? What were your interests? Did you fight? Were you each other’s biggest fans?

We were 2.5 years apart and shared a room our whole lives, so there was a lot of sibling bickering. She used to steal my clothes, provoke me, etc. Pretty normal sister stuff. We used to play house, school and store when we were little. We didn’t have a lot of money growing up, so we really used our imagination. As we got older, yes, we were each other’s biggest fans. I miss that.

What made you two giggle?

Everything! My family has a very good sense of humor, so we laughed a lot. We definitely got a lot of mileage imitating/teasing my mother. Ha!

I read and saw your piece on DarynKagan.com. It was great. Like Ms. Kagan, I was so moved because of my "sissy" and the intricacies of sibling relations. She is my biggest fan, my greatest confidant and also my hugest sparing partner. But in the end, we are more alike than we are different. There is more joy than there is pain, and I know that if either of us ever leaves the planet, the other will still be there to root the other on or challenge in the way that encourages just the right growth. Please share a bit about losing Liz to breast cancer.

There is really no way to answer this that would do it justice. Unless you’ve experience watching someone you love suffer and tragically die so young, I can’t put it into words. Her death has permanently changed me and effects every single thing I do. Her absence leaves a gaping hole in my heart that no one can repair – not the love from my amazing husband, family or friends. Someone that lost someone they loved once said, “Some things are not curable.” I couldn’t agree more.

Tell us about UptownLiz.com.

Uptown Liz was created with everything Liz loved in mind. I used her favorite colors in the design (lavender and pink, which are also the colors for cancer and breast cancer awareness), and gave it a very trendy, sophisticated and upscale feel. She was a major fashionista, so I know she would love so many things on the website. I know that most people wish they could do more for the less fortunate, but they are just too overwhelmed with their own lives. So I wanted to create a way that people could give back in an easier way, and know where the money was going. What makes Uptown Liz unique is that you can shop by charitable cause or by product category. Every item shows you how much is going to charity and has a link to that organization’s web page. Through Uptown Liz, I hope to continue the movement of retail philanthropy and through Liz’s legacy I hope to bring awareness to misdiagnosis and cancer in young people.

You are up to 500 participating companies, right? What are your goals for UptownLiz.com in 2008?

Uptown Liz has over 500 products from many wonderful companies. My goals for 2008 is to get more media attention and bring Liz’s story and legacy to a bigger platform.

What can we do to help?

Tell everyone you know about Uptown Liz. People can spread the word through blogs, MySpace and other social networking sites. And if anyone has any great media contacts, let them know as well.

This legacy is so special, has it turned out the way you intended?

Yes it has. But, of course, I’m very type-A and an overachiever, so I have imagined much bigger things and hope to accomplish them soon.

~~~~~~~
Ramona, your courage and grace is very much appreciated. Thank you for sharing your sister and your story ~

Liz Overturf ~ July 17, 1977 ~ February 1, 2006 ~

NOLA SUNDAYS!!!!!!! ~~ Omar Aziz, Jr. 1/27/08

2008-01-27T20:52:00.000-06:00

Talking with Omar Aziz, Jr. is passion personified. He is extremely poised and precise in his vision. That in itself is enough to get you off of any insecurities you may be shouldering and onto pursuing something ~ even if its not the goal you intended, but opening yourself to benefiting from the path along the way ~ the journey where you just may find the answer to your dreams! This kind of intuitive, dream based driven motivation should keep you flying high all week and get you to examining your goals ~ and feel free to contact Mr. Aziz for more clarity!

Growing up there was a great exposure to entrepreneurship in your home. What is the greatest lesson your parents taught you?
I was born in New Orleans, a city of romance, charm and the world’s greatest foods. I grew up happy but perpetually baffled as to how my mother’s baking skills and my father’s ability to peddle homemade pies from a basket managed to support the family.

I had my first major encounter with entrepreneurship at the early age of 16. As a youth, I was content with sampling pies — not baking or selling them — until my mother encouraged me to help bake pies for the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. The festival put money in my pocket and a new respect for business in my mind. My family has been a part of this festive celebration of Louisiana culture, music, crafts and food since 1976. It was later, as a college student, that I began to test my entrepreneurial leaning. My college studies and my success selling pies at the Jazz festival and in the University of New Orleans dormitories, prompted me to put the two together. I applied what I learned in my business courses. I became a student entrepreneur bridging the gap between academic theory and business practice.

My talent for marketing and business development fueled the rapidly expanding pie business. I began selling pies in the French Market, at the 1984 Worlds Fair and soon opened pie shops in the French Quarter Marketplace, Jackson Brewery, Canal Place and in New Orleans’ famous Riverwalk Mall. I made special appearances at the Dixieland Jazz Festival in California, Inner Harbor in Baltimore, Fanueil Hall in Boston, South Street Seaport and Bloomingdale’s in New York as part of the “Taste of Louisiana” promotions. I have also been the focus of numerous feature stories on ABC, CBS, NBC, local affiliates and in local and national publications. I co-host and produce a new television show entitled, "The Economics of Success" ~~

"As the founder of the American Student Entrepreneurs Association and the Urban Institute for Entrepreneurship Education, Omar has been a leading advocate for the inclusion of entrepreneurship in public education. He has gone from selling pies to teaching students and adults how to get their "piece of the pie"."

In November 1993, Entrepreneur Magazine featured my widely shared entrepreneurial equation — “K + A + C = E3 .” I also offered a series of “Building a Business” seminars at Barnes & Noble entitled "How to Get Your Piece of the Pie: 12 Secret Recipes for Entrepreneurial and Small Business Success."

I am currently the Executive Director of the Center for Entrepreneurial Development and am available for public speaking, workshops and one-on-one entrepreneurial coaching. This has become my life's mission. I believe that no one should go through life without getting their piece of the pie ~~ the American dream of ownership.

You have an initiative P.I.E. What are the goals?
Participating In Entrepreneurship (PIE) is an innovative intellectual capital development system designed to foster entrepreneurial thinking and new business startups in one year or less. PIE defines a new business as one that has met all local, state and federal filing and licensing requirements, and has completed a written business plan.

The PIE system integrates personalized assessments and computerized testing to identify participants’ learning needs. The preliminary assessments, and one-on-one coaching from business professionals, personalize the process — generating goals that can be achieved, and results that can be measured. Participants who complete the program successfully start businesses and recognize their entrepreneurial dreams.

How do you see P.I.E. impacting the community?
Did You Know…

The dream of many students is to become self-employed. Results of a US Department of Commerce study show that youths' strong interest in starting a business derives from the freedom associated with being their own boss. According to a Gallup Poll study done in conjunction with the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, 7 out of 10 high school students say they want to start their own business.

Entrepreneurs generate ideas; produce goods, services and jobs; and produce the economic activity that drives the local economy. Despite the widespread acceptance of the key role small businesses and entrepreneurs play in our economy, many institutions of learning are not preparing our young people for careers as business owners.

While not everyone is cut out to be an entrepreneur, in today’s rapidly changing economic climate not everyone is going to be able to find that "good job with a good company." That's the reason PIE is so effective. The PIE program was formulated to make inner-city students aware of the possibilities offered by entrepreneurship and prepare them to seize those opportunities.
PIE Interactive featured on ABC News

It is not only the student with predetermined small business ownership goals, but all students who can benefit from entrepreneurship education. An employee who has respect, appreciation and an understanding of entrepreneurship is more likely to be an asset to a company. Today's business owners are looking for employees who can improve the bottom line efficiently and cost effectively. PIE is a life-long learning program that develops in students traits such as initiative, optimism, resourcefulness, risk taking, foresight, leadership skills, versatility, self-determination and a respect and appreciation for the value of dedication and hard work.

Mr. Aziz, this has certainly opened my eyes on some of the ingredients needed for a good recipe for success! I can't wait until our next visit with you so that we can learn a bit more with your food for thought! Thank you so very much, we hungry readers will have to chomp on that for just a while! At least until next time!

~~~ please excuse all of the puns, I just couldn't resist!

Barnes & Noble Series ~ Dreaming Big With Your Piece of the P.I.E.

Contact for Mr Aziz as follows:
Omar Aziz
HR Training Coordinator
Griggs Enterprise, Inc.
330 Marshall Street, Suite 711
Shreveport, LA 71101
Cell (318) 349.8647

Friends on Friday Presents Dr. Jerry Kenneth Schwehm! 1/04/08

2008-01-04T20:49:00.000-06:00

I had really taken this week off to reflect. Then I began to wonder what it was I was reflecting on. Then, while surfing on the web and responding to email and notes I came across another friend. As you most of you know, I typically lead up to the Friday post all week, but we'll change things up a bit! Dr. Jerry will be our weekend guest! His "Lighthouse" series has become my reflection, but more on that tomorrow!

First let's meet the gentleman who is both our "Friends On Friday" guest, our Saturday post AND our NOLA SUNDAYS all in one! WOW!!! He is really great!!

Dr. Jerry, your bio states that your education in the 1970s led you to receive your BA and JD from Louisiana State University; what were your plans for yourself during that time period? Did you indulge any artistic inclinations at that time? If so, what were they?
I have painted and taken art classes all my life. When I was in college at LSU I took a few courses. I even did silk screen prints for Christmas cards in the late 1960's. I designed slogans for clubs and painted windows at Christmas time for decorations as an undergraduate. After Law School I was very busy but managed to paint and carve a few things. I did a set of Kachina Dolls one summer I still have but the time has taken its toll on them. It wasn't until I partially retired that I had time to really paint things.

You shared with me that you can find health in "the fun and enjoyment of painting and viewing art." Tell us what you mean.
Stress relief. Viewing art can evoke an emotion. I like the pleasant things, calm, and friendly. I hope most of my art evokes an emotion that takes away stress and brings a happy memory to the viewer. Of course painting for me relieves stress which helps in today's hectic life. I am told too much stress can cause a lot of health problems.

What moved you to pastoral work and obtaining your Honorary Doctoral of Divinity?
After becoming a Lay Minister I volunteered to help out other Ministers through a Ministerial Alliance. I would especially help out in Revivals and Easter Services. I would also counsel people about legal issues for a few church organizations. One such group desired to honor my service to them by granting me an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree. It was a way for them to show me thanks for helping them.

What do you find most rewarding from marrying people?
I enjoy meeting people. The wedding is a special time for people and being a part of that is special to me. Having the ability to make that day easy and comfortable for people who are otherwise distracted by all that goes into getting married is something I like to do.

What do you love most about NOLA?
Everything, the food the people, the spirit, the history, the buildings the lake, the river the large oak tress and the streetcars.

Tell us about Fig Street Studio? You were victimized by Katrina. Was your experience, where you tragically lost your precious art pieces, a complete devastation, or were you able to salvage some things and some piece of mind? Loss is a motivator and a growing tool, in my humble opinion, having lost all of my literature and wedding mementos back in 1997 when the Desplaines River flooded Chicago. It is rough but renewing, how do you view your loss?
My art studio was in a big two story double in the Carrollton area, on Fig Street naturally. My entire family lived there. My son and his wife on one side and my two daughters and I. on the other. The storm flooded my neighborhood so we never were able to get back. Lucky for me most of my valuable stuff was moved upstairs by my daughter who left last. She said she felt she should put things up higher. The loss came to some personal items in sheds and the packing and moving of everything. As my kids had to get back to work they all rented right away so the house was empty and I moved to my cabin in the woods of the North Shore. The house had extensive wind and water damage from part of the roof blowing off and a lot of plumbing breaking. After we got things fixed we sold it never sleeping another night there after the storm.
The sad thing is we are all in different places now. Once we were right next door, now my son is in Philadelphia, my girls 45 miles from me. But I do have a lot more time to paint and a new space to paint in at my studio in the country.

What are your favorite expressions? I love the pieces Nancy

and Starry Night Riverboat.

Do you prefer painting scenes, people, NOLA or all of the above?
I love to paint, people, pets, places. I have no real preference all I need is the inspiration. I painted a friend's pet dog for as his Christmas present from his daughter. It was a real fun thing to do. Everyone enjoyed the art and I enjoyed doing it. Nancy was a special present for my daughters and Nancy's parents. It is a way of telling them there were good times and a beautiful person once and we will not forget.

My experience with Katrina, has been a renewed love for NOLA. My Gran instilled the love in me but I took NOLA for granted. I am thankful for Katrina because she brought me to so many wonderful New Orleanians and their stories.
How can we help? You mention restoring your studio, restoring the lighthouse, and I am very passionate about restoring NOLA, the people and the place, will you keep us posted on what we can do? How we can assist and any NOLA needs?
The New Basin Canal Lighthouse has a restoration committee. All of New Orleans can be helped by people visiting when possible. There are many groups doing things. I can be helped by people buying my art either prints, tiles, or the other gift items from the Fig Street Studio.

info@figstreet.com is my e-mail contact.

Thanks Dr. Jerry, more tomorrow!

Friends On Friday PresentsLatrice Fowler 12/21/07

2007-12-21T20:45:00.000-06:00

Latrice, we have never met in person but I feel like you are family. Your spirit just
exudes warmth, love and grace and I am so grateful to have met you!
Thank you so much for saying that. I really think
that we’ve been put together for a reason. I thank
GOD everyday for placing me with people like you. GOD
Bless!

When you cook, do you cook with the same spirit of love and fervour?
I really do! I love seeing the enjoyment in people’s
faces when they’ve tasted my food. They’re
expressions show their love for the food I’ve spent so
much of my time and love into making. I get more of
my own enjoyment from watching reactions then I do
creating tasty vittles.

What are your passions?
_ GOD!
_ Self-Love (Becoming the person I’m suppose to be!)
_ Family
_ Present & Future Legacy
_ Being a Positive Community Figure

We met on the WomenforHire network, which has been such a great networking tool, had
you begun your entrepreneurial quest or were you motivated to accomplish things frommeeting the women there?
The Women For Hire Network has been an exceptional
networking tool for everyone that has been privileged
to find it. My mother is so big on networking and
after seeing a segment on GMA about WFH I immediately
logged on to the site and signed up. Although I had
already started developing my businesses before
joining WHF, it has definitely helped grow, and several
opportunities have evolved from being apart of that
online community.

What are your aspirations?
_ Obeying GOD
_ Continue to love and respect myself!
_ Elevate my family to our highest potential, and
continue to build our legacy!
_ Inspire the uninspired!

Tell us a bit about your businesses.
Fowlerville Publishing – A digital publishing
powerhouse. (Launching and excepting new clients
April08)
1. Raising Chefs…not just good cooks! (eCookbook)
2. ModelGirlUSA eMagazine (My daughter’s modeling
magazine, for girl about girl ages 6 – 14)
3. Blackpreneurs Social Network/eMagazine
4. Dirty South Locals eMagazine (Hip Hop Culture)
5. Macaiah eMagazine (Premier Client)
_ Going Pro @ Home Productions
1. Raising Chefs DVD Video
2. Food Photography & Food Styling (Print/Web)
3. Southern Artist Promotional Videos
_ Other Non-Business (Self Promotion)
1. Weekly Column – Un World Radio Show Magazine
(Latrice’s Tasty Treat Thursday)
2. DoubleDutch Magazine Recipe Submission DEC & FEB
3. Girlz In Transition Recipe Submission
4. Radio, Print, Online Interviews & Features
Other things are also in the works, so stay tuned, because
there are more wonderful and exciting things up our
sleeves.

How do you see your pursuits positively affecting your children? They are so involved,
what a great education.
I wanted them to be surrounded by someone who was
positive and making dreams become a reality. They
have absorbed everything they’ve seen me do and have
come up with goals of their own. They’ve executed
those dreams and goals and are now seeing them come
full circle. They believe that if you work hard at
something you love and understand that things will get
hard along the way. Sticking with it will expose
sacrifice and dedication. They are the most awesome
kiddos I’ve every met and I thank GOD everyday for
trusting that I would be a great fit as their mother!
What are some of your short-term goals for the civil rights work you do?
_ To continue to be able to mobilize our resources. Be
in a position to help were there’s a need. Create
awareness on issues within our communities.

What are the long-term goals?
Basically the same as the short-term goal. Raising awareness is an ongoing focus!

Latrice, Have a wonderful holiday! Thank you SO, SO much! We will check in with you soon! Kiss the kiddies and all the best to your family!

Friends On Friday Presents Janet Snell! 12/14/07

2007-12-14T14:51:00.000-06:00

Self-portrait by Janet Snell

Janet, you mention on one of your sites that you began art with oil
painting in the 70's. What prompted you to take an art class? What were youinto before that? Anything artistic?? What influenced you?
I went to the Maryland Institute College of Art, and studied with the
abstract expressionist Edward Dugmore. He, and the city of Baltimore
inspired me. I have the link to an interview he did for the
Smithsonian on my Scattered Light
blog that will help you to see why. It reflects his iconoclastic
personality. By the way, the photo of Cheryl and me on that blog was
taken by his wife Edie in their New York loft.

You and Cheryl have this phenomenal ability to capture and hold an
audience's attention delicately ( when I am observing both your works I feel
cradled and safe like I'm a baby free to experience whatever it is you both
are sharing--even if its not something nice), was your home life suitable
for encouragement of the arts, or did you both cultivate the love forexpression later in life?
Throughout our childhoods, Cheryl and I painted for fun with our
mother, an excellent realist painter. Our dad did not paint, but he
did write stories with an Edgar Allen Poe feel, and played many
musical instruments. He was even in a Dixieland band with some other
physicians once. He was the one who got me started on the violin. He
was a great influence and inspiration--he had a dark sensibility
balanced with a huge sense of humor. He died at 52, after suffering
with heart disease all of his life.

My sister and her work is another influence.I think in images and she
can extend the metaphor with words, so a collaboration between us is
more like two takes on a similar idea, instead of one art explaining
the other. I send her photos of whatever I'm working on, and if the
idea sparks a response in her, she'll make a poem for it, then send it
back to me for comments. The work on the Admit 2 site happened that
way.

Does your environment inspire you? Please give us a little insight as to how you work and what motivates your visions.
Often, I'll make drawings of images, which may come from musing about
the man/woman thing, or from listening to Hendrix, Dylan, or the
Doors, or from reading Jean Genet, for instance. Those images will
find their way into my linocuts or paintings, sometimes intact,
sometimes altered. Funny, but classical music doesn't bring up actual
images for me, although it does give me ideas.

What are you working on right now that you can share with us?
Right now I'm working on my third volume of art and words. It's
tentatively called "At The Gates", and I've attached the painting of
the title piece for you.

At The Gates by Janet Snell

Can we check in on you from time to time?
I'd love to be checked on! Thanks so much for this opportunity.

More images can be seen here

This has been wonderful! Thanks, Janet!

Friends On Friday Presents ~ KELLY MADIGAN ERLANDSON 12/7/07

2007-12-07T14:31:00.000-06:00

Photo of Kelly Madigan Erlandson, LADC, courtesy of Helen Stringfellow

Your site details a series of creativity retreats that seem very ruminative, almost like a pensive adagio, how did you come to this approach? They seem so wondrous!
Thank you. The workshops/retreats have been a collaborative effort. For my part, I have tried to create experiences for people that I myself have needed: great discussion about the creative process; time in or near the river; a day of quiet, side-by-side writing. These were things I longed for in my twenties, but I didn’t yet know how to manifest them.
The rich part of it, from my end, is the community of interesting people that have been drawn together by these occasional offerings. I have benefited greatly from our campfire discussions.

Kelly's Writing Workshops

Kelly, you have shared recently that you have begun exploring Nebraska rivers. Tell us about that. Does it provide tranquility for life's stressors? Does it serve as inspiration for material? Or is it just about peace and enjoying creation -- OR all of the above! Feel
free to expound.
From my earliest memories, I have needed to spend time in wild areas. I have a theory that the human body, the mammal body, is designed in concert with the earth, and requires direct connection with the planet to recharge and inform itself—much like a docking station for an IPod or Blackberry. So many of us live lives removed from natural states. We walk on asphalt and concrete; we live and work in buildings, sometimes several stories or more above the earth’s surface. We are raised up from the ground by our vehicles, separated from our natural environment by rubber and steel.

I have searched for ways to remedy this in my own life. I need the energy and the information that direct contact with the ground provides. Many Nebraska rivers are remote and isolated places, and exploring them by canoe or kayak insures I will be climbing up and down muddy banks, and will be sleeping in places where I can hear the coyotes in the middle of the night. Due to my novice kayaking skills, it also insures I will be occasionally baptized in river water.

My goal is to canoe or kayak every navigable Nebraska river. I’ve been on ten of them so far.

What have you found on your journeys?
I have been teased about my interest in scat, but the truth is I love nothing more than the opportunity to tear apart a pile of animal droppings with two sticks and try to determine what animal left it, and what it might have been eating recently. I collect jawbones, and I love the patterns on wild turkey feathers. I’ve been known to bring home the sun-bleached skull of a small animal, which sometimes freaks out my family members.

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Thanks Kelly! My prayers and thoughts are with Nebraska during this difficult time ~ Good Luck to you, please keep us posted on all of your great endeavors~~~

Friends On Friday Presents ~ CHERYL SNELL 11/30/07

2007-11-30T14:25:00.002-06:00

Well, yesterday was a bit of an emotional challenge for me, but thankfully I made it through with flying colors!! Speaking of flying colors, today's guest writes with such imagery and follow-through that it reminds me of flying colors. Earlier this week, we shared in her piece Stone. Strong yet almost light and fragrant.

As I said earlier, just what one needs to unleash the mind's constraints. Funny how life has a way of putting what you say to the test. I went home and read through Cheryl's work again, and it broke me down. Her works are about life, which is not typically pretty or poetic. But skillful use of syntactic arrangement can take the most obtuse aspects of our world and still manage to bring the mind to a place of reconciliation, SO Thank You again Cheryl, today your work was not only thoughtful and the focus of "Friends On Friday" it became my pacifier! Exactly what good work should do! NOW, onto our chat with Cheryl!

Cheryl, Your work is both provocative and characterized with words that emote realism. What I find most amazing about your work is that you can go from writing poetry to stories seemingly effortlessly. Can you please share with us are you able to write consistently, or do you go though phases where you prefer to write one and then the other.
Thank you for the compliment! I try to put real toads in my imaginary gardens.
I do genre-hop, slowly. I’ll work for a long time on several poems, for instance, revising and shaping them until I’m empty of ideas. Then I switch to prose, and write until my concentration frays. Fiction demands a particular type of attention. There’s a sense of urgency to get the story told. Poetry feeds fiction, gives the language color and character.

You are also musically inclined. What does music mean to you? Which of your crafts are most important, or are they like children -- there are no choices, you love aspects of them all equally.
I begin every day by playing Bach at the piano. There's something about his nuances of harmony that transcend the ego and ground me at the same time. And then I read until my head is full of language. Music and writing have so many elements in common-- line and dynamics and rhythm---that it’s difficult to assign value. I’m immersed in all of it, and the process of mastering a piece of music is not unlike getting a piece of writing right. When at last I set whatever it is aside-- for days, weeks, or months-- the work continues underground. I’m always amazed at the way a switch of focus can untangle a particular difficulty.

What inspires you? What do you do when you get blocked, if you get blocked and if you do get blocked -- what was the longest period you were stricken?
I live in Washington DC, a culturally rich city where sources of inspiration are plentiful. I like old music and new art. I’ve written many poems based on my sister’s paintings. My husband, a mathematical engineer, communicates a reverence for how things work that is very inspiring. He’s also a great raconteur. His stories about growing up in India have filled my novel, Shiva’s Arms.

I don’t get blocked, partly because I’m willing to “kill my darlings”. At times, I’ll revise a work until there are only a few of the original words left in it. Ned Rorem, the composer and writer, revises everything, too. If he’s reading a book by Henry James, for instance, he “puts blue pencil in the margin…may circle a "perhaps": There are too many perhapses in this book. I'm a walking blue pencil.”

I really like the computer for revision, the ease with which phrases can be moved around, sparking new ideas. A sense of play is important. It leads to fresh connections, new ways of looking at the world. These endless possibilities can lead to other problems, of course. Ralph Ellison couldn’t finish his second novel, and it grew to thousands of pages.

Are you an artist as a way of life or must you hold a day job as well?
After years of teaching and performing, I am free to follow my bliss.

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Thank You So Much Cheryl!!!! Cheryl is also culinary, her recipes will be published as an add-on to the novel, Shiva's Arms.

Cheryl's Publisher's Link

Also please visit the Snell Sisters here FOR GREAT INSPIRATION

K.R. Copeland 11/16/07

2007-11-16T14:05:00.003-06:00

Today we will be celebrating the works of K. R. Copeland. She is a writer, a poet, an editor (thank you very much), artist and a friend.
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You are a celebrated poet and writer. When did your voice come alive? Did you nurture it or was it a lifeline; something you had to do to live? Have you always felt it?
I remember as a small child being entirely mesmerized by the polysyllabic fodder on the nightly news programs my parents watched. It was as if the correspondents were speaking in some strange tongue, some secret language. I knew I HAD to one day know all the fabulous words they so freely flung. Thus, my lexiconic love affair was born.

I began reading voraciously…children’s books, newspapers, the dictionary (yes, the dictionary). I was especially fond of poetry, Shel Silverstein’s, Where the Sidewalk Ends, and anything Seuss. I began to develop an ear and an appreciation for the musicality of language.

In fourth grade, we had to write some story or another, though I’ll be darned if I can recall the topic. What I DO recall, was my teacher, Mrs. Ambercrombie, taking me aside and praising me for my writing ability. She also encouraged me to continue to hone my talents; I’ll never forget that, and to this day, credit her with inspiring me to write on. During my teen years I wrote poetry prolifically, although, looking back on it, it was your typical angst-ridden drivel. I didn’t start to actually study craft until in my twenties. I read every poetry handbook known to man, ingested volumes and volumes of poetry, both the classics and contemporary, and began participating in critical forums, all of which were invaluable.

I began submitting poems for publication roughly 7 years ago. At that time, I also volunteered as a poetry judge for the literary magazine, Beginnings. I did that for a few years and once I had several publication credits under my belt, then began getting my chapbook, “Anatomically Correct” together, which was published by Dancing Girl Press, a small, independent press, right here in Chicago, owned and operated by fellow poet, Kristy Bowen. I have had umpteen poems published, both here in the U.S. and abroad, and am in the process of putting together another compilation. I also volunteer as Art Director for the political lit-zine, Unlikely 2.0. and act as co-administrator of an online poetry discussion group, A Wild Iris Poetry.

How do you incorporate who you are literary wise with who you are as a mom, wife, and sister?
Sometimes it is hard to be a passionate incantation while you have life responsibilities, tell us how you handle your calling.
I’m not entirely certain my writing life permeates these relationships, except for the fact that I try to instill a love of literacy in my kids. I run stuff by them, (which often times goes over their heads), and they humor me. We read together daily and, during poetry month, I even got my daughter to commit to writing a poem a day, which was wonderful! They have been terrifically understanding and patient with me (as has my husband) if I’m working on something, as I can become utterly engrossed when the muse is present, putting everything else on the back burner. Luckily, I have been able to stay at home the past couple years making it less of a balancing act.

How does writing make you feel? You once said " I have been entranced, awed, and utterly consumed by the written word, by the infinite possibilities language allows." Tell us about this deeply personal and profound revelation.
Writing, as it has been said, is a lot like giving birth (only much less painful). I view each of my poems as an extension of myself. The process is both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. I love the daunting task of putting pen to paper and the very act of creating something from nothing, never really knowing ahead of time what the end product will be. It is in fact a passion, and something I’d not choose to relinquish. My goal, first and foremost, is to entertain, to dispel the preconceived notion many have about poetry (having been forced to read the often vapid, academic works) and also to be an integral part of what I only hope will be a widespread resurgence of and affinity for the written word.

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Thanks K.R.!!! We will be printing more works of K.R.'s soon!!

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LaTonya Baldwin & Color Online 10/1/07

2007-10-01T13:42:00.001-05:00

Found a new phenomenal outreach that is accepting donations of books and gift cards. This spectacular person has taken her time to help empower young women between the ages of 14 and 21.

You may read more about Color Online through:

http://www.shelfari.com/groups/12777/about

or visit http://coloronline.blogspot.com/

I was given the opportunity to ask the founder a few questions and would like to share the exchange with you. Enjoy:

Houseonahill: Why do you feel supporting these young women is important?

LaTonya: I know what kind impact positive role models had on me. I think most of us could use support as we try to navigate our way through adolescence to adulthood. It was teachers, mentors and coaches who kept me buoyant during some tumultuous times. If we don’t invest in our youth, who will? Our young people need us and frankly we need them to become productive, free-thinking, strong leaders of tomorrow.

Houseonahill: In formulating this alliance, what impact do you hope to make and is there a spoken or unspoken committment that once you have left or graduated the program that you return and somehow give back?

LaTonya: My hope is to communicate that someone cares and someone believes in them and is willing to commitment the time to supporting them in their development. Our relationship is reciprocal from the onset. Everyone has something to give. We teach and support each other. Color Online members are required to give back to the community. There are no shortages of opportunity.

Houseonahill: When choosing your literature, what ideals are you hoping to bring into discussion?

LaTonya: I consciously choose literature with strong, flawed, authentic female characters. No one is all good or all bad. I look for works that deal with personal growth, responsibility, accountability, struggle and triumph. Sometimes works are political. Sometimes they are intimate examinations of self. Others are about our relationship with our community or society. I try to select works where the reader is evoked, compelled or challenged to consider her own views and to form her own opinions.

Thank you so much for taking the time to share this inspirational program.
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Mentoring today can be as easy as this. Check out the links to find out how you can become involved! Shape a journey, embrace a mind!!