In this Conversating with Yhorlife we got to conversate with Founder of Dr. S Dentistry - Dr. S! I’m SUPER excited for this Conversating because Dr. S is not only my buddy & dentist but a Dental Genius! I’m not just saying that because he’s my buddy (I wasn’t 100% convinced he was actually good at his job the 1st visit lol) . He is excellent at his craft & honest and keeps my smile looking great. I hope you enjoy this Conversating as much as I do - Enjoy!

  ©DR.S

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?Honestly, I never start off a question about what I do for work/career. Unless asked, you'll never hear me say "I'm a dentist". I prefer talking about my hobbies & family/friends.

What separates your practice/ style of dentistry from other Dentists? I think you'll see an informal, unique approach to our patients. Tlike to speak to them and connect to them on a personal level, again, learning about them and their families... the dentistry will come naturally. I'm proud to say we are one big, happy family... and you feel that from the moment you walk in.

Why did you select to specialize in Dentistry? Did you always know you’d be a Dentist?You could say I followed in my parents' footsteps. I watched them doing it growing up, thought to myself.... This seems easy, I'll do it. Boy, was I wrong!

What are your tips for a healthy mouth (teeth & gums)?Take care of them, the same way you do your nails & hair & shoes... keep them clean. And pay me a visit a few times per year!

What medical challenges do you see in dentistry that are on the rise? What can we do to improve our daily habits? I think the massive amounts of sugar in our diets that are commercialized: "coffee drinks, snacks, etc." and the unfortunate cost of dental treatment make it difficult to keep under control. The lack of insurance coverage doesn't help either!

What are your 3 staples of clothing that make you feel yhor most confident?A nice fitting tshirt... to show off my physique!

My watch. And sunglasses.

What do you recommend for people to do to get stronger and whiter teeth?Come see me!

What are some of the most rewarding parts of your jobMy most rewarding experience are with those patients who have come from extremely difficult backgrounds (poverty, drugs, etc.) and have somehow come clean or managed a way to get treatment, and I give them their confidence back with a new smile. Seems like they're the most appreciative of all my patients.

last & most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind!Traveling with my family and friends! Travel, travel, travel & see the world.

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In this Conversating with Yhorlife we got to conversate with Founder of Sunny Brow - Sunny Park! I’m SUPER excited for this Conversating because Sunny is a Beauty Maestro!! I’m not just saying that because she’s my beauty Maestro; she enhances natural beauty and makes whatever you already have shine. That is not only a talent but an art. I am so happy Sunny agreed to do this Conversating! Sunny is funny, meticulous and overall just a gem! I hope you enjoy this Conversating as much as I do - Enjoy!

  ©SUNNYBROW

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?Hi, my name is Sunhee Park, but most people call me Sunny. I’m the founder of SUNNYBROW Beauty Studio and Academy based in Los Angeles. I’m also a wife and a proud mother of two daughters.

Rather than staying in one place, I love learning and growing continuously. Helping clients find comfort and joy in their daily routines—through natural, personalized beauty—is something I find deeply meaningful. To me, enhancing someone’s natural features and boosting their confidence in subtle but powerful ways is what makes my work so special.

You’re Founder of SUNNYBROW Beauty Studio. When did you decide to create/ open your studio? What do you see as the makeup trends for 2025 and within the next year?I began my PMU career in Korea in 2008. After immigrating to the U.S. with my family in 2016, I opened SUNNYBROW in 2017—starting from a very small studio. Four years ago, I was fortunate to expand into a larger space as my business grew.

In 2025, I see a growing demand for natural yet refined results. Nano Brows, soft Lip Blush, and subtle Eyeliner are leading the trend. Above all, I believe that great PMU is about discovering and enhancing the beauty a client already has—not transforming them into someone else. As the industry becomes more mainstream, client expectations are rising, and techniques are evolving quickly. More people now seek effortless, polished looks that blend into their everyday lifestyle.

I know from personal experience how detailed & instant confident booster you give your clients! What is your favorite procedure you do and why? What do you recommend for people who are afraid of permanent makeup?Brows are definitely my favorite procedure. They play such a key role in defining the face, and adjusting the brow shape can completely change a person’s overall impression—which I find so fascinating.

Lately, I’ve been especially passionate about Nano Brows. While Microblading has been popular for years, it has limitations with certain skin types and may cause skin damage. Nano Brows go beyond those limitations—they’re gentler on the skin and allow for highly precise, artistic results. As an artist, that versatility is incredibly exciting.

For anyone hesitant about permanent makeup, I recommend doing thorough research, comparing artists’ work, and having an in-person consultation. Since the results last 2–3 years, it’s important to make a careful, informed decision. But once you find the right artist, PMU can truly be a game-changer in your daily life.

What are your tips for healthy mindset?There were times when I felt stuck—like I had so many goals but progress felt painfully slow. But what I’ve learned is that everything happens in its own time. What matters is focusing on what you can do right now, so when the right moment comes, you’re ready for it.

Small setbacks have taught me the most. When things don’t go as planned, I try not to feel defeated. Instead, I reflect on what went wrong, learn from it, and move forward with hope. Even when it feels like I’m moving slowly, I look back and realize how far I’ve come. That perspective helps me stay grateful. And I believe surrounding yourself with warm, honest people is key to staying grounded.

You also have your Academy!! Why do you love teaching? How did you start your academy?About five years ago, a friend working in the beauty industry asked me to train her. Although I had taught back in Korea, I felt I was still establishing myself in the U.S. and wasn’t planning to start teaching yet. But she was eager to learn from me, and that moment led me back into education. Today, she’s a skilled artist, and witnessing her growth reminded me why I love teaching so much.

Helping someone change careers, grow their confidence, and develop into a great artist is incredibly meaningful. PMU is much deeper than it looks—it requires precision, understanding, and responsibility. I’ve seen the impact of poor training, and that’s why I take education seriously.

In my academy, I teach more than just technique. I emphasize mindset, professionalism, client care, and the real-world skills needed to start a business. Because the more skilled and ethical artists we have, the more positively our industry will be valued.

I personally love the natural yet enhanced look and you’re a MASTER at that. Why do you think a subtle yet enhanced look has started to gain popularity in 2025?Bold, trend-driven looks can be fun, but they often fade quickly. In contrast, the natural yet enhanced style has timeless appeal—it doesn’t get old, and it integrates beautifully into everyday life.

In PMU, clients increasingly want results that make them look naturally refreshed without drawing obvious attention. They love hearing, “You look great—but I can’t quite tell what changed.” A clean, polished base that enhances their features while leaving room for personal styling on special occasions—that’s what makes subtle beauty so powerful and popular right now.

No one has a smooth journey. What was the most pivotal part in your journey? Did you ever feel like quitting?There were two major turning points in my life.

The first was when I had to give up on my dream of becoming a furniture designer. I had been preparing for art school, but due to my father’s business hardship, I had to let go of that dream. I was heartbroken and lost for a long time. I still remember one moment clearly—I saw a group of friends from my art prep days walking ahead of me, now art students, and I hid in an alley because I felt like I didn’t belong anywhere. My self-esteem was low, and I had lost hope.

Then one of those friends encouraged me to explore the beauty field. She saw something in me that I couldn’t yet see in myself. That one suggestion changed everything. I found a new path, and for the first time in a while, I felt hopeful. That sense of lack became my motivation—it pushed me to keep setting goals and moving forward.

The second turning point was when I moved to the U.S. nine years ago. I had spent nearly three years as a full-time mom and was longing to work again. Starting over in a new country was intimidating—new culture, language barriers, and an unfamiliar market. But I had a goal, and I filled in the gaps step by step, even when progress was slow.

To this day, I continue setting goals—big and small—and walking toward them at my own pace. I’ve never once wanted to quit. Every challenge made me stronger. I truly believe those experiences shaped who I am today.

What are your 3 staples of clothing that make you feel your most confident?My number one go-to is black scrubs. I wear them every time I work with clients, and as soon as I put them on, I feel focused and ready. It’s like my work uniform—it helps me feel grounded and confident in what I do.

Outside the studio, I like to keep it casual but put-together. I often wear a loose-fit blazer over a good-quality T-shirt, paired with jeans that fit me just right. It’s simple, comfortable, and makes me feel like myself wherever I go.

You do both men and women! Do you think the stigma of men getting treatments is starting to fade? How do you recommend a new client to prepare?Yes, absolutely. The stigma is fading, and I love that more men are embracing self-care—not just for appearance but also for their own confidence and satisfaction.

With PMU technology advancing, results are more natural and less noticeable than ever. That’s why male clients are feeling more comfortable seeking treatment.

For first-timers, I recommend bringing inspiration photos or examples of the look you want. It helps guide the consultation and ensure we’re aligned. And most importantly, come with an open mind. Ask any questions you have—I’m here to walk you through it all.

What are some of the most rewarding parts of your job?The most rewarding moment is when a client looks in the mirror and says, “This is exactly what I wanted.” Seeing their happiness and renewed confidence from just a small enhancement—there’s no better feeling.

Also, when I see clients return to me year after year, continuing to place their trust in me, I feel immense gratitude. Those long-term relationships are one of the most meaningful parts of what I do.

last & most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind!Spending a relaxed weekend with my family is the best way for me to recharge. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy—just enjoying slow, quality time together and ending the day with a nice meal. Those simple moments bring me the most peace and happiness.

©SUNNYBROW

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In this Conversating with Yhorlife we got to conversate with Founder of Pacific Playa Realty, Entrepreneur, Author and Philanthropist Munif Ali. Munif, although multi-hyphenated is still a man that exudes mystery and not the most approachable. I’m not going to lie I didn’t have high hopes for this Conversating. I am so pleased to say it was better than I imagined and we talked for over an hour which surprised me! Munif’s energy and desire to give back will have you counting down for all his exciting new projects. I hope you enjoy this Conversating as much as I do - Enjoy!

How would you introduce yourself to people that are unaware of you …

I am a serial Entrepreneur, and I have an Entrepreneur mind. Meaning I am problem solver. I like to build businesses; I am essentially a man on a mission.

I build Systems that essentially grow people, and I create a Platform to help the community. Especially the underserved community. My core belief, which is at the center of everything that I do is about giving access, the right tools, and training people with the right mindset.

If we have the right tools, and mindset anybody can build a legacy. Businesses that are built with purpose, inevitably you get profit. But if you build for profit without a purpose, then your tenure in the game is not long, it is the short game.

So, everything that I do is a collaboration, and supporting each other. It starts with an altruistic view, but it ends with a relationship. I am at a stage in my life that I can continue to build great things. Happy people make great companies at the end of the day. When we all aspire to have purpose in our lives, and when you have purpose then you have engagement… True… Then you have people giving their all.

You are the founder of Pacific Playa Realty, and serial entrepreneur what do you perceive as the biggest trends in 2025? what is the best way to stay inventive, and create new business opportunities; especially in these uncertain times?

We are going through an unprecedented time in our democracy … in terms of people’s morals – so it is twofold …what do you foresee for the rest of 2025, as a serial Entrepreneur that creates and solves problems, how do you solve problems that seems so doomsday in this climate …

I love this period not because of my political ties to anyone, person, or party. I think that 2025 is about personalization. It doesn’t matter who is in the White House, City Hall, it doesn’t matter to the person on the ground.

We have had politicians that were representing a whole group, but the impact that one person (politician) on any one person, or their individual family’s is very little.

I do know that people’s decisions do matter and that they impact people. Yet 2025 is about accountability, AI Integration, and authenticity. Being your authentic self is more important now that ever before.

With real estate, finance, and content creating, people want to feel like they are aligned with people that are real and relevant.

The biggest opportunities for people are the ones that are blending tech and the human connection together. In the past there has been a void – of who you were online was not connecting with who you were in person. People are more interested in the people behind the companies now.

That is why we see this glorification of entrepreneurs; they are like celebrities. There is more to a business than just what it is selling – you have to stay inventive and in motion. Not let someone speak for you, and you have to study what is going on constantly.

As an entrepreneur I say that we do more than any politicians. Because politicians have a term, entrepreneurs do not. The impact that you can have can be great.

For my companies it is about experimenting and innovating. Innovations do not just come from ideas alone; it comes from being able to execute based on feedback.

A great idea… but if I don’t put it into action and I don’t get the feedback, then I don’t continue to innovate.

Case in point … I knew some of our communities were getting undersold to investors. In one case the real estate professional appraised this house at $675,000.00. It was a black couple in the community, and they were going to give their listing to this representative outside of their community.

They met us, we did the analysis on their home and it was appraised at $900,000.00. As well the other person stated … I have an investor for you. However, you will need to stage it and put in additional monies.

We told them that they do not need to stage it, it is about the right price. We marketed the property for them. At the end they earned $300,000.00 more than they would have ever earned.

To me that is community service. That is $300,000.00 in a family’s wealth gap. Normally that would not be there because someone took advantage of them.

So, as you heard me say earlier today – when you are focused on purpose and service the side effect will be profit, and success. But you have to give with an open heart, and not always want to close a sale.

You have to look at … where can I serve people. This year is about authenticity, who are you? You have to be able to answer that first before you run out, and start a company.

Perfect… I know my dad always told my brother and I ‘an idea with no money is just a thought, and money with no idea is just paper’ So you need both, that perfect marriage. Which is the same concept that you talked about earlier when you were building your business.

How did you start building your companies and brands? What do you think is more valuable … aligning yourself with like-minded people that are not as motivated as you, or people hungrier than you but no clear direction….

My mom always had a saying, ‘you can’t sprint with a full stomach’. You can’t run if you have a full stomach. It is more of a mentality. Sometimes people are full in life, ‘yeah I have everything that I want I am cool’.

I never had that mentality. It comes from building everything from the ground up, and knowing that somebody else has paved the way for me to build.

I love my background. While others go woe is me and say ‘I am from the projects, or I was raised in the Projects’. I learned so much about business from the environment. I have great experience coming out of that environment.

One of the things that I learned was work ethic. My mom worked two to three jobs, and worked on the weekend. She was able to pool our money together, hers and my brothers, and she was able to buy a house in three years (from moving into the Projects).

The moment that my mother turned that doorknob and walked into that house -that was ours. It was something that she earned, and it was not given to her.

So, I knew that I was smitten by the potential of real estate to change the community’s environment to close that gap.

My mother had done it with very little tools. I thought what would I be able to do if I were able to harness that desire, and that drive.

I had the pleasure to go to different places that she worked. My mother cleaned houses for people. She retired after working thirty-five years as a maid. I would see the different lifestyle of those that had more, and sometimes it (the houses) would be in the Projects too.

My mother taught us to not wait for anyone else, there is no financial 911. You have to be able to answer your own call. She is an amazingly strong woman with a lot of fortitude. I learned a lot from that experience.

I did not have a blueprint though, I just had vision and grit that I got from establishing a crazy work ethic. I worked through High School, and I had two jobs. I created what I wished for. I wished that I had the Systems, the Mentorships, and the Opportunity.

I knew what I was missing in the environment which was access to things. But that was not an excuse. So, now I provide the Systems to those people around me – Systems, Mentorships, and Opportunities.

As for the people … I can make a lot of things, but I can’t give hunger. I will take hunger over hype any day of the week. Direction and destination can be taught, but drive cannot be taught.

That is something that you have to have, that fire in your belly to get to the destination. You have to have the drive. It is really a mindset issue, not generational.

People are comfortable being consumers and not creators. You have more people with the spectator mentality, rather than the championship mentality. Real champions are forged on the field. I have not reached my full potential.

People have to be hungry for opportunity, this is not something that you can give anyone. The environment that we are in with social media and the instant gratification; people come to me and want to sell real estate. I will teach them everything, but then they fall off because they are not getting the results – they don’t have the drive.

One of my favorite poems is ‘Do It Anyway’, in short it doesn’t matter if anyone is appreciating, and noticing you – give it anyway. In the end you will reach some people.

That brings me back to how you said that Authenticity is the trend, serving your community, and giving more. Do you think that came from your upbringing, and being a go-getter? … I am reaching for this, I do not care if you are nice, I am going to serve and do what I need to do …

I think if you disconnect yourself from how people think of you, or perceive you … that can be a dangerous path. Then you will go untethered, not care what people think of you, and say whatever you want.

But not caring about what people think about what you are doing, in terms of pursuing a goal; it is important. You have to have that healthy mindset, and possibly disconnect from those that don’t share your mindset.

What are your tips for a healthy mindset …

I think discipline over motivation. Motivation is dosage related. Example, you watch a great movie and you think that you can box. So, you watch things and you get motivated.

That dosage is temporary … it will only last a period of time, and then it is gone. Now if you have discipline … it gives you freedom over all things. Discipline can build empires. Just a little bit at a time.

When you have the mindset, and it is based on discipline rather than the motivation – that everyone is doing it. That has given me a great deal of power, to be able to pick and choose what I do. Example, I do not drink, and that is a personal choice. And it is not driven by my Faith.

I am mindful of what I consume, online and offline; and the people around me. I have been grateful to select people that see my vision.

As well they have qualities that I do not have - albeit intelligence, tools, and experience. So, I am able to get people to see my vision. I am not a nurturing person.

You don’t rise to the level of your goals; you fail at the level of your Systems. So, if you build strong routines, habits, and strong circles that is your protection mechanism. As a result of my discipline, I can tell you exactly what I will be doing on a Saturday at a particular time for the next ten years.

  ©MUNIFAI

Pacific Playa Realty has done over $5Billion plus in sales, what do you attribute the success to? Pacific Playa Realty is a vertical integration company, you have real estate; mortgage; and escrow … infrastructure and marketing … okay thank you, so why did you decide to be a one-stop shop for your clientele?

Remember originally, I was saying Entrepreneurs are problem solvers. Now I understand that in this day and age everybody’s Instagram says Entrepreneur.

A true Entrepreneur like a scientist, or an engineer is a problem solver. You do not have a business if you are not solving someone’s problem. Whatever it is, there is a need in the marketplace.

The fact that the $5 Billion in sales is built on People, Processes, and Purpose (the 3 P’s), we didn’t just get here because we are selling homes. We wanted to really change lives.

The movement happens to be in real estate. I noticed growing up … it was not always the smartest, or most talented that would become successful. It was people that were consistent.

What I have noticed with all of the businesses that I have built Pacific Playa, and the other businesses; I noticed that there was always a gap to close.

Then for the last fourteen years I saw doctors, lawyers, and accountants in the community not getting financed (by mainstream financial institutions). I wanted to see how we could build a better Structure. It came down to not having training for the clients, and that they could buy (houses).

There was an educational and training gap, and a confidence gap. That they can own a home too. There are a lot of real estate gurus online that will tell you not to buy real estate.

But they do not represent our community’s. They usually represent outside of our communities.

They do not touch upon how buying a home can assist in building a legacy; recycling dollars; and the home can give you leverage to start a business.

Lastly our Marketing arm consists of thirty-one people. What I learned a few years back; it was an important lesson … I would always be behind the scene, no one would ever meet me. People would see Pacific Playa Realty signs and people would say ‘that is some other people in our community taking advantage’.

In part it is due to our strong branding and marketing, and how we entered the market. Yes, but what most don’t realize is that you have to enter the market strong, to be taken seriously. Yes, exactly!

One of the reasons why I brought strong marketing was that when we entered the Marketplace I was told that we would never have professional agents in the areas that we served.

When I belonged to the Franchise, that is what one of the Franchise Directors told me. That you guys are in an awful market, and you will never have professional agents.

I knew that if you give us the tools, assistance, guidance, and training that we would have more than enough talent.

I left the Franchise about ten years ago. It was truly the best decision. I could truly be a problem solver, not walking in anyone else’s path; but making our own trail. More importantly not being subject to someone else’s (the Franchise Director’s) decisions on my path.

To be a modern Entrepreneur you have to be known, you cannot be behind the scenes. I am a believer in spending a long time in the kitchen perfecting the recipe before opening the restaurant.

So, I feel like the restaurant is built now, and now I need to go back out there. During the Pandemic I started with one hire, and now we are thirty hires later. We do everything in house.

Our Marketing Firm does Websites, Social- Media, and Graphics. Now over our Ecosystem there is a Marketing Company that does all of it. They have gone on to do great things for ABC, and Disney.

We are a vertical company because we are solving problems. What I thought was going to be a negative from the perspective of having all of my eggs in one basket. All of the companies are independently owned and operated.

What ended up being an ‘Aha’ moment was that you don’t go to Home Depot and just get one item, you get several things from several different departments.

We just closed a transaction where we represented both the buyer and the seller in the listing. The buyer brought the best offer, we did the escrow, we did the mortgage, and we are doing the construction on it.

So, it provides a great eco-system and convenience. They know that everything will be run with the same ethos … trust… yes, trust and honesty.

That has been seamless, and less stressful for the consumer. What is next for us is expansion. Now that we have perfected the formula.

Everything we are doing – the training that you just saw, is Certified Training Modules. It is about Systems; and we are in a growth spurt now.

We are looking into San Diego, the Valley markets. Not just opening one of the companies, but all of the companies to serve that Eco-system.

We are scaling regionally, and we want to roll out with more technology. We just launched our own CRM that we built from the ground up called Reach. We will package Reach up to sell to other people.

Reach will be for any industry, not just property. Most of the CRM’s that are out there are complicated. It is like something with so many features that you never use, you literally use a few of its features.

So, I dialed it down so that people would not be discouraged from using it. It is called Reach… and the tag line is ‘From Contacts to Contracts’.

For example, let’s say that you have ten to twenty Contacts in your phone. With a click of a button, Group A is everybody that you went to school with, and they will get twelve months of an email wishing them Happy Birthday. As long as you put in the information everything is on autopilot. It is AI based, so if they respond with a conversation it (Reach) will respond.

I am launching a Podcast called ‘The Gap’. Between the companies in the Ecosystem, to educate and empower people on a national level about home ownership, about investments, and savings.

Within the communities that we serve when you do not have generational wealth, you cannot have those conversations. So, conversations at the dinner table are very different for people in different communities. The Gap is about informing people about what is out there and what tools to utilize.

What is your personal favorite architectural designs in terms of homes? What homestyle do you love to list …

I like modern farmhouse, the combination of traditional, and a nuance of modern. It has clen lines yet it is still warm.

I am more about clean lines, natural light, and indoor/outdoor experience. People are spending more time with that indoor/outdoor experience, and less time couped in the bedroom. And the custom finishes that go with gathering and keeping the family together.

No one has a smooth journey, what was the most pivotal part in your journey? And did you ever feel like quitting …

I have never felt like quitting, in my life. I do a gratitude exercise every day, and I have been doing it since I was fourteen, or fifteen years old. Because I come from a journey that was not always smooth, so I am always grateful for what I have.

If you start your day with gratitude for what you have … yeah, I have honestly never felt like quitting at anything.

The more challenges that I have had, the more breakthroughs I have had. Case in point, December 2022 we had a fire in our offices; everything that we had earned burnt down to the ground.

Building back up, I never shed a tear … I knew that we were going to come back better. And two years later we are a far better company than we ever were.

So, every breakdown has a breakthrough. One pivotal moment was watching my mom that could not read or write, fight to provide for us. That struggle has become my inner strength.

Yes, I am always grateful (at my progress), but never satisfied. Yes, I can respect that … I am a lot like that I am always saying ‘great, now what is next’.

What are your three staples of clothing that make you feel your most confident …

When I started in real estate, and doing my projects, investments I was in my twenties. People would always come up to me asking where is the developer, or where are your parents.

So, I found that I had to dress up to avoid this. I feel like a good blazer for a man is vital. No matter where you are … you should have a blazer in your car.

It is the great equalizer; the blazer is a great presence. A nice fitted shirt, it doesn’t have to be expensive – a lot of people think that fashion has to be expensive. Not at all, it is how you put it together.

Also, good quality shoes. I would splurge on a good pair of nice leather shoes, that will last me forever that I can Resole.

You do not have to spend a million dollars to look like a million dollars. Timeless things, I do not have a lot of trends and fads.

What are you most excited about for 2025, the remaining of 2025 …

Impact at scale. Our impact because it is vertical. The landing and launching of national initiatives. The Empower Foundation, because it is our non-profit. All the training that I do, that I charge for, one- hundred percent goes to financial literacy programs. What excites me for 2025 is that I can assist more people with taking control of their future.

  ***What is your favorite way to unwind …***

I like to sprint up hills. I like to take the steepest hill in the neighborhood, and sprint. I have a lot of energy, so I love to sprint up hills. At the end of ten, twelve seconds you are completely gone. I like the feeling of leaving it on the hill.

I also like Boxing. I have been Boxing for a long time. It clears my head, and resets my energy. Boxing keeps me grounded.

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In this Conversating with Yhorlife we got to conversate with CEO of Pacific Playa Realty, Urb & Lux and Strategist Teresa Mack. Teresa is so infectious, bubbly and professional that I couldn’t stop Conversating. Teresa’s energy is so authentic and her knowledge in this industry is unparalleled you’ll want to purchase yhor next home, condo or join her groups to stay informed. I hope you enjoy this Conversating as much as I do - Enjoy!

©TERESAMACK

How would you introduce yourself to people that are unaware of you …

I am a comprehensive Real Estate Professional. It will be an experience that is more than the transaction. As a person you have goals, expectations, and obligations.

In a real estate transaction to cover all of those (things) we cannot be just about the paper, and the property.

We have to be where do you want to go with that property, and how you are going to get into it.

You are CEO of Pacific Playa Realty, Urb & Lux. Specialist, and top Agent. What do you foresee as the biggest trends in 2025? Why do you think real estate has continued to be an investment staple (even with all the risk & uncertainty etc.)?

So, here we are in the middle of 2025 … so I have to get started on giving my view on 2025, because we are heading toward the middle of the year.

I say real estate is like coffee. People who want it, need it, and they will get it. A person who wants to be in control of their housing situation, they will find a way to do that.

They will find a way out of living at home, or renting, and they will make their way into ownership – because they will see what the benefits are (of owning their own home).

It is a double whammy, you put a roof over your head and you are sitting inside your bank. Your home is increasing in value even if you do nothing. Over time real estate has shown us unequivocally that it increases in value.

It might have valleys and peaks, but if you stay the course in a real estate investment, we have not seen a time that it has not recovered – even in 2008.

In 2008, we thought the sky was falling. Now here we are in 2025 and prices have doubled what they were when we were at the belly. Which was the lowest point of prices in 2008.

I think that real estate persists because of these two purposes. It serves a personal need to be housed, and in control. It also serves as an investment opportunity that is accessible to most people.

  ***Now with all the Tariffs in the news, and the blood bath on Wall Street as a result of the Tariffs. With analysts projecting that we are heading into another 2008. People who have recently bought, or thinking about buying (a home) … when do you advise is the best time … or do you wait until it actually explodes, or just jump in?***

There is a lot of uncertainty and fear about the Tariffs and are economy. When I listen to Real Estate Economist, they are not saying that real estate is declining in value, or that we are heading for another big drop in real estate.

I honestly thought that they would say that the market would soften, but they are not. There is a supply and demand issue also.

We had such a long period of time that people purchased real estate at low interest rates. Those people are slower to sell their properties, because they are going to lose that interest rate. The lower interest rates will not ever come back in this life time. So that is creating pressure on the supply side of the real estate market.

There are a lot of people that wanted to buy before the interest rates started to increase. Once the rates started to go up, they stopped. So, those two factors are going to kind of cushion the real estate market from a deep decline.

I would also say to anyone that purchased recently … they did not purchase for the short term. Hopefully their realtor did not say let’s buy this today, and sell next year. I don’t think there is anyone in the industry that thinks this is possible anymore.

They bought it for the long term, they bought something that they could afford – they can afford the monthly payment. They have a long- term view of how long they will be in the house. For however long it takes for them to see the season when they want to sell. They are going to be fine.

As well think of this … if they’ re renting and their landlord needs to increase their rent because their costs are increasing – they can do that.

However, a bank cannot do that on your mortgage, as long as their mortgage is fixed. People who are invested in the market, and they see their investments decline; (because no investments are full proof) – they are going to have to ride it out, and probably not sell.

As well they may not have liquid funds to purchase, that is creating a situation in the market for those folks who were going to buy before the market dropped. If they were going to liquidate their investment for the downpayment; they are unable to do that. Or they have a smaller amount for the downpayment. The other option is that they will have to shop at a lower price point.

You are also an Attorney, and a former CPA. How did you parlay that knowledge with building yhor Company/Brand (you are yhor brand) …

Interestingly enough as an Attorney, and as a CPA I was an employee. I was not in a leadership position other than for my task. I think in terms of building my brand, and building the company that was all learned opportunity.

Now what my foundation built was the confidence that I could be - a good Lawyer, Public Accountant, Customer Service person, or anything.

Those skills persist through challenges is what led me to be willing to do something different. I never had to market myself as a Lawyer, or CPA because I was an employee.

Take where you are, and know that that is building a foundation of confidence and skill.

©TERESAMACK

What are your tips for a healthy mindset …

A pause in the morning, it is important. I don’t care how hectic the morning gets, or what emergency comes up in the morning.

As a CEO of a company with eighty-five agents I have a lot of moving parts every day. As well we also manage four other companies.

I insist on thirty minutes of peace no matter what – one – I am going to meditate from 5mins to 15 mins; two – I pray … so that I feel that whatever is out of my control is in somebody’s hands. Then I look at the most urgent thing first and attack that only. So, having a very structured professional schedule is very important if you have a busy life.

I was not aware of this as an employee, because an employer tells you when to come to work and what to do. When you are an entrepreneur, you must have a set of things that you do regularly. So, when the emergencies come up you know where you can make the compromise, and when you can deal with it. I think that is important.

Are you old school with pen to paper, or are you more modern and have everything on your phone? I am little Miss. Everybody I have my full schedule, Google calendar, and that is six calendars that come together. I have a team, a family, my personal appointments, and the company appointments.

The other two calendars are holiday and birthdays, four of them are calendars in motion every day, Now, those I use on my phone because I am collaborating with other people.

I, am the type of person, like you, that needs to write things down. So, every evening, I write out what I have done that day, and what I need to do tomorrow. That list comes from what was left over from that day.

I do look at my calendar the day before, and the day after. So that I am able to see if I have early morning appointments that have been put on my calendar.

I use both. You have to figure out the type of person that you are, and the type of people that you are working with; the people that I am working with demand to use technology. Or, I would have a paper calendar.

Even when I put things on my phone calendar, I see the notification; but for some reason it never sticks in my mind. When I write it down …it can be three weeks from now, and I remember it. Oh! I am the same way too. So, I am taking a coaching class, I take it three times a year, and it is called Accelerate Coaching.

It is sixteen sessions, and it is all about habits that are essential for a successful entrepreneurial adventure, that is what I call business.

The last session we implemented the nightly planning sheets. I looked at those sheets and thought … at night I am trying to go to bed, wind down and watch Netflix and go to sleep. But it is essential. Yes! I equate that to packing up ‘for school’ the night before.

You have to look at the digital calendar as well, and then you have to write it down. Yeah … I put my phone away at a certain time. No, you have to do that; because you remember those things that you miss. And that is what I missed doing yesterday, and that is why this morning is chaotic.

  ***On*** ***your website*** ***you have a quote … ‘ I fell in love with real estate fifteen years ago, on a quest for independence and income and a real opportunity to contribute to my community”. Essentially you see Real Estate as freedom. What specifically about Real Estate did you see as independence and income… since you are a lawyer and a former CPA? And why is contributing to your community so important to you? …***

Independence was my time. When I was an attorney, I was a trial attorney, and while I had a lot of power when it was on my desk; when it was time to go to court whatever the judge said for me to do, or whatever the investigation required I had to be there. Whether my kids were in the hospital, or it was back to school night, and that became my conflict.

I really wanted the freedom to leverage other people if I needed the time, or to schedule a time that worked for my life.

Now I love my work, but I do not work to live. So, that was the independence that I was seeking – the ability to manage my time. However, I thought it (real estate) was more like what I saw on television … uh no! I quickly learned that it is more like practicing law. It is extremely demanding and time consuming. But I do have the flexibility for someone else to show up when I cannot.

However, it can be incredibly rewarding and financially rewarding depending on the work that you put into it. I like that … because if I am not making the money that I want, I know why. And if I am making the money that I need it is because I am putting the effort in.

Commitment to community … I was raised in a family that had a commitment to our community. My father was a civil rights leader, and my mother was a teacher. I was just raised that together we are better, and you should always leave where you come from better than when you got there.

So, that is how I operate. My community has been great to me, they have supported me, and they have had my back during difficult times as well. So, I try to give more than I get, and it always ends up in reverse. When you are giving you always get more.

What is your personal favorite architectural design (homes) if you could select one style of home to forever sell, and it wouldn’t feel like selling …

Oh, so hard. I am going to give you the top two. Spanish style for sure, because I like historic, warm, cozy, and architectural details. But I also like a Contemporary house. Oh! Really! … Yes, I do. I like the clean lines. I like minimal space – now that is me personally.

I really love whatever my client is looking for. When I can find them that home that speaks to them, and they say ‘this is my house’. I feel the butterflies. I listened to what they wanted, they worked hard enough and we did this together. So, let’s try to close it down.

So, you don’t feel like the contemporary style gets old … No, no I don’t. It might be because of the area that sell. But midcentury is different from contemporary, but a lot of times it is a blend in them. Those are also the popular styles, and maybe that is why.

Yes, I do like the sleekness of it … but I also like the warmth of the Spanish style. Remember the house that you guys came to see? Well, that was contemporary, and you liked it. Yes, but that was a blend though, and had a more of a Latin feel. Yes, true. The designer brought the warmth in (the way that he designed it).

It (the home) was clean… and minimalist … yes which I love. The architecture of that home was very Latin with the ensuites of the bedrooms.

No one has a smooth journey. What was the most pivotal part in your journey? Did you ever feel like quitting when you were starting this business …

Oh yes! So, this company started as a national franchise. We had a very cookie cutter set of rules that we had to follow. It was good because we had to learn how to run a brokerage.

At one point the owner of the brokerage, Munif, said ‘I don’t want to follow this cookie cutter, we are not a cookie cutter community, or brokerage’. That is when he decided that we should break away and be independent.

I on the other hand was like we will not leave the mother ship, we don’t know what we are doing – what are you talking about. He said ‘yes, I am sure’. That was when I took a leap of faith to go out on our own and leave the corporate system behind.

I was afraid. Yes, I had to look at it this way – you have run a very successful franchise for five years. If you have not learned enough to stand on your own two feet what is going on here. And it was the best thing that we ever did – and that was the pivotal point.

It really unleashed my confidence in my ability to do things, in my, and our own way.

Did you ever feel like quitting … okay which time? No, lol … yes like three times a day.If you are on a growth trajectory like we have been on; there is no way that you cannot say that you have not felt like quitting at some time.

When we rolled up to our building that had been burnt to the ground, and everything that we owned was in ashes and water – yeah, I did feel like maybe this is God telling me ‘You should try to do something different’. But it wasn’t … it was more of an opportunity to push through a hard time.

When I first started in 2006 and the market tanked in 2007, and 2008 … I thought maybe should I go back to my job? But I am way too vain to go back with my tail between my legs.

So, I just had to push through. And I learned more in that difficult time – I feel more invincible after going through that recession as a young realtor.

Yeah … if you have not felt like quitting then you have not grown to your full potential. Because it is on the other side of that feeling that something big is going to happen. I so agree! Especially during tax season, I was like ‘I am going to give you your money back – I cannot’. I typed those emails like three times (then deleted them). No learn from this, so that it is not repeated. Exactly! True.

©TERESAMACK

What are your three staples of clothing that make you feel yhor most confident …

Well, I am a simple dresser. This is probably the fanciest that I get. I like a neat black dress that is either tea length, or knee length so that it is conservative enough. I also like a red dress, that is our brand color so I have to have something with red. Also, a good pair of slacks with a good fitted top.

I am an easy dresser, and I don’t like spending a lot of time thinking about it. Okay, when you have a big business meeting, or a large networking event – what is your go to? For me it is I will always wear my dad’s blazer, that is my go- to. Besides my mom being my ESA dog.

Well, I have to tell you … I put on my skin and I feel invincible. Really!?! There is no outfit, there is no hairstyle – it really is on the inside for me. Now I may have to say Affirmations, I may have to review how I am going to walk in with confidence. But it really is my skin. It really is. Oh, okay Gandhi.

What are you most excited about for the remainder of 2025...

I am excited for growth in our businesses. One of the reasons it was so busy today, we have two new Recruits downstairs, we have three new Loan Officers, and I have my son starting work with me today – he had to go off and meet an Appraiser. I am excited for the growth.

You know we are recovering from that fire. This is the first year that we can breathe and move forward. It is tough that it is happening in this economy. In this political environment where everyone is angry, uncertain, and afraid. So, it will be challenging – but that is what is in front of us.

If you are not growing … you are shrinking.

What are some of the most rewarding parts of your job?

Young new Agents, getting their first transactions.

What is your favorite way to unwind… Being by the water

  ©TERESAMACK

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In this Conversating with Yhorlife we got to conversate with Premier & Celebrity Henna Artist, Entrepreneur, and overall Powerhouse Neha Assar Panchal. Neha is so infectious, bubbly and professional that I couldn’t stop Conversating and it shines through the interview. My love and respect for Henna goes back to my childhood. Neha’s energy is so authentic you’ll want to purchase her mug or book your Henna. I had a blast and hope you enjoy this Conversating as much as I do - Enjoy!

©NEHAASSARPANCHAL

***So! Neha …. how would you introduce yourself to people that are unaware of you …***

My name is Neha Assar I am a multi impression Henna artist and creator. My work spans from ancient henna design to housewares; home goods; furniture; apparel; accessories; and wall art. I have an affinity to creative self-expression.

I have a lot of energy inside and I let it out through my platform and my website. My goal is to bring unique hand made art into people’s lives, while fostering a connection with them.

I also want a sense of individuality in my artwork, because I am doing it for that individual. Every time I create my artwork tells a story, and I am excited to share mine with you guys.

What would you say are three adjectives that would describe you (when someone meets you) …

Oh gosh … I think that I am passionate, persistent, and when it comes to my artwork I am really consistent. Oh! I would also say bubbly. Because you just bounced into the room with this amazing hair. Oh! Well thank you, and I will take that.

No, you are bubbly, and you have a warm personality and that translates into your art. Well … thank you, thank you.

Okay so you are known as the top Henna Artist, and you are an entity. Now the henna is just not the traditional sense where it is not just the intricate designs, or special occasions. You have made it where it can be a part of your everyday occurrence and even in art. What do you see as the biggest trend in 2025 , and why do you think henna has become such a staple …

I actually find it hard to predict trends for the future. So, I often look inward to see how far I am willing to push my art. For me it is about feeling connected to what I create. While also building a connection with the consumer, and my customer.

It is almost instinctual. Like I get this feeling when the product is the right one to bring to life. And then I start imagining how it could fit into different spaces. That excites me and it fuels my creativity, and it also translates into my marketing. Somehow it just all comes together, and it works. So, trends for me is just an instinctual feeling, I can not pinpoint exactly what the consumer is going to want. I have to feel it, and then I have to make them feel it too.

***And then why do you think henna has become such a staple …***

Henna has always been a cornerstone of Indian culture. I feel like its influences everywhere in mainstream Indian inspired aesthetics. If you go to HomeGoods Store, or World Market you see products that evoke South Asian artistry.

For me the joy and challenge in blending this Ancient Indian art form with my personal aesthetics, and making it a part of everyday lives. That is my challenge. I want it to be personal, and to feel personal. Not just another henna design on something. I love your designs, not just the henna that you do for brides, that is gorgeous. But on the actual products, the furniture. … it is just beautiful. I was showing my mom, she has been a huge yogi for years.

We went to a friends wedding in R.P.V, they are Indian, and the wedding was simply gorgeous. I probably did their wedding! You probably did! Sometimes when you choose a traditional aesthetic it can seem sometimes outdated. Yes…. I love how your aesthetic is modern and timeless, yet it pays homage to your heritage. Yes!

So, because of that do you think that is why you have seen such a demand for your work. You can so seamlessly blend Western aesthetic and with staying true to the traditional Indian aesthetic …

Yes, I mean I was born and raised in Southern California. So, every time I went back to India to get my henna done we would sit in a restaurant in a corner, and there would be an artist there.

And of course there would be a few people waiting behind me. I would sense that the artist was rushing to finish my henna, there were gaps (in the design), or putting bold art in places where it didn’t aesthetically feel proper. As an artist I always had this artistic perception of everything.

If it visually didn’t set well with me, it would bother me. Then I am stuck with this artwork for like ten days. I would be thinking that I could have done this, and that better. That is when I would go back to the drawing board and do it on paper with my pencil.

I would find myself saying … ‘if I was the one doing it (the design) this is how I would do it’. I was so precise about making it perfect, symmetrical, and even. I have been obsessed with that.

So, I think that when my artwork is in demand it is because I actually take the time to do it right. It has to visually look good, I will not put out a product that does not reflect that intention. I think that you can feel that energetically too. As a consumer you can feel when someone is just churning something out. Yes!!!

It is like they may stand behind it, there might be a formula to it, but no soul. There is a fine line between soul and looking chonchsky, and then just bringing the soul of the art to the market. You accomplish that so well. Thank you, I appreciate that.

So, you are also an engineer by trade … I am. Now I call that a ‘hair flip moment’. Awww thanks! Now how did you parlay that knowledge with building your brand. I understand that as someone that is more analytical and going to creative, it kind of blends together. There is a science to creativity. Yes! ... How did you start, from being an engineer… how did you get people to trust you – that you could do their henna …

Well, you know it is crazy, because I have been doing henna since 1994. So this is my thirtieth year do doing henna. Wait… it will be thirty-one years in 2025. I paid my way through school doing henna, I did henna to pay for my full engineering curriculum. At the same time it is like what came first, the chicken or the egg? Was it the precision that came first? Or was it the engineering that taught me to be so precise.

And people always ask me is that why you became an engineer because you are so calculative? And you all about symmetry and perfection … I feel like it fed off each other.

As an engineer I always approach things with a problem solving mindset. So, at any given canvas I have to figure it out. That has been an invaluable part of building my brand. Engineering taught me how to think analytically and systematically. I have applied that to every aspect of my business.

So, when it came to blogging and building my website … designing and maintaining my website required technical skills. I had to be organized, I needed design experience, more like a good eye.

I had to apply my coding experience. Which is so crazy, because coding class was so hard … oh my gosh yes I almost failed out of coding. I had to code my sight, and like the Hex Code. Yes!!! … I thought then what is this, I will never need this. Yes! Oh my gosh yes.

Yet, when I was building my site … you better believe that I found my notes. I thought my professor was a genius. Yes, I even thought what does this even mean. But when you need it you figure it out, right?

Yes, so I approached my blog and website like a system. Identifying what my audience needed, and then optimizing my platform to provide those needs. In terms of my shop and the product development, as an engineer I am very detailed oriented. So, I focus on the entire life cycle of my products. From ideation to execution. And I think about how to make each product not just beautiful but functional. I also want it to be meaningful for the consumer.

Like my mugs for example, my personalized Mehndi Mug is a bestseller on my website. Lets say that you buy just one, and it has your name on it, and it has Mehndi on it. I am sure that you have a Starbuck’s mug, a work from work, and from other conferences that you went to. Yes, just like your favorite mugs that mean something when you see them, and you hold onto them. Yes, they speak to you, and you hold onto them.

What makes the consumer reach for your mug every single time? It is a feeling, a memory. Yes, it is a feeling, exactly. It is also the experience of using the mug too. When I do henna on the skin there is a certain texture to it, it dries on the skin and you can feel it. It dries and there is the paste and it is raised and you can feel it.

Now when I do henna on the mug, and when the paint dries down you can feel the texture. So, it is a very seamless transition from your skin to the cup – and you can feel it. Then is is on a clear mug that holds eighteen ounces of fluid, which is a big cup of coffee, or big bowl of soup, or two scoops of ice cream.

©NEHAASSARPANCHAL

It is totally multi-purpose, they are functional. Yes, totally multi-purpose. When you pour liquids in the mug it totally pops. Those are the things that I analyze when I put out a product. Does it move the person, why would they want to use this.

How long did it take you from being a full-time engineer to jumping to doing your blog, and taking your passion to full-time …

Well, I knew that I was good at the art. For example in 2006, my husband and I were going to get married in 2007. I was saving up for my wedding, and that year I did eighty-five weddings. I did hair, make-up for eighty-five weddings. I used to do hair and make-up back then, and I had my full-time career. I was the one stop shop – I did hair, make-up, and henna.

Let me back up … in 1994 I was working for a salon in Artesia. I worked there for about three years, and then I went off to college. I went to college in Fall of 1998, by Spring of 1999 there was the South Asian Bridal Expo in L.A.

It was the first South Asian Bridal Expo ever. So, the production company called me up, they said that they did not have anymore booths available but we have a six-foot table for you if you want to come and display your stuff. I was like I will take it, and they did not charge me. Oh! Free is one of my favorite words. Totally!

So, I didn’t know what ‘pipe and drape’ was, so I showed up with a board. A like science fair board. Wait the ones with the three panels? Yes! I looked so lame, I was the lamest person at this bridal expo. People have screens, and flowers. Oh my gosh … yes! I did one expo and I didn’t even have a sign. These people come prepared. Oh yes, the come prepared. It is too much.

Since I use to do make-up, I thought I would do quick make-up and then henna samples on site. I told them if you book me today I will give like 10% off your wedding booking. Genius! Yes, I booked like twenty-three weddings that day. Stop!!! Yes, It was insane, and at that time I was nineteen years old.

I was taking trials for hair and make-up in my dorm. Stop! ...oh yes! I would do bridal henna in my dorm. Often the brides did not have the space for me to come to them, nor did I have a car at that time to go to them. But I was in demand and I knew it. I was like I am going to keep working. I mean I failed a lot of classes along the way because I would work so late.

You know when you are building something, and you have that entrepreneurial spirit, you know if you can do this you can do anything. Yes, that is so true. I knew that if I could do this, and get one person, the rest is just a matter of time. It was those formative years. That is exactly it. In college I told my parents while I was in college that I wanted to drop out of Engineering School. They were supporting me, and helping me. I was like give me the money I will start a business. My parents were like absolutely not. A henna artist is like the lowest, they are sitting on the street doing henna. It is more like a survival skill, and not a profession. So, for them (my parents) they were so embarrassed.

They were like we moved to a whole new country to give you a better experience and you now want to become that person. Yes, I do believe that it is about the minority, ethnic mindset, you have to be better and do better. Yes, it is the idea that you have to fit in (to society), and be better.

When I finally became a full blown engineer, I was like I am only going to do this for five years … and then I am out. Then life happens … I got married, I had kids, I needed those benefits, that 401(k), and all of those things.

My husband and I are both engineers, in oil and gas. Well, it is always responsive to the current government administration. The Administration changes things, politics and the economy changes things. People priorities changes. It is volatile.

See you forget that with engineering, either that be with EV or oil and gas; you just think that industry will be fine. Like if you are in defense, it is fine when you are going to war. Then there are these ethical issues that you are dealing with, like why are we supporting all of this drilling. That was killing me and I was like I have got to get out of this.

But my artwork is what kept us afloat through all of this every single time. In 2020, all of my paintings sold. I always knew that I was going to thrive doing this. In 2021 I got laid off. I worked at this company for five and a half years, and I was the only person doing this function on the West Coast.

In 2020 I got sick with Covid for three and a half weeks, and during this time they found a replacement and laid me off. I thought while I was sick that if I get laid off, I am going to put all of my energy in the art because I can do it.

In 2021, and 2022 my business was amazing, and the best decision I ever made. Yes, there have been struggles, but all in all okay. You know something needs to be said how you took what could have been a soul crushing moment, you took it and ran with it (your passion) … that is a real Hair Flip Moment! Yes, that is so true and thank you. Did you ever feel like quitting...

To be honest coming into this art world and doing it full time, was daunting. There were three pivotal moments. When I started henna in 1994 the first time I picked up a Mehndi Cone, which is the apparatus that I use to do the art.

My client was a bride, so my first professional experience was on a bride. I was fourteen years old and the bride was thirty-three years old. Her parents had told her if you do not get married by thirty years old we will find someone for you, and that is exactly what they did.

So, the entire time the bride was complaining the entire appointment about marrying this man. At fourteen years old that was a lot to take in. It was at that point in my career that I thought I do not know if I want to do this.

So, the entire time the bride was complaining the In 2007 I got married. In 2008, I had a client she was upset, because she did not share (with me) the time and location of her event. It was the day of her event … and I was like what am I supposed to do.

So, I was obviously late by the time they called me.

I got there and did the service, by the time I was ready to leave they did not want to pay me. I was like no you have to pay me. They went out of there way to crumble up one and five dollar bills just to come and throw it in my face. That time I left the appointment crying.

As a result of that experience I knew that I was going to increase my rates, and not put up with ‘b.s.’ anymore. It made me stronger and more courageous as an artist. I realized that group of people did not deserve my attention nor my art. It could have gone either way – I could have left the industry saying I am not going to put up with this ‘b.s’... but I rose above it, and persevered.

Then in 2023 I almost decided to give up on my art career, and go back to my engineering career – which I thought would never happen. It was because my business just tanked for some reason. It could have been because the economy tanked, and my business is more of a luxury service. I had an art studio in 2022, I signed the lease and by Thanksgiving of 2022 I knew that I could not sustain the lease.

My lease was up in April 2023, I knew that I could not go past that, and I knew that I was not resigning. Wedding bookings were not coming through like they customarily were, and my online orders had declined. Black Friday 2022 sales were down, and I just could tell. Christmas sales were down.

It tanked and I was stressed out, this was our livelihood. But by November of 2023 SZA called, and she saved my life. And everything happened at that time. It was amazing and I am grateful that I still get to work with her.

Do you find that it is way more work to work in corporate? ... and the stress of knowing you can be released, or replaced at any moment. Or to take the entrepreneurial path where you face the unknown mixed with volatile markets, and working ten times harder and making maybe ten percent of your earnings in the corporate job...

You know I don’t feel like… well, the numbers always added up for me. I was never like I am only making ten or twenty percent of what I use to make. I knew that sometimes I made in two days what I would make with my engineer salary. I mean a two week paycheck.

Yes, and if you can do it once you can repeat it. It can be done… Yes, and that is the formula that I am still trying to figure out, but that depends on someone else. That is where my husband gets upset, because he is still the engineer, and I am now the artist. He is like don’t you want peace of mind knowing that your paycheck is going to come on Friday?

©NEHAASSARPANCHAL

Yes, but not really because you don’t ever know what your employer is thinking. You might be working hard and thinking that you are doing a great job (at work). Meanwhile your boss is thinking your work is subpar. SO, that is not really peace of mind. Yes! It comes in different ways, in engineering I always had to prove myself fifteen times harder. Because I was that girl that wore heels, and hung out with others and socialized.

The others had their heads buried in their computers with the highlight of their days was where are going for lunch. Mine (highlight) was that Kylie Jenner called, and I am going to her home in Hidden Hills after work!

I remember in December 2015 I got published in the Wall Street Journal, it was two things - the first day they were going to drop in print and the next day they were going to drop online. So, when it dropped in print I stopped at Starbucks to pick up the paper to distribute all of my family.

When I went into work I could not even celebrate. When it dropped online the next day, Wall Street Journal India liked the article so much they picked it up. They featured like seventeen photos of me which was huge.

What are your three staples of clothing that makes you feel most confident...

I really like a statement jacket, or some piece of outer wear. That is why I paint jackets all the time. Hats are something that make me feel real edgy too, and I do artwork on the hats. Then lastly shoes, because you can build your whole outfit around them.

What are some of the most rewarding parts of your job...

Some of the most rewarding parts of my job are seeing the impact that my work has on people. If it is henna designs, or bringing someone confidence or a product that adds beauty and meaning nto someones’ life. That is huge for me. I feel fulfilled in knowing that I am creating something with purpose.

My personal connections that I make with clients, customers, and the joy that it brings them. It is really rewarding for me.

What is your favorite way to unwind...

Spending time with my family, I do all of this for them, and that is huge. I also crochet a lot. And that is one thing that I have not even monetize on yet, and I know that I should. I am working on handbags now though, so it will launch soon.

Then being in nature. I love hiking, going to the ocean, and being in nature. I love going to the beach in Seal Beach area.

Thank you so much Neha this was so much fun talking with you! …. Yes, thank you so much!

©NEHAASSARPANCHAL
©NEHAASSARPANCHAL
©NEHAASSARPANCHAL
©NEHAASSARPANCHAL

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In this Conversating with Yhorlife we got to conversate with Top Russian Manicurist, Entrepreneur, Celebrity Nail Guru and overall Powerhouse Lisa Kon. Lisa is so kind, sincere and professional that it shines through the interview. My love of the Russian Manicure is real & to say I was elated to get Lisa to start 2025 off is an understatement! Humbled, excited and I hope you enjoy this Conversating as much as I do - Enjoy!

©LISAKON

Thank you so much for conversating with Yhorlife today…

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?

I’m Lisa Kon, a Los Angeles-based entrepreneur, nail trendsetter, and the owner of two premium salons—one in Beverly Hills and one in Studio City. My brand, Lisa Kon, specializes in high-quality nail materials, tools, and equipment, with a focus on Russian manicures. I’m passionate about innovation in the nail industry and creating elegant, long-lasting results for clients, including many celebrities.

  ***You’re known as the top Russian Manicurist and Nail Trendsetter. What do you foresee as the biggest nail trends in 2025? Why do you think the Russian Manicure has become such a staple?***

In 2025, I foresee trends leaning toward natural and elegant nail shapes, such as almond and soft square, paired with minimalist designs, textured accents, and elevated neutrals. People want nails that are sophisticated but low-maintenance.

The Russian manicure has become a staple because of its precision, cleanliness, and the flawless finish it delivers. It’s not just a manicure; it’s a meticulous art form that provides long-lasting, polished results.

What are your tips for a healthy mindset?

Focus on balance. I believe in finding time for self-care, setting clear goals, and surrounding yourself with people who inspire and support you. Gratitude and persistence also play a huge role in maintaining a positive outlook.

I love how you have your place Lisa Kon Beverly Hills. You also have your own line of nail products. What made you take the leap to design your own products? What is one staple from your line everyone should own?

Starting my own line came from a desire to provide my clients and professionals with high-quality materials I could trust. It was also an opportunity to bring my vision and experience into products that make a difference.

One must-have product from my line is our ultra-pigmented gel polishes. They’re durable, easy to apply, and perfect for both professionals and home users.

What is your personal favorite nail color?

For myself, 99% of the time, I choose a sheer nude shade that blends perfectly with my natural nail. I also love a matte finish. These two combinations make my nails look flawless, yet as if there’s nothing on them at all.

No one has a smooth journey. What was the most pivotal part in your journey? Did you ever feel like quitting?

The most pivotal part of my journey was opening my first salon. It was both exciting and intimidating, but it taught me resilience and how to turn challenges into opportunities. Yes, there were moments when I felt overwhelmed, but my passion for what I do always pushed me forward.

What are your 3 staples of clothing that make you feel your most confident?

I love comfortable clothing that also highlights my feminine figure.

My top 3 would be high-waisted wide-leg jeans, fitted tops/sweaters, and oversized blazers or knitwear.

What are you most excited about for 2025?

I’m excited to expand my brand, introduce more educational content for aspiring nail artists, and bring innovative products to the market. It’s going to be a year of growth and creativity.

What are some of the most rewarding parts of your job?

Seeing the confidence and happiness my clients feel after a service is incredibly rewarding. I also love mentoring my team and watching them grow professionally.

Last & most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind?

A game of tennis followed by a cozy evening with my family. It’s the perfect mix of activity and relaxation.

Thank you so much for your time!

©LISAKON
©LISAKON
©LISAKON
©LISAKON

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In this Conversating with Yhorlife we got to conversate with Best-Selling Author and CEO Powerhouse Maha Abouelenein. Maha is so kind and giving and her authenticity of wanting people to succeed shone through. She has also perfected his ‘serious face’ which is why I was quite nervous for this Conversating. Hope you enjoy this Conversating as much as I do - Enjoy!

©MAHAABOUELENEIN

Thank you so much for conversating with Yhorlife today…

How would you introduce yourself to those who are unaware of you…

First, I introduce myself as a dog mom, I am an aunt, and I am a professional storyteller. I like to help people build and protect their reputations, and I do communications.

Now I am a best-selling author with the book, ‘7 Rules of Self Reliance’. I am proud and excited for people to read the book. As well to embrace it and adopt the rules in their lives. Especially as we move into 2025.

What type of dog do you have … I have a Shit-Zhu. Oh my gosh so do I, her name is Fluffy! And she totally runs me. Oh yes! I get a lot of side eye. Yes, me too!

I love your new book, ‘The 7 Rules of Self-Reliance’. Thank you! Now why are you so passionate about helping people gain confidence, and going after what they want? I think the biggest misconception, coming from a communications background is that this book applies if I am going into Public Relations. No, the book helps if you are going into any industry. So, why are you passionate about helping people gain their confidence…

I think when people learn what they need to learn, what they need to do to rely on themselves, they become unstoppable. Relying on yourself to build relationships, and your own network. Rely on yourself to build your reputation, brand. That should not be outsourced to anyone. Rely on yourself to learn how to create value for other people. Rely on yourself to invest in yourself.

You do not have to rely on someone to teach you something, you can go online and learn it. You can go online and learn it for free. So, that is why I think self-reliance is important.

It is not about needing anyone, you should rely on yourself, you are the only person that can do what is best for yourself. You need to have skills, and you need to have the weapons to operate in today’s world. And I want to give you those tools.

***Why do you think that your Number One Rule – To Stay Low and Keep Moving is one the most challenging to implement …***

We live in a world that is full of distractions – we are distracted by social media, changing trends, and by comparing ourselves to other people. It is hard to stay low. By that I mean stay low and focus on your goals.

If you are constantly listening to the ‘noise’ and the ‘naysayers’, those distractions are what really kill a business. If you are listening to those distractions, you are not and will not focus on what you care about. You will be constantly reacting, and I want you to be proactive instead of reactive. You mentioned too learning skill sets on the internet and that being free. Yes, so true.

As we move into 2025 do you think the biggest thing about being, self-reliant, self-contained and staying low is that you cannot be afraid of what is new, embrace it? Also, pivoting as well is a real thing. Yes! How do you think people should pivot? Yes, they have the knowledge, but how do they know where to pivot too?

Yeah, that is a great question … I love it. I think that if you want to be in the market and you want to work at your career, or grow, or you are an entrepreneur and you want to grow your business. You can be a leader in transition, or work at a company and you want to move into entrepreneurship. I feel like you need to be able to adapt to what is in the market, adapt to it, and you can leverage it.

It is the idea of being agile, being open to change, that will help you to grow. If you can grow you can get better opportunities, and better chances of income. You must be open to change, and you must be agile because the market is moving fast.

So, it is critical for you to constantly stay relevant in today’s market.

What are your tips for a healthy mindset? Because we are inundated with social media, and the boasting (on social media). We all know that it is not the haven for mental health…

For a healthy mindset you must schedule your days better. How much time are you allotting to a certain activity? Make sure that you are taking a break, and not grinding all the time. Learn new things. It is important to learn new skills – it could be a sport or making blankets. Having a healthy mindset is having the capacity in your mind for growth and learning.

Also, look how to schedule your day. How do you schedule your meetings? Having a healthy mindset is about scheduling your day properly. As well having time for rest, making time to learn things, and making time to build healthy relationships – who is in your circle matters.

I saw on your Instagram Post last week … ‘A personal brand does not mean that they have access to everything.’ Why do you think to make that divide is so crucial …

Yes, I talk to a lot of people about investing in your reputation, investing in your personal brand. Often their response is ...’ I do not want to put my life out there on the internet’. I am not talking about that; I am not talking about sharing your personal life. The reason you build a personal brand, is that you are intentional about how you want to show up in the world.

When someone Google’s you, what shows up is what you have put out there. You are not letting other people decide your reputation or who you are. The reason I say it is not your personal life, is that you do not have to show your vacations, your home, you control the narrative, and that is the point.

In your book you discussed using your difference as a superpower and not a hindrance. When did this happen for you? I remember mine …

I grew up in Minnesota, a very small community, and I was the only brown girl in my class. I always knew that I was different. I did not blend in, from my name and how I looked. I tried to spend my life when I was young to fit in with everyone else, the crowd.

Later, I found out the importance to not blend in and to stick out, and not be like everyone else. That you need to celebrate your differences and use it to your advantage. Use it to bring value to other people, and to build a business doing that. And that is what I did.

©MAHAABOUELENEIN

You have your business, career in Egypt, Dubai, and the Middle East. Embracing your cultural background was that the catalyst to going more where you see yourself. Or was it more that you have a great opportunity and let me jump on this …

It was more that I have a great opportunity and let me jump on this, but also let me do what I can do to create value. To help people in the United States understand people in the Middle East.

People want to go to Dubai, Egypt, and they want to do business in Saudi Arabia. I have been living there for 23 years, so why can’t I be that catalyst for that? I have been doing business in the region for 27 years.

I feel that if there is something that you are uniquely qualified for, and you have experience in you should use that to create value for other people, and that is what I did.

What would you say was your ballsiest moment? Where you were given an opportunity, and you were winging it, they did not know that you were winging it in your career, but you knew … that is actually the opening story in the book, where I was asked to write a speech for the Prime Minister of Egypt.

I said that I do not write speeches for heads of State, that is not something that I do. They thought that I could do it, and why didn’t I think that I could do it? So, I had to rely on myself and figure it out.

I started not knowing what to write and freaking out. So, I then thought what would I want to hear if I was sitting in the audience. The minute that I did that, that was my ‘Ah Ha’ moment. I literally got out of my head, and everything just flowed. I did a good job, and I became his speech writer.

Now, I want to know what got you your first communications client. That is what I want to know, I am a tad Nosie…

No, it is not being Nosie! My first client when I was in Egypt when I started my company was Coca-Cola. I got a big flagship client because I am an American. I did not look like everyone else, nor did I look like everyone else in Egypt.

So, the question became who is the American woman in the room. And I was like I am both – I am American and Egyptian. I used both to secure that client, because I knew both cultures – how they do business, and what they care about.

I worked with Coca-Cola for more than ten years, and we became very close. I created value for them. As the job grew, I ended up growing with them.

We had a great relationship of how to tell Coca-Cola’s story in the market and kept steadfast with their goals and values in the U.S.; as well to be locally relevant and speak to the culture in Egypt. It was a great relationship, and experience.

How do you define resilience ….

You know everybody goes through tough times in their life and at work … that are not easy to navigate or manage. I find if you have a good grasp on self-awareness – what you are good at and not good at, you will be able to weather a storm.

You will be able to ask those questions and to know when you need to ask for help, or support in certain areas. That is what people that are self-aware know how to do.

Are you falling behind on something that you know that you are not going to make it, so how you can you push through with resilience so that it does not push you back. Because there are setbacks that do happen at work, just make that a part of that equation.

Also, the key is how you react to the change. Yes, that makes me think of the quote from the Four Agreements – ‘Do not take it personally’. It is hard though, we are human. I see a lot of companies that are laying off people now. There is a story about eight employees that got laid off at Google, and it follows how they reacted to being laid off. It is easy to say, but not easy to do.

***What would you say was the most pivotal part in your journey, and did you ever feel like quitting… Where you found yourself saying ‘I do have a dream, but I am getting hit with a lot of roadblocks’ …***

I am not the kind of person that gives up, or to tap out. I feel like life is about decisions that you have with the information at the time. You should take it and make that decision and not overthink it.

Then go down that path, then make another decision point. Like we do not always have the answers, we do not always see the whole staircase when we take the first step.

It is important to not beat yourself up about your decision. You must go left or right, there is no wrong answers, those are the opportunities that you have at that point.

You know I am really trying to think if there was ever a time when I said – that is it I am giving up. No, I honestly cannot think of a time that I said that I give up. You know that is awesome, and that is what I call a hair-flip moment! (Maha, flips her hair). Yes!!! I love it! You have made my day. Yeah, I like that a lot.

Why did you now decide to become an author … you have been in business for over 20 years, so why now …

That is a very good question… I did not wake up saying I want to become an author. No, but I did know that I had a story to tell, and that I could help a lot of people.

I wanted to write a book that was practical, where people could read it. They have reflection exercises; they have cheat sheets, and they can take it and put it to work.

That for me is everything. When I see the comments and feedback what reading the book had done for them – it is everything. I wanted to make something that was worth reading.

You know there are times when you know that what you are going to do was going to be your moment. When you were writing the book did you know that this book was going to be a bestseller? Or did you hope that you were putting in invaluable information, and that you hope people receive it and that it grows to that…

No, you do not know. I did know that I was going to work hard to put it out into the market. That I would outwork everybody. If you were supposed to do four things, I was going to do ten. I knew that about myself. I was going to do this and empty the tank and leave nothing on the court.

I must put in the effort; it is not going to sell itself. I have a very weird name… my first and my last name. I am a brown girl. I am not famous, and I do not have a huge social media following. But I am very good at what I do, and I have an expertise.

I have a strong network. I have a message worth listening too. I have practical advice and experience. I believe in what I am doing and what I say. And that is why I had confidence that if people could just read the book, they would love the book.

I need to get the book in people’s hands, that is why I am grateful to be on your show. I want people to buy the book, and I want them to read the book. I want people to hear, share, and tag me their feedback, or what rule resonated more with them. That is what matters.

Now switching to our fun questions… what are the three staples of clothing that make you feel your most confident. There is always something…

I want to dress confidently because that projects my image of how I put myself together, that is a big thing. Showing up for yourself is more important than anything. It sets the tone for your day – doing your hair, putting on your make-up, is a big part of it.

Secondly, it is how I structure my day, how I spend my time my schedule. That sets me up for success. I always think through my day, my schedule, so that I am not putting myself in a position that I am out of breath by the end of the day.

Is there an article of clothing, or jewelry that you wear that is lucky for you - and you know that it seals the deal for you. Yes, one thing is that I wear light blue. There is science behind it, it promotes sales indirectly and promotes calm and tranquility.

How do you deal with negative comments and people, that is more directed towards social media…

I don’t take it personally. If someone that doesn’t know me is judging me based on the information that they have, I can’t judge them for what they are saying.

Secondly, it is important to have a level of self-awareness. If you are going to put yourself out there and then get attacked, then maybe not put yourself out there. Know what you are comfortable doing, and make sure that you do not put yourself in a situation that could spiral you into depression, or mental health issues.

You mentioned earlier and it was a large part in your book about connecting with people, and networking. I do think in my generation and younger we have lost that art of communicating. We are very ‘three seconds’, if it is not that ‘three seconds’ we do not know how to react or relate. I am very old school, but I am aware (of the ‘three seconds’). What do you think that a Gen Z-er can do to connect to people in a meaningful way…

I think that if you are a Gen Z-er and reading this book, good for you. The biggest thing that I want them, everyone, to take away from this book is how to build your reputation, and your personal brand.

If you do that you will be good at creating relationships, storytelling, adding value, and learning. It really starts there. You have a reputation – you need to build it; you need to protect it.

To do everything in your power to manage it, a lot of people don’t. They think that they can give it to someone else to do that ( to build your reputation). I just want you to think about that.

What is your favorite way to unwind…

Oh my gosh so many things – I go for walks, I play tennis, I play with my dog, and I hang out with my family. I watch shows, and I go out to dinners. I do all the things, and I like to travel for fun, and not just for work. What is your favorite show right now… I just finished ‘The Diplomat’, that was amazing, and I am obsessed with it. Yes, I saw that one too! It is sooo good!

©MAHAABOUELENEIN

Thank you so much for your time! I am so grateful that we were able to sit down together.

I have read your book … I have encouraged others to read, and get their hands on your book – It is a must!!!

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In this Conversating with Yhorlife we got to conversate with Saber Prévôt & Coach, Aaron Villaseñor. Aaron is the complex blend of intelligence, wit and competitiveness that makes a great Fencer. He has also perfected his ‘serious face’ which is why I was quite nervous for this Conversating. Fun fact- Saber is one of the three weapons in Fencing. Hope you enjoy this Conversating as much as I do - Enjoy!

©AARONVILLASEÑOR

So, how would you introduce yourself to someone that is unaware of you …

I am Aaron Villaseñor, 33 years old, and I am Mexican. I am a fencing Coach, and I am an Athlete.

You are a Master Sabre Fencer, what got you into fencing? And when did you realize it was more than a sport for you …

I got into fencing when I was twelve years old. I did gymnastics before (fencing). Then I broke my wrist in a gymnastics’ training. Once it was healed, I was afraid to return to gymnastics.

So, I went to this camp, and they had different disciplines, and fencing was at the camp. I asked my dad what exactly was fencing … and he said that it was a sport that involved swords.

When I saw the swords, I fell in love with the sport. So, it has been 21 years of doing the sport. I have fallen in love with the sport of fencing. What did you do in gymnastics, the pummel horse or… no, I was on the rings. No way! Yes, the most difficult one!

What separates your Coaching and fencing style from other coaches and fencers….

So, I do have my own style of fencing. Coaches usually have a Fencing School from their countries, it is not a rule though. So, I use my own style. When I see some move that I like, I study it … and then turn it into my style. How would you say that your main stye is… I would say Cuban style, because I grew up with it. Cuban is Cuban, a descendant of the Russian style.

What are the benefits of Fencing, and how can these qualities be used throughout life …

Well, I think that there are a lot (benefits). Like any other sport, discipline is very important. In the sport you have to have a lot of respect and tolerance for others as well.

Of course, you also get fit and healthy because you are doing a sport, these are some of the best benefits that you can get from fencing. Okay, how can these qualities be used throughout life? I mean these are great qualities … In a job you must be disciplined with your time, and you must work well with others. So, all those qualities that you learned in sports, specifically Fencing, you can apply to your everyday life.

What are your tips for a healthy mindset…

Sleep well, eating well, and having good habits in your life. Those are the main things for having a healthy mindset.

How do you develop those habits? – what are the steps that you recommend getting those healthy habits …

You set up goals. As an example, you make a list. You know that you always go to McDonald’s to eat. So, you first adjust how many times that you will go to McDonald’s. If you go five times a week, you change at first to going only three times a week, then one time a week to zero times a week. That is a good way to develop good habits.

I like the list method. Okay, what challenges do you see in fencing that are on the rise…

The good thing is that it is becoming more popular. There are more people competing in Regional Competitions, in just one event. And that is a good thing.

We are lacking good Referees in Fencing. To be honest not all Referees want to teach other Referees. We need to find a way to teach the new Referee’s to be good. Right now, there is a new program in U.S. Fencing to work on teaching the new Referee’s to be good, and to raise the existing Referees to that level.

For those that are unfamiliar … why are Referees so important in Fencing ….

The thing is that in Fencing it is the Referees are the ones that decide who wins, and who does not win a bout. It is a sport that you depend on that one person, the Referee, to see every detail of the bout. And he will be the one that will decide who wins, and who loses. So, the referee must be prepared to watch all the details in the bout.

What is the best way for someone to start Fencing …

The benefit of the United States is that there are a lot of clubs around the country, so all you have to do is go to the club that is closet to you.

So, go on Google and search Fencing Schools, and you will find a lot. Interesting side note… right now fencing is the top sixth sport that was most watched in the Olympics. In social media it was one of the topmost mentioned sports. In the United States it is getting big.

If you are a current Fencer what can be done to improve daily habits …

The important thing is your goals. Let’s say that someone wants to be good and progress in the sport. Not just stay at the local level and fencing bouts at their club, and locally. What can be done to improve their habits, so that they are more confident …

The first thing that they must do is to get out of their comfort zone. Most of the Fencers are scared to jump to the next level. For example, a Fencer always fences locally but is scared to fence at Regionals. So, you must get out of your comfort zone, and just do it.

In the beginning it is going to be difficult, but it will get better. So, competitions are typically once a week… Yes. But what can be done daily to improve the habits. Let’s say they are a current Fencer, and they are fencing locally, at their Club, or maybe Regionally. Then they decide to go to a NAC, then what would you tell them to do to get ready, and how would they need to change their habits to be mentally prepared?...

I think it also depends on the Fencer’s level. Example, if they have been fencing for a year, and they have an issue with their speed. That is what will need to be addressed. If they are going slow, they must change that, and they would need to do more sprints.

***Do you recommend watching your fencing tapes back?***

Oh yes! That is the best way to improve. Every competition is like a test. So, when you watch how you are doing, you can then see and develop a program; exactly what you need to improve, and what you need to work on.

What are the three staples of clothing that make you feel most confident…

Okay super honest… I am very specific with my shorts, how long they are, I like five inches for the length…because when I lunge I don’t like to feel the shorts.

Then I like to use tank tops, pretty much for the same reason. I do not like to feel them, I would feel uncomfortable. Also, I like the neoprene material, I do not like clothes that confine me when I am fencing.

And lastly, the socks are important for me. I like long socks for training, like the fencing socks. It makes me feel more comfortable.

What do you recommend for people to do to get physically stronger (for fencing) …

You must have a good diet, and a good workout program at the gym. To be a good fencer you need to work out a lot … your legs and arms. Also, to sleep well too.

What is the best way to accept defeat in a competition …

So, I think the best way that you can accept the defeat is to take everything that you can learn from that bout. If you win, or if you lose. A lot of times when we win a bout, we do not care what you did to win the bout. Oh my gosh yes!...

When we lose, we are upset and sad. But when you watch the tape, you can see what you did, and you can see it. Instead of getting sad you must take it as a learning experience. You should find what you did not do good in the bout, and study that.

If you only have one good touch in a bout, that is good. Because you can study that one good touch and learn from it. The most important thing is to improve.

What would you say is the best way to handle the defeat of a bout (in the moment) …

To walk. To get out of the area, do not throw your mask, or your Sabre. So, take a walk to reset. Once you have calmed down, then you can think about the bout, and think about what happened.

What are some of the most rewarding parts of your job …

To see the kids happy… to see my students happy. That has to be the most rewarding part of my job. Yes! Even if they win or lose… when I see that they did their best that is everything. Of course, I like it when they win. I am very competitive.

And I always call my fencers my kids. Why is that… because I think of them like my family. I see it like that, I am trying to be their role model. I am the Coach, yes…and sometime the Psychologist, and their Nutritionist too. I think that bond is very important.

You are a Coach, but you also are still a competitive Fencer, what is the different mindset between the two …

First, when you are a Coach, you have to understand that you do not have everything under control, you cannot control everything. However, when you are a Fencer, you control yourself, and you control what you are going to do on the strip (fencing).

When you are a Coach you cannot control what your Fencer is going to do. Right so true!... And I think that is the main thing.

Does is make you more valuable as a Coach since you are still fencing competitively, why are you still competitively fencing … and what do you hope to accomplish …

That is really a very good question. I want to answer the second one first. Of course … I am still competing because of my kids. I stopped competing for one year. When I moved to the States, and working in the Club there was no high level Fencers. There were young Fencers in the club. I think it is very important for kids to have a role model. Someone, that other Fencers, and the kids can look at and say … ‘ I want to be like that, or I want to be better than that’.

So, that is why I started back competing. My inspiration is my kids. I retired for three years. Because I was managing the Club, and I had a lot of work.

Now, I have more time. Also, because my kids are asking … ‘Coach when are you going to compete again?’ It is not the Olympics, or to be on the National Team (again) … it is more to tell my kids that if I can do it, you can do it too.

Now would you want to go to the Olympics… Of course! I want to, I really want to. My biggest inspiration is my kids. My goals as an Athlete is to be on the National Team again, and to also go to the Olympics. I am still young, and this will be my last shot. I want to put all my energies into these four years.

Be honest do you want the cute sweatsuit again too? Lol… yeah okay.

Last … and most fun question … how do you unwind, relax …

I go to my room … play my guitar and listen to music. In that moment I forget everything. The other thing that I do a lot is to read, I love to read. I like to read on my iPad, but I also love to read with books (physical), and I have a Kindle too for my books.

Now when you are competing how do you relax, do you do the same things… uh, no! the best thing for me is to be in complete silence. I do not read, or listen to anything … I sit in complete silence and just be silent. I sometimes will drive in silence to also relax. Oh, my you have lost me the silence! LOL!!!!!

Thank you so much….

©AARONVILLASEÑOR

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I was asked to Conversate with Will Gittens - Musician and YouTube Talent. This Conversating was enjoyable. Read to find out why - Enjoy!

©WILLGITTENS

Thank you so much for joining me for the Yhorlife Conversating Series…

How would you introduce yourself to someone that is unaware of you…

That is an interesting question, I have never been asked that question … I would want someone to say about me is this person’s voice is very calming and beautiful. It makes me feel at peace. I have been told that a lot of people have used my voice, music as therapy.

Why did you start doing Covers, I know that you have original songs. How did you start there, is there a reason? Or do you just like singing and it just kind of flows…

To be transparent at first, I did not want to do Covers. The reason was primarily ego. I wanted people to know me as - I am a singer song writer, and I do my own stuff.

When you are an independent artist, you do not have a machine behind you. I like to be successful at anything that I set my mind to do.

However, for me to break that threshold I needed to do something that was familiar to people. Yes, because you have received a lot of streams from Covers.

I approach Covers in such an original way… that people think that they are my songs. Where the song sounds fresh, and then hopefully they stumble upon my music from there.

***You did the official video for ‘Missing You’, congratulations. What should people expect, and what are you most excited for people to see about that video?***

I think ‘Missing You’ is a brilliant song. I did the visual for the song, and I am proud.

Are you proud to be headlining Top Shelf Music Bash, July 11-15 in Tulum Mexico … and how did the opportunity come about?

I am very proud and excited to be headlining this event. Sir Darius reached out to me and said that he has followed me for years and is a fan of my music. Then said that he would like for me to be a part of this experience.

I immediately checked it out, and thought it was a vibe and something that I would like to do. So, I put him in contact with my team and we were able to make it happen.

I am super excited to be considered in a line-up like this … I am a big fan of Eric Bellinger, and Sevyn Streeter.

Recently I was inspired what Sevyn wrote for other artists. I am a little younger than them, so to be a part of this mix… I am very honored.

Have you been Tulum before? Are you going to change your set-up… and what can people expect from you?

People can expect what they see online., but the real in- person presence of me. I take pride when people see and hear me in person, because I can make that human connection with people.

What is your favorite way to unwind…

My favorite way to unwind is to be around my family. I have a house with my siblings and we work and grow together.

So, it is a beautiful time for us. It is a constant mirror of who you are.

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I was so honored and a tad nervous to Conversate with Dr. Carol J. Bennett. Not only is she an Award-Winning and First Black Female Urologist. Dr. Bennett is a brilliant force. My brother Demetrius urged me to reach out & I was so ecstatic when she answered yes! I had a BLAST Conversating with Dr. Bennett. - Enjoy!

Good morning, Dr. Bennett thank you so much for joining me for our Conversating series.

I am going to jump right in … how would you introduce yourself to those that are unaware of you…

Hi, my name is Carol Bennett I am a Urologist. I trained at the University of Michigan where I did my residency.

I went to undergrad at University of Michigan, and went to Georgetown for medical school, and then went onto University of Michigan.

I have been at a variety of Institutions including University of Southern California and now University California of Los Angeles. I enjoy my field of Urology, but I am not just a Urologist. I am a mother, wife, and my husband is a physician as well, he is a Neurosurgeon. I have two adult children, one girl, and one boy.

Congrats on your Lifetime Achievement Award … that is definitely what I call a ‘hair flip moment’. You are the Nation’s first black woman in Urology. Did you always know that you wanted to be a Urologist? And if you did…please describe your journey. Anytime you are the first at something, often it is not the smoothest journey because you have nothing to compare it to.

You are fortunate when you can research other people’s pitfalls, and how to avoid (the pitfalls). When you are the first there are no roadmaps.

So, did you always know that you wanted to be a Urologist, and how was your journey…

No, I did not know that I wanted to be a Urologist. I had never heard of a Urologist before I went to medical school. When I was a teenager, I thought I wanted to be a Social Worker.

The pivotal change in my decision to become a physician was when my dentist got me a job when I was a teenager at the hospital.

It was a summer job when I was sixteen years old, and this was very important to me – because I could make real money. At the time it was Pittsburgh Hospital. That was when I decided that I wanted to be a doctor.

Although I did not know what type of doctor I wanted to be. I worked in the Administrative Offices of the hospital. So, I was not necessarily around physicians except for those that came in for meetings with the Chief of the Hospital.

The physicians were all white and male at the time. It was something about them as they walked in in their white coats. I thought at that time…if they can do this, I can do this – and something just clicked in my head at that moment that I can be a doctor.

It never occurred to me that I was a woman, that I was black. I mean I knew that they were male and that they were white. But it never occurred to me that I could not do it. So, I went to Boston University School for my undergraduate degree, and it was Pre-Med.

I then went to Georgetown for Medical School. When I was ready to do my Residency, I decided on Urology. Originally, I thought that I wanted to be a Nephrologist, a kidney doctor, until I got into Rotation in the hospital. When I went through Urology…I thought wow this is kind of like Nephrology. So, it turned out that I went with Urology.

I met a doctor, a white, male physician, a Urologist that took an interest in me. He was a Urologist and took the time with me when I rotated in the operating room as a medical student. He took his time to let me look, let me see and to let me try.

He had a large family … eight children. He lived in Bethesda, Maryland with his family, and invited me to his home when he knew that I was interested in Urology.

I met his wife, children, and had dinner with his family. It was that impetuous, that level of enthusiasm for me entering the field, that convinced me. I never thought again about how many females, and blacks were Urologists.

From there I went to two highly rated programs – Northwestern University, and University of Michigan. I must say again, it was the Chief of Urology at University of Michigan, another white male that really wanted me on his team, when I was a Resident.

When I interviewed at University of Michigan, he expressed his interest in wanting me on his team. The Chief of Northwestern University as well expressed an interest in me being on his team. Those were my two top places, and they were the top hospitals in the country.

I selected, and they selected me also the University of Michigan. I thought that I would get more done there. I thought that if I go to Chicago, it would be more distractions there. You know that is true.

I was going to say well one is warmer than the other…thinking no they are both cold. I praise you for doing that alone. I barely made it in Philadelphia, when I was in college … it was so cold. The fact that you survived the winters is a hair flip to you!

You know it is amazing because back then I never thought of the cold. When I go to Michigan now just for a day, I am like it is too cold. Do you think it was the energetic youthfulness, that you were excited, and nothing bothered you? Maybe! Because it never occurred to me that it was cold there.

I never remembered needing, or wearing the hat, gloves, and scraping the car in the morning. It never occurred to me that was an issue. Now even going there in the month of September I am cold.

Do you think too it was your mindset too? … my parents raised me (to know) – I am mixed. My mom is black, and my dad is Venezuelan. Yes, my last name is Gutierrez, and you are aware of societal limitations, but it does not matter.

You are you – you are smart. So, do you think that type of mindset was the catalyst to how you have achieved so much? You acknowledged it, but it did not hinder you. It was not your ball and chain. Yes, this is what it is, was your mindset ‘I am still me and I am still going to do what I want’?

Yes! That was exactly the type of mindset that I had; you must decide. Yes, I am black, that is not something that I could hide if I wanted. However, that is just a part of my identity, it did not define me, nor did it stop me.

I am proud of being black, I went for the opportunity that I wanted, and I got them. It was exhilarating, and I loved my years at the University of Michigan.

Now that is another ‘hair flip moment’…as I say just do a ‘hair flip’ through your accomplishments. Ahahaha…yes, I just ‘hair flipped’ through that time.

You have also been pioneering in Neurourology, Neurogenics. Why did you select to specialize in the spinal cord? And is there a specific reason?

It was an area of interest of mine. As life happens your initial interests morph into other areas. Also, the subsequent Chair of Michigan was an expert in this area of Neurourology. He introduced me to the area of infertility in his patient population.

That is the area where things started to take off for me. I did some studies and was published in that area. It was a new unheard-of area, why spinal cord injured patients cannot have children. I understood the bladder dysfunction and their spinal cord injury issues.

That was the lightening in the bottle for me, when everything came together. The ability to define and interpret the literature fell into place for me. I was able to attend international meetings, and present. So, that was fun for me.

Yes, it would be my time, my moment. You have already done the research to be there, now the fun part is what will I wear. Oh yes, yes. It has become even more important for me now, I have come more into the look. Yes, it is so much fun!

I have even evolved into wearing Birkenstocks. Yes! Off topic… I know! If I have one pair of Birkenstocks, I have forty pairs.

What are your tips for a healthy mindset…

Exercise. Reading novels, fiction, and non-fiction. Read a variety of literature. Also read books about Spirituality.

Okay so what is your favorite exercise, and author right now …

Favorite exercise of all that I have done I would say is boxing. I am not currently doing boxing. Now I am doing more walking. I like lifting weights. Yes, I use the Bala weights all day. Oh, so do you wear them all day long. Yes, all day!

Favorite author… a book that I read ten years ago, and I have reread it a couple times since, ‘Brideshead Revisited’, by Evelyn Waugh. It is about morality and Catholicism. It is also a love story, the core of the novel is about religion, and it is beautifully written.

I love to read, but some are impactful at the time but not impactful over time. Yet, this book was that for me (impactful over time).

Which medical challenges do you see in Urology that are on the rise, and what can we do to combat that with our daily habits…

Medical challenges in Urology include treatment of Prostate Cancer. As well the evaluation and treatment of Bladder Cancer. Which is less prevalent than Prostate Cancer but can be devastating.

Bladder Cancer gets into the muscle of the bladder. It is not as popular as Prostate Cancer, but it deserves more time and attention in people’s awareness.

What can people do to circumvent it? I would assume drinking less alcohol … would that play a part?

Actually, the most common risk factor is smoking. Yes, if you are a chronic smoker those people are at risk of developing bladder cancer.

Is it just cigarette smoking? Is it also vaping? … You are right vaping does also likely increase your risk.

What are three staples of clothing that make you feel your most confident…

My three staples of clothing… jeans! And I do like the baggy jean look. I have more pairs that anyone would need…I mean how many pairs does one need?

Ohhh, I don’t know from someone that has over one-hundred pairs. You need every style because it reflects a different mood. Well, there you go I am buying that pair that I have been eyeing. I like also a jean skirt.

The other staple is a well-tailored suit. I have a couple of tailored suits. I was in Spain in last Fall, and I bought a Carolina Herrera gray suit. Aaahhh that is my girl! She is a fellow Venezuelan and is an absolute magician. Yes!

It looks like nothing on the rack, but just fits so well. I can wear it year around, it is comfortable, and I can wear it with heels or flats. I just love it. And it is easy, I love easy.

I like sweaters. I like Jenni Kayne. Her sweaters are easy. Yes! I feel Jenni Kayne is the new Vince for sweaters too.

***What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your job? …***

Taking care of patients and interacting with patients. When I was doing the spinal cord injury and infertility work in specific, it was the product. And the product is the baby. There are couples that have no hope of having children.

Now since I have been doing this for so many years, I have patients that have children that are now 25, 30 years old. And I still Christmas cards from them.

How do you define resilience…

The ability to get up. Eye on the prize, and to always see where I want to go. My career has been so effortless, I mean I have had my ups and downs and everyday was not Sunday.

I knew where I wanted to go, I knew what I wanted to be, and once you define that - that is the hardest part.

What is your favorite way to unwind…

Sailing. My husband, Dr. Keith Black and I, sail. We are going on a sailing trip for a week in a couple of days. We have boats … one is docked in Marina del Rey, Ca., and the other boat are in the Caribbean. That is the one that we sail the most.

We have some boats that we rent out for Charter. So, we are going down to our newest boat with family and some friends.

Well, what a perfect way to start the summer. Then we are coming back for a week. Then going back down (to the Caribbean) for the holiday week (July 4th) with family. My daughter and her husband, my son and his girlfriend, and of course my husband.

That sounds like a blast … I thank you so much for your time. Of course! this has been delightful, and wonderful.

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Elena Cardone is a name synonymous with being a force. Philanthropist, Mother, Host, Wife and Ultimate Powerhouse. Elena Cardone is a dynamic woman who is authentically herself and a wealth of information. I've been a fan of Elena's Instagram videos so I was so excited when she agreed to Conversate with Yhorlife! I'm so happy I got to interview Elena Cardone. - Enjoy!

©ELENACARDONE

Good morning!... Good morning! … I thank you and honored to sit down with you for Yhorlife Conversating series…

How would you introduce yourself to those that are unaware of you? This is for someone that has been living under a rock and do not know you…

Hmmm…how would I introduce myself? I always think it sounds better when it comes from someone else.

I think the question is interesting, because people have this built in DNA structure that they are not to self-promote, to sound humble enough.

I want people to know about me is that my purpose in life is that I want to empower women, protect children, and restore the family unit on the planet. I do think it is under attack.

So, everything about me is going to lead to one of these buckets – either women, children, or family. I work as a philanthropist, and I am an author.

As well I open the doors to behind the scenes of how my husband and I have been on the verge of losing everything financially, to building a multi-billion-dollar empire.

Also, how we help other people along the way. What we had to do, give-up, and what mindsets we had to adjust. Also, what skills we needed to learn, so that we can help the everyday person.

That is how we were raised. I am not a high affluent woman that was born into money, although there is nothing wrong with that at all. I wish sometimes that I had because I think that it would not have taken me this long to figure things out.

That is what I really want to do… help to change the trajectory of the world by helping as many people know about the data that I know that can help them succeed.

Positive you do not look old at all, if you feel old you do not look it. So that is more than half the battle. Nobody wants to get advice from someone that doesn’t look snatched – and you look snatched… Ahahaha… well thank you!

You said that you love to build up women, and the family unit, and that is your empire. Why are you so passionate about helping women, the value of women, and restoring the value of the family unit? As well why do you think that is crucial to have that type of nucleus and value…

What I believe now more than ever is that women have a power. And the power and ability to influence the behavior of others.

So, women have always had (power) the whole entire history line, and the influence to make a difference. If we don’t recognize our power we are not influencing - ourselves, our partners, our children, our community, and the world.

I see things that are happening on this planet, there is a drug epidemic, high divorce rate, wars, insanities, and criminalities. There is a downward spiral going on.

I believe passionately if we are going to make a difference that women could have a huge impact to actually changing the trajectory of this downward spiral and push it up. That is going to start when every woman learns to understand and recognize their value.

My belief is that it has been depreciated over time (women’s value), and you can see it in women’s confidence levels, their insecurities, their imposter syndrome, and all these other labels that they give themselves to not stand up and stand out. And be that stable guiding force for themselves and their communities.

Where do you see the woman most celebrated, and or devalued… for me I see it in our consumerism. Our values have changed, we care more about a purse than education...

Oh no I agree with you there, that is really smart. Your ROI, rate of return is on yourself, and your self enhancement. Yes, I wish we could get back to more of that and less about a purse.

The purses are nice and good rewards, but they should be rewards. Not something that you need to have an identity, and to feel important.

So, I have noticed in society women rightfully so are valued for their accomplishments in the workplace, and I do not want that taken away.

If you look at the history of women. It was just in 1960 technically that women were allowed to open bank accounts without having a man cosign.

However, most banks throughout America refused to let women have a bank account, own a home, purchase a car, or anything without having the husband cosign. This is what happened with the history of women.

It was not until 1974 that the Equal Credit Opportunity Act was passed, approximately forty-nine years ago. When the Act was passed, that was when women could set up a loan.

Can you imagine the hostility and anger that women felt. We were taught we had to stay with a husband to have a home. We were not allowed to have a divorce, until later. We could not even leave an abusive husband, we had to depend on them. Let’s face it a lot of men are not honorable, and then a lot of them are honorable.

So, we have a lot of pent-up aggression, hostility for having to deal with those men that were unscrupulous, cheating, and abusive. We felt stuck because where could we go? We could not have a home and had to kind of suck it up, we were just left out in the cold.

We were not valued in the workplace. When we entered the workplace there was all this sexual harassment because women were not viewed as actually having a brain.

I understand … we should be valued in the workplace. We should be valued for the accomplishments. We are coming from having to prove our worth in the workplace, to be able to have our right to a divorce, and to be able to have bank accounts.

So, I do think we went the other way. Women are devalued when a woman wants to be a wife, or a homemaker, or a mother. We have gone so far in the other direction. We have been given these rights, but now we have not come back to where women that want to be a mother, can, and that will is not devalued.

You can hear it in society when you ask a woman…’what do you do’? and she says … ‘oh I am just a stay-at-home mom’, ‘I’m just a homemaker’ … ‘I’m just a housewife’. They feel like these jobs are things that they must apologize for. They say (with their words), and feel that they are devalued, and that all these important ladies look down on them.

I know this for a fact because I suffered this myself. I want to say to them – ‘alright you needed to go here, to get here. But now how do we get here to have it all’?

I want to get to where when someone asks … how do we get to be a mother? or what do you do?... and you say I am a mother. And then someone’s response is …’thank you for your contribution to civilization, and mankind’. It is about being a mother and having that role revered.

©ELENACARDONE

So, then women can really have it all, we can excel in our businesses, if we want to transition and become a mother, then we can go back into the workforce, or not. It should be up to the woman, and not judged either way. I love that. To quote Former First Lady Jackie Kennedy… my biggest responsibility is to raise self-sufficient good human beings, and she was referring to her children. And we need that motto in our society.

I feel that as a society… we are like a rubber band… our society’s values and morals have been stretched so far, and we must come back. I feel that we are craving it. We can have different views, but at our core everybody wants these values.

Yes, we do all have to be respectful of all our different viewpoints, and I love your analogy of the rubber band. That is what I am telling myself, as I scroll… I am like we have got to get back to having values. Sometimes I feel like an alien.

No that is the only thing that the media will show you, so that you do feel like an alien, and that there is no one like you out there.

Then you get scared to say anything, because you do not want to get on the hate list of women. There are more people out there like us, since I have the courage to come out and speak my truth and reality.

No-one can make you feel wrong for your observations, because that is what is real to you. So, I am not going to tell you what yours are, but I can speak from experience on what I see. No one can make that wrong because that is my point of view.

Yes, that is so true. We all like ice cream, but we have many different flavors – but it is still ice cream.

What are your tips for a healthy mindset… since you are a public figure, how do you keep a healthy mindset and stay true to yourself…

Well, I am going to fall on my purpose and that is how I introduce myself. That helps me to have a healthy mindset, and to not get distracted by things that are not going to be toward the forward motion to my goal.

It also helps me if I get kicked down, or knocked down … I have a bigger purpose other than myself, Elena Cardone. It is bigger, it is for women, children, and for families. When I have a healthy mindset, I do not have the luxury to feel kicked down for too long. Because I have a bigger purpose.

I must get back up and fight for all of us. Encourage more people to fight for women, to fight for families, and to fight to bring back family values, and to fight for America and what it stands for. That is how I keep a healthy mindset with a purpose.

It is also how you physically take care of yourself, are you taking vitamins? Are you drinking water? Are you doing a little exercise program?

Also, another thing… look who you are hanging out with. Ask yourself if these people are assets, or liabilities; that can drain on you mentally as well.

I am also willing to look at who is around me, who is contributing, pulling from me, who does not have my best interest in mind.

For your mindset you must be able to identify red flags, be protective of your environment, take care of your health, and be committed to your mission and your purpose.

I have watched your show ‘The Elena Cardone Show’ I really enjoy how you ask questions to your guests. Why did you create your show? and what do you love the most about interviewing?

Well, I created my show to start a women’s movement. I want to explore what a new women empowerment movement looked like. I am doing research myself, and I want to interview other successful women. In their areas of success, and I enjoy hearing their successful actions and mindsets.

As well discuss how they get through a challenging moment. I do this also so that I can learn. I am doing the show because I want to know, have my own takeaways, and be a sponge for knowledge.

I like hearing, listening, and learning from their viewpoint and struggles. Also hearing how they feel they can help women, and how women can help them. Bridge this gap between men and women again and get us behaving and collaborating with each other.

So, we can be strength in numbers, as opposed to having the mindset ‘I don’t need you, and I don’t need you’. Become the best and most powerful that we can be together.

How do you define resilience…

I define resilience as the ability to come back, to keep going, and to continue. To figure out how to challenge yourself to solve the problem. To come up with the solution to be able to pick yourself up when you have been knocked down.

To be able to confront life again and change your approach, or tactic. Learn from the last knockdown, but do not let it hinder you.

Resilience is learning from the knockdown, but still having the courage to face the future. Take responsibility for what you did to create the knockdown. So, you can go forward and prevent the next knockdown, but even get further ahead in the future.

Noone has a smooth journey. What was the most pivotal part in your journey? Did you ever feel like quitting…

Oh, I feel like quitting a lot of the times. I think it is normal for me. I have tried to stop comparing myself to how I think I should be, and how I think other normal people would do it.

I came to the realization that this is me, this is how I process things, this is my way. And I must stop comparing myself to other people.

One of my pivotal moments was when I was 14 years old. I witnessed my best friend die in a fire. It was hard for me. I did not know how to deal with it, and how to express those feelings. I hid that devastation from my parents, and I kept a lot of things inside.

So, to deal with that pain (and to numb the pain) I started drinking excessively and being wild and crazy. I went down a dark path, and I wanted to give up. I did not understand why she died, and I lived.

It caused me years of pain and suffering, but I came back from that stronger and better. I learned a lot from that circumstance in my life. It made me stronger.

Yes, that is amazing … you do not have to wear the trauma. You can still show up every day…and I like to say have the spirit of a child, have that excitement of life. What you are saying is true you can experience it and you do not have to give up a decade of your life wallowing in that misery.

At the same time, it is also okay to feel pain, and to still feel like an empty shell and continue through life. And not to expect to feel happy. Recognize that that circumstance does not require a happy emotion and own that emotion.

Do not have that circumstance with those accompanying emotions stop you. You need to feel and to then move forward. Just understand psychologically that you are going to feel sad, but you can still give a speech.

What are the three staples of clothing that make you feel the most confident …

I love a business suit. I love a white crisp shirt, because it is so versatile, and you can wear it with anything. Oh, and I do like a good pair of heels, I just feel better in heels than in flats. I prefer to be more comfortable, but I just feel more confident in heels.

What are some of the most rewarding parts of your job…

Oh man… the most rewarding part is seeing people’s lives change. When I hear other people that we met success stories’, they have been affected by Grant’s work (Grant Cardone), or mine; and they have applied something and it made a difference in their lives – financially, or with their relationships.

I mean there is no better reward. To know I have hyped somebody else to be better, I made a difference in their lives. It makes my Spiritual Bank full.

What is your favorite way to unwind…

I love to shoot guns on a shooting range, that is like my favorite thing to do. I can focus and be present.

Do you like shopping… Yes! I love shopping with the right people. I don’t like shopping by myself, and I really don’t like shopping with someone that does not like to shop.

Do you like reading books… Reading books… I don’t actually love reading books. I do love listening to books on audio. I wake up before the rest of the family and listen to books on audio. It is a Zen moment for me.

I listen to about thirty to forty books a year on audio. That has really impacted my life in a positive way.

Elena thank you so much for conversating with me… I enjoyed it so much.

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I’m so happy that I got to interview my buddy Jaida! If you’ve been apart of this community for awhile you will know I’m a skincare and anti-aging JUNKIE! Hence why I created YhorlifeEssentials lol. I’m also a firm believer in tweakments that not only help better absorb products, uplift your mood and are natural. Jaida is 1 of 2 people I trust with my tweakments and so happy she gave Conversating w/ Yhorlife all the details! - Enjoy!

©JAIDAHAGEN

How would you introduce yourself to someone that is unaware of you…

I would introduce myself as Jaida first. I am a Nurse Injector, which is very education based. My goal is to become an educator in my field of expertise. And that is me!

I love the ethos of your practice … to enhance naturally who people are. With everything in excess in terms of the injecting world. Why did you choose to take the wholistic, natural looking approach of injecting…

I think a lot of that comes from living in Scottsdale (Arizona) in general. When you are walking around seeing things from my perspective as an Injector. You do understand that their goals were to make their eyes look larger, or to make their cheek bones pop.

However, when someone does it with the wrong approach, they end up looking relatively botched.

For me it is upsetting, we get a lot of people that are having panic attacks, crying, because they went to an Injector that did not know what they were doing.

They explain that this is not how they intended to look. They have lumps of Fillers in their faces, and paid approximately $6,000.00 for these procedures.

Things like that happen so often. You know I totally understand that, especially in L.A…. people go too far. Personally, I think that it becomes an addiction. Yes! One hundred percent I agree.

You have the wholistic approach to injections…you have that ethos for your business. Just because you are aware of these botched jobs. How and why did you develop that?

You know me and my mom (of Catherine M Aesthetics) agreed that we wanted to have a natural as possible look to our practice.

That also comes with our education. We learned anatomy, and every injection that we do is anatomy based.

There are a lot of trends in Fillers, but we are one hundred percent anatomy. When you look at someone’s facial anatomy, what looks best is what they are born with. As people age, they lose what they are born with.

So, that is what we at Catherine M Aesthetics’ are trying to replace. We are not trying to sculpt someone’s face into something new. If that is what you want to achieve, then you need to see a plastic surgeon.

Sometimes we can do that, but that is not our goal for most of our patients. That is why we decided to have this approach. We are simply giving back what people had when they were younger.

Now some of the newest trends we have seen starting with some celebrities, is the removal of their Fillers. Whether it be in their lips, or their cheeks. Do you think the reason for that is because the skin can break down over time?

What are your thoughts on people that are afraid to get more Fillers? … skin as we age can drop, or breakdown, everything moves. So, your thoughts for people that are Tox (Botox), or filler adverse…

Yes, I have a few ways to approach that. Celebrities in particular that are promoting that is because there is a stigma attached to Fillers, and I do think that is has always been there. Moreso, with the clean girl aesthetic people are trying to appear as natural as possible to match that.

It is just another trend. I love celebrities and I would never want to say that people are lying. I also do know that Jennifer Lopez did not just use olive oil to look the way that she is looking. It is unfair to say that because that is unfair to say that that is realistic.

I do think that Fillers can be risky in some areas, and safe in other areas. However, under your eyes, that area can come with many complications.

They can cause puffy bags; and it can travel and make your cheeks look saggy. There are a lot of things that can go wrong with Fillers. And I think that is what frightens people if you do not have an experienced Injector.

I am the Biostimulator Specialist for Catherine M Aesthetics; and I love the natural approach that we use.

I love our Dr. PRP Platelet Rich Plasma that we use, where we are spinning your own blood. We also do Sculptra. These are procedures that stimulate your own body’s response and will give you that look.

These procedures will not give you the fear that you are putting things in your face that could possibly leave you with lumps and bumps in your face, because it is not natural.

Dr. PRP and Sculptra decreases that fear. Even if these procedures are not your favorite thing, but you know they will not leave you botched. You do need to have to have multiple treatments to get the full result.

Is it Sculptra that can be done for the whole face? Yes, that is Sculptra.

So, what are the benefits of both, and the downside of both. Why would one do Sculptra versus using their own blood, in the Dr. PRP treatment? and what if any are the side-effects with both procedures…

So, I would say that PRP which is with your own blood there is no downside. You really cannot screw that up. It would be hard to mess that procedure up because you are just promoting healing.

I do not think I could put any downside to PRP, it is great – it strengthens your tissues, it helps blood flow, it is just healthy.

The only real downside to it is that you need multiple treatments to get your results. You just need patience, and some people want results faster.

PRP is one of those things that you must trust me that it works. You watch it build over the next six months as we do your three treatments for PRP.

Sculptra is a beautiful product. We are in a lot of Injector groups. Where Injectors talk to each other to hear and share what new products we are using. As well what is working for them.

Most products that are for sale are controversial in some way. Most of the products that are out there someone can say bad things about them. Sculptra is the only product across the board that everyone just loves.

I have never heard someone talk negatively about Sculptra. It is safer than the alternative, Radius.

You cannot get rid of Radius if there is an issue. Sculptra, if there is an issue, there is a certain concoction to clear it out. For example … if you had an inclusion, or a nodule, we could get rid of it.

Compared to other products that are permanent, and you cannot take it out. Sculptra is very dramatic, because it is a powder that is telling your body to grow. It is a faster result in my opinion, and it lasts years.

The thing with PRP versus Sculptra, PRP does last a long time. Sculptra continues to work over the course of years. Doctors indicate two years for Sculptra; but independent doctors have documented that the results last longer than two years.

It is just about what the client’s needs are. Some people are more afraid of Sculptra, because of the complications that have been associated with it. Sculptra can cause an inclusion. Which is the cutting off blood supply to certain areas of the face. If you put it in the wrong layer of the face it can cause bumps and nodules in the muscles.

What is Sculptra made of? some Fillers are just Tox made with a component of hyaluronic acid, what is the base of Sculptra…

It is poly-L-lactic acid. It is mostly referred to as ‘PLLA’, it is another type of stimulatory acid producer.

It is a powder that we mix with a ton of water that goes into your skin. It tells your body that we need more collagen here, tells your body to start to produce more collagen in designated places.

It is relatively a newer product, not brand new; and research is still being done on it. They are finding that it is not only growing collagen, but also elastin, and catching free radicals in the face. So, overall, it is just a beautiful product, and just one of my favorite products to use, its beautiful.

With PRP … you can get your second treatment at six weeks. Is that giving the full time to see the effects (from the first treatment)? With either of these procedures (PRP and Sculptra) can you ever run the risk of looking like ‘Cat Woman”? …

PRP I would say no. If you do like ten treatments, yes, you are at that risk. However, most people do not do that many treatments. PRP is mostly blood flow and healing tissue that is why we use it a lot under the eyes.

Now under the eyes when you see dark circles, ninety-eight percent of the time you are seeing blood vessels under your skin. So, we just need to thicken that skin.

There are two different mechanisms of action. Sculptra that can happen, but it is up to your Injector have a good eye.

You can have two good rounds of Sculptra in a year, we have built back a lot of the volume; now we need to look and see where we need to stop.

Often it is the cheeks. The secret to a beautiful aesthetic is a smooth transition. And your cheeks are number one victim of not having a smooth transition if you build it up too much.

We at Catherine M Aesthetics intentionally change our client’s treatment plan every time that we see them, so that we keep that beautiful aesthetic.

This does go into my question of Injector ethics. Not every Injector is the same. We have talked about how you get clients that come to you that have not had good experiences with areas they wanted to change.

Is it more that you create your own code of conduct? and then let your clients know – ‘hey…you have done too much let’s look at alternatives’ or is that something that is taught in school?

Well, once we complete nursing school, we then seek additional training in injections. We spend a lot of additional time and money. Literally another college education specializing in injections. It is interesting and you would not typically think that.

It is a thin line. We would do that because we are anatomy based; and we would tell people that we know that they came to us for let’s say more cheeks. But if we put more Filler in your cheeks your face will be misshaped, because your temples are more hollowed out.

The fine line is that I know what they want but telling them that it is better in this area instead. However, it is working with them and asking them how they feel about what we have explained to them.

Also, if they do not get what they want with us, they will get it from someplace else. If they want Filler in this area no matter what, and not open to putting the Filler where we suggested, they will go someplace else.

And you do not know where they will go. They could go to someone that is good, or an Injector without a lot of education, and they get botched.

Then they come back to us saying ‘we cheated on you, and I am so sorry’. We have had that happen to us before, many times. We then end up dissolving all the Fillers, and then start from scratch.

So, it is just a fine line of that… holding our ethics and being able to turn people down; but also educating our clients. It is all about education. Explaining the why I turned the client down from this.

Most of the time when you educate them, they understand, and say you are totally right and let’s go with your plan.

In the news it has come to light that there are a lot of fake Injectors. They do not have a nursing degree, and they are giving injections for Fillers, with the most extreme being the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL).

What do you think is one of the strongest selling points for new clients that are coming to you for the first time. Whether they have had previous experiences, how do you connect with for them to feel safe and establish trust… One hundred percent I would say our education. We have spent so much time and money on furthering our education.

You can see on our Instagram we are always at conventions learning. People feel the safest when the client knows that you know what you are talking about.

Yes, there is a lot of news coming out on fake Injectors, and products. In states like in Texas you do not even need to have a medical license to put something under someone’s skin.

You do not have to be a Registered Nurse; you can be an Aesthetician. That requires a small amount of education. Moreso, that education does not include the facial anatomy,

It is very scary, and this is why people are getting hurt – their tissue is dying and falling off, and their getting botched results. They are getting botulism now from fake products, non-FDA approved companies.

It is terrifying. Our industry is a scary industry for people, and why there is so much mistrust as well. We have people literally say… ‘I want this look, but I do not want to do Filler’. They see all the bad things that can happen, and they think everyone can potentially do that to them.

It all comes back to education; this is why I explain my treatment decisions to my patient. So that they trust my decision-making process; I explain the reasons to why I am deciding this for them.

Okay…if things go south with the treatment… Since, you and everyone at Catherine M Aesthetics are Registered Nurse’s… can and will you guys prescribe for the issue…

Yes, to practice in the state of Arizona you need to have a medical director. Noting every State is different. The medical director gives us prescriptions that we can use on an as needed basis. So, if we ever need to write a prescription, we call it in.

However, since we are Registered Nurse’s, we legally can assess the situation, and decide when someone needs the prescription. That is the power that nurses have in Arizona.

In California for example your medical director needs to see the patient and be in the building with you. If there are complications, we can prescribe what is needed. As well we can refer them to outpatient treatment facilities.

So, we have a lot of tools under our belts that we can and would use… Many California dermatologists have moved away from skincare health and have now become Injectors. What do you think of this shift, and do you think that Injectors need to be in their own space…

I have mixed feelings about that. I support people entering this industry completely. Dermatologists are independent. They have a business to run. However, I do feel that you cannot be a jack of all trades.

I learned from a lot of great surgeons that know anatomy. If you want someone that specializes in Fillers and Tox you need to make sure they are not doing rhinoplasty and face lifts predominately.

When nurses are doing this, we are specializing in injections. We cannot do facelifts and rhinoplasty.

What made you decide to specialize in Aesthetics? And how do separate your passions with your day job? …

I always wanted to be in the medical field since I was young. Initially I wanted to be a plastic surgeon when I was young. I changed when I later found out that I would be in school for approximately twenty years.

So, I went to nursing school mainly because my mom is a Registered Nurse. And I loved hearing her stories. I didn’t really have a plan then because we had not started our business.

While I was in nursing school and doing clinicals, which is called transition to practice. I worked on a transplant unit, and it was hard for me. There I saw how nurses were over worked, and underpaid.

As well some of the patients that I cared for were not getting proper care. And it was not that we didn’t want to give it to them, but because we could not give it to them.

Knowing that everyone that would see me for their care would leave me in a lot of debt. And not being cured, their illnesses were just managed. This was just hard for me to witness. I know that I am speaking to the political aspect to healthcare, which needs to be talked more about. Nurses’ fall victim to a lot of this.

I wanted to be a nurse to make people lives’ better, I wanted to be that bright light in people’s lives. I felt like I could never be that.

In my last semester of nursing school, I started apprenticing my mom; and then I got to see that I could be that bright light in someone’s life.

Health is spiritual, mental, and physical… it is everything. Although I could not help people on a physical level (when they could not move physically). I do know that I could help them on a mental and spiritual level.

Confidence supports all of that. Now I can truly be that bright light for people because I am able to help their spiritual and mental health.

Help them to see in the mirror what they feel inside. When we age, we still feel young, and don’t think that we look any different. So, helping my patients with that is everything to me.

I agree… because when you feel good about how you look, it can even be the outfit that you are wearing, it transcends into a mental thing. As well this will transfer to your body, and you will feel better. When someone loves how they look, ailments can subside.

You will start doing all the things that you know that you should be doing to support your health.

And the second part of my question addresses your passions. Because no one is one dimensional. So, how do you balance your intense profession and time for your passions…

My job is such a fun job, it is educational. I love what I do, it centers around anatomy and the human body, so it is also my passion.

My next goal is to do Facial Sculpting. When I master the ability to sculpt a face out of clay, then I have mastered anatomy. That is passion for me. To know the layers and tissues of the face. That is my balance.

I know that another passion of yours is singing. Often you can work ten-hour days at Catherine M Aesthetics…so how do you balance that…

Singing is another big passion for me. I have been singing since I was a child. I just do it. I am always singing throughout my day. She does … she really does a lot (in a day). She downplays all the things that she is so good at. Another thing comes to mind is how well she takes care of plants. She literally has at least one-hundred plants in the house [Tony22].

Yes, I am saying there are literally twenty-four hours in a day…how do you find the time. How do you schedule it all…

I have strong boundaries for work and personal time. However, there are days that I need a break from work, and non-work passions. Yeah, I have told her since I met her, she is that ray of sunshine…everything around her wants to stay alive [Tony22].

Okay, lets delve into making plans… in a perfect world what you would love to be doing – on tour, making your first album, and Injecting? Or, splitting your time and focusing on one thing…

In a perfect world I would be singing. I am not the best songwriter, so Tony would have to help me write. I would be singing in a choir, or performing in small venues. I would love to get back into horses.

Perfect day … Inject for a few hours, ride my horses, and making music or singing. I am going to get more into educating.

I love teaching, and I love teaching people about their faces. I am planning to take that roll on in the next five to ten years. My end goal is to be an Educator.

Do you want to educate more patients, Injectors, or both… I think both. I would love to educate patients through a social media platform. Our industry is so saturated, it is challenging to access real information for patients that is not sales driven.

My goal is for people to be fully informed, and to make their decisions based on that education. That education would not be to drive sales. And that can be considered bad business. No, with that intention it empowers people, and creates respect and trust. Yes, it is relationship building [Tony22].

People will learn the why to decisions that I suggested for them. So, when I can educate my patients on the why…their reactions are priceless and makes sense.

I know first-hand (iykyk) your transparency in your process, and products are everything. What are your ideal clients? Do you like them WebMD informed, or people that are more realistic about their results…

I like people that have done research and come with a list of questions for me. They say, ‘I want this fixed’, yet have a list of questions for me. That shows me that they are just as involved in their care plan as I am.

I have seen when my patients have taken this approach and are prepared, it leads to less anxiety. When you are prepared with your questions, they are clarified; then people leave happier, and it is a better process.

You are a Bio-Stimulator and that leads into skincare … what is your favorite skincare regimen to enhance results…

I love Radio Frequency Micro-Needling. I see some incredible results for pore size, wrinkles, and tightening everything, it is amazing. This coupled the results are great.

What can we expect from you in 2024? what is to come…

For 2024 a lot more education. We (at Catherine M Aesthetics) are going to an event in Las Vegas, NV for a week. The biggest thing is that we are planning to expand to a larger space next door in a year.

We are partnered with Nakie Face (and Catherine M Aesthetics). But we are re-branding to Profile Aesthetics by Catherine.

I want to start building my online clientele through an education platform. Where people will know where to go if they have that question.

So, the new space will be our education center along with our injection rooms. We are doing education for injectors that want to learn, and we can teach our techniques. We are entering a cool era.

What is your favorite way to unwind…

Gosh probably like Tony’s (way to unwind) … I love to go home and shower it is my meditation. We play video games, I water my plants, and play and cuddle with our bunnies. And I also do wall Pilates!

©JAIDAHAGEN

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I’m so incredibly humbled that I got to interview Tony22. I was fortunate enough to be introduced to him by his amazing girlfriend & my bud Jaida (whose interview will follow this one). The reason I’m so humbled is because I know my strengths and being ‘cool’ has never been my strength and Gen Zers can be absolutely brutal. So the fact the interview was so fun and informative made it all that more enjoyable and I felt I still had some youth left lol. This was a great Conversating - Enjoy!

©TONY22

How would you describe yourself to someone that is not aware of you…

I would say that I am a bedroom Pop Hip Hop Artist, who started as a YouTuber and transitioned into music. As well I have fallen into the category of spirituality, self-help, and mental-health type conversations- and that is usually the type of stuff that I write about.

Okay very cool…

Now how did you get your name, Tony22…

Okay like I said spirituality is a big part of my life. So, when I was trying to come up with a name for myself, and I asked for signs. I was on a trip and kept seeing the number 222 everywhere. And that became the number that showed me that I was going in the right direction.

I was a YouTuber before music. So, I had to kind of trust that music was the path for me .... Uh-huh… the number 222 was the number that kept showing me that I was on the right path. So, Tony22 kind of became the name. Now that is very cool! I assume that Tony is your actual name… Tony is my actual name, well Antonio.

You already said that you transitioned from being a YouTuber to music. So, obviously if you are older than twenty-five (years old), the Gen-Z’s, it’s all about the same – the Tik-Tok, and YouTube.

What is the main difference (those older glump it all together) … Right – right... between setting yourself apart from being a YouTuber and an actual musician; because you can listen to music on YouTube - what has been the path and what has been the difference…

The biggest difference has been the connection with your community. When I was a YouTuber, I felt that it was easier to talk and engage with my audience, because I was making videos about my life. So, in every moment they were caught up with what was happening in my life. Or, stories, and things that I had been through.

Whereas with music it is more of an artistic approach to things that are about my life. So, I find it harder to tell the audience what I am going through. It is more like the sound, artistic things (with music).

I also found it is hard to engage with my audience. It has always felt better to express myself this way than straight-forward… on You-Tube? Yeah!

Now what led you to You-Tube…

I was doing stuff on the internet before You-Tube, actually I was a cartoon animator. I was on websites like Newgrounds, where people post animations, cartoons. Then I went over to You-Tube when I was about 10 years old.

Because it was getting more and more popular to be a You-Tuber. I was inspired by a bunch of You-Tubers. I thought that I would love to do this forever, kept doing it, and just kept posting on You-Tube.

Then I eventually started making money on YouTube, to where it could be my full-time thing.

Now that is amazing! Creativity is obviously a big thing. You are an artist. How did you start singing? There are some people that just should not. Your material is so cool, it kind of reminds me of early ‘The 1975’ (the group). Oh…I love them. Oh!!!! Yes, me too! I saw them on tour multiple times – obsessed.

What do would you say gave you the confidence to go from Animator to sharing your life…because that is more like an Influencer. Most would see that as not really a talent, because you are just talking about yourself…Yes, true.

***What convinced you that you could sing, do it, and you have a stage presence. Meaning, because you can sing you do not automatically have a stage presence… and vice-versa.***

Aaahh…that is awesome, I love that question. It is such a good question as it relates to me. I really didn’t consider myself a singer, or an artist until pretty later in my life.

I mean I have heard different singers say that they have been singing since they were like 2 years old. Uh, I have not… I have sung around my family. We would go Karaoke and have fun. Oh dang… I love Karaoke! Yes, I love Karaoke that is like my family’s thing.

So, since I was 9, or 10 years old we have been going to Karaoke, just for fun and to hang out. Then I remember there was this App called ‘Sing’, you could sing Covers of songs and you could send it out to the Internet.

Then people could hop on and sing along with you. People could comment on the song they had sung with you. So, I was getting a lot of comments, because one of my Covers was going viral on ‘Sing’.

It was a Cover for Justin Bieber; I got like 10,000 plays on it. I also got a lot of comments that I sounded good, and just like the record. By the time I was 15 years old, I started to think of myself more like - I can sing, I am like a musician. I have been playing the drums since I was about 9 years old.

Music has always been in the background of my life – but not really the forefront. As I was growing as a You-Tuber, getting my audience, I had the popularity. I was writing a couple of songs. I then thought to post a song on my channel to see what my audience thought.

Then overnight that song got about 100,000 views on the channel. Everyone was affirming to me that they thought the song was awesome. I mean it was a shit song, it was the first one that I wrote. Hey… it doesn’t matter how you get there as long as you get there. Exactly!

So, I had a lot of confirmation from people growing up, that I connect, and that I had potential. It didn’t matter if it was great, but the potential was there. My audience really gave me the confidence that I should keep doing it and keep going.

What are your tips for a healthy mindset…

That is something that I still struggle with, but I would say balancing your life, and not making your life solely about music. The more attached you get to this thing, the more importance you have behind it, and it starts to control you and your happiness. Rather than you control it.

I try to disconnect myself that these songs are about my life, that mean the world to me, and that they are my baby. Whether or not the song does good, does not matter because it is just another song.

Whether or not I own the master’s to songs or not, does not matter. It is just another song. I have more important things in my life – I have Jaida, my family, friends, and other passions. I have music, it is not my life, it is not what I am, it is what I do. It is just another aspect of me.

Some of your songs are personal. Songwriting comes into play; most songwriters will sing their demos before they send them out to someone. But they do not put themselves in the forefront, a lot of songwriters think they do not have all the things to make themselves a good performer… Yeah.

Songwriting is one of the hardest things that you can do…what made you know that you could write a song? What was the process… was it real life experiences, or just trial and error…

Humm … yeah, I think it was just having fun for the most part. My family was involved with Karaoke, and just having fun. So, I never had a serious outlook on songs. Some of my first songs that I wrote were just me trying to be funny to make my family laugh.

I would make a rap beat, then make a stupid song about shaking ass in a club. I mean I was like 13 years old talking about girls like I had any experience. But it was literally just for fun.

The more reaction that I got from my family and friends; from these really shitty songs, just made me want to try more and more fun stuff. That made me take it more seriously and try more stuff.

I still have this mindset about writing to this day. If I can get a reaction out of people with the words that I am saying, then I know that it worked. If it can make people cry, or a song that can make people laugh – that to me is what good writing is about, it is about the reaction.

Speaking of Jaida (Tony22’s girlfriend) … most advise that you do not mix personal and business. Songwriting and the creative process is such a personal and intense process.

So, you have written and sing about certain aspects of your relationship. How did you both decide that this area was okay? Did you get approval to do it?... and I don’t get that it is a Taylor Swift vibe. That I am going to talk shit about things that have happened…. Ahahaha yeah….

It is a more pop upbeat vibe, where there is a silver lining that makes sense. It is like this happened. But it is not doomsday, and I hope that you die (like Taylor Swift). How did the conversation come up (that you were going to write about your relationship) …

You know I think most of the times that I end up on one of his songs… I am literally walking around or hanging out. He will say I need a vocal for this part, or harmonizing part. He will say I need someone that can sing the high notes, it is usually more casual… like – do you want to see what you can add to this. I used to sing when I was younger.

I remember the first time that I was on with him, our relationship was still long distance; and he asked if I wanted to be on a song. He knew that I loved to sing.

He sent me the track, and I hummed different melodies on top, and then he selected the one that he wanted and added it into the song. So, it is really pretty casual (Jaida).

Yeah, it is helpful for me to have someone like Jaida around in the studio. I am constantly thinking about music, and Jaida can be more of a listener of music.

She will remind me that I am trying too hard, and that I need to have a more digestible approach to the way that this song needs to sound. That helps me a lot, because I am constantly thinking about melodies and songwriting; and I don’t have a listener mindset.

Where Jaida has more of a listener’s mindset. It helps a lot. One of the first songs that I had her to sing on, to actually sing a part for; I loved where her mind went with different melodies. She selects melodies that I would never select. Yes, and it works! Yeah, and it works, so I love that about having her around.

Then the songwriting aspect of it. Do you get approval before you write a song about the aspects of your relationship… Absolutely not! … And I really don’t care… Okay, so it is kind of like Russian Roulette, you don’t know what you are going to get. Ahahahah, oh gosh that is kind of stressful.

[JAIDA] You know for me personally; it is not my place to say what he can and cannot write about, because it is his experiences. I mean shit happens, like we have had our ups and downs. And I’m thinking you’re talking about the last album, with the break-up songs.

Oh yes! I am … When I first heard the songs when we started talking again, I think you sat me down and we talked. And Tony said ‘I need you to understand that when I made these songs I was really hurt, but just know that I have all the love in the world, and respect for you. So, we are in a different place now and it doesn’t matter as much to me at least. So, I am kind of detached from them.

Currently I like to listen to them. I know Tony was unsure if he even wanted to post the song from our break-up, and I convinced him to post it (the song from our break-up). I told him that that song is amazing, and you can’t keep it hidden.

You know if I would write a song that was truly just disrespectful, I would not think about posting it. There must be an exception for me as an artist to express whatever comes to my mind. No matter how dark it is because that is what we do. It would be like robbery, because it could be amazing and do amazing and change my life forever.

Jaida is very understanding of that. There have been a lot of songs that I have written that I have not shared with anyone. They are in my notes, or in my head; and are just more therapeutic for me to write. Then there are some (songs)… that I wrote that are artistic, and I need people to hear them.

I am also very detached from the music. If Jaida took anything seriously, she would be upset about a song that I wrote about a girl that I dated six years ago. That song is now irrelevant, it is just how I was feeling at the time that I wrote it.

He has these songs that says ‘Call me when you hear this’, they are about his ex, and it’s like two parts to it. And I literally jam out to them, I love and jam out to them.

Do you find that it is the realistic experiences that you have lived and written about that have been received better than the songs you are creating the subject matter. And the more realistic songs have connected better with your fans …

Yeah, I really do think that the more depressed that I am the better the song does. Ahahahah, what… Yes, because it is so real. People are sad, hurt, and people have been through a lot. And I have way of conveying what that feels like through music.

When people go through a breakup they don’t know how to feel, and how to express their feelings. So, I am more like the voice for someone who feels something similar. That is why I have a responsibility to upload the breakup songs.

There are breakup songs that I heard from my favorite artists, that have helped me so much. More than that artist will ever know. Like crying in my bed listening to this song. Because this expressed exactly what I was feeling, and I was not able to say it. So, if I can do that for another person, I have a responsibility to do that.

Older generations think that Gen Ze’s have skipped the traditional route of education… Yeah … I feel like there are two types of education – an educated fool - you have the education, but you are life dumb. Then you have people that they experience life, but they do not learn. They do not read, and travel… Yeah… the music that you have, how do you define that stigma, from the age, as well you being a You-Tuber, and just a musician…how do you combat that stigma, if you get it(that stigma)…

Oh, wow that is really a great question, and we (Jaida and I) were literally just talking about that earlier today… see I am actually good at what I do! … yeah! Ahahaha

I was going to mention that earlier we saw this Tik-Tok this morning; of what intelligence and education is. Yes, it is really education versus intelligence. I think that it is important for me to understand that education is a choice that you make for yourself.

It is not defined by what type of degree, or what books you read etc. What is it about for your life that you feel that you need to learn to become successful, or to understand the world around you better.

If you can do that for yourself, regardless of the formal education you have. I consider a person intelligent to be able to learn what they need to learn. I do feel like I have been able to do that, because I am a high school drop-out.

I am doing fine, and I have learned things that the average person will not learn. The knowledge that I have for music and music production. Other’s that take the traditional education route would pay $70,000 to learn.

I was able to do learn by paying no money, but making money from learning, and doing it, So I consider myself intelligent and educated in the areas that are important to me.

I respect and love that. To clarify… from my research you are an Independent Artist? … Yes, I am! … What can you tell someone the benefits are, and the challenges. I am speaking of control and owning yourself top to bottom. Knowing what needs to be done, I am thinking would be a huge benefit. And control of the messages that you are intending to send out … Absolutely … But the downside is maybe the challenge of the ability to reach a larger audience.

But you do have YouTube. However, my generation and older do not consider the non-traditional routes like YouTube, TikTok, and the other streams as being that relevant. Yet they do connect with people, and you know that. So, what would you say are the challenges and benefits of being an Independent Artist…

I think that you completely nailed it in what you were saying. Times have changed, and if Artists really understood that you can do whatever that you want right now with your music. And it was not like that 10, 20 years ago. You had to be signed, you had to have people controlling you to be heard on the radio.

At this time … you can be a kid in your bedroom post it on TikTok, go viral, have every record label wanting to know who you are, and sign you. Which is exactly what happened to me.

However, I think a lot of Artist still have the mindset that I have not made it until I am signed by a record label. Which is so far from the truth, record labels see you as dollar signs, and they are just a bank.

So, if you are willing to be in debt to somebody to get a little further ahead, then do it. I just don’t think that that is a good idea. You can control all of your money, masters, and you as an Artist. It will just take a little bit more effort of you being a boss, if you are not ready to be a boss, then yes sign (to a record deal).

However, if you are ready to be a boss – a businessman, marketing person, social media person … and the Artist after all of that, then that is the route that you should take. That was the route that I took, and that I will continue to take. I do not see myself signing to anyone anymore.

Do you see yourself creating what the group 1975 did? They have their independent music label, and they signed a deal with Universal. They still own themselves, but they are a subsidiary of Universal … Yes, I think that is a good deal to make. If the deal works for you, it is cool.

I signed a distribution deal with Soundcloud, but I still own everything. It is only a distribution deal for a defined amount of time. And if I can continue to take small distribution deals like that, then that is a good route to take.

A friend is signed to three different labels and has received three different advances. He still owns his masters. He has given these teams small albums that he won’t own; but he doesn’t mind when a team will give him $100,000 for 12 singles. Nd he has no attachment to how well they will do.

If those 12 singles go viral and he received $100,000, okay, because he still owns his own back catalog. He will still own his catalog, so it will only benefit him. Now that is smart. You must play it like a game of chess.

Now, what are three staples of clothing that make you feel most confident…

Oh, staples of clothing … that is an interesting question. You know I do not know honestly. I feel awkward in everything that I wear. I think it is hard to feel confident, maybe because I don’t think I know my style. I don’t think I have a style.

Maybe you can help me answer this one Jaida … It can be accessories too… I feel like his hair is his best accessory… Yeah, I was getting ready to say that if my hair looks good, then I am okay, and I can wear anything. If my hair is good that day, I will feel good about myself.

I think that you are a baggy pants, and big shoes kind of guy. Yes! Because I have really skinny legs. So, I have learned that baggy pants are really like my thing… Okay then baggy pants, hair, and Dad sneakers – and see now those are your staples.

How do you deal with negative comments, or people …

Good question, negative comments … I have had to learn that the Internet is not real. Nobody says any of the shit to me in person that I have heard online. Which proves that these are just kids behind the computer, or phone and they will say the same thing to you, that they have said to ten other people that same day.

They are just expressing their anger to the world. And things that they think will make other people laugh. It is not real, and there is nothing on the Internet that is real…

True, except the money when you get paid…. Hell, yes now that is real. When that shit hits my account, I do say this shit is real. Comments, or people, I do not attach myself to negative, or positive.

I have had videos that I have gotten death threats, and the worse comments. Somebody once said … ‘This shit ruined my day’. Ahahahah. Yes, then someone said … ‘I want to kill myself every time this song pops on my ‘4UPage’. People can be awful, they want to ruin your day, and often that is because they are having a bad day.

They are not feeling confident, and they feel that they need to bring others down, to feel better. That is how I have always viewed negative people.

My perspective on that… one of Tony’s songs called ‘A Safe Place’ went viral. When our relationship was long distant, and we bought each other stuffed animals. That was our love language. He said often how that (the stuffed animals) brought him back to his childhood and made him feel safe.

I mean we are in our twenties and doing that. We know that others might think that that is beyond weird… Uh no! not at all, I think that is adorable. I have noticed through him that he talks about things that are hard to talk about through society’s pressures. About masculinity and femininity and where the line is between that. With his most recent, ‘Safe Place’ is a recent experience of that.

These guys show what society define as being masculine, but when you look at their profiles it is clear that they have issues of understanding where that line is drawn. They are trying to be as masculine as possible, but they are insecure about it. That is why they are saying that. Exactly! Obviously growing up you had parents that didn’t make you feel safe to be yourself. Now you need to shit on everyone else.

I feel when someone needs to destroy someone else’s character it says more about them, than the person that they are judging… Oh my goodness, yes! That right there is the whole concept of Yhorlife – whoever you are love who you are authentically. Just be you, whatever that is. Because what works for me will not work for you. We can read the same book and come back with totally different perspectives of the same book.

It is why the concept of an Influencer I never understood, in the traditional sense… Exactly … They are saying – you want to be like me. No, I don’t want to be just like you, you can be inspiring. But you need to love yourself enough to know what you like and what you want to create.

You knowwhat is beautiful about that too is that the more hate that I have gotten on the Internet, the more loving it has made me as a person, towards other people… Really! … yes, because I have experienced a lot of hate on the Internet, and I could not imagine saying this to another person.

So, it has made me look at other people like this is just this person being themselves. Regardless of what they are wearing, or their sexual identity. Everyone is just a person just trying to be who they are. And there are just shitty people out there that don’t love themselves enough to accept that fact. People can just be different.

How do you define resilience…

Resilience… I would say it is just being dedicated. Whatever it is that you are going for in life against everything. I got off a tour that was the hardest tour of my life (so far). Where I did it all by myself. I had to carry everything myself, set-up, play, breakdown, and sell merchandise. It was hard, I told my manager that I didn’t want to do it, but I thought that this was the goal since I was a kid.

I have given myself no choice. So, every opportunity I take. That is resilience, a lot of people cannot do what I have done; nor make the sacrifices. As an Artist you must be resilient. I have a lot of friends that are Artists, but who won’t make the type of sacrifices that I have made, and I can see that.

I want to tell them if you want to make money from this, be successful, and make this be your full-time thing you have to go broke sometimes and be humble. You must smile when you don’t want to smile. Yes, I was taught to be kind to everyone from the top to the bottom, no matter who they are, because that is what matters… Yes, and that is exactly it! That is what matters.

Tell us about your tour, and where people can find you…

I just got off from a tour, and I am not planning any more this year. I am planning a tour for the Spring 2025. I just feel that I need to get back into social media and step out of the real world for a bit, and back into the Internet.

Where can people find you, and anything new from you… In my Bio, or on my Spotify, it is just Tony22 on everything. I am constantly showing up there.

What is your favorite way to unwind… hanging with Jaida, eating food, playing videos, watching Anime and Cartoons. Favorite food… Pasta, my favorite is red sauce, meatballs, very average pasta. I would eat pasta every night.

We had pasta last night. Also, we love sushi, and we eat it a couple of times a week … Yeah, we do! we have a sushi place walking distance from our place. It is like a revolving sushi place. Oh, yes, they have a place like that in Mexico City!

Thank you both!

©TONY22

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I’m so incredibly honored and humbled to have gotten the opportunity to conversate with Estefania Lacayo. Not only is a true dynamic force she is such an agent for connection and collaboration. When I saw Estefania in La Prensa a few years ago during annual family holiday to Nicaragua I knew I wanted to interview her. I’m so happy to say this bucket list item is off my list. Enjoy!

©ESTEFANIALACAYO

Thank you so much Estefania for taking the time to talk with me – I am truly honored and humbled … Oh, I am really honored as well, it is very kind of you.

How would you introduce yourself to maybe someone that is unaware of you…

I consider myself an advocate for creating change, in many aspects. I want to give access to other people that haven’t been given the access and the opportunities that I have been given… I love that an agent of change.

I saw your Podcast with Elena Cardone, the conversation that you discussed how you got your internship at Vogue; it was bold and ballsy. I thought oh wow that is probably why she answered me when I contacted you and thank goodness you didn’t think I was crazy. No, if you wrote to me…my feeling is that why would you, your platform (for an interview) be any less important to me than if Time magazine wrote to me (for an interview). No, I find yours equally important.

I have an interesting approach to things. Sometimes I will talk with people that might have thirty followers. Yes, if I can help someone why not? That is the purpose of my life. No, I think that is so kind though... everyone is equally important.

What sparked you to have the type of tenacity that you have? It was tenacity that sparked you to contact Vogue for the internship. Were you born with it, or were you somehow lead to developing that tenacity …

No, to be honest I think I was born with it. The initiative that I took in my life that was very ballsy, I was young in my college dorm in Boston. I had never applied to any internships or to any jobs. Now twenty-five, twenty-seven years later I think that moment was defining, and I have had many of those in my life.

I think the best way to describe it is when I talk to entrepreneurs, I tell them that they need to ask that person to become their mentors. You should ask that investor to potentially become your investor. Because if you don’t ask, how will you know if they say yes, or no.

All they can say is, no. It is just the way that I think, and it is my approach to everything in life now. Example we are raising capital for the first time in six years, I take all meetings. I believe even if I don’t think that they are a good fit for me, I believe that meeting will lead to another meeting and to another meeting, that will be ultimately a good meeting for me.

At that moment when I was in my dorm, I had the same mentality. How will you know if you do not approach it? Yes! I love that mindset. Especially for entrepreneurs, let’s say that you have your heart set on that one interview, or raising that capital with that one investor. And you do not get it. Then if you are sensitive, like me, it can hit you. I will eat some ice cream and then reset.

For some people they deal with a lot of what can turn into negative self-talk, like ‘am I not good enough’? ‘is my idea not good enough’?. So, I really love the fact how you say that ‘no’, can lead to something else. That is the best outlook and approach.

You mentioned something very interesting, look being an entrepreneur is not for everyone for many reasons. One being the ones that you just mentioned. You must build really thick skin. Not only in raising capital, debts, loans, or whatever you choose; it is the ability to take the ‘no’s’ that you get daily, and to keep going. When you are operating a business, there are so many downs. You have to build such thick skin to be able to stand up every day after all of the obstacles and do it over and over again.

And to still be nice, positive, and upbeat. No one wants to deal with someone that is grouchy, or rude. Oh, yes one hundred percent. If you were privileged to be born with that chip that you have that thick skin, that will never go away … it is very beautiful.

LAFS is in Miami, in the scope of America Latins were not thought of in this realm (of fashion). What made you decide to showcase the amazing talents of Latins. I think in the American consciousness the only Latin designers that are mainstream we think of is Carolina Herrera, and Nancy Gonzalez. Then you said ‘no we have more than two designers, we have many more people.’ What made you decide to showcase that…

Working in New York is a luxury space, not in Latin America even though I was born and raised there. I always go back to my home country, Nicaragua a few times a year, to see my family. I also married someone that is from Latin America as well. I have always been close to my roots.

However, all my career has always been created in New York. So, I started noticing around 2016, 2017 a lot of Latin entrepreneurs. When I say Latin entrepreneurs, I mean Latins living anywhere around the world. I mean Latins living in the United States; Europe; Middle East; Hong Kong; and Latin America. So, Latinos in general.

We knew very few of us had high positions in New York at that point from Latin America. I was being approached more and more with the same question – I want to pivot, and I want to go wholesale. Or I want to launch my project now in the U.S. after so many years operating in Latin America. I talked to a lot of them, and they had great projects, products, or a great platform. However, they were not scaling because they did not have access to the right people.

So, they were just outlaying money over and over in the wrong places and being ripped off by everyone and their mothers. I was like this is ridiculous. I thought if they just knew the right leaders, and experts in that field, they could have really successful businesses. They were producing and doing amazing things, as well I knew the amazing things that was coming out from the region (Latin America).

I decided to create a platform. I have never done anything like this in my life. This was not my background at all. To be honest I did not put together a business plan, or a financial model. I did not even do my homework on how other people were doing it.

Although, I had a very clear idea on what the mission and purpose was; to let’s create change and let’s create real opportunities. How was it being done? It is being done through fashion shows. I don’t understand how relevant a fashion show can be for someone that is just starting. Of course, if you are Carolina Herrera, and you have this large marketing budget … then of course do three to four fashion shows a year.

If you are start-up, I can tell you so many other places that you should be allocating $50,000.00, that can help you scale your business. It started as a conference once a year, and it immediately scaled into a platform that now we do two conferences a year. We do one that is called Raíces (by LAFS), which means ‘roots’, the word means going back to your roots. That is a product that rotates in different countries around Latin America. Oh! that is very cool!

And they are two totally different products. Raíces it is a property that we sell to a governmental institution. As well Raíces can also be in a city, it can be in Houston, and in Dallas. It could be in any city that can host us. Now we know the amount of tourism and the economy that we bring into the city that hosts us for those three days.

What is the difference between Raísas LAFS in Miami? Really about bringing about the cultural aspect of the city that hosts us, and so much tourism in the city. Last year we did it in Santo Domingo in Dominican Republic the food was very Dominican, we used the artisans from the country to decorate everything in the Summit.

Miami is a global summit. Miami is for anyone; Miami is for the Black, Arab, Asian, American, and Latino community. It is for everyone. Any entrepreneur that wants to be inspired, to network and to be inspired with other entrepreneurs because they want to scale their businesses.

I believe in and am a huge believer and speaker on this topic, the power of networking. Things won’t come out if you are in your houses. I tell this to young entrepreneurs all the time. I attend approximately six to seven Summits a year. You can scale your business so much faster.

I go to the Aspen Institute, I’m going in the next two weeks to Vegas to Shoptalk 2024, I go to Latitude. What! is it because you are naturally a people person? So, it comes naturally for you to network. Because I do feel that my generation and younger… Not really, these conferences that I go to there are people there that are completely out of my network. I do not know anyone there. Vegas where I am going in two weeks is 22,000 people, and I do not know anyone. It is on retail.

It doesn’t matter because I am putting myself out there and to hear the up-to-date things that they are telling us. You just have to keep yourself informed and informing yourself; so that I can bring better content to my community. Most importantly I need to go and network with other entrepreneurs doing wonderful things.

To find ways to collaborate, because that is the only way for us to scale our businesses together. I believe strongly in the power of collaboration; it is so much easier to scale businesses when you are collaborating with other entrepreneurs, then when you are by yourself.

How did Tribu, which correct me if I am incorrect, it is the adjunct, or sister of LAFS. I looked at the website it is a perfect platform to get your business out there…

No, Tribu is a totally digital platform. It was launched in the Pandemic, we noticed that our community needed access to great content and we needed them to keep connecting.

So, my business partner and I with no experience in the digital space put together this digital platform in six months. The best way to describe it is the LinkedIn for the ecosystem of retail. So, you pay a membership of $295.00 a year, approximately $150.00 for students a year, or you can pay monthly at approximately $19.00.

What this gives you is access to this entire world, once you are on the platform you are immediately connected (no one has to accept you like LinkedIn). We also have weekly Webinars, and we do them on how to put together a Profit & Loss Statement. We do webinars on a weekly basis. We have a platform that you can upload an event that you are having, or an article that you have done on the platform. If you are a designer, you can upload your collection.

This is amazing because it is a built-in network… yes, it is a built-in network. Example, if we are having a Summit in a particular State, Tribu members will get the first invitations that we send out.

We have just started this year something new it is called Tribu Meet-ups. Every two months we are meeting in New York and Miami with our members. We are looking to grow to Texas as well, we have members all over the world. We hosted our first about three weeks ago, some of the members are top CEO’s, Lawyers, and Tech Innovation Platforms.

To put things out there (into the stream of commerce) and to have it resonate so positively with people…does that not make you feel amazing, or does it make you hungrier…

To be honest with you I have not even thought about it, because I just love connecting people. That is the way that I see it, it comes very natural for me. I believe that everyone can bring value to something. There is so much magic when you connect people together.

I remember you saying that you go back and forth down to Nicaragua…so does my family. We have a home in Managua, and I have seen you in La Prensa multiple times. When I was younger, I saw you in the paper and I said that I was going to interview you. We would spend our summers there…yes! That is so wonderful.

What can we expect you have already said that you started the Tribu Meet-ups, so what more can we expect? I also know that you are also in the midst of raising capital for your business…

Yes! And I am in the midst of raising capital. I choose to be open about how we built our business, LAFS. We built our business by not raising any capital. My belief is that you must go out there and prove your model and see if it works. To make sure that it is viable, and once you have a provable concept – then you know that you really have something.

Then you can go out get the funding to elevate LAFS to the next level. We can now expand it, and we need strategic money. It is important to share this because this strategy can be replicated for all business models.

For me it is a big priority for Texas and California (to take LAFS there). I am hoping that we can grow that now.

Now I know that Tribu was created during the pandemic. I often say catastrophes breed ingenuity. Now LAFS seemed like something that you thought about and wanted people to connect. What have you found through this… do you like to organically grow an idea, or do you feel most success when you recognize a problem, there is a roadblock, then you develop a solution to solve the issue(s)…

I think the best thing is that when you see a problem, and you have a lot of people coming to me with these problems. Then I am like I have a solution for these problems. I recognize that the world has changed a lot, everything is digital.

So, a lot of the services in Tech, Financial Services, Fashion Companies, Law, and Institutional Banks started reaching out because they wanted access to a community of high-spending power people in Miami.

All of a sudden, they were saying I do not want to hire a P.R. Firm, we want to hire you guys. You have a network of people. We then hosted two events; this was a new venture for us. Suddenly it became a domino effect; we started getting hundreds of brands reaching out to us wanting to come in as partners with us. They not only wanted to join in the Summits with us, but we also want five events – one in Miami, New York, Hamptons, Mexico City, Brazil, and Bogota…so we launched an events production company.

And that came out of a problem where they said I do not want to hire a P.R. Firm where they are going to bring us an article and editors, and we do not want that anymore. They knew that they wanted an experience and access to our potential clients.

So, we started hosting events. A whole venture based on this problem was created LAFS Experiences. We have partnerships with Google; Mastercard Priceless.com with LAFS Experiences.

It is now a big aspect of our business, and it really came out of a problem. Also, Tribu was developed out of a problem. Mostly what we have launched has come out of a problem.

I would say that it is like four to five businesses under one umbrella – you have LAFS, LAFS Experiences … yes, it is Tribu the digital platform, and now we have the Meet-ups. The LAFS Experiences which is vertical – we have The Summit, which we have two Summits. One is Raísas which is a global Summit in Miami, and LAFS Agency.

LAFS Agency also came out of our community reaching out saying we need an Accountant, a Lawyer, a Fashion Stylist, and a Graphic Designer. And all of a sudden, I realized my team and I were spending so much time just connecting people. Then it became Governments contacting us for connections. I realized then that it was time for us to monetize on this. It was becoming too time consuming for my team to just be connecting people non-stop.

Yes, at the Summit, and Tribu people can meet organically. However, if people reach out to us outside of those avenues…we now have an umbrella of people that we collaborate with that I know do a good job. It really works like Uber! We connect people and they give us a finder’s fee. Whoever we put out there I am starting a relationship with, it is not just anybody. And I know that they do a good job.

What do you do to get re-centered and grounded…

My family, my family really ground me. I mean if you want to stay grounded just have children. They keep me humbled. I am at a point in my life that I surround myself with people that lift me up. I am 43 years old, I am building, scaling a business and I have two young kids, and a husband.

I really give priorities in my life. I do not have to go to everything like I use to when I was in my twenties and early thirties.

I did not create this platform to be recognized or to be famous, I did it because I wanted to create change. Little did I know that it would come with other things. The hustle is real and is real all the time. Remember nothing is real that you see on social media. Oh yes nothing is real (on social media).

My last question is what is on your current playlist, what gets you going and amped…

You know what is so funny I am not a big music person…what!!! how could you not be a big music person ... I know it is funny, but I am not. I do like classical music. I am also a big Podcast person, I am super into Podcasts that are about Longevity, Biohacking. We also have our own Podcast that we launched in 2020, and we have the Podcast every Thursday.

Oh, we have also implemented payment plans for the Summits, the Miami Summit. They are not all on fashion… we have conversations with successful CEO’s, Tech people, Fashion Designers, and Health and Beauty is a new category for us. The early bird special ends in a month, if they buy a ticket in the next month, it is $100 off. Everything is in English too. We just want to provide tools to our community to enrich their lives.

I thank you for your time, I enjoyed this so much! Yes, this was so nice...bye!

©ESTEFANIALACAYO

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I discovered Dr. Larisa Corda while reading the DailyMail. I was so fascinated by a top OBGYN & Fertility Specialist embracing spirituality I knew I had to interview her! Dr. Corda is not only knowledgable but she makes you feel inspired. I already grabbed my copy of ‘The Conception Plan’ and hope you grab your copy & enjoy this Conversating. Enjoy!

©DR.LARISACORDA

Hello! Dr. Larisa Corda, how are you doing? Thank you so much for your time! Oh! Hello, it is my pleasure, thank you.

You have no idea how excited I am to just sit and speak with you today, I just feel so officially cool. This is the best because I love all things spiritual…and this is so cool just how all things blend.

Your enthusiasm for this topic is so wonderful too. You are based in the United States, and I always felt this book would be more in line with the U.S. audience. Because the U.S. has already integrated aspects of this with functional medicine. OMG!!!!! … Yes, Fluffy as promised!

Hi Fluffy! I love dogs… Me too. She, is a little Shih-Tzu, and just a little overweight… I love her. No, not at all, she is curvaceous and beautiful, so cute.

No, but it has been a couple of people that have reached out to me from the U.S.; and the exciting thing is that I have connected with a U.S. agent that will help me to cross over to the U.S. market. At this time, you can only get the book on U.K. Amazon and not the U.S. Amazon. Yes, I am connected to the U.K. Amazon for the book.

So, the book can be bought through the U.K. Amazon or on my website, theconceptionplan.com. Yes! Perfect. I love your website because it is such a wealth of great information! Well, thank you so much.

So, Dr. Corda how would you introduce yourself to someone that is unaware of you…

So, I am an OBGYN as you say in the States. We say Obstetrics Gynecologist in the U.K. My specialty is in reproductive medicine, or fertility. I would describe myself as a Holistic Obstetric Gynecologist, but I am also a television doctor here in the U.K. I am also a new author, which has brought me onto this podcast…and I am really glad that it has connected us in this way.

It is cool how one thing that is done can connect us. You did an interview with Daily Mail that I read. It is amazing how many people see you, and how we connect. And ultimately just how connected we all are.

Exactly you took the words out of my mouth…you do not know who is seeing and reading your article. Who hands this bit of information will fall into, and that is truly amazing to me. I could not agree more. So, it all happens for a reason. Exacly!

So, you are a top fertility specialist, did you always know that you wanted to be an OBGYN, and why fertility specifically…

So, I definitely was drawn to the specialty from early on as a medical doctor. I was very drawn towards working with children as well, and I thought that Obstetrics and Gynecology combined the best of both worlds. There were so many different reasons.

My mother is also an Obstetric Gynecologist, possibly because of that is the reason why I did not want to go into Obstetrics Gynecology. It was the long arduous hours that I witnessed her working, and how hard she studied when me and my sister were young. I saw the impact of how hard and demanding that the job was.

I remember reading a book in the early 90’s that my mom had by Christiane Northrup, M.D. ‘Women’s Body, Women’s Wisdom’. It was the women’s health bible at the time, and it was also on Oprah. In fact, my mom was watching Oprah and she saw the book and recommended it for me to read.

I have always loved reading; it has always been an important part of my life (reading). It was such a huge part of my life when I came from Yugoslavia when I was very young to the U.K.

When I came to the U.K. I did not know any English, so I read books to help me learn English. I fell in love with reading so much, so I literally started reading a book a day.

I spent all my time reading. Who was your favorite author growing up … Oh goodness, there are so many. Actually, my favorite book is by Oscar Wilde, and it is called ‘De Profundis’. It is such an incredible book, the way it examines human psychology. It was written not as a book, but as a series of love letters. It was then compiled into a book.

Yes! I love Philippa Gregory books, and Alexandre Dumas, ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’. My dad is Venezuelan, and he did not speak English when he came to the States, and he read books to learn English as well. He too was always reading and watched Tom and Jerry (American animated television show).

Oh yes!!! I would watch the Pink Panther. At the time my favorite books were ‘Sweet Valley High’, and Danielle Steel which was quite naughty at the time, you know with the sex scenes and all. Oh, yes!

You know I still say there is absolutely something to be said to holding a book in your hands and turning the pages, then dogearring the pages. You know I agree, even though I do love my Kindle. Yet, I also love underlining and making notes in my book. Goodness, yes, I simply love to make my notes in my books too. It is such a sensory experience, writing and reading…I feel like we have lost the art of letter writing. I know I was devastated when I heard that they are taking out teaching cursive writing in the schools in the United States.

So, I read Christian Northrup, M.D.’s book, ‘Women’s Body, Women’s Wisdom’. From that young age that book really blew my mind. She was talking about a lot of Eastern concepts; but expressed by a doctor that was trained in the Western Medical System. I was filled with so much admiration for a woman daring to be a pioneer, and to bring this different approach.

When I read her book, it opened my mind to different, yet lateral, multi-dimensional approaches to women’s health. I became completely obsessed when I was at school - with biology especially, the endocrine system, and how hormones function and what they did. I found it all so interesting.

It became apparent to me that I had an interest in pursuing women’s health. Also, coming from former Yugoslavia at such a young age and witnessing such atrocities, and horror. That made me lean more to the side of women’s health.

The level of impact that it had on young women and girls and what was going on for them at the time. It made me passionate and want to become an ambassador and to help them in any way that I could. One of the greatest privileges of my job (being a doctor), is to meet people and to hold them in their greatest vulnerabilities. It is such a huge honor to do that, and one that I never take for granted – nor is ever lost on me.

I am moved by every single encounter that I have with my patients and what they reveal to me. These are stories that people rarely, or if ever share with anyone else. So, being that person that starts off being a stranger, then sharing that deep and personal encounter with them, is incredible. It fills me with such complete reverence for what women go through, and how they deal with so many aspects of their life.

The traumatic aspects (of a woman’s life) that they use and integrate these experiences to make them stronger, and more self-empowered. I learn so much from women all the time, I have had so many incredible role models in my life, including my grandmother and great aunt who my book is dedicated too.

Who started this whole process for me, they were the non-traditionalist, and non-conformist in our family. They taught me so much about love, and life. The spirit of what I do and certainly the spirit in my book, ‘The Conception Plan…’ is about carrying on these female legacies, and generational legacies. It is a real honor. It is a difficult job, on an emotional and empathetic level.

You have already touched on the impact of reading ‘Women’s Body, Women’s Wisdom’, the wisdom of your grandmother and great aunt had on you and the blending of both. I remember telling my mom … we spend most of our lives saying, thinking ‘don’t get pregnant until you are ready’. Then when you are finally ‘ready’ and whatever that means, we see it is challenging for women to conceive, to carry to term. That is why I love your 12-week program and it does sound like magic, just the perfect blend.

What lead you to create the program, and why did you feel like it was such a necessity…

Well, I feel like and going back to your point that we are taught so very little about conception, the whole part is dedicated to how not to get pregnant at a young age. Making like getting pregnant is super easy, for some people it may be, but for others it is not.

At least 1 in 7 heterosexual couples struggle to become pregnant. Those are huge numbers globally. It is such a disservice to people because it is something that is not necessarily discussed. A decade ago, it was unheard of discussing conception openly in the media and considered taboo to broach some of those areas.

I am so happy that much of that is turning around. The main motivator for writing the book, ‘The Conception Plan…’, is that there is a real need to help people. The need is huge, often it is silent and not articulated or expressed, and goes on behind closed doors.

Also, that help (that is needed) is not necessarily forthcoming. Often that process to conceive is often outside of your control, it can feel incredibly confusing. For some people it is the first time in their life that they face difficulty with something.

It can feel overwhelming, and challenge their own identity of who they are, because it can hit deep at that emotional level. Yes, sometimes it can be more like being ashamed. I have a friend; she and her husband had a miscarriage. She was like how can I not achieve this. For a lot of us it is our identity as women. When this happens it literally hits you in your gut. I think your program is amazing.

I saw on your Instagram you are pictured with a couple and their child. Oh, yes…. That just gives people hope and to not be ashamed to say that I struggled, and I needed assistance. There is nothing wrong with saying that I need help or saying guide me through this. Your book really does that very nicely.

Yes, thank you for that. People that are in this type of situation and perhaps struggling, and even those that are not, the book gives them practical strategies on what to do. So, they feel that they have a level of control over the process.

Also, what they can be doing to invest in their own fertility. More than that too also in that their own longtime, and chronic health. This is what the program is about helping you to achieve a state of wellness that you can carry on with you for the rest of your life.

I love the fact you as a young woman is coming to this and noticing it. This is my dream for it (the book) to come into the hands of young people like you that already can start doing this and implementing this. Oh, my goodness I am so happy to hear that you think that I am still young. Because I don’t know about in the U.K. but in the U.S., people make you feel like it is doomsday they say ‘when you hit your 30’s you have almost zero eggs and your chances are very slim (to get pregnant).

I am mixed, and my mother never made it an issue waiting later to have children (she did). They emphasized that I could start to think about children when I was in my mid-thirties. So, I am thinking that I have time. However, the media in the U.S. send the message that you should start freezing your eggs when you hit your thirties.

That is not too dis-similar to the U.K. (this message). I have real pet-hates because women are literally labeled geriatric at the age of thirty. It is incredible that this type of labeling exists, because you never hear the same message for men. I mean men also decline with age; they are not immune.

As well this whole narrative that women are fed…that they somehow fall off a rooftop, which is completely not true. It is amazing the amount of fear that they instill in women, which is completely not true in most cases. As well it is totally disproportionate.

Yes, it is true for some women to say that they may go through an earlier decline, or an earlier menopause. Overall, that is a small minority of women, the majority women are going to experience menopause in their late forties, or early fifties.

Actually, women in their forties are still fertile, and yes, they have a lower number of eggs; because those have been there since before she was born. So, they will have undergone a natural rate of aging.

This is the thing about ‘The Conception Plan…’, in my book there are strategies, means for looking after your eggs, and after your sperm. Ensuring that you are doing what you can to optimize their health, and function at this epigenetics level.

We know that there is so much science now looking at how that can happen by looking at structures called Telomeres which are the caps of DNA. How doing things like regular meditation, can help preserve the integrity and structure of these Telomeres. Meaning that the rate of aging and decline is slowed down. These are real strategies that can be used by people.

If we look back many generations our grandparents, and their parents were living a life much different; their lives were much healthier than ours in many ways. When we look at many indigenous communities around the world, they preserved so many of these traditions.

Women in those communities are even capable of getting pregnant in their early fifties. Yes! I have read about that! Yes, there are several women that I have encountered I see getting pregnant in their late forties naturally. Now I am not saying that this is common; what I am saying is that it is worth doing some research in this area.

Also, looking at these women and finding out what is allowing them to be able to do this much later in life (ability to get pregnant). And what we need to invest in much earlier in life to change this narrative for women. Even when the aging process starts to happen earlier it does not happen at this exponential decline, it very well happens as a gradual decline.

Doing some tests on yourself and looking at and assessing some things at a much younger age is important. Because it is empowering, and it returns the power to you to control many elements. I disagree completely what women in their thirties and forties are told.

The bizarre thing is that IVF is often sold as a cure…oh yes! if you look at IVF success rate it is …very low. It is not much different than to the conception rate. So, how on earth does IVF become a viable option? Yes, you can do several rounds of IVF to increase someone’s chances. But IVF cannot improve the quality of your eggs.

The only thing that can do that is the strategies that you can be using, and that I talk about in ‘The Conception Plan …’. Also engaging the power of the mind; and to help you to preserve the health and quality of the egg(s) and sperm(s). Along with many other things in your body as well.

It is so great that you say that, when you turn thirty years old you should have had children. I am a firm believer that if you are not mentally ready to have children at thirty then do not. It is a big responsibility, so not to be forced, rushed is huge. Again, it is a big mental and financial responsibility. I think your book is great… you control what you can control. And here are the tools, relax, and do not panic. Which always makes things worse.

I loved how you used a Shaman as part of your plan…why did you choose to do that…

The first time that I came across Shamanic healing was when I engaged in it myself in 2018. I was on a retreat at the time, and was introduced to a Shaman, and he has continued to be my Shaman. And is still one of my healers. That was the first time to use this concept.

What really drew me to it was my profound session myself, in terms of where the healing took and did for me. Doing more research and understanding of this I discovered that they are the oldest, and the original Neuroscientist in the world. They operate at the level of the subconscious. So much of alternative, or complimentary healing that can complement a lot of the allopathic techniques that we use.

They have so much power because they operate at that energetic and subconscious level. They deal with traumas that we carry from this lifetime, as well from previous lifetimes as well. What I particularly love about Shamanism when it comes to helping people to conceive is that it helps people to access that trauma. Or emotional states from previous experiences.

What this type of healing does is allows you to do this in a very safe place. Also allows you to integrate many of those experiences which I believe is pivotal when it comes to becoming pregnant. I go into a lot of the details in the book. When it comes to epigenetics and what our children stand to inherit; they also stand to inherit our traumas that we have not dealt with as well.

Which is a lot of what our emotional state ends up creating inside of our bodies. So, it is important to address this for ourselves as well for the children of the future. That is one of the reasons that I appreciate the contributions of Shamans so much.

Also, the couple that you referred to that was featured in the online magazine Daily Mail, the original couple on ‘The Conception Plan…’; also went to see my Shaman and they had such a profound experience with that as well.

You know (Shaman’s) are becoming more mainstream now…oh yes! I know my Shaman experience was very intense.

How do you unwind and recenter…you have mentioned that you are with these women on their journeys, being vulnerable. That can take a toll on you. Often if things do not go as planned it could weigh on you. You are a doctor, you are a fixer, and very solution oriented… your goal is to fix the person.

I think I turn to my spiritual practice a lot. You must accept that there are things that someone as a patient will do with respect to ‘control the controllable’; and then there are things that you can do as a doctor to help with all of that.

There is so much of this entire process that is a divinely ordained process. This is one of the paramount reasons why I went into this specialty of reproductive medicine. It is a miracle. A process that happens as a spiritual process, and I think we must consider and honor it as that.

So, even when you witness patients going through a difficult time there is an acceptance that it will lead them into somewhere. Into areas of incredible growth, evolution, and wisdom that sometimes only come because of those experiences. And you must trust in that.

Yes, absolutely as a doctor you can get very involved in terms of caring for your patients, and experiencing the pain that they may encounter. Then on the other side you can experience a lot of happiness with them when it is successful, and their dreams do come true.

It is really important to keep yourself grounded and centered and I do turn to my spiritual practice. I do use rituals and work with crystals a lot. I love being in nature, and grounding in nature. I love exercising and movement. I use a lot of different breathing techniques. I love being creative. I feel being in a creative mind is really therapeutic for me.

This allow me to connect with the Divine myself. When I speak of rituals it can be running a bath, lighting candles, and meditating. Also reading and watching television like everyone else.

Oh, my goodness have you seen the show ‘One Day’? It is such a tearjerker. It is slow to start, but when you get to about episode four the rest is simply shattering. It is so good I highly recommend ‘One Day’. Well, yes, I am super intrigued (about the show). How many episodes are there? … there are fourteen. Okay, then there are quite a lot to get through then. Yes! It spans over twenty years, but it goes very fast.

Okay well I will definitely make a start then tonight. The other one is called ‘Normal People’. Yes! I have seen that too. That is a good one as well. Also, the series ‘Luther’. We do make some good series, don’t we?... oh yes you do.

There is also something else that I wanted to address on the subject of ‘women and older age’. This is important to say, I am all in favor of women taking control of their fertility.

So, if someone chooses to do egg freezing earlier in life as a life decision, because they understand that they want to have children later in life. And they want to give themselves the best chances of being a biological mother. Then I am all for that.

What I am against is this narrow narrative that is being pedaled to women that they somehow become infertile after the age of thirty or thirty-five. And that egg freezing is a solution for every woman and doesn’t come without side effects. Also, considerable financial investment as well too.

I am all about returning the power to women and allowing them to make those decisions themselves. Understanding that there is a lot that they can do about optimizing their own health, it doesn’t need to be outsourced, nor given to someone else. And that they can do that.

What is your self-care ritual, which is different on how you unwind after a long day…

Probably reading a book, I love reading a book. I have some of my biggest spiritual downloads when I am reading a book. A bit like when I drive, not the congested London roads, but long winding country roads.

I love going out in the dark and looking at the stars. Most people have a certain fear of the dark that was instilled in us from when we were young children. Uh, yes! I still have that fear. I still have my night light, that is really my salt lamp. I cannot have pitch black.

See, I feel like when there is a full moon, and the starts are out and you’re near the coast it is the most incredible thing. Yes, I am here for a full moon, I love a full moon. I think it is gorgeous. I live near the ocean, and I am here for the full moon. Anything else I need a flashlight because things can jump out at you.

No, no I get that. I think that there is so much excitement about the magic that you can discover. Things that really only come to life at that time. That veil where we are when the spiritual world is the thinnest around that time. It can be when we can connect to our subconscious.

I do some of my best writing when it is quite late, I find that I am more inspired at that time. I love being near the sea, and late-night swimming too. It is so magical.

The real key about the dark, and encountering the dark is that it teaches us to learn and to trust that inner part of ourselves. Which is a challenging thing to do. If you want to understand the spiritual realm, there are so many things that we can’t see.

The fact that we have an energetic bio-field and I discuss this in the book, we can’t see it; we can measure it to some degree. Which is the same thing with some people’s auras, some people can because they have honed their skills of perception, but then there are other people that cannot see it (people’s auras).

It is about coming into that inner stillness. And developing the various sensory modes of communication. As well being able to interpret the environment around us and using senses that we are not used to using, being able to trust. That is an important skill to have.

Women are incredibly intuitive, and so much of that is cultivated out of us. We are taught to prioritize logic, and that is far superior to intuition.

We are now learning that intuition is far superior. I definitely agree with you on that! my best decisions are from my intuition.

As well another aspect of magic is when you just connect with someone and just like them. Oh! yes definitely. I think that is amazing as well.

***What are you most super excited about for people getting your book? I know I as a reader I am excited to not only hear from an expert but without making an appointment. It is the self-empowerment…***

Gosh! I love that…I think it is the sense of empowerment. I love the people to step away and to feel the most important thing that they got (from my book) is that they can actually conceive another version of themselves. Prior to having a child, and I speak about that in my book.

BUY NOW It is the most important theme of the book - the idea that you can give birth to yourself first before having a child. Because there is a huge opportunity for your emotional, spiritual, physical, and mental health. To really consider the impact that that has on you long term as well to your children that are born through you.

I would love to see people apply that to themselves and understand that they can create a new version of themselves. That they feel great and confident in their ability to do that. Then to combine these spiritual and scientific principles.

For some people this may be their first time seeing the marriage of spiritual and science. I try to explain the science behind the spiritual concepts as well. So, I see people being drawn to my book for this reason.

I see this with my patients already. You can see their whole approach to life and their lifestyle change. They suddenly understand the principle of cocreation, they are creating from within themselves but also in alignment with a spiritual lifeforce as well.

I love that and I hope that it connects them more with the Divine in themselves and the Divine outside of us as well.

What is on your current playlist…

Oh!... I am currently obsessed with Kylie Minogue new album, and I keep playing it. I love her and her music. It is one of best ones that she has had. It is just happy music.

I love Billie Eilish...her songs are so full of emotions. Very introspective and spiritual. Lana del Rey ... those are my top repeat.

You know one of the wonderful things about life is to be able to be surprised and to stay open, and open to being surprised.

Yes! And how we think our life should unfold, and when. Thank you so much for your time to speak with me!

Thank you for finding me and for being on your Platform!

©DR.LARISACORDA

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The old saying ‘never judge a book by it’s cover’ could not be better applied to Sal Sortino. It’s not often I’m intrigued or embarrassed by my initial assumptions of someone. I can happily say that I’m very pleased that my initial assumptions about Sal were incorrect. Knowledgable, funny, and just overall a nice guy. I was so intrigued I just kept talking. I’m very pleased to have gotten to do the interview with Sal. Enjoy!

©SALVATORESORTINO

Hi Sal! Thank you for sitting down with me and conversating. Yes, of course!

Okay so where did you grow up, I know that you have said Ohio but what city in Ohio…. Yes, I grew up in a smaller city …Sandusky, Ohio it is an hour west of Cleveland. I grew up in a very diverse upbringing.

My parents got divorced when I was young, and my mom remarried after a couple of years. It was unique and dynamic how I grew up; my dad’s side of the family were known as the rich side of my family. My mom’s side was not that way, so it was two completely different dynamics.

I attribute who I am to my diverse way that I was raised, and not just with the economic status of my dad versus my mom’s side. As well my stepdad was a black man, so I grew up with…. That’s how you knew who Pharrell was!... Ahahahaha, no I do know Pharrell for sure! So, I grew up being the only white kid in some family events.

I also have an older brother that is special needs, my brother has brain damage. So, I grew up around a lot of kids like him. You learn a lot being around people like my brother. Ultimately, my upbringing was very diverse.

You know when I looked at your Instagram as part of my research for getting ready for our conversating. I did see the post with you and your brother. I must say that showed you from a different perspective, and positive light.

Yesss, but you know I think how you are in business is very different than you are in your personal life. You are correct and so well put too.

People that work with me will say that I am very demanding etc., I was trained in business (and it could be the wrong way) that business has no feelings. Oh! My gosh me too, but when I saw that post with your brother – it just showed a different and nice side of you. That makes sense too because real estate is a people’s business.

You know different people…personalities, you work with many different people…and is it because that you have seen the other side with the special needs that you are more adaptable, or more attuned to people’s feelings…

Yes, I think that is fair to say probably. I also had a good mom that is a special and compassionate person, and a good-hearted human being. Being around that is what ultimately shaped me to be the way that I am for sure.

Did you ever play sports growing up, if so what sport(s)…

I was an athlete my whole life, mainly baseball and basketball as a young kid, and football. In high school I was a standout basketball player… really!?! Yes! That was a sport that I could not do.

I fenced, and the same attributes and characteristics that fencing required is what I take into work. What of your athletic abilities do you take into your work, if any currently? You work with a team, and you did a team sport. For me fencing is isolating, and it is more challenging for me to work with people. What are your thoughts…

Yes! I agree with that 100%. Number one I can tell you that I was very competitive, and maybe sometimes to a fault. I think business took over that competitive side of me, people can take this for the good and for the bad. In terms of building a business, one hundred percent; I hire people every day, I assess people. I hire athletes in my businesses because there are three things that you need to be successful in my organizations – you have to be approachable, which you have to be in sports; you have to be extremely discipline with your work ethics, which you have to have if you want to be an elite athlete, and you have to be a good communicator. If you have those three things, you have the intangibles to be successful in sales.

You have listed the qualities that are tantamount for success in your organizations, besides the competitiveness that drives you…what else would you say drives you? There are so many that are okay with the status quo, but what drives you… because as you said you come from an affluent background on your dad side, and you could have been a spoiled little rich kid (not motivated) …

Let me clarify it is my grandad that is the rich guy. My dad not so much. From the outside looking in that was the dynamic – it was my dad’s side of the family that had the money. When I look at it now and putting things into perspective, when you are from a small town (like I am from); you drive a nice car, you will be considered a rich guy because you drive a nice car. Yes, and I do understand that!

So, yes that is kind of the persona. I would say that what drove me to want to be successful in business would be my grandfather. He was an immigrant from Italy, worked hard and made a wonderful life for him and his family. He drove the type of car that I wanted to drive, wore the watch that I wanted to wear, he has the big personality. He was the man.

I simply wanted to be my grandpa. I knew that, and he lived the life that I wanted to live. I knew that took money to live that way. So, I was attracted to his lifestyle since I was a kid, and that is what I wanted to achieve.

I think to have his lifestyle to be a driving factor is okay when you are first starting out, I must say that it does get old – and I did burn out of that philosophy. I wanted to prove that I did not need anyone, that lasted for a long time. I started everything from scratch on my own.

Now that is what I say is a ‘hairflip moment’… Ahaha, yes I wanted to prove that I could do it, and did not need anyone. What I realized was that no matter how much you accomplish, or how much you do on your own, people are always going to assume that you did not do it on your own.

Although the facts are that you did (did it on your own). It does not matter how much you do they (others) will always try to discredit you. That does get old, and I finally got over that chip on my shoulder.

I realized that there was no better feeling to show other people how to accomplish what you have. Some might strive to live the life that I might live, it is really rewarding to give someone else the opportunity to do the same thing. That is why I have shifted my focus over to building sales teams, to give people the opportunity to build a substantial income for themselves. And to change their lives and their families lives. I like that more than anything!

I know that you have real estate and insurance businesses, what do both have, and what do they give you? I think they both have different mindsets. They both are dealing with people, but one is definitely more sales, and the other one is more like building a relationship… Yes, very true.

The one is one and done (sales), the other is cultivating a relationship (insurance)…so what do you get from each one…and why would you merge them…

Yes, I think real estate – and this is how I look at a business; when I started in real estate, I was a real estate agent. This was how I entered the profession. That was great, and I had a lot of financial success with that aspect of the profession. I realized that I did not love being a realtor. I loved real estate. Being a realtor was not my forte.

The way that I look at real estate today, is that it is the ultimate wealth machine. I can go on forever about my perspective, I invite you to do a Google search of the advantages for buying real estate.

Ultimately, I do not think there is any better opportunity in today’s world in terms of a sales role than life insurance. I got into the life insurance business because one of my good friends, and my business partner.

He came over from Albania on a boat. He said he was a toaster boy in a local deli in his twenty’s here in Lakewood. He quickly became extremely successful and was quickly able to bring his entire family here. His cousins, brothers, and brother-in-law. Anyone he loved he brought here to be with him. And they all became extremely successful very quickly.

I was jealous of that! The way my organization worked I was kind of on an island. I did great. However, the people that worked with me were not necessarily able to have the life that I lived. So that opportunity (the insurance business) was very attractive to me.

What was so attractive was that the opportunity was so vast that he was able to offer it to others; and make it be successful too. So, that is when I took the jump into insurance. With that in mind – that we can not only help our family, friends, and give opportunities to people; we also play a crucial part in families future.

People must realize is that life insurance can save generations. It might sound a bit dramatic… or morbid… Yes, but it is true. At the end of the day when a loved one could possibly, and tragically pass away; and the family has no income, and it can be a major impactful event on a family.

Yes, that is reality and so true. Yes! And it can one-hundred percent effect generations. And we can get to help people every day. Of course, we get to make great money while doing that, so it is a win for everyone. That is why I switched my sales focus to insurance.

I still have sales teams in real estate, sales teams in mortgage, and other businesses. However, I am passionate about the insurance business as well.

Someone that also grew up privileged as well, my family has a lot of property as well. My dad is Venezuelan and first generation as well, but I do not consider him a true immigrant because he did not struggle. Real estate in my opinion is still a risky investment. I do not know if I say this because, they handle it and do it, it is over my head. Example…you buy an apartment complex, and the tenants do not pay…what is your advice to risk adverse people…

I would say to educate yourself as much as possible on all the different asset classes within real estate, because can real estate be risky? Yes! Do I think the real estate that I purchase is risky? No. There are reasons for that, because there are a lot of different asset classes within real estate.

I provide affordable housing to lower to moderate income families, where I am getting a large portion of my income guaranteed from the government. As long as I know those rents are guaranteed and they cover all of my debt services – my mortgage, if I borrow money. For me it is simply not much risk in that. I am transactional at times when I flip properties, but my focus is to buy property and to keep that property.

I have a saying – ‘When the equity comes the equity goes, but the cash will always flow’. Ahahaha, now that is catchy! … If you have cash flowing every month after all of your expenses and your debt services – I am happy.

Let’s say that I brought property for half a million dollars and that property depreciates to two-hundred fifty thousand dollars (now this has not happened to me) …I really do not care because I am making the same amount of money every month, and I am not going to sell the property. Does it hurt me long term? Of course, because if I need to leverage that equity to go get more – then that is where I would feel it. However, it is not the end of the world because I am still making money every month.

It is good that within your business model that you provide housing to lower income families, there is a need for that. I fill a need within the communities that I invest in, however, I do profit from it.

Your videos on Instagram are informational, and you are trying to inspire people to do more, and be better…why do you think that that is important to provide this to people…

I would say because I was very fortunate in life to have people that I look up to, and to be exposed to people that were successful, and that is what ultimately drove me to be the way that I am.

I believe that you must be exposed to something to know what you can accomplish it. Some people might not appreciate that on occasion I do post my accomplishments and things that make me proud. In my eyes … I saw my granddad with the nice watch, car, home, and that is why I ultimately wanted to achieve it. When I look at his accomplishments, I do not first say/think ‘oh, you do not need that’… ‘I say I want that too’. I put those images out there for people who like me want to see those things that are possible and what they too can achieve.

Hopefully, people will act because of that.

No journey is smoothe…now did you start your real estate journey while you were in University, or after University. What were the ebbs and the flows…

This is a long story, the short is that I dropped out of University going into my Junior year, and I came home and did not know what I was going to do. I started working for my grandpa and my dad, they own a hotel and a restaurant.

So, I did pretty much what I did since I was eight years old. I worked hard, took their orders if they said jump, I said how high. I was working the front desk at 6:00 a.m., then after that I was prep cooking in the kitchen, and then ran the dining room after that.

It was the typical immigrant Italian family, where everyone works in the family business. The American Dream!... Yes, it was the business that my grandad built. It is very cool, and I am blessed to have the blood that I have.

I quickly realized after a few months that this model that I worked since I was eight years old, was not going to work any longer. I knew I wanted something more for myself, I wanted my opportunity now.

I bought a piece of property a land contract, which is a form of seller financing. So, I gave them some of my savings, and I did not have to go to the bank. This property was a duplex, and I was making about a thousand dollars profit monthly from that one property that I owned. I realized that I made this money for literally putting tenants in place. From this point the light bulb went off, if I did these twenty more times, I would have twenty thousand dollars a month.

I asked my mom for a loan for the money to flip my first house, I did well. I made forty-thousand dollars in forty days. I then flipped another piece of property, and that is how we got started.

How do you stay balanced, grounded…what do you do…

People! People. I love to work, and I work with people from all walks of life, and that does keep me balanced. Solitude though is what does relax and re-center me. I put my phone upside down and just sit and be with my thoughts.

I do love alone time, and to be alone.

What music do you listen to relax…. I love old school R&B music! Usher, Jagged Edge – and someone that I, well … no one can name anymore…

Okay and we will leave it there, thank you…. Of course!

©PEOPLE-MADE
©PEOPLE-MADE

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If you know me you know I LOVE jewelry. It’s the one way we can feel unique and bold and mysterious in one fell swoop. I love jewelry that is modern yet with a vintage/ heirloom feel. I came across Mack & Myyles Jewelry over the summer and was instantly obsessed. After low-key Insta stalking I was able to convince Leslee, the Founder of Mack & Myyles, to do an interview. I was ECSTATIC! Even more amazing Leslee has offered our readers a discount using code “YLMM”. Enjoy!

©LESLEELIVINGSTON-MURRAY

Hi! How are you doing Leslee…. Hi, I am doing well, and how are you doing?

I am so excited to sit and talk with you Leslee! Yes, me too… it is so nice to me meet you.

How would you introduce yourself to people that are unaware of you?

My name is Leslee Livingston-Murray, I am a jewelry designer; I also work in healthcare, I have like nine jobs. I am born and raised in Southern California grew up primarily in Orange County. Went to U.S.C. and have been in Los Angeles ever since.

I turned 50 years old last year, and I feel like I am in the prime of my life. I know that 50 seems old to a lot of people but… as I am aging, I tell you 50 years old seems very young. I am leaning into the aging process, yet I am obsessed with how I age. Ahahahaha…yes but when your kids say ‘Mom, in the old days…or like in the 1900’s’. That is when you say… wait a minute.

Yes, when I hear people saying now that the 90’s are considered vintage, I am like wait what are you talking about? Ahahaahaa I know, right.

You mentioned that you do like nine jobs, when you read the news (like I do) … do you think that to be a more fulfilled as a person that people need to have different avenues to showcase all the facets of who they are? Why do you say your primary profession is in healthcare, and why did you decide to start your jewelry line, Mack and Myles Jewelry?

I did not feel fulfilled. During the pandemic I was bored, I work as a Pharma Rep, and I work remote. I do not go into an office every day, so during the pandemic we were told to just stay home.

So, being a Type A type personality – a go-getter, and very goal oriented; I was simply bored - fashion, and jewelry I have always loved. Actually, my niece had a jewelry line. I asked her if I could work with her and learn how she made jewelry, where she went to buy it. Because I was interested in starting my own jewelry line.

So, she was really helpful and showed me everything. I just started from there, it is a creative outlet for me to express myself, and to stay busy. I am not a person that is comfortable sitting around doing nothing. I wake up every morning between 5:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., and my brain literally never shuts off.

I know that I need to shut down and relax, but it is difficult for me. Oh yes do I know. I take Natural Calm to help me shut down my brain and to relax. I try reading but sometimes that gets me more amped. Yes! It can.

Did you ever experience any fear entering the jewelry space. Pretty much like any outlet that is a creative outlet and fun, you will hear this is a young person’s game, or its over saturated. So, did you ever feel nervous or any self-doubt before entering. Or were you guns blazing, and your energy was like - I know what I know…

Well, I know friends and strangers always would tell me how they like my style, and my aesthetic. My motto has always been throughout my entire life … ‘if they can do it I can do it’. So, anything that I have wanted to do throughout my life, I have just done it. I just know… I have seen other people, women, moms, and other black women doing it. So, I say to myself - I am smart, I am a hard worker and I am driven – I can do it too.

There is enough space for everyone. My jewelry might not appeal to everybody, but it will appeal to somebody and enough people. It is doing well, so I must be doing something right.

How do you find inspiration for your designs, and how do you get inspired to create your pieces…

I mean everywhere… I will be watching a television show, and I will see a piece on an actress; I will pause the television and look at it. Not make the exact piece but put my own spin on it. Magazines when I am out and about, Pinterest; I get inspiration from everywhere, and anywhere.

Now on the site there is a piece, a chunky chain. Oh! How did I not see it! Well, I am doing a drop today with twenty new pieces. Yet, there are times when I will go a month, or two months… I have not created anything since the Salina Collection. I did that Collection in August, September, I created it, and it dropped in November 2023. There were three- hundred to four-hundred orders within a two-month period. It was crazy, I was just overwhelmed.

So, I will jot down notes of things in my phone, or I will screenshot something on my phone. I went through that (photos and notes on my phone), and from that I created like twenty-four new pieces this week. My husband shoots it, I edit it, and we get it on the site. Posting the jewelry is very time consuming; I mean it is a process.

My brain is always going, in all sincerity, I really enjoy it; and it is mine. I do not mind working. So, I get inspiration from everywhere, it is constant and non-stop.

What I love about your Instagram, as well as your website, as you have said it is authentically you. As well you own yourself top to bottom. Your husband shoots, and you edit. Do your kids help with editing…I know Instagram has many trends – do you have a team that helps with keeping up with different trends, or is it you…

I do it. I do it all. It is a lot of work. I respect that, I know that I am not that great at social media…so my brother does that aspect. The prep work to even get to filming is so time consuming. It can be literally almost a whole day to do the prep work.

I love your Reels especially the toggle clasp necklaces. How do you keep the social media engagement…

I am always scrolling through Instagram for inspiration. I won’t necessarily do the exact Reel, but I get inspired from the Influencers with fashion, and those that show their home. I just apply it to my jewelry.

With Instagram it seems like the more authentic that you are, the better the engagement. I know my customers want to see me, who I really am. I noticed the Reels that I share my kids, my husband, when we go on vacation; those are the Reels that get the most views. That is what my customers want to see.

Then sometimes I am like what does that have to do with my jewelry. So, when I am inspired to do that, I just do it. It is a lot of work. Hopefully, eventually I can figure out a way to delegate that. I know my niece represents a few brands; so, when I get to the point where I can afford to pay her, I am going to do that.

I know that we have other exciting ventures coming soon, so I will need the ability to delegate more.

***I am a huge lover of Vintage jewelry, but what I love about your jewelry is that it is modern with a twist of heirloom. So, why did you decide to do Gold Filled jewelry, I think that Gold Filled jewelry is still an untapped area. Why did you decide on Gold Filled jewelry…***

I am so glad that you asked me that question. That is a big part of the reason that I wanted to start my jewelry line. I used to purchase a lot of jewelry from a jewelry designer that will remain nameless, and I would spend one-hundred dollars on a bracelet, and it would tarnish in a month.

LEARN MORE I have other jewelry that I wear that has lasted, and I know it is not gold. So, I wondered what material that was. My niece educated me a lot on the different materials – Gold Filled vs Gold Plated; Vermeil Gold; Sterling Silver vs Rhodium Plated. Gold Filled is a little more expensive but it lasts, it does not tarnish. I have Gold Filled bracelets that I have worn for years, like four or five years and they do not tarnish. It is a good investment.

Someone, like me that does go with the trends… I still like my bead bracelets. I wanted to create a line that was made with good quality materials that would last. As far as the style, the aesthetic, is what I am drawn to. The pieces that I create I would wear.

When I first started following you in the summer (of 2023) you focused more on your jewelry, and now I know that you are incorporating more of your styling into it. That is helpful, for people that need that assistance. What made you segue into this sphere, was it more from your community that asked for it, or was it that you wanted to show your community more of your personality…

I think it was a hybrid. Some of my girlfriends would ask me to either style them, or to pick out a necklace for them. Initially that is why I started doing the necklace sets, they were curated sets. I would select individual necklaces and put them together and sell them as a set. This was just to make it easier for people that do not know how to put jewelry pieces together, or their accessories.

I also have an amazing group of friends that always send me different inspirations, different ideas, and they were all saying, ‘you should show how you would wear your jewelry’, ‘you always look cute’. That is how it started, but I was nervous. I just didn’t want to get in front of the camera.

Last summer my husband and I went to Italy with two other couples and that is when it all hit. I was like I want to travel more often. I need more money, and I knew that my line had the potential to do better. My jewelry line has been more like my creative outlet, but I also knew that it had potential.

I have been a successful vaccine rep for approximately twenty-eight years. I decided on that trip that I was going to focus and grow my business (my creative outlet).

I knew to do that I needed to share myself and get in front of the camera, and my business has just taken off. In 2022 my business earned approximately $20,000.00, and in 2023 I made over six figures.

How do you unwind, get re-centered and unwind, since you have a busy life….

I like to hike. I used to hike three to five times a week, but we moved, so now it is not as easy to hike. My trail is like thirty minutes away, so I don’t hike as often. What trails would you do… Fryman Canyon hike in Studio City. Okay! Yes, I am from Palos Verdes Estates, and I would hike to Bristol Farms, then quickly realize I must go back home. It is beautiful there… it is great for training when I was an athlete and training, since it is all hills, you can just walk around. Yes, ahahaahaa.

So, I am marveling at how you just love, and willingly hike. Yes, it was great just drop the kids off at school and go hike. I like to watch reality television, and Netflix. My husband and I are both movie buffs, he is an aspiring movie writer, so we love to go to the movies. We love to dine out. Also, I love to hang out with my four boys, we are a blended family, I enjoy them so much.

No, I lied…. My last question… I am sure that you are aware and heard how certain influencers say that you do not need any money to start your business. I mean you do need some money. Oh! you do need money. Yes, that is not realistic, and we need to be honest. So, what would you say are the three most crucial investment pieces for anyone to start a business, besides a website….

I think you need to have an advertising budget for sure. I invest on average $600 to $1,200 a month on ads. When I started, I did not do that. Yes, because you need to be seen.

Yes, and to my detriment I did not do that when I first started out, and people won’t see you, and the way the algorithm works on Instagram, and Facebook – if you are not investing money no one is watching you. Yes, no one will see you.

As far as inventory, initially I invested approximately $1,500.00. When I started, I was creating a lot of designs, and if it did not sell, I would just scrap it, and create something else.

I do think that you can use your phone, I have my Samsung, do you suggest to invest in lighting…because I think it is all about lighting. Or get one of the digital cameras…

I use my phone a lot for my Reels and a Ring Light. I invested like $65.00 on my Ring Light. I also have a really good camera that my husband uses when he is shooting the jewelry on me for the website. I was a photographer, so I already had a lot of the equipment. I also invested in a MacBook for editing, and I use Lightroom to edit my photos. Yes, a good Light Ring for your Reels is important, and a good camera.

Could you share some items from your new drop…

I do have a new drop, it is about twenty new styles – earrings, bracelets, necklaces; and one necklace set. I did a collection with Salina_ Sincerely in November, and we are dropping another collection for Spring, end of February beginning of March. We will do Red Agate and Cornelian for the next collection. We will do three collections a year. So, it is a lot of exciting things coming up. It is important to evolve and to grow. I enjoy change.

Every rejection throughout my life has meant something better is in store. I am not that Zen yet… Well, yes you are disappointed, but you will realize that ‘no’ was for a reason. It is important to move forward, evolve, and to grow. The Collection is growing and getting better and better every day.

Now that is beyond exciting…thank you so much, it was wonderful talking with you. Yes, it really was, thank you.

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Dress for Success is an organization I have always loved and admired since high-school. My father argued because it was an excuse for my ‘PhD in shopping to be overlooked as giving back.’ Now in high-school that probably was a small reason why I loved Dress for Success. The reality is, they are so much more they guide women from everything to interview prep, community, styling and mental well-being. At the helm is powerhouse Michele Meyer-Shipp Esq. and to say I was overjoyed she said yes is an understatement. One of my proudest moments to date! Enjoy!

©MICHELEMEYER-SHIPP

Before I begin, I want to take a moment to say thank you…this interview with you is the highlight of my 2023… Oh stop it, stop it, my gosh well thank you! Your career in general and not just with the Dress for Success is just amazing, and it is truly beautiful to see.

How would you introduce yourself to people that are unaware of you…

So, I would introduce myself as a person who has never met a stranger. I am a friend to everyone. I am a lover of people. I am curious. I am a lifelong learner, and I like to have fun. I love to build relationships and to learn new things.

I can get into the professional things, but I always like to start with that. I really like how you stated the human aspect of yourself versus the career, and I think that has played so much into your success. Please correct me if I am incorrect. Typically, people start with whatever label that they have. It does not matter that much, as how you make someone feel. That is so right. It is such a beautiful way to introduce yourself, and incredibly humble. Thank you, Thanks!

Now you have a super cool job, you are CEO for Dress for Success Worldwide, and you actively promote equality at a global level. Yes! And you held one of the highest positions in the MLB, as well with Diversity and Equity. This is a hair flip moment I tell you! Ahahaha…

As your position as CEO for Dress for Success what is part of your vision for that and what do you hope to achieve…

So, all we want to do is to help every single woman that comes through our door to transform her life for the better. Most of the women who comes to see us are dealing with either a job loss, or return to the workforce. They need help with getting on their feet and building economic independence.

For us at the end of the day if we can do that for every woman that walks through the door, we have been successful.

Did you ever foresee as you were starting off in your career that you would be the CEO of Dress for Success... Never, never in a million years... sometimes I feel like I am having an out of body experience. I will be visiting at an Affiliate, and I will be on stage and looking out at our Volunteers, Donors, our Women, and the Team. I am like ‘omg this is kind of surreal’.

So, I never imagined this in a million years. I did think that I had a blueprint for what I wanted my life to look like. As you go through life, things change, you change, and you grow you evolve you learn. Things happen that guide you down a path where you are supposed to be, and this is where I absolutely am supposed to be.

What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your job in day, or in general….

So, I would say the most fulfilling is to actually and visibly - interact with; engage with; see; touch; talk to the women that we have helped, and the women that we are helping. Like to actually wrap my arms around them. Sometimes I have one of our clients come speak at one of our events. I had one client join me on the Tamron Hall Show.

Tamron Hall called and said that we would love to have you come and speak on the show. So, I said okay, may I bring one of our clients? And she was like ‘yes’. When we got on set and Tamron was asking me questions, I was like you need to ask her questions. When she told her story and spoke about what we actually did for her to change her life - I was like mike drop. This is what it is all about! That is all that it is about. It was amazing.

Those are some of the most fulfilling things. The other thing, I have worked in a lot of sectors, a lot of industries, but I have never worked in a place that everyone that I encounter sole’s focus is to help another human being.

It is not making a profit, it is not selling life insurance, not picking up new clients, it is not selling baseball tickets. Every single purpose here wants to change someone else’s life. So, we have that common core bond and connection. It does not even feel like work. That is simply amazing.

In this day age, and I must stop…well I am low key addicted to the news. You get so heavy, and you say where is humanity. Oh! Yes, so true. That is the best thing about Dress for Success as an organization, it shows that there are still good people that care, want to see you succeed, and to help. So true!

It reminds me of something that I saw on Instagram…’Find the people that want you to win, and you just go there, and stop knocking yourself in the head at the place that doesn’t’. Yes, exactly! That is just an anecdote to that, plus Tamron Hall is a fellow Temple Owl, so that makes it even better.

***What would you tell someone about some of the amazing rewards for getting involved at Dress for Success at the local level (some you have already touched upon) … if they don’t really have a skill set – they are not a stylist or a coach, what can they do?***

There is something for everyone to do to help us at Dress for Success, at any one of our local Affiliates. Women, Men, Volunteers come in and do a range of things. Mentoring to a client, listening to a client that maybe needs help with a resume. Maybe sitting with a client and doing a mock interview, or helping a client set up a LinkedIn profile page.

LEARN MORE Maybe even sitting with a client and just helping her proofread her resume. It can be something as little as that, or she comes in the door, somebody has to help her with her intake form. Then sitting with her and helping her fill out her intake form.

Then for those that actually want to help style her and dress her, you can do that as well. Now if someone is introverted and you really do not like to deal with a lot of people. You can go in the backroom and help us sort clothing. You can help us with paperwork.

There is so much to do. One of the things that I tell people all the time is that our Local Affiliates are very small, and lean run teams. Literally in some of them they have one person on Staff. It is the Volunteer, and the Volunteers that come in that do the heavy lift. Without our Volunteers we are nothing.

So, I would encourage anyone to check us out Locally, give a call and ask how you can help. Then hear what the different ways are, and I am sure there is some ways that everyone can step up and be a help.

List five things that you cannot live without…

Okay, so the five things that I cannot live without – Myles, Marcus, Mason, and Michael. So, Myles is my oldest son, Marcus is my middle son, Mason is my third son, and Michael is my husband. So, I am not going to cheat, I am going to bundle them up. I am going to say my immediate family is one; two – my extended family. I love, love, love my sisters, nieces, and nephews. I am a family person. Third – sports can’t live without it. Which sport is your favorite? Football! I would have sworn you would have said MLB, ahahaha. No, football. My brother-in-law played professional football. My oldest son played college football, and my baby plays football at Yale. I live for football.

When the football season ends, I am miserable for a little while. So, football, and sports in general. Next would be travel, and music. What is your favorite place to travel… I have been a lot of places, so this will be hard. I do not have a favorite, but I can give you my top three. Safari in South Africa was mesmerizing and simply unbelievable; being on the top of Mauna Kea in Kona, Hawaii was breathtaking. I was actually above the clouds and looking down into the clouds like I was on an airplane. I was standing there in a snow suit in Hawaii, it was freezing. Then I would say…this is hard. Probably one of the Buddha Temples in Japan.

I have been all over the world, and everyplace has been amazing for different reasons. So that is why I say travel. Because I am curious and because I like so many things it is really hard to say one particular place. I love Italy, France, and Spain. Me too!!!

Music – top two artists. It can be a genre, or be collective…

I like my old schoolhouse music; I am not going to lie. Noooo! Old school, like Frankie Knuckles old school. Like when I put it on, my sons are like…’Mom what is that’. That is what I listened to when I was in college.

What was the best advice that you were given personally and professionally….

I would say communication is key and critical in all aspects of life. It was not until I passed 50 years old that I realized that that was so true. You must communicate and be transparent in your personal life and professional life.

All the time, because when you are not communicating with people that you are dealing with, they are making up stories in their heads about what they think you are thinking. And it leads you to have relationships that you are not able to maximize.

If we had like an hour, I could give you five examples of real life situations and work situations wherein there was a failure to communicate, that lead to a forced communication. And that communication led to a revelation that made both parties say, ‘wow like I totally missed that’. It led to an improved relationship, a better outcome, so communication is critical – both personal and professionally.

Then two other things… one – take risks. You must take calculated and strategic risks. To try new things, try a new job, learn a new skill. Be a curious learner, make new friends. Get outside of your comfort zone, so take risks.

Two – You must tell people and know what you want. Again, people cannot read your mind, and they do not know. Your expectation may not be aligned to their expectation. Again, this is personal and professional. So, I think if people can master the art of those things, they will find that they are more personally fulfilled, and professionally fulfilled. And… I love your doggie. Oh, thank you! I have to hold her, or she would be barking. Noooo … she is so cute.

What is your favorite clothing staple, what is something that when you put it on you feel like you can conquer anything….

Yoga pants! Here is a funny thing. Even though I work for Dress for Success, and I try to help women look their best every day. I actually am very happy in yoga pants. I get really overwhelmed with shopping. I like too just be comfortable. Now, do you have a favorite brand of yoga pants? Lululemon. Lululemon. Funny that now when I am shopping for work pants, I am looking for material that is like Spanx’s, Lululemon material. They now make like work yoga pants now. They do!?! Yes!

You know I went through a hard-core phase of Alo and Lululemon ...and I am thinking that I have enough to last me three lifetimes. No, they do though, and they feel like yoga pants. And my other new favorite staple, is a really cute sneaker, like a shoe sneaker.

Favorite way to get organized and celebrate for the year ahead…

Blocking time out at the end of the year, and purging. I literally mean purging office files, computer files, clothes in the house. My husband and I at the end of the year order a dumpster to our driveway and keep it for a week. When all of the boys come home for Christmas, we take one day and we purge. We do a donation bin, and then a garbage bin. Every year. I am so excited, as of December 18th I am off for the rest of the year. The first week will be purge week. Woaw, I am so happy that I got in (your schedule) before the 18th. You did, you did!

Do you ever find the cathartic value in releasing stuff that no longer serve you. But do you ever feel like ‘uh oh maybe I was too hasty’?

Oh yes, I have to say this … those days that I am purging I do find myself saying ‘ohhh maybe I …maybe I’ . However, my rule - if I have not touched it in a year it goes. I must say when I hurt my back, I gave away 40 pairs of some of the most amazing heels. While I know I cannot wear them, I do wish I kept a few in the closet just to look at.

What do you see as the biggest achievement for Dress for Success in 2023, and what do you hope for in 2024…

So, in 2023 we built a new Strategic Plan. That was major. That Strategic Plan sets us up for the next five years. It roadmaps out for us all the things that we need to do moving forward to continue to help the women that we serve. And for the Worldwide office to help Affiliates.

What I hope for in 2024, and the next five years is to execute the plan flawlessly and smoothly. That is all I want, and that would make me happy.

The last and most fun question. What is your favorite way to unwind...

Believe it or not, in the basement movie room, with a cozy blanket, my husband sitting next to me in his studio chair, me in my studio chair, and Max, my doggie on my lap. And we do it every night. Do you have a favorite genre of movie…. I am Crown Series person. Quick fun fact I wanted to be an FBI Agent. I have a keen interest in anything that is a psychological thriller. The more the better. He loves Jeopardy so we start the night with that. Then we move to a thriller, or a crime series show.

Thank You!!!! Thank you so much! Yes, keep in touch.

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Miami- it’s synonymous with food, champagne, chicness and effortless cool. You don’t instinctively think amazing food and sauces that are healthy. That’s where Chef Lara Tinoco comes in! All the comfort foods and sauces she creates are healthy, meaning you don’t have to sacrifice your favorites for a “diet”. So please got to connect with Lara and ask her some fun foodie questions. Enjoy!

©CHEFLARATINOCO

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?

I am private chef who specializes in meal prep.

I love your ethos of ‘ focusing on health and health is important, and eating well should be a daily pleasure’. Your food looks incredible... do you believe that your energy is transferred to your food?

Absolutely, not only in just my food, but everything I handle or interact with.

What are your tips for healthy meal prep?

First off, I minimize the use of fat as much as possible (roasting is the key), secondly, I use different techniques to enhance the taste and texture of foods. Additionally, using products with the least artificial ingredients to keep the recipes clean and simple. Last but not least, I only use fresh herbs (and a lot of them).

You have a variety of experiences and cultures... How would you describe your cuisine?

It’s definitely a mix, but I would say I stick to these; Italian and French with a Brazilian twist.

What are kitchen staples everyone should keep in their place (even if they’re not a chef)?

VITAMIX, PLEASE! I can’t stress this enough, I use my VITAMIX everyday for anything, ranging from: purees, soups, sauces, smoothies, basically anything. -A manual veggie chopper is a must, you can find them anywhere like TJ MAXX or AMAZON, for less than 10 dollars, it saves so much time when cutting onions, garlic, and herbs.

What is the go to dish you cook if you want to impress someone but you have limited ingredients?

Definitely my filet medallions with rosemary and garlic ghee.

If you could cook and have one dish everyday, which dish would it be?

For sure a tuna and salmon tartar, Its so clean and fulfilling.

What is your recommendation for easy but crowd pleasing NYE food?

My whole roasted herb chicken, just like the one from Boucheries Fillion, Paris. It’s so flavorful, juicy and tender.

How would you tell a prospective new client the importance of eating healthy and well ? And the ease of accomplishing that with your help?

Food is your fuel, if you fuel your body with ‘premium’ foods, then your mind and your body will be in a ‘premium’ state.

**What are some of the most rewarding parts of your job?**

Seeing my clients improving their health and being happy with their results, I also love meeting and engaging with new people.

LEARN MRE ABOUT LARA Last & most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind!

Traveling to Europe and exploring new flavors has to be my favorite way to unwind.

Thank you so much, and I enjoyed our conversating…. Thank you!

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Music is more than expressionism to me. Music is connection and dedication and a portal to opening imagination. That’s why when I discovered Dominique Hammons on social media covering some of my fave songs I just HAD to interview him. This is not a joke I hounded him until he agreed. Enjoy!

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I was soooooo excited when Caroline agreed to do the interview with me. Not only is she a total bad-ass but she is so unapologetically herself. In addition to dropping seriously sound advice on her ‘Coffee Talk’ on Instagram, she’s incredibly stylish and her jewelry would make any jewelry lover gawk. I literally couldn’t stop talking. I enjoyed this interview and hope you do!

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I almost couldn’t believe it when Tim Storey agreed to be interviewed by me. A legend. I was incredibly humbled and nervous all at once. I was so nervous I didn’t even drink coffee before the interview so that I could seem as chill as possible. One of my favorite interviews and hope you enjoy!

©TIMSTOREY

Today I am super excited, like not able to sleep excited. I am talking with Tim Storey today, and he is a Legend. He is called the Original Comeback Coach.

So, number one…thank you for your kind words, I heard them. It was so sweet of you. No, but I am excited about what you are doing. Well, thank you so much.

I think that we are going to have a wonderful conversation and help some people. Yes, that is the goal. I really like your glasses. Thank you, I like style and I like fashion, so I do like changing them up.

You are a Legend, and created this space that so many of us are in – a Thought Leader and doing this for thirty plus years. I am humbled to be speaking with you.

With anything that is new how did you enter this space, or know what you were creating? When you were younger, going through life’s challenges was it little positive things, or was it a positive mindset (of how you approached or viewed things) that lead you to developing the New Thought and the Miracle Mentality?

Number one, great question. I think for me from the beginning I really loved living. To be alive means to be animated. There is a reason why children love animation. They can watch a cartoon -they love animation. Watch a movie - they love animation. As a young person I loved living, I loved being alive. Then when I met other people that were animated, I was like wow. They have a different way of being animated, or a different view of animation. The more that I began to see more people that were alive it gave me such a desire to just be fully present, fully feeling, and fully alive.

I was thinking this way at a very young age. Obviously when you think differently. We have all heard that as you grow up the magic kind of leaves, and reality steps in… for most people. What was the conscious decision that you made that you would not lose the animation, and did not believe that life was not just black and white when you become an adult…

The way that I see it is like life is a journey. I live in Southern California. Now if I decide to go to Florida with two friends, and we decide that we were going to drive; while we are driving there are going to be several things that happen, while we are driving. There may be delays, because of traffic, or there could be a challenge to the car.

So, there are Delays, or there could be Detours…you’re driving on a freeway there could be construction late at night. The other thing that happens are Distractions. So, if you understand that in life those are some of the things that can happen.

There are going to be those three things that are going to come into your life – and that is just the way that it is going to be.

Whether I am going to a four-year college, I am going to have these Delays, Detours, and Distractions. If I am in a marriage, or a relationship it is going to happen (Delays, Detours, and Distractions). In your life, in my life it is going to happen.

So, rather than being shocked that it is going to happen realize that it is part of the journey. In other words, lean into it and experience it. Do not take the position…’ oh why is this happening to me’? Instead take the position this is expected and try to move past it.

Okay, you got that right – number one, you realize that this is going to happen… but my strength in coaching people all over the world (as you know that I do), is now you must become equipped. It is not enough to have the realization, now you have to be equipped on how to handle Delays, Detours, and Distractions.

I think that most people do not equip themselves for that. They are looking for the rainbows and butterflies…and when it doesn’t happen, they are thrown off. Ahahaha, yes.

Now you said before that you always thought and moved differently. Especially thirty years ago when this New-Thought mentality was so different. How did you deal with being different? We all hear in the news how children are bullied for just being different. Were you ever treated differently, if so, how did you stay in your truth and be okay? As well stay true to who you are and stay steadfast in your direction?

The thing that I have been able to see is the worldwide perspective. From traveling to over seventy-eight different countries in the world speaking. Is that you can be in certain parts of the Middle East, and they have own challenges. You can be in Ukraine, I just met with a very powerful leader in Ukraine – and they have their challenges. As well with some of my great Russian friends that I have and what is taking place in their country. To me I never isolated it to I am Tim Storey and I am originally from Compton, seven people in a two bedroom apartment. Because there is someone in Greece that went through something similar, or even worse than I.

I look at it as we all face adversities. Sometimes it is at different seasons in our lives. Some comes at a different pace, or some comes at a different volume. I like to say this…we all go through the drama, but we do not have to become dramatic in the midst of the drama. Oh, snap I like that? … it is real.

You have been quoted as the Original Comeback Coach, but you are also known for the Miracle Mentality. Which we have talked about before, being equipped to deal with the three D’s. What is the biggest difference between the Comeback Mentality and the Miracle Mentality? Or do they kind of mirror each other?

To me they kind of mirror each other because to have a Comeback you have to know that you are worthy to rise up.

Yes! The Comeback and the Miracle Mentality as you say they flow together. It isa hybrid. The reason that I started to write on the Comeback is in my travels and just dialoguing with people whether I was on a train going through Europe at 21- or 22-years old speaking. Because I was speaking starting at age 20.

I started hearing all these stories of all these setbacks from these people. Then I started working in professional sports with all these people going through setbacks. And as you know I started working with famous people, with movie stars in Beverly Hills that have had setbacks.

What I found is that people that have had a setback they would sit and settle in the setback. I would say that is just not good enough to fix the set back. There must be a comeback and beyond. Like what did I learn from that setback? What life lessons could I have learned?

What power can I get from the pain? From there I went into a five-year study of the Miracle Mentality. A miracle as you know is something extra ordinary, uncommon, not regular, not status-quo … now doesn’t that just get you excited when I say those words?... Why? … Because that is who we are!

So, to all of you that are watching and that will watch later…and continue to follow her because she is awesome. Oh, thank you.

I realized this, even though you have had a setback, or are in a setback, you can have a Comeback, be back beyond, outside the limits, and the boundaries. Now that is who we are created to be!

So, as you said… you started speaking when you were twenty years old, that is insane. I guess you did not have any stage fright. Well, I tell you this I am an artist. So, I go very inward. I am a nerd as far as studying. But when I get onstage something shifts, Boom! … Like a flip?... Yes!

When I get onstage, I get so excited to take my thirty hours of research, because for a one hour talk I do fifteen minimum to thirty hours of research. My excitement is to deliver the mail. It is never…how am I coming across, or how powerful I am. I want to deliver the message – so that is super exciting to me, yes!

In this day in age the trend is that everything is fast. I think that is impacting us, or this generation with the mental health issues. Everybody wants the fast recognition, fast success. However, it has taken you thirty years to reach this point, but this is what you are passionate about. What do you say to anyone that thinks it must be a straight trajectory for him, or to that belief?

I am not into the fast anything. I respect all my friends, because we run in a pack. All these Thought Leaders those are all my people. I love Brene Brown, that is my girl. I love Oprah as you know she is like my sister. Oprah and I do work together. Deepak Chopra, we do work together, and Gary Vee. Also, Ed Mylett I rock with all those people.

The way that I look at it is that I am a Human Being, not a Human Doing. So many people are caught in doing, I am not. I am enjoying being. In that being I am alive, and I am also producing.

Now I think there are times when it feels like you are doing a slow walk. Yes! Like it is never ending. And you can feel like when will I get my victory!

I have a great illustration for you. When you walk through certain airports, like Minneapolis. That is a big one! Yes, that is a big one. Because if you notice – you have a lot of people movers. Some people are carrying their bags, and then if its far enough you jump on one of those things that like zoom you through.

And if you walk with it, you are literally going triple the pace of someone walking. So, there are times when something devastating happens when it feels like you are walking it out for like three years. Then there are time when it feels like you got on the people mover at the Minnesota airport, and you are just going – whack …whack…whack! I like that analogy.

One of the best things about being alive is knowing what you are passionate about and giving that out to the world. For me that is what we are here for. To find what you love, put it out there, and for it to be received. What is that one thing that after thirty plus years still makes you happy doing…

I think there are two things. One is to see people actually change. For a friend of mine to say ‘hey my son is just stuck. He is struggling with anxieties, depression, and doesn’t want to come out of his room. But he likes you, and he likes the fact that you work with famous rappers, and would you meet with him?

Then to see that guy, and meet with him.Initially he was so inward and so timid. After six months he was like WAHHHHH!!! That is so dope. I love that. One is to change lives. The other is the amazing people that I get to work with. I am working on a Broadway play with some amazing people.

I am working on an amazing movie with one of our top three actors in the world right now. Look at you Tim! now that is called a hair-flip moment. I say this to you just as though we were sitting at the Ivy on Robertson just chatting. Yes!

It is not just the cool factor; it is the collaboration of learning about Andrew Lloyd Weber. I love expanding.

***What do you hope your legacy is***…

I think it is for others to choose. I will tell you what people say about me now. He is kind, a good listener, and he has created a system that has brought a lot of change to people’s lives. I am really big in the gaming community. I am a life coach in one of the largest gaming companies in the world.

I am working with one of the top three AI Companies in the world as an Executive Life Coach. For me I developed a skill set, and now I would like to use that skill set to enhance people’s lives.

It seems like you are having fun, and that is what life is about. Yes, I am having fun…but there is a price to be a pioneer. I think Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa enjoyed changing people’s lives, but there is a resistance. I like changing people’s live but there is a resistance. I am not always on happy mode, but I live in a lot of Joy, and a lot of Peace. Now, that is honest. Because no one is always happy, and even Thought Lleaders have moods too.

Now what do you love about fashion… I love fashion! If you guys, follow me you know that I am fashionable. Is it because it is wearable art… You just did it! Because it is wearable art. I was just in Milan for Fashion Week, front row, but not for every show, but the best ones. Oh, another Hair Flip moment Tim!...yes! but to me as a little guy…I was rocking overalls before other people were.

I loved what Virgil Abloh did at Louis Vuitton before he passed. I love that Pharrel Williams is now at Louis Vuitton. As well, I love what my buddy Kanye West has done with tennis shoes, and so much in clothing. As well, I love suits, jackets, and I like black t-shirts. I like fashion.

How do you unwind, decompress, and reconnect to Tim… Music! What is your favorite genre of music?... all kinds. I can listen anywhere from Amy Winehouse although I never met her, and I would have loved to have met her. Not just to help her, but I really loved that lady. I love my culture, so I listen to Stevie Wonder, also Billie Eilish. I love music, from all over the world.

I cannot thank you enough … I am truly honored and humbled to be able to sit down and talk with you. Thank you again.

But because I am older than you…I get to ask you a question. What are you excited about, what are you doing, and if we follow you, which we are going to – what are we going to learn from you?

Oh, that is a great question… I have always loved helping people, with no fluff. I do not understand the need for pomp and circumstance. If you like it great, that is you. I believe everyone deserves to feel good about whatever they deem is their happy. And you just provide that. Everyone deserves to be happy, and that they are living and not just in survival mode. That is kind of it.

I like it! Now I see a lot of my friends on here make sure you keep following her. I have a book called the Miracle Mentality that Harper Collins is the publishing house, they have treated me so well. My editor Nick Chiles he teaches at the University of Georgia, he also did Jamie Foxx’s last book, he is so brilliant. Try to watch my Mental Health Summit tonight. Oh, yes, I will watch tonight definitely.

Thank you for having me on today. Thank you for saying yes, the best birthday gift ever!

So proud of you, Life is Good…bye…. Bye!

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Iman Hasan is a modern and multi-hyphenated entrepreneur. As the Founder of IHC Agency as well as an avid Bio-Hacker, and Nutritionist. Iman manages her career and wellness all while looking immaculate. I immensely enjoyed this interview. Enjoy!

©IMANHASAN

Today I am sitting down and talking with Iman Hasan the founder of the IHC Agency. We are talking about Wellness, and Biohacking.

Hi…how are you? Hi, I am so excited. I’m excited to, thank you for having me.

This conversation with is worth the wait. We will be talking about Wellness, and Biohacking. Now before we jump in, I wanted to just say that you are such a baddie. You created the IHC Agency, female led and driven; and you are the epitome of how you can be classy, sexy, and be brilliant.

Can you tell us how you created the Agency; is it something that you always knew that you would do, or did it just happen?

I worked for several other agencies in the past. I did have an agency with someone about six to seven years ago. I knew it was a lot of responsibilities. When working with the other agencies I did a lot of business development, and a director. I also had that vision on how I would want an agency to grow and to be of service to clients. Also, the type of team that I wanted to have around me, and how I would want to grow the business. And the type of leader that I wanted to be.

My fiancé, now husband convinced me to do my own agency., yet I knew how overwhelming it could be. The overhead, bills etc. He reminded me how passionate about how I service my clients. He was like … you are clear about your vision as a leader so why don’t you give it one more try. In 2019 I started consulting; it was me and two interns at the time. We got some large clients, and some of them are still with us to this day.

Then 2020 rolls around and the world shuts down, and everything goes to shit. Remember, the first expense that companies cut is marketing. Then Miami started to open in 2020, I believe it was one of the first states to reopen.

I told myself that I was going to give it my all. I took my savings opened an office space and went back to work. And I started building my business again. We brought in a lot of digital business. Doing digital marketing was really a big desire that people have, through digital ads and digital marketing. Because God forbid if the world shuts down again, businesses can sell online.

So that means having a strong email campaign, a stronger ad strategy, and having more of the digital footprint rolled out. So, we started adding in those services, and started to grow. It will be three years this May 2023.

Do you find that when the pandemic hit it forced you to look at more digital marketing than you would have if the world had not shut down? Noting that you must stay current and relevant in all businesses…

Oh, one hundred percent. But at the same time, it gave me such a great lesson that we do not have to wait for a pandemic to be open to change, and to really look at what your customer asking you for. It is looking at your clients’ needs, hearing them, and then asking what you are doing to service your clients. As well how you are adapting to what their business needs are.

Yes, we are all growing and evolving, as this leads into your love of Biohacking, and Wellness. Was it something specific that happened, or was it a combination …

I got introduced to Alternative Wellness, and Biohacking about five years ago. It was at a time in my life that I was not feeling well. I had bad ovarian cysts, cystic acne, my body inflamed, and I was feeling just really exhausted. Someone introduce me to a functional medicine doctor at the time.

I found out that I had high mercury levels, a lot of heavy metals in my body, and candida. This was because my body was not in harmony with itself. This was the first time that someone saw me, and I felt seen and heard.

Then I started my journey with Biohacking with Dave Asprey’s work, Ben Greenfield, other amazing people in this field, and I got super educated.

Last year my business shifted to Modern Wellness, and Clean Beauty. Which is helping people to come together to feel better and to be better versions of themselves. And then brands that have founders with that same vision.

How do you feel… there has been some debate in the Biohacking sphere where Biohacking is more *geared towards men…have you heard that before…*

Yes, where all the studies are done on men. But you are seeing a lot of women coming up in the space. There are several brands in the space that are owned by women. The founder and co-founder of Higher Dose they are both women. And one of the founders of Levels, which is a glucose monitor company. So, you are seeing this shift and movement, and they are going to start having more studies and more data pulled off women, because we are getting more educated in the space.

You stated how you structured your company to Modern Wellness, and Clean Beauty, and you structure your clients to meet that structure. When did you get to the point that you did not have to take anything to get revenue (saying no I am good, I will select people that align with me) …

Last year we got to a space that we did have clients, we are in a customer service business, so what they are doing we have to be aligned with and in a flow with them to reach their goals. So, for me it is all about being authentic, (asking) can we grow your brand, and can we expand what you are currently doing with your brand.

You do have to get to the space where you can sit back and analyze if you and your client resonate with each other. If you do not, then you make the decision that you are not the best suited for each other, and you refer them to other agencies if not.

In that I mean not only the founders, but their products, and their message must resonate with you, because it is all about authenticity for me. If it isn’t for you, I do believe that you are limiting your success.

I know that you travel a lot, when you are traveling how do you maintain your wellness, and exercise when you are busy …

I always travel with my supplements. I always do my dry brushing as well, and then stick to the time zone that I am in, as well I always move my body thirty minutes a day. It helps me with my sleep pattern, my belief is that movement is like medicine.

How do you select the best meals that work with your lifestyle when you are traveling, socializing, or out with clients? Without having that restrictive mindset…

It starts with your relationship with food, I eat healthy consistently. I do not believe in cheat meals. I do ask myself is this worth it, and is it worth me eating it? It is all about having that conversation with yourself and evaluating it from that standpoint.

Going back to what you said earlier about authenticity… how do you maintain what is true to you, your authenticity…

One thing which has become a big thing is that everyone is so concerned about being cancelled. You need to first move away from that and find out what resonates with you. You need to evaluate what are your values, what do you stand behind, and what do you believe in.

No matter how it looks you must not deny who you are, what you believe in, to fit in a box that others have set. I always ask myself …what I am sharing is it going to be helpful to others, and do I find it beneficial?

My last question… what your non-negotiables are to stay aligned and to feel your best…

I just recently got into Brain Tap. Oh! Yes…I love Dr. Patrick with Brain Tap. Yes, well I try to get in one Brain Tap session a day, red light therapy, and the other is dry brushing.

Well, thank you Iman for sitting down and talking Wellness, and IHC Agency with me. No, thank you for having me.

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Mayor Corey Woods. I had the immense pleasure and privilege to conduct this interview. Mayor Corey Woods made history as the 2nd Black Arizona Mayor. If it was me I would be dropping that amazing fact constantly. Mayor Corey Woods, the exact opposite! He’s humble, funny and breathes new life into being of service. Enjoy one of my fave interviews!

©MAYORCOREYWOODS

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you…

Oh! Man, that is a good question. So, I tell people a little bit about myself personally and professionally. I do not lead with necessarily talking about my political career, the eleven years that I spent in elected office. That is only a portion of who I am, it is not my entire identity. I talk about what motivated me, to what got me to get into politics, and public service.

I also talk about my family and my other passions, and my hobbies. I also try to share a lot of that with people on social media channels as well. Everything from my exercising routine to my foodie status. I try to maintain a balance of telling the story of not only of who I am professionally, but who Corey is at his core.

You have mentioned that you have been in public service for eleven years, that is a long time. Yes! But I did have a four-year break in between. So that was good. Take us back if you will to when the seed was planted for leadership and service. I think you either have the stomach for it, a calling, or you see something, and it sparks you. So, what was it for you…

For me it was probably my parents from a very young age. We had a lot of conversations every night around our dinner table about foreign and domestic policy. From there I gained this interest in public service. My parents were not necessarily in politics, but they talked about politics and policies all the time.

My mother was a teacher in New York City public schools for over thirty years, and my father worked in government and non-profit predominately.

Son for me working on housing and human services issues related to racial equality. When you grow up in a home where you hear and are a part of those conversations; by osmosis you pick up on that, and you start thinking that perhaps this is something that I would like to do. As well a path that I would like to go down.

It is important to take note of what you mentioned about table talk with your parents, and how those talks planted that seed. What is your advice in this climate if they want to do something and want to be of service – but they do not know if they can make a difference…

The most important thing is to find the thing, things that you are most passionate about. Recognize though, that something that might be very interesting to me, might not be that interesting to you. Everyone has passions, or a set of passions. You must identify what those (passions) are.

If your passion is affordable housing that is what you should get involved in; if your passion is homelessness that is what you should get involved in. Your passion could be public transportation options, the ability to get around without the use, or need of a car - that is what you should get involved in.

So, when you get connected with your passion that is important because we need this, and someone needs to do the work. I would tell everyone is that you must figure out what you are passionate about and just go for it. It does not mean that you are not going to have a little of the imposter syndrome when you first get started, I know that I did.

Thinking back, I am sure that I experienced a little of that (imposter syndrome) when I became Mayor. I was like ‘can I even really do this? am I really prepared for this?’.

I came into office at the height of the COVID Pandemic. It was not only a tough job, but it was a strange time in our world. So, you do have to ask yourself those questions – am I really equipped for this? do I have the right training for this? But the reality of it is that you just must jump in with both feet. It does not mean you have to walk into places and immediately take over but listen and educate yourself pertaining to those issues that are relevant.

I will not discourage anyone from getting involved in public service. If you feel that they don’t not fit in, not know enough, or if you are ready. The reality is you do not know that until you get there, and it is important to just get there.

What is your most proud moment in your professional career, and personal life….

In my professional career I would say the ‘Hometown for All Plan’ that we created in Tempe to increase the stock of affordable and workforce housing. That is probably the one (accomplishment) that makes me the happiest.

It is a tangible way to create more housing, as opposed to giving speeches about people being priced out of their homes. It is one thing to identify what the problem is, get up and pound your fist on a lectern and say this is what is going on, and we must fix it.

It is different when you say that we are going to create a dedicated revenue stream to ensure that this takes place in our community. It is when people say, ‘don’t talk about it…be about it’. That is what we do in the City of Tempe when it comes to these issues. We are not going to talk about affordable housing, we are not going to talk about how hard it is, all the legislative preemptions as to why we can’t do more. We must come up with a creative way to do as much as we can, to ensure that people are not priced out of our community.

So that ‘Hometown for All Plan’ that the Council passed in January 2021 is probably one of my proudest accomplishments when it comes to public policy.

Now personally… I am an adopted child of two wonderful parents, and my brother is adopted as well. We were adopted from two separate families. Both of us have never met our birth parents, and my brother and I are as close as two people can be as well, I am very close to my father. My mother and I were very close until she passed eleven years ago. I am just proud every day to be the child of Donald and Barbara Woods, and the brother of Brandon Woods. I have a wonderful family.

You realize as you get older not everyone is close to, or very connected to their families. Yes, I know that is mind blowing… Yes, it is not necessarily a given. Family dynamics can sometimes be challenging due to personal issues, politics, or proximity. I am not judging anyone’s situations. As I got older, I realized everyday what I have, with the people around me - an incredible support system. Also, the people that I can bounce things, ideas off of, and support me regardless - and that is invaluable.

It is not an accomplishment necessarily, but it is the foundation of my life.

We were at the height of the Pandemic when you became Mayor of Tempe, Az what has been one of the biggest adjustments in this position…

The biggest adjustment is that you do not get any time off, ever. I think that is the thing. When you become Mayor, everything falls in your lap.

When I was a Councilmember, I felt that I could focus on a couple of more specific issues. I tried to become the content area expert in those matters. I was then the go-to person in our community to those (in the community) that were interested in those issues.

The difference is when you are Mayor people think that you are responsible for everything that goes on. Whether you oversee it, if those people report to you or not, or if you know anything about the situation that they are talking about on social media.

They will start writing something in a post and tag you and say…” Corey Woods why is this happening”, “why is my sidewalk not completed”, “why did the council cast this vote this Thursday”. All those things happen. Then I find out that I am the only person that is getting tagged in those posts.

Although everyone does get tagged from the staff to our council members. These are extremely demanding positions, they all (staff and council members) work exceptionally hard, and the do a large amount of heavy lifting in our community.

For me a lot of it plays out more in public. Where people many times are more likely to tag me in a Twitter post, media post. They are trying to get me to respond, to jump in on the thread to respond. Or to give me a piece of their mind. I do not know how you do it, because the times that we have been in each other’s company you are always so kind. You are upbeat and so happy.

Well, thank you for that but I do feel that you must focus on being positive, and moving forward. When you get to a place when you are wallowing in something, a particular situation did not go just the way that you sketched it out, you must move on from that, and quickly.

One of the quotes that I use often, and it is from former President Bill Clinton is that the best thing to have in politics is to have a short memory. You must be willing to brush off what happened the day before, or even four hours earlier that day. Because the work must continue, go on.

What we all must realize is that we are human too. Often people talk to public officials in a manner that they would not talk to their families, friends, or their neighbors. The voters perspective is ‘you took this job, so you have to take whatever I throw at you’. I want people to know that we are not robots, we are human beings, we have feelings, and we have friends, and family members that read a lot of these posts.

My father is 83 years old and on Facebook, every article that I am featured in, have a quote in, or when I am on television…. he sees all of that. It is not about sympathy, I took this job, and it is a wonderful job, and people have given me a tremendous opportunity to do work on their behalf. I love the job every day that I am in it.

Just realize that we are human as well, and if you would not approach your neighbor, close family friend, or family in that manner. Let’s not do that with me. Let’s sit down and talk in a calm and rational way and see how we can get to a solution. Many times, bringing all that heat into the discussion does not advance the cause, it is just bringing unnecessary heat. We need to return to civility in politics. On the national stage we have lost civility in politics.

How crucial do your think your educational path has been crucial to achieving everything that you accomplished thus far…

I think it was actually very important, my education… I have a bachelor’s from the University of Michigan in Political Science, and minor in African American Studies. I got a master’s degree from ASU in Educational Policy. The degrees, both… I got the ability to think about complex problems and issues. Not to get too ideological about my perspectives…two people can see the same information and walk away with two different understandings on something.

What I try not to do is to judge. To say look I need to understand that these are complicated issues, neighborhood issues that are close to both people’s heart. You must go in understanding first the complexity behind the arguments, and where each person is coming from. So that you can connect with them and understand the issues that they are facing.

It has taught me how to analyze things in an unbiased calm fashion. Most people would say that ‘Corey is typically a pretty calm guy’. My educational training has taught me to calmly look at the facts, do not bring in a lot of extra emotion that someone is talking about, no matter what document that you are reviewing. The approach is what is the issue at hand, and how can I pull this apart, analyze it, and get to a solution.

As an elected official my goal was to come in and be a problem solver. Not a guy that bangs my fist on the desk and give these one-line slogans. I want to be able to say when I leave this position, I left it better than I found it. The City of Tempe, along with City Council, and our Staff we have moved the City of Tempe forward in a positive way.

For me it is about solving problems and getting things done.

After a long day at work, you go home, and finish the sentence please…

I figure out what I am going to have for dinner, typically. I will usually change out of my suit and put on a pair of joggers, or pajamas so that I can get comfortable.

Occasionally I will finish up emails, text messages that I could not get to because of a busy day. Two of my hobbies, actually three of my hobbies are – one is working out so that I can stay physically fit to deal with stress (that might occur during the course of a day); eating and going to different restaurants and trying different foods; and I really love watching TV. It takes my mind off whatever I was thinking about.

I need another plot, or script to get out of my own head. Okay, have you seen the show ‘You’ on Netflix? I have not, I know that it is number one on Netflix so perhaps I need to get on that. Yes, it is so dark…I recommend that, and ‘Wednesday’ on Netflix, I highly recommend those two. I will definitely look at that then.

What is your favorite way to unwind, and you have kind of touched on that…is it watching TV Shows….

Yes, I mean really do like watching TV. I know many times people do not want to talk about that, but the reality is that I really do enjoy it. It is a source of enjoyment, and a way to take my mind off those things that have occurred during the standard workday.

Now often it may only consist of an hour of TV, enough to allow me to wind down, and then I crawl into bed.

Thank you, Mayor Corey Wood for your time, it has been an honor and pleasure… you are most welcome and thank you.

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Dr. Velma Trayham is a powerhouse. Award-winning entrepreneur and Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient by Joe Biden. I am so happy I got to interview my friend. Enjoy this interview!

©DR.VELMATRAYHAM

Hi!!!! Good morning how are you doing?... Hello! I am doing amazing. You know my team is always after me to do Instagram Lives, and I have been telling them that I just do not have the time to do them. But I was telling them just how amazing that you are… and I was like ‘whatever you need me to do, I will do’.

Thank you so much! You just do not understand I was just so happy when you agreed to do the Instagram Live. I am just so grateful that you said yes, and that we are here.

If you are not aware of Dr. Velma Trayham and what a total powerhouse that she is; to begin she is an award-winning entrepreneur, best-selling author, built Thinkzilla, and has helped so many businesses to grow. So, tell me what came first the idea to build a business about what you are passionate about – helping people, or was it I am passionate, and it will kind of fall into my lap? Also please tell us about the journey of creating everything that you have…

You know that is a really good question…to start off with, in thinking about what came first. It is all about solving problems. I was born and raised in poverty in Houston, Texas. I knew that my end was not going to look like my beginning. So, I started to align myself with people places and things that could help me to help other people. When you think about poverty…poverty is a state of mind.

I started to build programs to help other people while also helping myself. There is this famous quote that I believe in wholeheartedly … ‘when you truly help other people, everything else will align and fall in place’. Helping other people was what came first, that is how it started.

Yes, one of my favorite sayings…’It doesn’t matter where you start it is where you finish.’ You start off at your beginnings, it is not a death sentence that you will end in poverty. If you come from privilege, it is not a guarantee that you will end in privilege. It can go either way, it is so important to have that mindset and that hunger.

You have an amazing personality, I know that you stated that you aligned yourself with people, places, and things that could help you. How did you work with yourself to not allow that green eye monster (bitterness, jealousy) to creep up?

I would honestly say that it has not always been like this. I was a green eye monster for quite some time. I went through counseling and therapy. When your mind is conditioned, and you are raised in a certain condition there are some things that you are going to have to purge out of your life.

I carried some heavy burdens … the victim mentality, and the angry woman mentality. Through the therapy I discovered that I would have to change the way that I think and the way that I see myself before I could have different outcomes. I fasted, prayed a lot, and I did a lot of journaling.

This is the reality of things…life is going to try and tear you down, why? Because the devil’s job is to steal, kill, and destroy. So, it is the strong people that survive.

So, I began to look at circumstances, and conditions that were good in life. We all see what is going on in a very dark world, I mean we see it. People committing suicide, we live in a TikTok generation where people want this instant gratification, and people want things to happen so fast. And people are with the get quick rich schemes, come on. That is so true!

I said forget this. When I moved to Atlanta, I went on a 40-day fast. I purged myself from TV, social media, and reading magazines. I knew that I wanted God to make me into a new being. I needed to re-purpose my thoughts, to realign myself, and changed the way that I see life.

That to me and for me was powerful, and a transformational moment for me. That set me for the journey that was before me. It was cleansing myself and taking 100% accountability for my life. I have found that many do not take accountability for their lives, and they continue to blame other people, things and situations that happened to us.

Well, guess what life happens to all of us. But I, Velma Trayham decided to take 100% accountability for my life, my future, my feelings, thoughts, and my outcomes. That is how it all started.

So, 2016 was a powerful moment for you…and it could have gone either way. You must go within. I say that you are tested. You get tested on your faith. You were already on your journey, and you decided to take a step back and do the work on you. A lot must be said for that. You did the work on you. It is important for us all to recognize this, it is okay to take that step back and to say what did I do to get in this situation. To ask yourself those real hard questions, cry, dig deep, go to therapy, journal – so that you can come out a better version of you.

The thing is that no one can make that decision for you, that you need to take a step back. No one can make that decision of accountability for you but you. I got tired of blaming other people, or this happened to me because of my divorce… life is 90% of how we respond to things, and 10% what happens. I decided I was going to start responding to things differently.

People say Velma you do not get mad at anything. Well, I don’t know that I don’t get mad at anything but what I learned to not let people ‘puppeteer me’. That means to not allow anyone to play me like a puppet and to pull my strings. I must remember that Velma is always in control to what happens to me in life, and how I respond to things is 90%.

You had mentioned ‘pulling your strings’, that comes with boundary settings, and that no one can force you into anything. I love that you are taking responsibility how you respond to things, and it is your choice to disengage. It is a very Zen approach, I know I have grown and matured so much, because I use to be reactionary. And so angry. When you do the work, it helps so much.

Another one of my favorite quotes, I tell all my mentees – ‘to always play positionally and not emotionally. A lot of times we act on impulse. When we play positionally we will see a lot of good things happen for us. We must intentionally mitigate to not be emotional and react emotionally.

Thinkzilla, you are opening an office in Miami. You currently have offices in Houston, Texas; Atlanta, Georgia; and Scottsdale, Arizona. What are you most proud of with Thinkzilla, is it the businesses that you have helped, and everything that you have accomplished. Or is it the whole enchilada that you are most proud of…

That is a really good question. I think the fire that stays lit on the inside of me is always knowing that I am a solution to a problem. Often, we forget that God put us here to solve problems. That God put a solution to a problem on the inside of us. Thinkzilla, we are celebrating 10 years this December 2022. That is a hair flip moment!

When I think about what I am most thankful, grateful for… the thousands of people that I can touch and help. On a national platform, working with corporations to help those undeserved, unrepresentative communities. That is what I am most proud of being is that type of problem solver.

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Alia Al-Senussi is a Doctor (PhD from SOAS University of London), VIP Representative for Art Basel and a champion of diversity. Along with being multi-hyphenated and incredibly kind, Alia just happens to be a Libyan Princess. Hair flip. So grateful Alia answered our questions! A wonderful way to close out 2022. Enjoy this interview!

©ALIAAL-SENUSSI

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you? 

I’m a cultural strategist who is passionate about the art world.

You have the coolest job! You are VIP Representative for Art Basel and you actively promote Middle Eastern art on a global level to name a couple. What do you love most about sharing Middle Eastern Art with the world? How do you view art as a unifier?

Connecting with people on a cultural level is key to breaking down prejudices and barriers, and to understanding their belief systems, their joys, their traumas and who they really are.  

When you’re in work mode & you have late nights etc. what is your favorite “go-to snack”?

I love comfort food in all forms, chicken+rice+cucumber/tomato salad is my favorite Sunday night meal at home.

What is your favorite beauty staple? Ex- bold lip, no-makeup look etc

I’ll never forget sitting next to Marlene Dumas’s daughter at the lunch celebrating her Tate show, and getting an amazing lesson in eyebrow pencil – a favorite ever since. Aquaphor is also always in every bag!

Last question! Favorite way to get organized and celebrate for the year ahead?

I always think the beginning of the school year is my new year where I have time in London and in Saudi planning the seasons ahead, and my favorite way to celebrate is Art Basel Hong Kong week. Any time I spend in San Diego is what I call my mental health time and art world social detox.

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Paris- it’s synonymous with food, champagne, chicness and effortless cool. Le Mermoz is the epitome of Parisian chic with Chef Thomas Graham at the helm. So pleased got to re-connect with Thomas and ask him some fun foodie questions. Enjoy this interview!

©THOMASGRAHAM

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you? 

I’m a Chef in Paris.

What’s the best knife you can’t live without?

Zwilling’s Chef Knife. I literally use it for everything I do.

They’re German and great for everyday use and easy to sharpen.  

What’s the staff meal your kitchen gets most excited about?

Gratin Dauphinois. We make potatoes with cream and parmesan…it’s one the staff really enjoys.

What are the kitchen staples everyone should keep in their place (even if they’re not a Chef)?

Good salt- Maldon Sea Salts, higher quality olive oil and spices.

What is your recommendation for easy but crowd pleasing NYE food?

NYE is complicated because people want to drink more than eat.

I recommend Domaine de Bichery Champagne.

What is your naughty food indulgence?

Five Guys Burgers and M&M’s.

What is the most overrated ingredient?

Caviar

What’s your mini bar go to?

Williams Pear Alcohol

After a long day at work you go home and…?

Depends on the day. Just relax and read a book when I have time

Last & most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind!

I love running and just sports in general.

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Yhorlife Conversates with Santia Deck.

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I’m so happy to be doing this interview with Dr. Patrick Porter! I met him at a dinner and he was so kind to me, I was over 30 minutes late, he offered me a seat at his table. Dr. Patrick Porter was so humble I had know idea he was the creator of BrainTap and helping people optimize their brain potential. I had the best time interviewing him. Enjoy!

©DR.PATRICKPORTER

How are you… very well. And how have you been since Biohacking? Good… I have been busy. Just a little background, I met Dr. Porter at an event about a month ago. I was late to the event, which is a fate worth than death. And Dr. Porter was so kind and gracious and extended a seat next to him. Now here we are.

We will be talking about brain technology…so how did you get started with the concept of Brain Tap?

Well, my dad was a Silva instructor, The Silva Method. When I got out of school, and I went to school for electronics. I was always thinking how we could work together, and blend both.

I worked with a group of six people that put together the first portable tap machine. This (Brain Tap) is an evolution of that. I sold my business in 2006. After I was doing different workshops; and I thought that I wanted to recreate this technology. So, I brought it up to date, using the latest technology.

We used the earth’s frequency and the lights in the eyes to train the brain. And all the sound therapies, that most people are aware of, like Isochronic tones etc. To get the brain to go into an emergence state to get the maximum benefits from brain fitness.

With the technologies, and for someone that is not very techy…you did make it very user friendly. So, for someone like me when you get the package is it self-explanatory…

Yes, and you could use the App alone. We are in over 120 countries where people have downloaded the App. The lights upgrade the experience. In our research we have seen about thirty percent faster improvement when you use the lights.

If you have something going on like dementia, where you want to lower the stress during that time. Then we recommend the full headset for sure.

Now with manifestation, meditation, and visualization… that you mentioned before. If people are just beginning and they do not really know what they want to visualize (and it is for brain fitness). How do you advise people to start, what do you recommend…

We will talk about three different time that are best to use Brain Tap, for brain fitness. The first time is in the morning, and it takes about ten minutes. When we wake up, it is best to stimulate our brain waves and it is called SMR’s, Sensory Motor Rhythm. It is the brain area that can atrophy first, and often we refer to it as a ‘senior moment’. So we call it ‘digital coffee’ (doing Brain Tap).

Second – at 2:00 p.m. no matter where you are in the world the temperature drops two degrees. The reason is that our genetic information, who we are is in tuned with the light from the sun. So, this is a time when our body resets. Between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., when you get home from work you can reclaim the energy that you had in the morning.

Now if you are doing Brain Tap you can do some breathing exercises and do things to get your body moving. It has shown that by doing this you get another morning.

Third – ninety percent of our users use it right before bed. At nighttime most people do not get the deep sleep that they need. And when you do not get that deep sleep, you are not going to clean your brain. The brain detoxifies during level four sleep.

You really cannot go wrong whenever you use it, we have over 3,000 clinics across America.

Now when you have your morning coffee, and then some have that second cup around 2:00 p.m. – which I am guilty of that. So, would Brain Tap be a nice trade off that 2:00 p.m. coffee, to feel refreshed and not sluggish…

Oh yes! When you think about the nervous system., where we commonly refer to the state(s) as the fight or flight response. Well, there is another one called the Neuro-hormonal System, and that is what coffee is doing. That system should only be used in an emergency situation.

The body goes through cycles. So, we should replace it with more healthy alternatives, through nutrition. And there are a lot of healthy nutritional ways of doing that.

In the afternoon our bodies do not need as much sugar as people think. People do not know that stress is more fattening than chocolate. We need to regulate down the stress response.

Our best energy comes from our electrical system. Think in these terms that we are electrical beings, or light beings. So, if we are so busy digesting food, we do not have enough energy. The best thing that you can do for your health is really to under eat. Our bodies need more hydration than solid foods.

For people that do have a desk job, and they do not have the luxury to move around like we know is optimum. You mentioned the App… are people able to do that let’s say during their 15-minute breaks…

Sure, if you can do it at your office that is great. We have 10-minute and 15-minute sessions, as well as 20-minutes. It is going to essentially give you a reboot.

Essentially, we need to disengage the nervous system. Then you can reboot your nervous system. We have to remember that stress builds up in the body, over time and that is normal.

If you have that desk job, you can do a breathing exercise anytime they feel that stress. Like the 4-8 breath, 4 (count) inhale, 4 9count) hold breath, and 8 (count) breathe out. It is something to shift their mind, and to get energy into their system. There is energy in the air that we breathe, called Prana. And we want to get that energy in to activate our cells.

Some people might think that this sounds awesome, but they have not jumped into the wellness space…what would you say to them…

I always tell people that you do not have to have a breakdown to have a breakthrough. Everybody sooner or later will come to this conclusion. I do not know anyone that is aging backwards.

I also tell people that it is al lot easier to keep a plane in flight than to let it crash then try to rebuild it. And that is what most people do with their health – they let their plane crash, and their bodies crash. Then they try to rebuild it.

One of the main things that they can do right now is to give up sugar. As much sugar as they can eliminate – do it now. Okay can I ask about dark chocolate, isn’t the higher cacao the better?... Yes, that is good. A little bit of dark chocolate is good for the brain, but not eating a whole bar.

The average American eats over one-hundred pounds of sugar a year. We cannot eliminate sugar completely. So, we always recommend that you have a little of fat, fiber, and protein in your diet with your sugars.

If nothing else…go back and look at old shows like ‘I Love Lucy’ and see the portions of food that they eat. Also, it is best to have cane sugar, there are no artificial sugars that are good for you, they are toxins.

To address those that like or are addicted to the carbonated drinks. Do you find the at home soda maker is a good way to control, or substitutes like that helpful to the overall brain function, and health…

Yes, then they can do healthier drinks. I do liquid Stevia. A couple of waters that I drink, I add a couple of drops of the liquid Stevia to my water. Now it is flavored water, and if you wanted to do the carbonation with those then you would have a healthier soda without all the negatives.

***What is the best way to get started with Brain Tap, should someone just download the App, and then grow to the headset…***

You are going to get the best results with the headset and the App. For those listening they can go right to Brain Tap information if they want, download my book, and get 15 days with the App and try it out.

It has tips on how to navigate our overloaded lifestyle. I am now co-writing a book called, ‘The Third Wave of Wellness’. It talks about Nutrition number one, you have to have a good foundation – like yoga and meditation. And thirdly, you need to have brain fitness.

Now if you have a lot of stress the first two do not matter. So, we must get the stress levels down, and it is all lifestyles. When you become a priority in your life, health become easy. Things like this and sharing online help so much.

I feel when people are in survival mode, they may think that this is out of their price point. No there are easy solutions that you have outlined throughout our talk.

My last question… how you unwind, and your favorite way…

I have every gadget that you can think of at my house. My favorite is doing the PEMF Mat, and Brain Tap headset at the same time. I do that every day. I just did it about an hour ago, before getting on here with you.

Also, I start every morning at 5:00 a.m. doing my meditations, and getting ready. Then my afternoon break with the Brain Tap.

©BRAINTAP

Thank you, Dr. Porter, for taking the time to sit down and talk with me, it has been a blast. Well, thank you for having me and helping us build better brains.

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I’m so happy to be doing this interview with Megha! This interview was different as I overbooked myself so I was in the car conducting this interview. I LOVE Megha’s work ethic and ethos; not to mention I’m a fan of her designs. This was definitely a wonderful girl chat mixed with questions. I had the best time interviewing her. Enjoy!

©MEGHARAO

I am very excited to be talking with Megha, of holiCHICbymegha today.

Hello, how are you doing? I am doing well, thank you for taking the time to speak with me today.

I first want to take a moment to congratulate you for an amazing debut at New York Fashion Week. It must be a pinch me moment.

Thank you, I am still recovering… I feel full, and like everything gets to me. It was so much, and I really loved it.

How did you prep for that…. You know it is a lot of behind-the-scenes stuff - making sure the clothes fit, making sure the designs are perfect. Then the whole staging is like a few seconds, it is everything before that that takes the life out of you. It was months of work.

Was it a pinch me moment, like everything that you had worked for to this point, or were you focused on making sure that it was perfect?

When I am there in the moment, I am more focused with making sure that everything is perfect. When everything is done, I see the photos, and how everything has come to life – that is when everything hits me more.

You are an amazing fashion designer, you live in New York City, and worked in corporate America while you started your company –holiCHICbymegha. So, you thought that it was important to be known that you were doing both - working your corporate job and holiCHICbymegha, most people shy away from letting that be known’…

I feel like that there are so many of us that are in this boat, and I don’t want people to have that misconception, that this just happened. Like you just decided that you want to be an entrepreneur, then it just happens.

My goal was to show people that you can have that corporate job, build your business, be a mom, a wife – you can do all of it. I want people to understand that it is all about your commitment and balance. How you dedicate your time and spend your time.

So, if you really want it to happen nothing can prevent you from doing it. I want to be that inspiration for women that you can have it.

I love that. Your family is beautiful, your children, and your daughter’s personality is the best. Ohhh, thank you! I am just trying to keep up with her…I tell her that she needs her own page.

How did you balance both, your children are still young… and you look so rested.

Well, I have to say that a support system is always necessary, if you have kids or not. You just need to be able to ask for help. My husband initially played a huge roll, he took me to India to establish my connections when I stated my business. His support as a partner, and in my business just means so much.

Then you also outsource help, like a babysitter. I am at every activity for my children – I go and participate. Then it is okay to go out and do your own thing, and it is important to not feel guilty doing that.

It is okay to do that and not feel guilty about doing that. And it is okay to have your own goals and dreams too. Then the only way to do that (go for my goals) is to raise your hand and ask for help.

Then hopefully it teaches them, that when they see that …Mommie is doing both and balancing both, you can do that too one day.

Yes, I love that. Now you are also a model. Yes, that was a while ago. It is okay it still counts. True!

You have been a model for top brands in India, you have worked in corporate America, then you founded your company …how do you think that experience played into developing your brand, holiCHICbymegha? And your sense of style?

The textiles of South Asian design are so beautiful, the colors, and how you mix it. You do not see it in mainstream fashion. You would see accent pieces… Yes!

So how did you blend it? I am obsessed with your blazer…

Well, that is a really great question! A lot of people have asked me … like how you went from modeling to designing,

Actually, it played a huge role. I never intended to be a designer. It really was something that happened organically. Sometimes I think that is better, because you are coming into something unfiltered. You are going into something, and you are just letting it unfold naturally.

I walked for several designers in South Asia when I was in college. They are so talented, and I was so inspired by them. At the same time, I felt like the clothes did not define who I was, they were great when something was event centered.

I thought where would I actually wear this. Then I would take my mom’s Sari, and my denim jacket and started mixing those looks. Then it spoke to who I was as an Indian American, daughter of immigrants and growing up in New York City. It was a special identity to own, but this was who I was. And I wanted the clothes that represented that.

That is how it was all born. We are not just going to weddings all the time. I mean look at the number of South Asian CEO’s in this country. They want those blazers, and show off their South Asian roots. So, I try to think of all kinds of events and create for those events, and design with that in mind.

You did holiCHICbymegha one hundred percent in 2020, at the height of the pandemic.

I always get this wrong … no, it was 2015 when we started holiCHICbymegha. Then, 2021 is when I totally went for it.

Okay…but it was still at the height of the pandemic. So how did adjusting to something to the magnitude as the pandemic. How did you manage to ride the wave to debut at the 2022 New York Fashion Week… what did you do from a business acumen sense…

To be totally honest with you I thought that we were going to shut down during the pandemic. Literally, I was on a call with my business partner saying, ‘what are we going to do’. We have all these clothes for events that are not happening.

Then I realized that there was a huge need for loungewear. People were at home, with a lot of time and shopping online. They were looking for things to wear around the house. I was like I am going to go and create it, like masks from so much left-over fabric.

Fortunately, it worked out. We ended up growing our business and developed a whole new audience. Then introduced loungewear, and a casual line of resort wear. It opened so many new opportunities for us and ended up being our best year.

When you started did you have a trajectory of where you wanted your business to go… or was it like I love doing this and I will see where this takes me…

I think for me it would be option two. I just kind of go with the flow. It is not always the best thing to be totally honest with you. I knew that I wanted to go and do this one hundred percent, but I never set said at this time I will do this.

I knew that when I could financially depend on it, that I would. While I am not good at that, my business partners are they have strengths that I do not have. They look at the bigger picture from different angles.

What is your favorite part – designing or making reels and showing how to put looks together.

Hmmm…that is a real good question. Honestly, I think it is both! I mean I love the design process. When I get my samples from India, I literally run downstairs to meet the delivery guy. I get excited to see the actual physical design in front of me.

The Reels for me is my opportunity to have fun. I don’t even plan the looks; it is spur of the moment. Honestly, it is the support from people like you and my community that just encourages me to want to make more.

You have your husband, your two beautiful children, and a successful business… now how do you stay looking restful and young…

So, I think I learned a lot from my mom. She was always someone who always was put together and taking care of herself.

My skincare that was just something that I learned early on, and I just know it is consistency. Some of the products that I use and just love is Charlotte Tilbury. I also incorporate Retinol.

I now have incorporated eye cream, and I try to be as consistent as I can.

What is your favorite way to unwind…

I am a huge fan of Barre; it is my absolute favorite. I love it, I do not force myself to go. I go about four times a week. I will also go out for a run to get my body moving too.

What can people get excited about for holiCHICbymegha…

Yes, we have holiCHIC men, and in that line, we have a lot of gender-neutral designs. I was pleasantly surprised to see the response of that new line, and how women have incorporated pieces from that line.

What piece would you say is that staple piece that we all need in our wardrobe…

I would say buy a power suit. It is a holiCHICbymegha staple, that just defines you – your confidence, and it is powerful. I would want everyone to have that feeling.

Thank you so much Megha for taking your time to speak with me. Of course, thank you!

©MEGHARAO

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I’m so happy to be doing this interview with Teala Dunn! I am a self-confessed “skin junkie” so I LOVED being able to talk to Teala Dunn about her skincare, career, and overall staying centered. I had the best time interviewing her. Enjoy!

©TEALADUNN

I am happy to be speaking with Teala today…

Hi!!! How are you?… I am doing well so happy to be talking with you!

My little Shih Tzu was barking like crazy, and she had to be a part of the interview … so here she is. Ohhh!!!! … my gosh yes! I love dogs. She is soooo cute.

You are young and have accomplished a lot, so share with us how this came to be? Did you always know that you wanted to be in this creative space. For people who are not aware, you are an actress, successful YouTuber, and you also have your skin care line…

I was about 16, or 17, and my love of YouTube began, because I was really bored. I had free time, and a lot of my friends were doing YouTube videos. To subscribe (on YouTube) you must make an account of your own.

So, I was doing crazy music videos, I mean embarrassing. Yes, but I just thought that it was cool. My parents would film it for me, and it just took off. Then along with Instagram, then I did a couple of episodes of ‘Shake It Up’.

Being an actress, it is a lot of hurry up and wait, and you are not in control of the process. With YouTube, TikTok, you create your own schedule, and you are more in control. Now do you find that you like the process of being in control of your own storyline … the whole process…

I love it all to be honest. I like to describe myself as being a variety pack. I encourage other young women of color to not put themselves in a box, and to chase their dreams.

Honestly, all that I do really go hand in hand with each other, and I love what I do. I have such an amazing fan base that have stuck with me through it all; and I would never want to abandon them on any level.

You said that as a black woman you do not want to put yourself in a box. Being a mixed woman, a woman of color too, how important do you think representation is? What does it mean to you to offer that representation…

It means everything to me honestly. I think that people of color need to be in every room. I mean in every room, and have the same opportunities offered to others. For me it is cool when I audition for roles that are open to all ethnicities, and I book the role.

The Hulu movie that I just did ‘Crush’, you should check it out. Oh, I will! …. The character that I played is Stacy Clark. She is rich, popular, and so smart. Always on the top of all her classes. When I auditioned for the role, it said open to all ethnicities. I was so happy. Then I ended up booking it.

So, it is little things like that that shows us that when you see opportunities like that you just need to go for it. There is no reason why a person of color cannot be in these roles. I could not agree more.

***You have beautiful skin. Now with your skin care line why was it important for you to start your product line in Wal-Mart? I mean with Sephora, and ULTA available…. Personally, I think it is brilliant. You are open and available to everyone to shop your skin care line, but what was your thought process behind it…***

It was a long two-year process. At first, we were going to do a make-up line. And no shade to anyone that has a make-up line out there; but I felt that it was too saturated. And I did not want anyone saying, ‘oh I want to buy Teala’s palette but it’s $65.00’. There are a lot of people that can not afford that.

So, I wanted to focus on skincare. I focused on that and placed it in Wal-Mart. I love it so much, it is good, and the products look luxurious. I like to call it beauty on a budget. I wanted it to be able to be placed next to your high-end lines and be proud. Well, mission complete and job well done. The packaging … everything, and I love it - accessible affordability. We all love a deal.

You are the best advertisement for your product line. What do you do for your skin care…

I just figured out that I have sensitive skin. So, for me calming products are everything. A big thing that changed my skin is not using make-up wipes, I am not against them - but for my skin it is not good. I like using Micellular water to take off my make-up.

I am obsessed with Dermalogica cleansing balm, it is creamy. I have eczema and rosacea, and it depends on the season too. Also, Elemis too, have you tried that?

Oh my gosh yes! It is amazing.

It is always important for everyone to double cleanse. Then always take it off at night, every night.

Yes, and Dr. Nigma’s serum too is amazing, and also Dr Barbara Sturm. As well, Sonya’s (Sonya Dakar) products.

Yes! Her Omega-3 oil is amazing. Yes… my serums are a must.

Oh, so true, ever since I started incorporating serums into my skin care routine my skin never looked healthier.

Then you cannot forget SPF, it is everything I always use it. Yes! Most people think when you are of color you do not need SPF, but it is so important.

How do you maintain your mental health, being in this creative space…

For me it has been journaling. I journal every day, and it has been a game changer. I have a whole routine every day - journal, make up my bed. It is that routine for me that works.

I am a Type A personality, and this organization is everything for me. I get my work done first, then I have time for me after.

What is your favorite form of exercise to relax….

Oh, Hot Yoga. I love Hot Yoga. I am also that girl that takes burning hot showers too though.

You have been amazing; I want to thank you so much for your time. Thank you so much you have been amazing, and you are so beautiful. Thank you so much.

©TEALADUNN

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I’m so happy to be doing this interview with Dr. Mamina Turengo! I am a self-confessed “skin junkie” so I LOVED being able to talk to Dr. Mamina about diving deeper into skin issues. I had the best time interviewing her. Enjoy!

©DR.MAMINATUREGANO

Hello Dr. Mamina how are you?... Hello, please excuse my face…I just had micro needling done. So, it is sooo red…goodness.

No, at least you are glowing though. I love micro needling personally, and I just thank you so much for joining me. It is an honor for me I am a skin care junkie.

Of course, you are so welcome.

Okay I am going to just jump right in - what I love about your Instagram page is that you are super informative, and you put things into simple terms.

You are a triple certified dermatologist. Can you please take us through how you decided to become a triple certified dermatologist….

I really was not sure that I wanted to become a doctor, so it was a gradual process. I really didn’t know that I wanted to become a doctor for most of my life, but it was always in the back of my mind.

While in college I was interested in more natural holistic medicine. I enrolled in Naturopathic Medical School in 2004. There was a doctor named Dr. Andrew Weil, and he was an Integrative Medicine physician. He has an Integrative Medicine Fellowship Program at University of Arizona.

I then decided that I was going to traditional Medical School, do Family Medicine, and enroll in the Integrative Medical Fellowship Program. When I was in medical school and doing my rotations, I was really interested in autoimmune diseases. With different autoimmune diseases there are a lot of skin issues. So, I decided to do rotations in dermatology.

Then I was drawn to pediatric and adult populations, then pathology where you look at skin diseases under the microscope….

Oh my gosh did you ever sleep during that time…

I tell you my health was definitely compromised during that time. My thyroid was like ‘what is going on’. Yes, it was a tough residency for sure. That is how I ended up getting those two residencies for internal medicine, and dermatology.

As I look back, I do ask myself, how did this happen and why. It was a journey. But I have a strong holistic, integrative approach with my patients. This past year I did an Integrative Dermatology Certificate Program, and it was a nine-month program. I try to incorporate those practices in my current practice.

***I love that, because I have noticed that in the last eight to ten years dermatology has become more cosmetic dermatology. It seems that the emphasis is more on injections. Please correct me if I am wrong. It is more like a band-aid, have you found that as well in the industry….***

I think that there is still a lot of medical dermatologists, but the ones that get a lot of press, PR exposure, and social media tend to be the more cosmetic dermatologists. So, it could present a more skewed view.

That is one of the things that is frustrating for me is putting a band-aid on issues, like you said. Instead of getting to the root cause of issues. Example…. Why is your collagen breaking down faster? … why is there all this inflammation? We are so quick to give steroids. Your body is reacting to something, so I am all about shifting the way that medicine is practiced in that regard.

Yes, that is why I was saying that I love about your Instagram page, it is informative; you give people the ability to look at what they are doing that could possibly be causing their issues. You are literally getting to the root.

The sunscreen post was one of my favorite posts. It seems so many people are not and do not wear sunscreen. It is so important, and crucial to wear sunscreen.

What would you say your top three advice that you give to your patients to maintain their collagen, and what do you recommend to your patients…

In terms of skincare… besides the basics of washing your face and using a moisturizer. Number one is wearing sunscreen. A lot of people do not wear it, but there is a huge difference that I see in my patients that have worn it (sunscreen) for a long time versus those that have not.

Their skin health, quality, is light years better than those that have not used sunscreen. It is also anti-aging as well; it is giving your skin a rest. With that it can rebuild and build more collagen; it can help get rid of wrinkles with sunscreen.

Second… are retinoids, RetinA. These work by going deep into the collagen and working. It works on the top level of your skin, the epidermis, to increase cell turnover.

The third thing that is showing compelling evidence is vitamin C. It is an antioxidant, which works deep in the collagen and helps with remodeling. As well works on the surface to fight what is called free radicals.

I love it! Now how can people connect with you, besides following you on your Instagram…

Yes, I also have an online dermatology platform called Skintap.com, and Skintap_official on Instagram. We treat acne, rosacea, hair loss, also things to help with eyelashes, and hyperpigmentation as well. We are licensed in about eight, to ten states. Hopefully you are in one of those states.

Thank you so much this has been an honor… aww thank you so much for having me today. I will not infringe on your time any longer. No, thank you for having me!

©SKINTAP

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I’m so happy to be doing this interview with Alka! When I got my Chadwick newsletter stating Alka would be on campus I wished I was back in school. Instead, I reached out to see if Alka would speak with me and she agreed! I had the best time interviewing her. Enjoy!

©ALKAJOSHI

Hiiiii!!!!! How are you…. Hi! Oh, my goodness you are not going to believe this, but we are getting ready to remodel the house …okay…and we have no furniture. So, I had to run around the house and get a stool to sit on. Ahahaaha…well, I am so happy that you are here.

I love your glasses before we get started… Oh, thank you! Yes, and I even brought out my chunky jewelry, and I know that you love the chunky jewelry. Ahahahah, yes! … I love it.

I also love your dog’s jewelry as well; it is just so cool. Ohhh, thank you. She is a very reluctant model, she’s a tomboy. So, she does not like jewelry, and she does not like the collars. She is so pretty.

So fun fact… I was looking through my alumnus newsletter from Chadwick School. For those that are not aware, Chadwick School is my private prep school in California. That is where I saw that you were going to be at Chadwick giving a reading. That was the one time that I wished I was back in school. Then I realized… wait I was like I am an adult with a platform I will just request an interview with her. And now here we are.

I have already pre-ordered the trilogy The Perfumist of Paris that will be out March 2023. You know that seems so far away, but it really is not. I know it is only like six, or seven months away.

People may not be aware, but you were first an advertiser, and had your own PR Firm for thirty years. That is amazing. You received your B.A. from Stanford. Tell us about your trajectory, did you major, or minor in literature? When you think about it advertising is a form of literature, you are creating ads. You are selling a story in thirty seconds or so to an audience. So how did it come to be…

I did not know what I wanted to do when I was 18 years old, in college. I applaud those who know what they are going to be at that age, like a doctor, attorney, or engineer. I had absolutely no idea. I initially thought that I was going to be an architect, because I always liked to draw.

When I started at Stanford, I majored in Art History. Mainly because I could attend one of the campuses abroad, and I wanted to go to Stanford in Italy. So that is where I ended up going. Now I did not know what I was going to do with that major when I got out.

When I graduated, I still did not know what I was going to do. I went on these interviews. I did work at several firms for four years. But I was not enjoying it, I liked the money… I just was not enjoying it. I know! did you find that it was killing your soul. Yes, I just was miserable.

So, I said to my dad that I have done all the things that you have asked me to do, now I am going to do what I want to do. So, I explored what I could do creatively. I started looking into advertising. I started taking classes in advertising. I thought that way I could use all my artistic skills. So, I went to an advertising agency to be an art director.

Through it all I have come to know that you must be ballsy. You must show folks that there is a spirit, a spark in you, and someone will recognize that in you. Exactly!... that spirit can be harvested and developed. Yes, exactly!

I was in advertising for about ten years, when I realized… hey I can do this, why I am working for someone else. That is another ballsy thing, I decided to open my own advertising firm. I had enough money to live off for six months.

I set up the office. I started asking folks if they could get me into their companies for a pitch. Another ballsy thing. I walked in like I knew exactly what I was doing, I didn’t know what I was doing at all. They said… we have this huge launch coming up do you think that you could work on it. My response was sure I can.

Oh, yes. As my dad always says - say no to nothing. If you get through the door, say no to nothing, and figure it out as you go. Act confident and figure it out later.

Yes, and isn’t that funny. It is the thing that men have been doing for ever. I have been reading about how men get their jobs, it is their confidence, and saying yes, I can do that. Yes, it is the confidence, that bravado, and if you don’t have that bravado no one will talk or look at you. I was like I don’t know how to do it. He was like do you want to live at home forever.

Also, I made my main character not have any children, because there is a stigma in our society that a woman should have children. And if you don’t want to have children you are some sort of dried-up worthless person. For me I still question if I want children, it is a lot of work. I know that having children is a lot of work, I am in my thirties, but it is okay if you don’t have it figured out. That is what I love about your characters. In India with the historical fiction, it is okay to be different, and want to be independent. There is nothing wrong with you. I love that and identify so hard with that.

Exactly, and I remember when I was like around 47 years old, I said to my mother… that I was sorry that I did not make you a grandmother. I know that you would have been a great grandmother to my children. My mother looked at me and said honey I never expected children from you. Yes, I was never that person.

I think that is so important. However you come that is okay, just own it. If you want ten children, great. If you choose to not want any that is fine, and there is nothing wrong with you. There is nothing wrong with whatever choice someone makes.

We have as a global society have programmed that once a woman reaches a certain age she is done. And that is in the workforce and in life. You ignited a passion that you always had, and at 51 years old you literally knocked it out of the park. You are a New York Times Bestselling author. Then I read that Netflix picked it up, is that true?

Yes! Netflix is developing The Henna Artist into an episodic TV Series. Did you have to pinch yourself… Yes, I did. I did not know that as an author you can tell them I want this to be a Movie, or I want this to be a TV Series.

So, I decided that I needed each character to be developed fully, that is why I decided on a TV Series. I wanted The Henna Artist to be developed like the series Downton Abbey. Oh! I love Downton Abbey too.

I love the sets, the costumes, we get to see the furniture, the food, and we will get to see how everything blends. The evolution and how they blend, and the historical aspect. I am a huge Downton Abbey fan as well. Is it true Freida Pinto is going to play Lakshmi?

Yes, she wanted to play Lakshmi. So, once you have a big star, or big director attached to a project there is more a good chance that it will make it all the way to completion. In reality only about ten percent of books that are optioned make it to completion. I did not know that, and that is scary. Ahaaha… yes and what is even scarier is that what is produced mostly I don’t even want to watch.

For you was it scary to start something new; or was it a natural progression. And if you didn’t have fear, was it because you were doing it for fun because you really enjoy it. Was that what allowed you to be so successful because you did not have any pressure on yourself?

That change was very natural. I made so many career changes in my life. Right out of college I started working for an insurance company, then an internal auditor, then to advertising, then marketing, and lastly, I had my own firm. I also did event marketing… putting on big events. After that I got into this writing thing, and for me it was natural.

All of us have that ability to go from one steppingstone to another. With every steppingstone you accumulate all of your skills, to get to the next steppingstone. Where we are harnessing all the skills to get to that point. When we use it in a positive way it is great.

I just love it. Now we are going to talk about The Henna Artist that is sadly coming to an end March 28, 2023. I love the duality of Lakshmi’s character with her sister, Radha. It is an interesting dynamic. How did you come up with that duality, and how each one plays off of the others character? Then how each one is trying to better themselves, but they are both so different…

I think I knew from the beginning that Radha would come in and Lakshmi’s character would have never been or met her before. Radha would show up and get pregnant, she wanted that family. Both characters are strong willed and stubborn. Yet Lakshmi knew that this was her younger sister and she need to protect her.

From there I knew the storyline would start. That is how I knew that I was going to develop the two characters.

I thought if Radha becomes Lakshmi…does she come full circle. She built this life and will she allow anything to disrupt it…

Through all the twists of the two characters both Lakshmi and Radha really start to depend on each other.

I heard that you put no pressure on yourself to write for a designated time or days for your stories. And I wonder if that is what makes your books, characters so authentic and amazing…

Yes, I do not know how people can be that disciplined to write for a proscribed number of days, for a set amount of time each day.

I love how you know it, and you own it. And like you have said, ‘I always make my deadlines’. So, you are disciplined, you just give yourself a wider net to be creative. If you were not, then you would not make any deadlines.

Yes, you do the same thing because as we grow older, we know that people are depending on us. We know that we need to meet our deadlines because then they (those that depend on us) will take ownership of the project and take it to the next level. We learn that if we do not do our job then it hurts other people.

Yes, and I have found if you do not give a 100% then it is very hard for the people around you to give a 100%. I respect their time and they will respect your time.

Are you working on another book series after The Perfumist of Paris…

I am! It was the book I was working on before The Perfumist of Paris. I started the book in 2019 and started doing the research.

My last question is how you relax and unwind…you are so creative…

My favorite shows to watch are detective shows. I love them.

Have you seen Luther, with Idris Alba…

Oh yes! I love Luther and Idris Alba too. I do not know why the Brits are so good at the detective shows. I don’t know if it is the way that they write them, and how they develop their characters.

Yes, it is so psychological, and they do suspense so well. You can binge watch them before you realize it. Thank you soooo much Alka for giving me your time, and I know that I went over. I have simply loved our conversation. Thank you again… It was my pleasure!

©ALKAJOSHI

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I’m so happy to be doing this interview with Amanda! I am speaking with Amanda who is the Founder of Full Plate Full Cup. I had the best time interviewing her. Enjoy!

©AMANDABAUDIER

How are you doing? so excited to talk with you...I woke up early so I could have my coffee before our talk. Ahaha... I woke up early because I have two pre-school children.

Today we are going to talk about Full Plate Full Cup, how you started, and the whole evolution.

You went to Columbia University, and you got your Executive Coaching degree from NYU. When you were at Columbia did you always know that you wanted to go into Executive Coaching, or was it more like I will figure it out later...

Yes, well my path was anything but linear. I went to Columbia University and honestly I did not know what I wanted to do, other than I wanted to be in New York City.

I wanted to impress all the people by getting into an Ivy League School, and I did not think much beyond that. When I got to New York I was really into partying. At that point I decided I wanted to work in the Nightlife and Hospitality Industry.

I literally looked around to see who was doing the most in that particular industry, as well successful, and it was Jason Strauss and Noah Tepperberg.

They are the owners and founders of TAO Group. I was 19 years old, and I sent them an email to be their intern. I turned that into a 12 year career where I rose up the ranks to become a Managing Partner.

For Coaching... while working at TAO Group I had a stress induced health crisis, and had to have open heart surgery at 28 years old. Oh my gosh... Yes! my heart was skipping every third beat.

I then took a year sabbatical after my open heart surgery. During that time I became a certified yoga teacher, meditation teacher, and I got certified as a Holistic Health Coach. I then got certified to become an Executive Coach about five years later. And I saw that need from working with start-up companies and seeing these brilliant hard working people that do not know how to take care of themselves in a holistic way.

So I had this vision of putting together all of this 'woo-woo' holistic stuff I was already trained in, then becoming an Executive Coach, and then somehow fusing these two things together.

I could see as a working female executive mother it is hard. Yes, the struggle is real. I know when I was climbing the corporate ladder as a Revenue Accountant for a Top 10 company. You feel guilty to even go to the bathroom, so I could not drink enough water especially when there was a project that was due.

Now people are coming into the consciousness of whole body, whole mind. But in the corporate world it is not praised at all. Did you find any push back in the corporate world... Well, yes and that is the concept of Full Plate Full Cup.

How do you manage the heavy workload, huge responsibilities, and also keep your cup full. Managing your stress levels, and taking care of yourself.

With my method...I can bring as much, or as little 'woo woo' as is appropriate for where you are at. So I can meet people where they are, and that is a key component in my method.

I have worked in offices that are majority male, and some of the concepts that are beneficial to everyone are going to get knocked down. I am not going to walk into a room and say ' take 10 minutes to connect to your root chakras, and open your third eye'. People are going to look at me and say that this is bullshit.

Yes! and I was going to say... I love your posts because they are so realistic. Because if you are more analytical you have a grounding. It is more realism mixed with the spiritual. If you are busy, stressed, running around, and you read some of these inspirational posts they can sometimes make you angry. It is like they do not grasp what you are going through, they do not grasp it. Your posts on Full Plate Full Cup is raw, real, and matter of fact. It is here it is, and do with it what you want.

Yes, I can relate to those corporate deadlines, a thousand emails, or having to present to boards. I lived the tangible, and I know it. That is how I can be there for those people that want to show up for their co-workers, or be anxious in their lives. So they will have to use breathwork and close their eyes and get out of fight, or fright mode.

Yes! I know that I have to remind myself to breathe when I am in those hurried periods to meet deadlines. What made you decide to leave the corporate world and embark on doing Full Plate Full Cup full time...

Honestly, this has been my calling for a very long time. Before I had my surgery... I always knew that I wanted to work with, and help people. This was the only thing that lit my heart on fire. I knew how to help people that were struggling in the ways that I was.

And I could do it in ways that could be beneficial to them, and change their lives forever. But let's be honest - I have children, I have bills, and my husband is an entrepreneur as well. One reason that took me so long to do this is that I had a life to pay for.

I am not a risk taker, I had to know that my needs would be taken care of. When I work with my clients, I ask my clients what is their financial responsibility right now. How much do you need to make each month to meet your responsibilities.

I will structure their time to work on their passion, vision, so realistically look at how much time they have to devote to their passions. So in a certain amount of time you will be able to quit your job, and devote full-time to your passion, vision.

I think that is so important to put out there. People can get caught up in the Wellness, and living that American Dream. But we are doing people a disservice, to tell them you just manifest and instantly overnight you will have your own successful business.

So my last question is how do you personally stay grounded...

First of all I have had a meditation practice since 2013. I knew that I needed to get my stress, and anxiety levels under control.

I truly believe that meditation helps you in the moment as well as over time. So having an over decade long daily meditation practice has transformed me from the inside out.

I meditate every single day, and that can be anywhere from five minutes to twenty minutes.

The other thing is that I truly seek Joy. I recommend Journaling, it is a good way to connect with Joy. It is an emotion, you feel it. You can notice things in the course of your day that bring you Joy.

Go on a walk with a five year old child, and notice how they notice the small things and that brings them such Joy. Walk with your eyes up, heart open, and notice what is around you that brings you Joy. Joy is a gift, I always reflect on the Joy that you have in your life.

Full Plate Full Cup is now offering group and one-on-one coaching, and workshops for teams and individuals. And I also have a co-founder... so I have a big announcement coming September 7th. You can expect courses and in person events, and then working on a couple of products. Along with the goal of helping ambitious individuals unlock, and have more Joy.

You are just ending 2022 with such a high, and thank you so much Amanda for your time.

©AMANDABAUDIER

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Today I am honored to interview Lisa Bloom, Esq. I am so excited to talk with you, I literally could not sleep. I had the best time interviewing Lisa. Enjoy!

©LISABLOOM

Hello how are you? You are so sweet. It is so nice to be here with you.

With all the recent events… the overturn of Roe v. Wade, and the Me to Movement…I knew there was no better person to discuss these issues with than you. Someone that has been on the forefront for the last thirty years fighting these battles is you.

It is my pleasure and thank you for having me.

Why did you decide to go into law? … you are the daughter of Gloria Allred. Typically, when your parents are larger than life in a particular field the children shy away from that field, because they don’t want the comparison. So, did you ever feel that it might not be the right path for you…or how did you decide?

Well, that is a very astute question, because it is true my mom is Gloria Allred. I did kind of hesitate because when I was deciding about Law School my mom was just starting out as a lawyer. She went to Law School late in her 30’s. So, I saw her go through the whole process and it looked quite hard, and unpleasant. I thought I do not know what I want to do, and I don’t think I want to do that. My mom talked me into it. When I was in college, I was National Debating Champion, and that was a huge undertaking, and when we won it was very exciting. My mom insisted that I apply to Law School, and I am so happy that I did.

I wanted to help people. I never wanted to help huge corporations move money around. I wanted to help the underdog, especially women, people of color, and LGBTQ people against the big powerful forces that exploit them. That is what I have been doing almost my entire career, and that is what I am doing now in my Law Firm. I think we are pretty good at it, and it is very fulfilling work.

You have been doing this fight for their rights for three decades. Right before the reversal of Roe v. Wade the narrative I would say was that the Me to Movement had plateaued ever since the Johnny Depp v. Amber Heard trial. With that win (for Johnny Depp) it’s been more like it’s over, so stop complaining, and let’s move forward.

The You to Movement is not over. Ghislaine Maxwell has just been sentenced to 20 years in prison for sexually abusing girls and participating in the sex trafficking with Jeffrey Epstein. The most recent, R. Kelly has been sentenced to 30 years in prison.

In these last two, Maxwell and Kelley, people have known for the last twenty to thirty years that these folks were abusive.

I represented eight victims of Jeffrey Epstein, so I am very familiar with that case. People just thought that they have so much money and power, nothing can be done. Yet something was done, because the victims stood up, and advocates fought for them.

So, the Me to Movement is about millions and millions of victims standing up and saying no. It is not just about one case. There will always be setbacks in social justice movements. You cannot say from that one case (Johnny Depp v Amber Heard) that it is over.

There are still cases, and I am still fighting these cases, and getting great results for our clients. So, people should always stand up for their rights.

What do you think a good example of personality differences in the work force, versus something that is a Me to Movement issue? Because sometimes could it be simply a personality difference, or just poor taste in humor. How can someone know that this is not okay, and stand up and take action…

First of all, in the workplace people need to keep everything 'G' rated. Do not say anything that you would not want to see in a giant headline, want someone to testify to in front of your family, or in an open court room.

Hopefully, you are working in a diverse workplace and people are coming from all different backgrounds, and religions. Also, you may not know who you might be offending, so keep it clean.

Now of course the Me to Movement is about a lot more than the occasional remark, or the occasional joke. I am not bringing a sexual harassment case for something like that.

My cases usually involve sexual assault. Or serious workplace harassment that has taken place over, and over again, where a person has been demeaned and humiliated. Where the person cannot work anymore; and have significant psychological injuries.

Do you find that it (sexual harassment) is so systemic, the patterns, it is like the old Boy’s Club...and because of these patterns of behavior they are not aware that anything is even wrong? Do you find that is where some of your cases evolve from ...

Yeah, I do not know about that ... yes and no, it is 2022. People should be getting sexual harassment training every year, or two years. And if you are not clear on what sexual harassment is ... those trainings should clear it up for you.

People who I sue are CEO's, high level VPs of companies, and they are very sophisticated people. I think that they did know, but they did not care. It is egoism and narcissism.

I had a high-profile guy once tell me that he thought that the reward of being successful is that you could do whatever you want to women. It was interesting that he told me that.

Look at Donald Trump saying what he said to that reporter. They think that they can do whatever they want to women.

It is 2022, and now we are dealing with the reversal of Roe v. Wade. For me I was devastated. I thought that at my age of 31 years old, my grandmother had more rights over her body than I do now.

It is hard to imagine how this is even happening. Although, I do remember reading a quote in 1991 from Rosa Parks at Clarence Thomas' confirmation. She said... 'this is not a step forward for America, he will set us back by 50 years' (and I am paraphrasing). I hate to say that she had foresight, but she did.

Why do you think it even it passed? I almost thought that these men see it like punishment for being vocal and standing up for their rights (women). Showing us that we do not have all the liberties that you think that you have.

Yes, so why did the Supreme Court rule the way that they did... yes!

Listen, the right is very well organized. They understand how to get power, and what to do once they have power. I sometimes think that the left needs to take some lessons from that.

We do a lot of things besides grabbing power and exercising it. The right decided that it would be a litmus test that they must be anti-choice. That did not use to be the case before many Republicans were pro-choice.

So, they appointed Judges that had to be anti-choice in the Federal Courts over, and over again. All the way up to the Supreme Court.

When Trump ran for office in 2016, he said that he was going to appoint Justices who would reverse Roe v. Wade. That is exactly what he did, and no one should be surprised that he did exactly what he said that he would do.

So, when someone tells you who they are believe them. Hilary Clinton warned us, and a lot of people warned us that this was going to happen, and it did.

These Justices that are on the Supreme Court are there for life, and some are quite young. We will have them for a very long time. So, we on the left must be just that organized.

The majority believe that women should have the right to have an abortion in some cases, and it is a small minority that believe otherwise.

They have successfully grabbed power. But what can we do? there are lawsuits that are being brought in states across the country. There are people giving money to Planned Parenthood, and other pro- abortion rights organizations. And that is an important thing.

I have been posting videos (informational), on what women should know if they are not living in a free state, like California.

If you are living in not a free state, you should know that the government has the right to criminally prosecute you for fetal homicide. That is if you have an abortion in one of those states, as well self-medication abortions.

Also, there are people that are safe for you to talk to, and there are people that are not safe for you to talk to. There will be a long road back to over-turn the ruling.

Meanwhile, girls and women are going to die, a lot of poor people are going to have babies that they do not want and cannot afford. And I think that is very sad.

Thanks to the Supreme Court we are going to have more climate change, more guns, and more unwanted babies.

That is what they have brought us to.

I saw the video that you posted a few days ago... where you said do not leave a digital footprint - do not have your phone. When you said the self-induced abortions, does that mean the Plan B pill in the states that are not free. The Plan B you can get without a prescription, it is not an abortion pill, but it can prevent pregnancies...

It depends on the state. If the state says that a fetus, or embryo is a human life at conception, and Plan B works after conception. Then technically that could be taking a life in those states. You must know your state law.

I would advise do not talk to people about this, I know young people cannot do anything without texting. People in my generation, I'm 60 years old, it is easy for us to not text. I tell my clients do not text, then they text five minutes later. They cannot help themselves.

You must break that habit, because the government can get your phone and get your texts - so do not text. As I said you can go to the library do your research anonymously.

I also stated the people that it is safe to talk to is a lawyer, your clergy, your therapist, or your spouse; these people cannot be forced to testify against you.

Other people can be forced to testify, your mom unless she is an attorney, best friend; you must be careful and smart if you live in an anti-abortion state.

Since you have been fighting for human rights for so long, how do you think that we are going to come back from this. Since the pandemic we are so divided on crucial issues, and as a country we cannot get a footing and co-exist peacefully. We have always had differences, that is why we have different parties. But how do you think we can get back, and peacefully heal wounds and co-existing...

That is such a great question, I can tell you when I was in Law School in the 1980's in class, we would have these very robust debates about things that I care about now. My friends on the other side they felt passionately about their position.

We would argue our different positions, and then go out later and have a beer and be friends. It was not personal, and we did not hate each other.

I hear Law School Professors, and law students, that say that they are afraid to speak their positions, and to ask questions. That is sad. I think we must talk to each other.

I listen to right wing media, and it is important to be open and to hear, to listen to what they have to say. On both sides there are crazies and extremists. Let's listen to each other.

We must learn how to be more respectful of each other, of others that do not hold your beliefs...we have to listen, and to talk. I do believe Trump has thrown a dynamite on that, he was divisive and never pretended to care about the Democrats nor what they had to say.

We must be mindful of what we say to each other, the words that we use because they have a ripple effect... I agree.

Now how do you balance everything, stay sane and youthful...

Well, thank you, you are very kind. I have been vegan for about 13 years, and I have been vegetarian almost my entire life. I do not eat anything from an animal - it is a whole food plant-based diet.

I am also very active every day I am running, swimming, or long distance back packing on the Pacific Trails. I think that is the key. Stay active with something that you like and eat a whole food plant-based diet. I love being outside. I believe in living everyday like it is your last.

Everyone needs to keep an eye on your mental health, and your generation has really shined a light on that issue. That is so important.

Thank you so much for your time...

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I’m so happy to be doing this interview with Frank! I was so drawn to his energy and effervescent personality. Frank did not disappoint! Frank is engaging, warm and magnetic. I had the best time interviewing him. Enjoy!

©FRANKELARIDI

A Renaissance man, a four-time Emmy Award Winning Journalist, you are creating Oracle Cards, and a Certified Healer. All things to help people to be better versions of themselves.

On your site you say that you help people to break down the walls. So, tell me how you shifted your focus from an Award Winning Journalist to a Certified Healer…

It was a real interesting journey, a very slow one, then it picked up speed this year (2022). I was talking yesterday to my friend who is a Beta Astrologer, and he was saying that it was all in my cards that this year you would go from that to this.

I was a journalist, award winning, and you can see the Emmy’s in the background. Oh yes, I love that nice subtlety, it is like I don’t have to say anything…my background speaks for itself. Aahahaa, well your background is pretty amazing too. Yes, well I just stole this from my parents.

Yes, I always joke … stay humble but still let them know. My background was journalism and traveling the world and telling stories for a mainstream network. In my personal life I was this spiritual hippie. I remember one time I was going to interview Hilary Clinton when she was running for President. I had crystals in my pocket. Oh yes! I always have my crystals with me. That is so good. I have now moved way beyond crystals now it has been like five years since I have used them, but at the time I had them in my pocket, and the secret service didn’t know what they were. He made me leave them out before I could go inside to interview her. I remember they were calling them ‘special rocks’ in their walkie talkies…ahahahaa.

The funny thing is that that was always a part of my life, and then little by little I could not ignore it anymore. I also had a YouTube Channel, and I was telling the stories that I could not tell on television. That channel got forty million views, and did well, and it was all about spirituality. Then I stopped posting there, and created Modern Nirvana with my two best friends, Kat and Brian.

That is where we have our annual conference, and last year we gave an award to Deepak Chopra, and Dave Asprey was our keynote speaker. This year we have it again in September in Austin, Texas. It is an incredible event with enlightened people, and with cool vendors. I also get to try out cool things, like right now I am trying this cool product for the skin that I am loving. It is SkinIV.

There are going to be vendors at the event, well It is Micro Biolabs, that is the company that they work with, and they will be vendors at the conference. It is all probiotics for the skin.

©FRANKELARIDI

Is it like a serum… Yes, kind of but they call it that.It is somekind of watery blend, like an oil. Do you see the results, does it instantly boost you… because I am a skin junkie. Yeah, yeah me too… I was a skin care junkie for years. Like the whole Korean skin care eight step process. Yes! me to like the snails, everything that is new. I will try anything.

Oh my gosh me too, we will get along really well. Yes, seriously anything that will keep you young, tight, and upright I will try.Ahahaha, yes young tight and right…exactly. What I am learning is that micro-biome is so important for our skin too. So, I spent eight days rafting down the Grand Canyon with my friends. It was the most amazing experience going down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. What I realized is that since I could not take my whole skin care routine. You could take like two to three things, so I took my face wash, moisturizer, and sunscreen. So, what I realized is my skin thrived, and it was such being in nature, being in the sun, eating healthy foods, being in the dirt.

So, what I realized is that micro-biome is important for health, and not just taking it internally. I have been taking probiotics, and I have noticed a huge difference. more than any serum.

Now I am using this product from SkinIV and they used this certain strand of a germ that we needs, and feed off of. We used to be in our indigenous days in the sand.

Yes, that is where we glowed, we have colonized everything, and we have lost that - back to the roots. I go to Latin America a lot and my skin just glows. It is from the fresh fruits to the air my skin is thrives, and glows. You just do not have to worry about anything. Where do you go? Before I would go to Venezuela, I am Venezuelan, but now I go to Mexico. I did an Ayahuasca Ceremony in March… Oh really where? It was a special thing at the W. Woaw! At the W Hotel!?!

I have had like eighteen ceremonies, my most powerful one was in Mexico. I am taking my mom in July to experience it in Costa Rica. I am excited to take her and support her. It is better to do it alone.

I believe the most powerful thing that I have learned in this journey, is that this moment is inevitable. Not the one that just passed, but this moment. We can shape our future, but this moment right here is inevitable, it is this way, and it can no other way so be accepting of it. In many ways we are in control, but then we are not.

How did the Modern Nirvana come to be, and what do you love about the conference and bringing people together….

Well, the conference is really cool, you can go to ModernNirvana.com we have some amazing guests that we honor. Beyond that we have live energetic healings on stage. We have vendors and exhibitors. We have infrared companies, and meditation companies. We have incredible vendors, supplements, and skin care. Beyond that it is a community that is interested in health and skin care. It is a one-day event, September 23rd in Austin, Tx. A lot of young, energetic and like-minded people. Yes, I saw that on the website… Are you coming, I will send you a ticket. Oh, that would be awesome.

How do you accept new clients, what do you love the most, the transition in people, and how do you bring down the wall…

It is incredible. People will come to me for weight-loss, or they’re depressed, or that they want to be in a relationship, and they have blocks. We all have blocks around certain things in our lives. The messages that I get post sessions is that they have never felt this light in their life, this clear and decisive.

How do you select your clients, can they just go to your website ModernNirvana.com….

Yes, I love to help as many people as possible. They can just go to FrankElaridi.com, there is an Emotional Healing section, and they can calendar what day and time they want, then they will get a Zoom link.

You have so many things going on, from your clients to Modern Nirvana, and the launching of your Oracle Deck of cards…how do you find time for Frank and balance everything…

Honestly, this year is all about growth for me. This year I have been in a different country every month. Our Oracle Deck who we are doing with Chronicle Books comes out in October. Everyone that comes to the conference in September will get a free Oracle Deck. It will be at Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, and Barnes and Noble. So, it is all amazing. People are taking their power back, and trusting their intuition.

Everyone you can go to ModernNirvana.com to get your tickets for the Conference in September. It was so good to finally meet you, yes, it really was and thank you.

©FRANKELARIDI

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I’m so happy to be doing this interview with Alejandra! I’ve been dying to interview Alejandra for almost 2 years but the timing was never right until now! So happy Alejandra was able to quickly answer our questions; enjoy this interview!

©PALOMERAGROUP

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you? 

A very happy person. A person who loves music, dancing, singing out loud. A person who doesn’t judge other cuz is aware of her own mistakes.

Okay so you are in the new show ‘Corazón Guerrero’. Congratulations!! Please describe your favorite thing about your character and the show.

My favorite thing about MariLuz is the great love she has for her mom and grandmother and that even though she comes from very humble roots she what to do great things in life. Nothing can stop her.   

How do you balance your filming schedule with your family and taking care of yourself?

I’m very well organized person and I always try to prioritize whats most important for me.

My number one priority is my family and i try to adapt my work to them NOT the other way around.

List the things you can’t live without.

I have only 3:

God

Family

Love

What is your favorite way to stay healthy?

I love running and for me is more than just a way burn calories is a habit I got since I was little it keeps me healthy (body and mind)   

What are you most grateful for?

My husband for always supporting me in everything i want to conquer. He’s my number one fan.

Last & most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind!

Going to my parents house that’s my favorite place in the whole wide world. I feel recharged every time I go there.

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I’m so happy to be doing this interview with Ranwa! I found her on Instagram and started watching her videos on like a loop. I contacted her and we clicked instantly! Our new project coming out soon but until then enjoy this interview!

***Face Yoga… now please tell us how you got started with Face Yoga, people are aware of yoga for the body, how did you get into the face***….

Yes, it was when COVID started to spread more and more…and everyone had to stay at home. Well, I got bored. So, I wanted to learn something at home, and maybe make it for a job for me in the future.

One night I was scrolling on Instagram, and I opened the profile of someone that I had been following for some time. I found out that she was the one that started the Face Yoga trend, if you will. I love what she does, and I wanted to learn about it.

When I did my first online session is when I knew that this was what I loved and wanted to do. And this is what I had been waiting to make as a job for me.

That is truly amazing, and you are your own best advert. I saw that when I watched your videos; that I do some of the positions. I saw that the one (position) that I did was for fuller lips…ahahaha yes!

So, what is the most requested, or favorite if you will yoga position for the face…

I think the one for the check bones, and to have a more defined jawline.

Oh my… I need that one! Yes! I will show you.

Now how long do you do these exercises for your clients before they see results…

I have two options – I have the online sessions, and then I have my clients in my clinic. The results depend on the person. On their age, and if they have wrinkles or not. If they take care of their skin, or not, and if they use the right products. So, it depends.

But you do see results from day one, from session one. Then if you continue, with time, and doing it the right way you will see big changes. A big difference you will see on your face in like three weeks to a month.

That is really good. It depends on the part that you want to focus on also - if you want larger lips, it will take more time. If you want cheek bones, to lift your cheeks you need less time. Really? … I would think that it would be the reverse.

So, I ask before we start the session for a picture of them, then we talk about how they treat their skin, what products they use on their skin. Then what areas that are bothering them that they want to focus on. After about eight sessions I then ask for another picture to see the difference. Because only the photos will show you the difference.

I think that is good, because we are so conditioned to want to see instant results. Only with a picture will you see the difference.

Yes, it is not like Botox, or Fillers. It needs time, it depends on you – whether you do it every day or not. It is a routine that you must do every day. The idea of Face Yoga is to do it every day. Even if it is for just minutes, or you can do for an hour. It depends on your time. If you, do it in the right way, you will see the changes.

Do you find women that have dabbled in Botox, or Fillers, can they still do Face Yoga with you….

Yes, but we just must wait for a few weeks then we can start their sessions.

Have you tried the routines before…?

No! I just did that routine that I told you about before, it is just what I do when I get bored. Then you said that it is a face yoga move for fuller lips, and I was like oh wow. Ahahah yes!

I know that I do some positions when I am stressed, and it relieves the tension. I do not know if those positions are yoga, or not. No, that move is reflexology. I do face yoga and reflexology.

Now how do you combine them….

Yes, let me explain the difference between them. The Face Yoga is a way to look and feel younger, fresh, and more glowing. We use your hands, and sometimes specific tools for Face Yoga. When you do your whole face you lift your whole face, your cheeks, you reduce dark circles, puffiness around the eyes. Wrinkles on the forehead, around the eyes, and on the neck. Fuller lips, and a slimmer nose.

Oh my gosh! I saw that last night, and I was like I am going to have to try that exercise. Aahahaha… yes, but that routine does take time and you will not see results from day one, so you will have to wait. Okay…

And always you must use face oil, or face cream, you should not do the exercises on a dry skin. Oh really, does it have a bad reaction when you do it dry? Yes, it will, it will make wrinkles appear. You must use the right face cream, or oil for your skin. To make your skin absorb this product and will get more benefits.

I also noticed that you have face oils at your clinic. Do you ship internationally? No, just in Lebanon right now.

Now how do you combine the Reflexology…because the Reflexology is to destress correct?

Yes, it is. Reflexology is on your Face, Hands, and Feet. The Reflexology that I do is only for the Face and Hands. That are related to your organs. Everything that you feel – if you are tired, or in a bad mood, or stressing, a lack of sleep, digestion issue, back, leg, and neck pain. Anything that you might feel when you target those points (that you want to feel better), and you will feel much better. You can put pressure on it, massage it in the right way… and with time you will see and feel much better.

You will feel more relaxed and much better, such a good relief for headaches.

Now when I was looking, I saw that you also use crystals, I am obsessed with my crystals… I noticed that you had your clients with crystals. I like moonstone, rose quartz, amethyst… Does it matter what crystals you put on your face?

Yes, I like those too. It is for relieving stress, and for relaxation. You can use anything that you want.

Now when you have clients that are virtual that want to do the crystals… how does that work?

I can do it with them. When we close, they will be relaxed, or sleep. But when they put the mask on then I like for them to put the crystals on their faces. It will calm their face and heal it.

Oh okay … so it is their own energy that will calm them and heal them.

Yes, exactly. So, they do the exercises, they put the mask on, and then I tell them how to do the crystals.

So that is cool. Once they have done the Face Yoga, Reflexology, and they have opened themselves up… then it is with their own energy that they heal themselves by putting the stones on themselves.

What do you use for your skin, it is beautiful and clear?

Ahahaha, well thank you my skin is not always like this. But it is what you do for your skin every day. I do have rosacea. Oh my gosh me too!

Ahahaha yes. It can be bad. I still have it sometimes. It depends if it is very cold or hot. But nothing like before. Everything changed when I started doing Face Yoga and using the right products for my skin – the right oil, face cream, and sunscreen. And that is it.

Before I used many creams and oils, and nothing helped. So, I started with Face Yoga for myself first, with the correct face products, then that is when I saw real changes.

Yes, well you are your own best advertisement. Your skin is so clear.

Yes, if you have rosacea you have to start.

Yes, now mine is under control. That also happened when I started drinking straight celery juice, and my other elixirs I also saw a big change, personally. I do dry oils because I also have eczema.

Yes, that is why I say that everything is a balance. With Face Yoga you also must use the right face products for your skin type for your face. Drink enough water and eat healthy as much as you can. Because everything that you have in your body, use on your face – will show on your face.

Yes, it does! Then I think that it says it takes twenty-eight days to forty-two days once you change your eating habits for it to reflect on your skin.

***So, for people that are not in Lebanon they can book online, and you can help them find the correct products for them and do the Face Yoga.***

Yes, they can contact me, and I will guide them to everything that they need to know.

Go to @FaceyogabyRanwa…watch her Reels, Posts, and book with her. Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you…you are perfect!

Thank you, thank you everyone that joined. Thank you so much.

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Hi Dr. Arya! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our questions!! I’m extra happy because she’s my podiatrist and LIFE CHANGING! I’m going to jump right in!

**How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?**

I am a foot and ankle specialist in the greater Phoenix, Scottsdale area. I specialize in sports medicine, pediatric podiatry, non-surgical management of foot and ankle trauma, diabetic care, and skin and nail issues.

Why did you decide on Podiatry? What is the most rewarding part of your job?

With more and more specialists, it’s hard to get everything done at one appointment.

I like podiatry because it’s such a small niche (only feet and ankles) that I can take care of my patient’s needs all at one time. Whether it’s getting an x-ray, doing a nail procedure, or performing an injection- I can help treat my patient’s needs the same day they come in without normally having to refer them to anyone else. Being in such a small niche means I am an expert of my field; so I can act as a surgeon, radiologist, and medicine doctor all within the scope of podiatry. The most rewarding thing about my job is after I take the time to do patient education, a patient is compliant, and they heal an injury that gets them back into what they love doing because of it.

**I can say from personal experience you and your entire staff are AMAZING! Made me feel so at ease even though I was a huge baby.**

Ingrowns and infections are very common problems. What do you find is the common cause? Is it improper footwear? How can people prevent ingrowns or infections?

Thank you so much, that’s very generous. And you are NOT a baby. Your concerns are very valid and it’s smart you are handling your foot care before it could become a serious infection. You are proactive and that’s what is important.

Ingrown toenails lead to infection because the nail digs into the skin and cuts the skin, or there is a small opening in the skin that allows a portal of entry for bacteria. The most common reasons for ingrown toenails are: shoes that are too narrow, shoes that are too short/tight, improper cutting, aggressive pedicurists, and a congenital (family history) cause–as in some people’s nails just “grow” in a curled/cupped fashion. In kids, I see them because they are outgrowing their shoes quicker than parents realize and they “pick” at the hangnail skin on the sides.

The infections associated are because our feet are in shoes, sweaty, dark, wet, damp places where bacteria and fungus can thrive! If we make sure the skin and surrounding areas are always clean, dry, and intact (no cuts)--we can minimize the chance for infections.

Preventing an ingrown toenail is more simple than I think we realize, the problem is, when it’s too late–it’s way too late and people persist with pain, redness, swelling, and drainage. The first step is to make sure the nails are cut short and straight across. We instruct patients not to chase any curved borders and keep the nails squared. If patients like pedicures, I always educate the patient that they MUST communicate with their pedicurist. They should articulate that they do not want their cuticles pushed back/cut away (this is our sealant from infection) and ask the nails be cut or filed short and straight across. Avoiding tools like the cheese grater “sander” is important, because these tools often leave small cuts in the skin without us noticing. Remember, if there is a portal of entry for bacteria–it’s going to get in–so we want to barrier proof our skin by making sure it’s free of any cracks, and maintains its integrity as clean, dry, and intact. The last thing is-if something doesn’t look right, don’t try to fix it on your own–if you’re starting an infection, see your local podiatrist to have the site examined/evaluated.

Okay! With the weather constantly changing and sandal season fast approaching. What do you recommend for treating cracked and dry heels?

This is an awesome question and SO important. Did you know cracked heels can lead to cuts called fissures, and these fissures can lead to pain and foot infections?! In Diabetics those little cuts in their heels can lead them to a hospital admission for cellulitis (leg infection). So, dry, cracked heels should be dealt with and I’m glad you asked.

If the skin is cracked, as in it’s open/bleeding/painful–the crack/cut/fissure must be healed with an antibiotic ointment. I recommend seeing a doctor if you’re not sure. Once the skin is sealed, I recommend using a gentle acid cream every night as an exfoliant. This can be glycolic or uric acid based. Then I recommend after a shower always using a humectant cream that is thick and putting on socks.

What is the ‘proper way’ for people to clean and take care of their feet?

I recommend in the shower get soap on your wash towel or loofah, and bring it down under your feet and then lacing it through each individual toe. We call the spaces in between the toes “webspaces.” Web Spaces can get mucky pretty quickly, especially because they’re stuffed in shoes that are often moist from either sweat or daily activities. So, drying out in between the web spaces is one of the best things we can do to prevent interdigital infections. So quickly clean the soles, in between the toes, and pat dry. No harsh soaps or scrubbing needed.

Okay! So you blew my mind when you informed me it’s the safest to bring your own polish to nail salons. So can you please tell us the benefits of bringing your polish? How does someone find a good nail salon? How should they ask for a proper pedicure?

Bringing your own polish gives you the control over what’s being put on your nail and absorbed through the nail into your bloodstream. Traditional polishes in America have known carcinogens that have actually been banned in other places, like Europe. Nail polishes that are at least “5 free” are important. There are also 8 free, 10 free, and 12 free polishes–but I think that’s mostly marketing. Basically you are looking for polishes that skip the following toxic chemicals: DBP, Toluene, Xylene, Formaldehyde, Camphor, Formaldehyde Resin, Halides, Silicones.. Companies like Kapa Nui, Zoya, and Butter are just a few.

List 5 things you can’t live without

Tongue scraper, contact lens stuff, hydrating moisturizer, conditioner, and hair clip!

**What music is currently on repeat? Why?**

I’m between a laid back beach mix vibe, EDM chill mix, and 90’s grunge. It doesn’t make any sense, but it is what it is…

Last & most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind!

Hugs and walkies with my dog, Chai, making a wholesome dinner, and the ultimate wind down of a bath while listening to an audio-book before bed.

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Hi Kris!! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our questions!! I’m going to jump right in!

**How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?**

I am Kris Intress, the founder of Rock Springs Retreat Center, a 200-acre pastoral retreat where we help people reclaim their lives through fitness. I am also a mother, entrepreneur, Army Reservist, I have my MBA from Kellogg and have been the CEO of multiple companies, including a global luxury hotel company.

Okay so you were in corporate America before you decided to open Rock Springs Retreat Center. Please tell us what lead you to creating this all-inclusive Retreat Center? What are you most proud of so far?

I was a corporate executive that struggled to find time for my own health, I realized my career was taking over the need to prioritize my wellbeing. I watched my parents struggle with obesity their entire lives. After I lost my mother, I decided I wanted to help people take control of and transform their lives.

I’m most proud of being a single mom without sacrificing my own hopes and dreams. I found out I was pregnant at 4 months; I struggled knowing I would be a single mom. I decided in that moment I would not give up my identity, I would not resent or blame my child for the struggles I would face. Instead, I promised myself I would pursue and accomplish everything I set out to do and NOT feel guilty, rather show my child what life is like through having a role model and take him on the journey of “Life”. My son was born in Scotland and I returned to the US without his father when he was 2 weeks old; no money, no degree, no plan. I then completed undergrad in 2 years and an MBA from Kellogg while holding a full-time jobs. I was humble, on government assistance for one year, lived in small apts, and eventually became the CEO of numerous companies. The American dream inspired with the power of motherhood and anything is possible! – he is an Army officer and currently in grad school planning to “Save the World”.

**Okay! So you also created and have Fit Farm which is an all-inclusive weight loss & fitness retreat. Please explain what are the benefits of people booking this service?**

Fit Farm offers our most popular fitness and weight loss retreats that can range from an extended weekend to 8-weeks or longer and are customized for each guest.

We use data driven programs that take a holistic approach to body, mind and health that maximize results by focusing on fitness, nutrition, and overall wellness. We’ll guide you through the process of creating and maintaining healthier habits for life with the best, most effective techniques. We will not only challenge your limits, but also reset your pace for life. You’ll leave Fit Farm feeling even better than when you first arrived.

List 5 things you can’t live without

Five things I can’t live without are:

Wine and coffee, depending on the time of day
My driver’s license, passport, and the freedom to travel
Helping people
Inspiration
Sushi

What is your favorite way to stay healthy?

My favorite way to stay healthy is to teach classes at Rock Springs. Teaching our guests how to exercise and how to cook inspires me to take that home and continue to incorporate it into my everyday life.

What are you most grateful for?

I’m most grateful for my mom. I was raised by a strong woman who felt the need to take care of everyone but herself. She was extremely talented but insanely humble. As a therapist she helped me to understand everyone needs and wants to be heard, “Listen” She often sacrificed her own happiness for others yet would lecture me on how critical it was to take care of myself before helping others. Her contradictions were my map to success. She pushed me not to repeat her regrets yet make my own mistakes. She raised me to be the woman she was afraid to be Growing up, she instilled a few mantras: Nothing in life is final, except for death. Put yourself first and be present and an inspiration for others. Be humble and grateful, but always a voice speaking up for yourself and others.

Last & most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind!

My favorite way to unwind is cooking and enjoying a nice glass of wine. I also like to get creative, whether that’s by designing or building something. I was 16 when I moved out, so I started as a cartoonist and did art on the street. Art was something that never felt limiting to me because of my dyslexia.

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I'm excited that I got to interview Aarón Jiménez. I’ve admired his style for years as he mixes classic tailoring with patterns and colors I would never think to pair but work phenomenally. Enjoy this interview!

©AARÓNJIMÉNEZ

Your style is very unique, and very much you. What has influenced your style?

Ha sido una búsqueda muy interesante bajo la premisa de querer combinar tres grandes conceptos en mi estilo; la juventud, desenfado y jovialidad en lo sartorial, una identidad mexicana en el estilo y el rock and roll como ejercicio creativo y disruptivo.

Cuando pude realmente entender mi estilo es cuando me hice la pregunta de: ¿cómo era mi vida día a día? y cuando vi que mi estilo de vida estaba relacionado con los conciertos, las puestas en escena, el diseño gráfico, y mis amigos jovenes viviendo al limite, me di cuenta que realmente esas referencias que al principio quería replicar (sastres de inglaterra, imaginarios italianos, saveur francés, y más) sólo estaban viciando mi estilo y no lo estaba encontrando, más bien lo estaba escondiendo. No obstante, cuando me despegue de esas referencias y voltee a ver mi día a día y lo interprete en mi manera de combinar las prendas llegue a lo que hoy pueden ver.

Creo que por eso es “Tan yo” mi estilo, porque realmente es mi manera de entender la vida lo que se ve reflejado en mis elecciones no solo al encargar nuevas prendas sartoriales, sino también al momento de combinarlas. Es algo bien interesante, pues por ejemplo en mi armario tengo estilos de muchos sastres diferentes de México, y no importa la tijera que haya cortado tal saco o tal pantalón, siempre el outfit se ve muy Aarón, creo el haber logrado esa identidad, es uno de mis mayores logros, y al momento me siento muy feliz con lo que he descubierto, pero quien sabe, quizás en unos años regrese a querer parecer un espía de los kingsman… hahahaha

From looking at your posts and videos on Instagram ( @labuenahechura), you have an incredible knowledge in everything sartorial. Where does this knowledge and passion come from?

Llevo más de 10 años consumiendo información y contenido de lo sartorial; libros, artículos, revistas, blogs, películas, documentales, podcasts, youtubers, cronistas, etc. He dedicado mucho de mi tiempo en mi enseñanza sartorial en cuanto a la teoría.

Y con esa hambre de saber más y especializar mi conocimiento en lo práctico, estuve como aprendiz de sastre por 3 años; 1 año con el maestro Luis Vasquez y 2 años con el maestro Miguel Angel Santana. Y muy pronto regreso al aprendizaje ahora con el maestro Axl Hernandez.

Asimismo el haber estado en tantos talleres y con la oportunidad de meterme hasta la cocina en las entrevistas y reseñas para el proyecto, mis ahora amigos sartoriales, me han enseñado mucho de sus experiencias; cada nueva sastrería es un nuevo aprendizaje, sin lugar a dudas la conversación es lo que me ha hecho lo que soy hoy.

In the sartorial world, you don't see many prolific tailors from Latin America. What do you think defines the tailoring style in Latin America, and what are some attributes of it that differs from the main tailoring styles i.e. English, Italian, and French.

Muy buena pregunta, mucha de la intención de mi trabajo es poder entender ese estilo, retratarlo y por ende difundirlo. Ha sido al principio difícil identificarlo, ya que las líneas se han desdibujado cada vez más debido a la globalización y a lo cercano que tenemos las referencias y el querer interpretar y reproducir estilos extranjeros. No obstante si he podido cachar un par de premisas que siguen vigentes y que identifican el estilo…

Quiero empezar haciendo un símil con algo muy característico de latinoamérica. Les pido que imaginemos un mercado mexicano. Al momento de entrar, el mercado te recibe con una ola de un sinfín de experiencias estéticas: en lo visual puestos llenos de frutas, verduras, carnes, pescados, pollo, productos lácteos, piñatas colgando de los techos, colores, formas, texturas, volúmenes, etcétera, en lo olfativo tienes el olor fresco de lo vegetal, olores a incienso, olores a chiles, olores a carnes, olores y más olores, en lo auditivo escuchas la cumbia en un puesto, la salsa en el otro, la banda regional en el puesto de tortillas y todo mundo gritando pasele marchanta… Lo que quiero decir con esto es que el mercado por citar un ejemplo, es la sobresaturación de experiencias que tienen sentido, es un caos estético… bueno así es la sastrería mexicana y mucho creo, la sastrería latinoamericana.

El uso del color es una constante, el gusto por los acabados en contraste por ejemplo en forros o pespuntes al filo u ojales o en los botones… repito el latinoamericano le gusta impregnar su jovialidad y vivarachez a través de sus prendas, otro ejemplo es entrar a la casa de un latinoamericano, literal cuelga de todo en sus paredes, pisos, mesas, techos, etc. Esa manera de entender la vida se ve reflejado en él como pide sus prendas.

What are currents trends in menswear do you like, and what are some you really wish would end?

El Casual/Easy Tailoring me fascina, creo que es la respuesta a nuestra modernidad, combina la elegancia con el desenfado, lo mejor para combatir nuestro día a día que cada vez es más relajado y menos entendido; dicho eso, es por lo que decidí lanzar mi marca complementaria Ruiseñor (Instagram @ruisenor.ruisenor) con la intención de impregnar de esa “casualización elegante” al público mexicano.

Y no se cual es el nombre de esa tendencia, solo se que no me gusta: pantalones mega baggies con muchísimo break en la pierna baja, playeras oversize de XXXXXXXXXXL para un cuerpo de 34S y unos tennis más grandes que mi cabeza (ojo soy bien cabezón hahahaha) y no me refiero al estilo de rapero, por que de hecho me gusta mucho el rap, es esta tendencia muy street oversize.

Who are the top tailors you follow on Instagram, also who are your favorite personal tailors in Mexico?

Cuando pienso en lo top de lo top siempre me viene a la mente el trabajo de los sastres asiáticos, y en especial el trabajo de los Park de B&Tailor.

También Ascottage en Corea me gusta a sobremanera, el trabajo de Maximilian Mogg en Alemania es de admirar, en París lo señores de Husbands están proponiendo cosas muy interesantes, en España los Serna son para quitarse el sombrero, y en New York el equipo de J. Mueser tiene una propuesta muy de mi agrado.

Y en México, la respuesta es difícil, ya que he probado alrededor de 26 sastrerías diferentes, y todas han sido muy especiales y buenas en sus respectivas maneras; el tema es que tengo sastres preferidos dependiendo el encargo y/o estilo que quiero impregnar en la prenda, elegir solo uno me es sumamente complicado. Por lo que invito a quienes están leyendo esta entrevista a visitar mi trabajo para “La Cruzada Sartorial Mexicana” y puedan apreciar el trabajo de todos esos sastres y sastrerías, repito todos son de admirar.

What do you think is overlooked in a well fitting suits? What makes or breaks the fit of a suit?

La comodidad.

Nada hace lucir mejor un traje que él quien lo use se sienta realmente cómodo dentro de él. Da igual si el largo es perfecto, si la plancha del pantalón cae limpia en la mitad del empeine, el saco nunca se desboca en cuello y pecho, cualquier regla, sea cual sea, es mucho menos importante que sentirse cómodo.

Pues el usuario al sentirse cómodo entonces sobresale sobre el traje, luce natural, luce vivaz, luce airoso, por ende luce sumamente elegante.

Y es ahí donde reside la verdadera magia de una buena tijera de sastre, lograr que quien tenga el traje cambie completamente su percepción acerca de lo que vestir de traje significa. Lamentablemente por muchos años hemos sido enseñados (por la experiencia) de que el ponerse un saco y un pantalón, camisa y corbata, es sumamente incómodo, y por ende repudiamos esa idea y cuando pensamos en comodidad pensamos en shorts, o ropa deportiva o etc. Cuando en realidad es lo contrario, un traje bien cortado, bien probado, bien medido y bien trabajado, puede ser igual o hasta más cómodo que un tracksuit.

What are some sartorial regrets you have? What are some tips or guidance you can give young people who are interested in classic menswear?

Mis primeros encargos los hice pensando en parecer europeo y el no entender mi estilo de vida, mi cuerpo y mis demandas del día a día. Por ende los primeros 3 trajes que tuve a la medida eran horrorosamente anacrónicos (y claro incómodos), si bien me arrepiento de eso, fue muy necesario para llegar a entender como ahora entiendo el vestir de traje.

Mis recomendaciones siempre serán el encontrar una referencia que les inspire a sobremanera, pero que en especial esa referencia esté alineada a su manera de entender la vida y hasta sus proporciones antropométricas, es mejor experimentar y probar teniendo en mente referencias que se parecen a uno mismo. Porque si nos dejamos cegar por esas inspiraciones que apantallan, terminamos en una eterna pelea con un imaginario que no lograremos encontrar.

Y empezar sabiendo que en unos meses o en unos años los primeros trajes no te van a terminar de gustar; la sastrería, el vestir es, como todas las cosas buenas en la vida, un proceso de aprendizaje, que requiere tiempo, esfuerzos y paciencia. Dicho eso, siempre recomiendo que los primeros experimentos nunca sean con tejidos muy costosos, y más bien se pruebe siempre con tejidos de batalla, Super 100’s es suficiente para un buen traje, y para probar y aprender.

Y sobre todas las cosas, encontrar su estilo y enaltecerlo.

**What years or era of menswear is your favorite?**

La Golden Era del menswear; de los 20’s a los 60’s.

En cuanto al vestir de traje y corbata sin lugar a dudas los 30’s son mi época favorita, y en lo relacionado a un estilo más desenfadado y alineado a mi gusto musical sin duda alguna los 60’s y 70’s entran en escena.

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I'm excited that I got to interview Jason Jules. I’ve admired his style for years and bought his book, ‘Black Ivy: A Revolt In Style.’ This was an honor for me, please enjoy!

©JASONJULES

Where does your inspiration for dressing so well come from? In this post-COVID world and the rise of athleisure, are there any adjustments you have made in your own personal style?

I like clothes, in much the same way I like art, design and other visuals. My interest in clothes was never really about dressing well - still isn’t. Rather it’s about feeling okay about myself and having the freedom to express my ideas through clothing no matter what anyone else thinks. It’s about having fun and deriving pleasure from something. I know, like everyone else I’m being seen and observed, challenging some of those observations to me is part of the fun. If others think I dress well, then that’s great too.

Black Ivy: a Revolt in Style has been a hit, what was your inspiration for the book? What other Black sartorial movements have you seen in the U.S. and the U.K. that have a similar impact like the Black Ivy style

The basic inspiration for the book was that I saw a chapter in the history of menswear that had been largely over looked and or misread. I wanted to set the record straight for future generations to know that wearing a suit and tie can be disruptive, and that going to college and studying can also be an act of rebellion. There are lots of other styles, what missing is the urge generally to look at them through a critical lens. Most fashion criticism is too enamored with fashion to actually be critical at all.

What was the hardest part of sourcing all of the material for your book? What are you top 4 favorite photographs that are in the book?

The hardest part of source the material? To be honest it wasn’t hard at all. It was a joy trawling through images and books and videos and audio material - deep diving into an era I’d always loved and had long been familiar with. The hardest part was knowing when to stop.

For any of the younger readers interested in classic menswear, what are some articles of clothing that people should start with to invoke the Black Ivy style?

I’d say rather than articles of clothing, it’s really about a kind of mindset. It’s about knowing that you are being seen and that you are being defined before you even open your mouth. It’s about knowing that the mainstream probably has a negative idea of what you’re about, but that how you define yourself and how you perceive yourself is what actually matters more than anything.

Since you are into classic menswear, do you ever shop vintage? If you do, what are some of the best vintage finds you have ever felt?

I’ve shopped vintage all my life. Initially because vintage stores were the only places I could get stuff I liked, but later because not only could I find unique pieces but also because as a young black kid I preferred going into stores where I was less likely to be followed by a paranoid member of staff or one of the stores security guards the moment I walked in. Vintage stores sold the stuff I liked, and the people who worked in them tended to be pretty interesting too.

I’m just going through my archive for a shoot I’m doing tomorrow, I’m rediscovering lots a great stuff - a pair of white Big E stay press jeans, I great plaid Woolrich mackinaw coat, a pair of 1940s US made work boots that I got in Florence, still in their original box, some beautiful silk repp ties…Vintage shopping is a really pleasure for me, it’s one thing I really missed during the pandemic lockdowns and restrictions.

With these past several years in the U.S. being some of the most volatile in modern millennial history politically, do you think there is a place for Black Ivy style in modern America?

I think Black Ivy style and mindset is one if the reasons for that volatility. That young black people are refusing to be defined by age old, racist prejudices is I think triggering a lot of fear among establishment stakeholders. The fear increased and the activity seemed to intensify when Obama became president and it’s been relentless ever since - from the Birtha movement to the Tea Party to today.

As a man of color, I was always taught that how I am perceived and how presentable I am is incredibly important. With these casual times, do you think it has affected the dynamics of what it is to be a presentable man of color?

What I’ve learnt over the years - and what I’m still leaning - is that the only person I need to be presentable to is myself. Don’t get me wrong, there were times growing up, trying to fit in with other people and or scenes that I dressed and behaved like I thought I was expected to, but it’s hard to live up to the expectations of others especially when you’re not totally clear on what those expectations are. Often in the mainstream, given racial bias, institutional racism etc, seeking acceptance from certain groups can be to your own detriment. If people can’t accept you as your are - perhaps it’s not your fault - it maybe because they’re not trying hard enough, or simply don’t want to.

**What other projects or things do you have in the works?**

Along with various projects relating to Black Ivy, I’m working with a couple of art galleries and museums helping curate fashion based exhibitions. I’m also working with some emerging menswear brands helping them develop their brand identity, product and communications - they’re part of a coaching program I’ve developed and it’s something I really love doing.

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I'm so excited that I got to interview Simoné Marval! A true artist whose charisma lights up the screen! Enjoy!

©SIMONÉMARVAL

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?

Soy Simoné Marval, hija de Maggi y Simón. Una Venezolana Americana soñadora, enamorada de la actuación y el arte en general. Soy una mujer luchadora y trabajadora qué no se pone limites a la hora soñar!!

Congratulations on being in the new Daddy Yankee music video! Please share with us you felt about the entire process?

Muchas gracias!! Desde muy chiquita crecí escuchando y bailando los temas de Daddy Yankee, y ser parte de este momento histórico de su carrera y de la música me llena el corazón de mucho orgullo. Nos divertimos mucho en las grabaciones, un video muy bien pensando, cuenta una historia de desamor de una forma muy original, bajo la dirección de Nuno Gómez que es un genio. Muy feliz con el resultado final, y el amor y el apoyo del público.

So you have a large following on Instagram and Tik Tok! What do you like about each platform? How do you connect with your fans differently on each platform?

Las redes sociales se han vuelto parte de nuestras vidas, son espacios en donde nos podemos expresar, y comunicarnos más directamente y de cerca con el público al rededor del mundo. Me encanta hacer Lives en Instagram y Tik Tok, porque puedo hablar frente a frente con mi público en tiempo real. Desde hace años disfruto de estas plataformas. En Tik Tok me encanta hacer videos graciosos, challenges, vlogs entre otros, me gusta siempre intentar cosas nuevas. Instagram, es como mi álbum de fotos, me gusta plasmar en cada post un poco de mi y mi personalidad. Me gusta mucho conectarme con mis fans y sentirlos cerca, son los más incondicionales!

List 5 things you can’t live without!

Dios! Le tengo mucha fé.
Definitivamente no podría vivir sin amor, sin el amor de mi familia, mi gente!
No podría vivir sin crear, el arte embellece mis días y me deja el corazón llenito
La música es fundamental en mi vida, siempre me acompaña!
Mi libertad de expresión.

What music is currently on repeat? Why?

El último álbum de Daddy Yankee, sobre todo la canción Impares hahah! La tengo pegada en mi cabeza. Me encanta, tiene muy marcada la esencia de Daddy Yankee.

What are you hoping the rest of 2022 brings you?

Tengo fe en Dios que lo que queda de este año va a ser maravilloso. Tengo muchos planes en mente y proyectos que están por venir que me llenan de mucha ilusión.

**Last & most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind!**

Me encanta ir a la playa, sobre todo en la tarde hasta que caiga el atardecer. Para mi la playa es el lugar perfecto para relajarme, meditar y desconectarme de lo banal y reconectarme conmigo misma y la naturaleza.

Thank you Simoné!!!

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I'm so excited that I got to interview Laura Rosguer! Her humility and effervescent personality is infectious! Enjoy!

©LAURAROSGUER

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?

I would introduce myself as Laura Thalia Rosales Guerrero (Rosguer is my artistic name), a woman with a passion for music, dance, acting, and fashion, born and raced in Matanzas, Cuba, who loves to spend quality time with her family and close friends. I am a huge admirer of sunsets and the beach, an animal lover at heart, an advocate for kindness, positivity, and love, and a major vegetarian foodie! One more thing you should know… I believe determination and perseverance are key, and when I strive for something there is no stopping me; no matter the goal; no matter how unreachable it may seem. If you can dream it, you can do it.

Congratulations on your Hallmark Movie “Sugar Plum Twist” over the holidays. How did it feel joining the Hallmark community?

Thank you so much, “Sugar Plum Twist” was truly a wonderful experience to be a part of from beginning to end, and it came into my life so unexpectedly! I was definitely surprised when my agency Palomera Group called with the news, and even more shocked to learn it was for Hallmark, a channel I’d grown up watching ever since I moved to the US so that I could learn better English. Joining the Hallmark community has been a lovely dream come true—I admit it still feels surreal sometimes—and I’m so appreciative and touched by all the beautiful comments and feedback we’ve received ever since the release of “Sugar Plum Twist”. I hope you guys enjoy watching it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to life, con sabor!

You sing, act, and dance! So please tell us what joy does each one bring to you? Why?

For as long as I can remember, art, in every one of its ways, has been very present in my life and something deep inside me knew, ever since I was a baby, that this was my calling.

I started dancing when I was 2 and a half years old back in Cuba, and although I’ve tried leaving it behind more than once, it has always found its way back to me. 21 years later and dance continues to amaze me with its beauty, dynamics, physicality, and complexity. I love how my body fills with adrenaline when I hear each song, each rhythm, and then all of that emotion releases as I wholeheartedly allow myself to give into the movement. It’s the perfect mixture between artistry and athleticism.

Through dance, I also grew to love and appreciate music in every way—one cannot go without the other—but it all really started because of my parents and my brother. I remember endless karaoke nights in our crowded, little apartment in Cuba, and Sunday mornings with the stereo on full blast playing an array of all artists ranging anywhere from Marc Anthony, to Alejandro Sanz, Britney Spears, Luis Miguel, BoyzIIMen, Michael Bolton, Cristian Castro, Mariah Carey, David Bisbal (the list goes on.) For years I concentrated mostly on my dance training, but something about music always called out to me, and when I was 15 and had my first heartbreak… I wrote my first song. That day a whole new path unveiled before me, and I admit it took me years to build up the courage to step into that world of melodies, and harmonies, and guitars, and song journals with illegible scribbles all over the place, but once I did it was the best decision I’ve ever made. Now I can confidently say I cannot go a day without music—writing it, singing it, making it, listening to it… I love every single thing. The best part? I get to share this passion with my best friend and brother Alex, as we are in a duo called ROSGUER and have already begun to release our music (“Mala Maña” out on all streaming platforms by the way!) Many more songs are coming this year, and I’m beyond excited for the world to hear more of our unique sound.

As for acting, my parents and brother have once again been a big influence and have always encouraged me to watch good cinema since a very young age. Fun fact: my mom Eneida Isabel and my dad Elio were actually part of their universities’ theatre clubs and would often compete in spoken word & play festivals all across the nation; that’s how they met. Acting came to me when I was at disarray with dance, actually. I had been at odds with myself and my discipline for so long that when I discovered acting, it was the perfect therapy to feel, explore, and soothe all of those mixed emotions. Every character I’ve played, every story I’ve portrayed, they have been a mirror in so many ways and have left me with more knowledge and plentitude than I could have ever imagined. I love finding the truth to every role, seeing the world through their eyes, and defending their reality even more.

What I enjoy most is that these three arts interconnect in very particular ways, and I feel very blessed and very grateful I get to do what makes me happiest for the rest of my life.

List 5 things you can’t live without

I couldn’t live without my family (both biological and chosen)

my mom’s yummy vegetarian cooking and my dad’s Cafecito

the arts in every single form,

the ocean

all the amazing late nights with friends, laughing and talking about nothing and everything.

What is your favorite way to stay healthy?

My favorite way to stay healthy will always be dancing haha but whenever I find myself in situations where my schedule and/or distance don’t allow it, I really enjoy roller skating, nature walks, boxing classes, and occasionally going to the gym… but I much prefer to be learning a choreography in a dance studio I’ll admit. Also very important, don’t forget to drink your water!

What are you most grateful for?

I am most grateful for all the lessons life has taught me and continues to teach me. The obstacles and struggles have all been worth it, and the pain of every disillusionment has fueled an even greater fire within me. I’m thankful for the wise words of those around me and the support and genuine love they’ve given me whenever I’ve stumbled; but mostly, I’m grateful because every single decision I’ve made has led me to become the woman I am today.

What is your favorite way to unwind?

I have a couple of favorite ways to unwind but I’ll name two:

A trip to the beach is always an amazing idea, especially when I’m feeling energetically drained. I find it is the best way to refresh and reset my body and mind. I’ll usually pack with me some healthy snacks, a nice book, my speaker and headphones of course, tanning lotion and sunscreen, and we’re good to go! You can never go wrong with spending some time by the water, or anywhere else in nature for that matter for those who aren’t big fans of the sand.

However, if the beach is too inaccessible, I love to sit in my balcony and contemplate wherever I am at the time, which right now it happens to be the beautiful city of Miami, especially during the sunset or nighttime. Whether alone or accompanied, stepping out into fresh air and taking a pause to live the present is one of the highlights of my every day.

Thank you for the interview, I loved the questions!

Thank you Laura!!!

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I am excited to interview a brand new Mommy, and top stylist Allia Al Rufai… good morning!

Yes, good evening to you… First you look absolutely amazing. I love what you are wearing. You are a brand-new Mommy, you are balancing your work, career, and your husband – how do you do it all…

I wish I had the answer to that. I take one step at a time; I go with the flow. Whatever comes my way just one step at a time.

©ALLIAALRUFAI

I love your Instagram. It is more like a diary of your journey. You have quotes from Don Miguel Ruiz. How did your journey start, how did you get into styling…

I did not study fashion. To be honest I have a master’s in commerce and decided to put that aside to follow my passion. When I was young, I traveled a lot and I loved watching people (what they wore) from around the world. And that piqued my interest so much. I worked on an internship in a Bollywood movie, and that is how it all started. After that I was with Harper’s Bazaar Magazine, and I was with them for four years; before I started my own company.

How do you think that you have evolved? We all evolve as humans every seven years, so how do you think that you have maintained your career success as well evolving as a person, because no one stays the same…

I think balance is super important, balancing my personal life along with my professional life. You do need that balance to grow. If you don’t grow personally, it is difficult to grow professionally, because you need that balance to be happy. You will have burnout.

I love to learn as well, like you said we change every seven years, it is also about learning. I look at everyday what I can learn, and it can be from anywhere or anybody.

I like to study different subjects also; I always look for short courses that I can take. From a course from Eckart Tolle to Trend Forecasting. I believe to put out all that I have learned, because you also leave room to take in things as well. So, I am always teaching things to the people around me, as well I learn from them too.

I saw on your Instagram, where you discussed that you are of mixed race. I am too, and earlier you said that you always looked around at different people and how they looked, and their fashion. Was it escapism, or to find where you fit in.? For me personally, I never fit in one place. So, I looked to fashion or movies, and picked apart things that reminded me of myself. Did you find that as well growing up, and did it evolve from there…

Yes, I did kind of do that as well. I am from many different backgrounds. My father is Arab, and my mother is Indian. And I could not really associate myself with just one place; and that is why I call myself ‘world citizen’. Yes! I saw that and I am going to actually steal those words. I say ‘human’, but yours sounds much classier. Ahahaha, okay. So, I kind of like watching people from around the world, and I was lucky that I could be exposed. It always interested me to see how things could work in different parts of the world.

©ALLIAALRUFAI

I know that you said earlier that being happy is so important, and I so agree. Because it goes into everything - your personal life, and your career it just stalls. So how have you managed when you are faced with challenging situations, or setbacks. With your philosophy of balance, and being Zen…

I believe on focusing on the present moment, there is really something to this. Most of the time we are worrying about what is going to happen, or what is going to be next. A great way to tackle everything is to tackle what is in front of you presently.

Perspective has a lot to do with it, there are always two ways of looking at a difficult situation. You can look at a situation as how am I going to learn from this, and what am I going to get out of this. Or that I am damned, or I must deal with it. There are two ways of looking at things, and how you perceive a situation to be. Looking at a positive way out of something, because it also gives you strength.

I don’t know if you have read the book, The Four Agreements by John Miguel Ruiz, it has been my go-to since high school. Where he says, you do not take things personally. That is a real thing, but so much easier said than done. When things happen, it has no reflection on me as a human being, it is a situation. And I try to disassociate myself, wherein it is not you, it is a situation.

Yes, exactly so true. You can’t internalize things, because you don’t know if someone is not having a good day, or if something has happened. And having that empathy it filters down, and I have seen it at work. They might be having a bad day and they will indirectly put it to you. So, like you have said you should not take anything personally.

Yes, I know for me I start my day with a strong coffee, and I meditate. If not, I know that I will answer someone short, and that is not good – but is because I am cranky and not centered. So, I have learned until I am centered, I do not respond to anyone, or look at my phone.

You and your husband, congratulations you guys are a handsome couple, I know that he has his own career, and you travel a lot for your job. So how do you guys’ balance both of your careers…

What is important is to have a mutual respect and that is what we have. We kind of help each other out wherever we can. And it is about balance and understanding like you said. So, it is all about balance, understanding, respect, and of course love; when you have that everything works itself out to be honest.

You are a brand-new Mommy. How has having your daughter, working, what you thought that it would be like, and what adjustments have you had to make? It is not said enough how hard women have it, your daughter is three months, and you are back to work…

Well, to be honest I never like to preconceive anything. I never had an idea, or picture in my mind of how it would be to be a working mom. I thought that I would cross that bridge when I get to it.

So, now I am at that bridge, aahha. I am at the airport alone with my daughter, with my backpack. Oh! Noooo. Ahahahaha.

I am still breastfeeding, so I have my mom, or my nanny there to feed my baby when I am at work. It is a lot of scheduling that is key, and even when you can be thrown off, so it is tiny steps, and the key is to be gentle with yourself.

**With your career your hours are typically long, has that helped you with your newborn…**

Absolutely, because as a stylist your life is unpredictable. You don’t know when you might get a call, or which city you might be in, or what job you will have to do. It is long, long hours. You are with mostly a lot of bags and suitcases. So, I do not feel overwhelmed with the baby because I am so use to this crazy lifestyle. To be honest I am managing.

Oh, yes you are because you look so amazing. I strongly believe that style comes from knowing who you are, and like who you are. You know who you are – as a stylist you know your vibe, what fits your vibe, does that translate to your clients when you work with them, and having a good relationship with them…

Absolutely, that balance is super important. To understand your clients’ sensibility is, and what their personality is, and then to bring that out in the clothes. So, you meet them in the middle, knowing their personality and sharing with them what you think will work for them.

So, it is very much a collaborative effort, it is not just my sensibility that I push onto them. Rather working the other way around. So, yes that is true.

Yes, that is why you have been so successful. Your styles for your clients can almost be like a chameleon. One style can be more daring, and the other more conservative, but still sexy.

Tell us one thing - we all assume a stylists’ career is super glamorous designer things head to toe. So, tell us, it is a glamorous job because of the team, photographers, and designers that you get to work with. What is it that people do not know…

Yes, it is a lot of hard work, long hours. Packing, unpacking, steaming garments. Many crises, last minute calls, and running around. It is a lot of stress with a high-powered job. You have to meet clients’ requirements sometimes at a short notice.

Dealing with demands with short time periods. It is not as glamorous as it seems, it is a lot of hard work that goes into creating the people that we style look beautiful.

How do you stay so centered and balanced, do you do yoga, Pilates? How do you relieve stress…

I like to spend my mornings with what I call my happy hour. We have candles lit at home, even if it is 6:00 a.m. I have my cup of tea, or coffee. We also have beautiful music on, and I spend this time to be by myself.

I refer that time to ‘my time’, if I choose to sit, or reflect, or read a book that is special to me. Sometimes I will sit and meditate for ten minutes. Now, with the baby, yes … I try.

What have you learned through you journey, something that you never thought that you would have accomplished? And what are you grateful for…

What I am super grateful for is the growth that I have managed in my life. I have reached a point that I am centered, and I am grateful for that. It is everyday work, I am still trying and doing it. I am happy with the place that I am at. Before I would look at things in a very different way than I would today. So, I feel like every day is a learning experience for me, from the people that I meet. I am grateful for all the little things. I am grateful for today, to have, and to sit here and speak with you. Me too, I am so grateful for that as well.

That is my joy that I am having today. I am at a place in my life that I am at peace with so many things. I am happy for that, and in any way that I can pass that joy on, that gives me pleasure.

Well, you have made my day, and tomorrow. I hounded you to talk with you and thank you for scheduling me into your day… of course you are so welcome. It was lovely chatting with you. And thank you to everyone that followed us too… oh yes, thank you to everyone.

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Hello! we are talking today with Samantha Hoff, from Pottery with a Purpose…

Thank you so much for doing this with me, I appreciate it… Thank you for having me.

I am obsessed with ceramics, and this is amazing because you created Pottery with a Purpose. It is for adults to feel like kids and you can do it at home. You also donate to mental health organizations, but we will dive more into that later. You are also a do-it-yourself Lifestyle Expert, and a Yogi…you wear many hats … that is wonderful.

©POTTERYWITHAPURPOSE

Describe the whole journey to creating Pottery with a Purpose. Did it come from your yoga background mixed with your lifestyle. You donate to mental health organizations where a lot of businesses do not; and before people’s attitude was do not talk about mental health. So please explain how this all came about…

Yes, I would say it all started when I was little. My parents were entrepreneurs as well. I also went to school for Business and Entrepreneurship at Babson College. My focus was on data analytics, because I knew that would make me a lot of money. I thought that would be hot. I did consulting, and finance for almost a decade. The short story is that I burnt out; but it was not a company nor career path that aligned with my values.

Then I decided to take another path and I became a yoga instructor, then the pandemic hit. Which shifted yoga to online, and have you ever done yoga before? … oh yes, I have done yoga since I was like three years old. So, if you have done yoga online versus yoga in a studio you know that the energy level is so different. I just wasn’t interested in teaching to squares on the screen, most of the positions to me you are vulnerable.

People don’t realize that it is a gift to translate that positive energy that you have with yoga in studio to teaching yoga online. It is challenging to relate that same energy, to make people feel that same experience online. Yes, and I really respect people that have been able to do that, I just realized that it was not for me.

I gave up my second career of teaching yoga, and I got into doing pottery as a hobby. Like most people I found myself touching my phone all the time and watching all the Netflix shows. I needed something that was a better outlet for my energy and mental health. I started back doing pottery. I started doing pottery in middle school, high school, college, as well when I burnt out in my career.

I realized that you do not need that many tools to do it. Most people think that you need a pottery wheel, and a Kiln; but you don’t you can use your hands too. There is air dry clay now, it works the same. It is exactly like the regular clay. I wanted to share this with other people, and I have found that it is great for your mental health. I started Pottery with A Purpose, and it is do-it-yourself pottery kits that ships directly to your house or to your office.

I love that. It is important to highlight that you worked in corporate America as I did. I was a corporate Revenue Accountant. As you know women and numbers is a different environment. You can burn out quite quickly, if it is not burn out it can be that you are not happy with the trajectory of your life. And that is important to highlight, because you have done other things, and with Pottery with a Purpose…you have found your purpose your passion. It is all eco conscious (the packaging).

You also do virtual team workshops, so tell us how that works, and how does it help people…

The virtual events, clay workshops, are a hybrid to bring people together. Some are in Massachusetts, an office in California, and recently I shipped a kit to Argentina. Basically, we all call into the workshops, and we spend about 55 minutes creating two different things.

I have a corporate background, so I get that people are not use to taking time out during their day for themselves. Sometimes when I was working, I would feel bad to take a bathroom break, or forget. I would feel guilty to take time to even take time to just go to the bathroom. I would think do I have time.

Yes, that is one of the things that I love it gives people time to do things together or doing an activity that is probably new to all of them. Having the guidance is helpful, because a lot of people think that they are not creative. And the purpose is to get your hands dirty and get involved. As well having a good time, breaking out of the usual box, and spend time playing. That is important to always remember to play.

Yes, I re-watched how you made the incense holder that you did on Instagram like twenty times it was so cool. I would never think that I could do that. Now as I previously stated some of the proceeds go to mental health organizations. So, what have you found from your experience, what have you found has helped with the different mental health issues, anxiety, depression, etc…

I like to caveat as someone who has experienced anxiety and depression not as a therapist, or art therapist. I have had anxiety, and lifelong depression that I have dealt with; and doing pottery has helped me manage my anxieties. It helps when you are doing something that keeps your hands busy.

It is a more tangible thing to do with your hands. As well you create something with the clay, and you realize that you have made this from this clump of clay. It is good for your self-esteem as well. Getting creative is good for your mental health as well.

When we were stuck inside for so long due to COVID you are not limited to what you can create with clay. You can make candle holders, holder for air plants, plates, and shelves, anything you want, and lets you be creative.

Now people get the clay and then there is the issue of what do we do with this, and they are not creative. What do you suggest that they do, when they get the box what and how much clay can you make with the box, walk us through it once someone gets the box…

Yes, good question. The box is enough clay for one to two peopledepending on what you want to make, or how many craft sessions that you want to have. It is two bags of clay, and it is enough clay that you can make four to five mugs. That is a substantial amount of clay included.

Yes, then of course it also depends on how thick you choose to make your pottery. Or four votive holders. Also includes instructions and step by step instructions, and reusable tools.

On the website you can have one to two people, or four people in your group. You can have a clay party. You have your beginner kits, and then the more advance kits. Now would you need a kiln for the more advanced kts…

I have one an example from what you can make from the more advanced kit, and you do not need a Kiln. It is a Pillar candle holder, and you can make it from air dry clay. You can make anything out of air-dry clay, that doesn’t have to be waterproof, or food safe. So, think shelves, candle holders, wall hanging, or trinkets.

Do you offer any type of Kiln service for those that want to create a plate, and they want to be able to eat off the plate…

I do offer it myself where I live, and then on my website I offer a Kiln locater. You type in your zip code, and it will give you the closest Kiln service to you and make your pottery food safe.

That is amazing and you provide all the information for people, and there is no reason why a person cannot do this. With Pottery with a Purpose, what is your ‘Aha’ moment, what joy do you get… is it creating new kits, or teaching the workshops…

I love teaching workshops to people and connecting with them. It is funny I know I said that I did not like teaching yoga virtually; but I love teaching pottery virtually. It is much more comfortable teaching and showing their faces on a Zoom call. Their pottery is not shown in the frame on the call unless they want to show it.

Also, I can interact with them on their teams. Co-workers learn about each other as well. One person in the workshop was a professional wood turner before, she made tables. And the people that she had worked with for a long time did not know that. It is cool to feel like you are part of a team. People love that they can chill out together, and different from happy hour.

I also love to give people the option to smash their pieces at the end if they do not like it. Then they can start all over.

I think with COVID we have learned that it is important to connect with people. I believe as an entrepreneur it can be so isolating. Do you think this is a nice blend to feel a part of a community, create your own community, and yet do it at your own speed…

Yes. I have loved that option of working with the virtual groups, because it can be quite isolating working as an entrepreneur. I am the only person on my team. Coming from a corporate background I love the aspect of being a part of a team.

What is your most memorable piece that you have created…

Good question, I think one of my most favorite pieces that I have created is a piece that I made in high school. As you know it takes a long time to finish the pottery. And that is why pieces cost a lot of money, because it takes a long time to finish. And you know exactly what I am saying because you have done pottery.

The best thing is that my parents still have that piece, and it brings back such good memories.

Yes, because I was the wheel person, and with one slight move you have destroyed the entire piece… yes!

Do you see Pottery with a Purpose expanding to using the mini at home kits using the wheel, or stay with using the clay as pinch pots using your hands…

Yes, I have thought of that, expanding to using the mini-wheel. But I am an eco-conscious company I don’t know that I want to go that route. I don’t know of any that are U.S. made, our tools are made in the U.S.

Right now, I am going to focus on building out the team events. As COVID becomes less of a threat, I will hold more in-person events.

Our last question, how do you start your day to get centered…

I am an East Coast person on West Coast time. So, my mornings start pretty late. I begin with a cup of tea, hang out with my dogs, and do a tea meditation.

With a person that has anxiety it is important to have my hands busy, and that can be from holding my teacup, holding that warm, or cold teacup. It is nice to pay attention to holding the mug, the feel of that, and the aroma of the tea. That is how I start my day…

Thank you I love your ethos and what you do. I will continue watching your Instagram and your Reels, because I am fascinated. Thank you, Samantha,… Thank you for having me!

©SAMANTHAHOFF

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Hiiiiii, how are you and happy Friday… Hello, and happy Friday to you.

I am super stoked you are vibrational medicine, modern alchemy and just cool. I would love to just take a moment to say that this is a total Friday vibe, we are going to Zen out a bit, and just reconnect. This is perfect!

Well thank you, I am so delighted to be with you and your amazing community. I simply love the work that you do, it is beautiful. Well thank you, that means so much.

Before we jump in, it is important to say that you have been doing this before it was popular. It is not something that you thought was a trend or fun; and then jumping on the trend. This is something that you believed in since the early 1990’s. And you have been dedicated to your own community, the Vibrational Medicine. That it something that should be celebrated.

©ADORAWINQUIST

Yes, thank you and it does age me slightly, but yes. I am garnering wisdom. I am moving into this new phase in my life gracefully because it is really that phase where I am garnering wisdom from experiences. I look back and think, I started my first business in the healing practice, in the early 1990’s. It has been such a journey.

When people go to your website, AdoraWinquest.com, there are three words that sum you up…Awaken, Anchor, and Actualize it is simple, and short. But it sparks something. Please tell us about your journey, if you think your travels to Egypt, and India, culminated and help you to create this solid path…

Yes, I do… and thank you for the beautiful feedback about those three words. The whole idea … my Mission and Vision is igniting that spark of divinity and sovereignty that exist in each of us and unites us as one. If we think about those three key words and Awakening to the fact that there is far more than we are ever really taught in life.

And what are we Anchoring? we are Anchoring our higher self, our souls. So that we can Actualize our true purpose, our authenticity, why we are here. Tying that into my own personal journey, Awakening, that happened in the early 90’s. When I traveled to California and had my first experience with a local Shaman. It opened something within me that was always there. This is true for all of us. We all have that wisdom, and innate gifts that are there within us and just must be ignited. We need that experience, or collective experience to unlock that.

Then traveling twice to Egypt. Now we are approaching the Spring Equinox, to plant our intentional seed in the garden to grow and the soul level. So, I had one trip to Egypt at the Spring Equinox time many years ago with a Rosicrucian Organization which is a school that teaches Mysticism, and Esoteric philosophy. Those are the main pillars of my work. Esoteric thought philosophy, and Mysticism that is all throughout nature. So, we had this wonderful experience to do this ceremony in the main pyramid, that was open to just our group.

We sat in meditation in candlelight in the Queens Chamber. And ceremony in the King’s Chamber. It was such a profound time of remembrance for me. When I came out from the main pyramid, with tears streaming down my face, and my heart open; I met a woman and she said ‘ah that is where I remember you from, I knew you in a different life in Egypt and we were all here for initiation’ . Part of this aspect was to trust, and she said that I remember before you did not trust, and you deeply regretted it.

Wow, that gives me such chills, especially coming out of such a sacred space, and such an energetically filled spot (the pyramids). It was truly an amazing experience for me. In that moment I realized I had a choice to make. I came back to America; I was working in corporate America, and I decided to quit my job. To devote full time to my private practice as a healer. I started my first business of essential oil-based products.

That moment defined my path, in such a powerful way. To surrender and have faith and trust in our soul, our soul’s purpose why we are here. The process of self-discovery that guides us all.

Yes, I come from a corporate America background, and you do have this lightbulb moment of is this what I really want … am I happy, and the answer is no. Am I Grateful, yes to have this position, but I am not happy, nor fulfilled. It is not authentic to you. And you trust the process.

So true, and that is where the anchoring process can unfold, I know that there is something more for me in this life. I know that I am missing this deep and profound place of fulfillment that I can create out there. So, we surround ourselves of communities of like-minded people, what I like to consider infinite potential.

We are here to co-create heaven here on earth and it starts with our personal journey of Love, Light, and Divine Consciousness.

What I love on your website you offer retreats and private sessions. Please tell us a little bit about the Mary Magdalen Retreat. With your private sessions you describe three phases, describe for us and take us through those phases, what do you recommend for people? What is the process…

Awesome, of course, I love that you are so interested. Yes, I think that this is just so cool, and interesting. Well, we have two amazing retreats planned for this year.

The first retreat is the Mary Magdalen Retreat which is in Southern France in Provence, it is mystical, and pure magical. We experience the energy consciousness of the Divine Feminism through the messaging and all the relics, and sacred areas. In many Cathedrals where her energy is palpable.

Our retreats are open to all, women, and men; because we are all learning to heal and to come together in harmony. This retreat is going to be incredible. We will go to the favorite places from last year, as well adding more places to this retreat.

I also have a wonderful guide, and partner in Southern France, her name is Veronique. She holds the beautiful historical aspect of Mary Magdalene. My background is working with the Divine Feminine from a spiritual perspective. Every day I will be guiding ceremony and meditation, with the Alchemy of the essential oils and crystals. We will be doing deep healing, so we can illuminate our highest and most bright future.

We ride horses, sing and dance, go to the beach and just have a wonderful time. I will also be doing a Zoom meeting in April discussing the retreat with Veronique, and she will be explaining what to expect on the retreat.

We will also be having another retreat stateside, in North Carolina. It is called The Divine Feminine Immersion at the Art of Living Retreat Center. With two of my colleagues. They will be leading this and teaching all the areas of holistic living. And how we can empower and enliven and awaken our best selves to thrive and live our best lives.

I will be teaching on Alchemy and people will learn how to make their own medicine. Carla will be teaching on yoga and breathwork. Patsy will be teaching on Feng shui and how it relates on a multi-dimensional level to our harmony and our health, wealth and so much more. We also have Early Bird specials now. I would love for you to join us.

Yes, well I just came from a Shaman Ritual, so I am incredibly Zen right now. But I might strongly consider the retreat.

Personal time with Adora, please explain what that is like and what can we expect…

As much as it is powerful to work in the group settings, one-on-one sessions is where we really dive deep into the aspects that you want to develop in your life. Where do you want to evolve, transform, and up level your experience in this game of life; and what area do you want to focus on?

We all have unique gifts that we come here with, and we can anchor those gifts and light to heal ourselves. Then to contribute our light to the greater good of all. And you can set up a Discovery Call and it is 15 mins call.

I am the Sherpa, or your ally… and I show you that I have found my way out through my own journey. And I can help you find your way out, yours will be different than mine.

For people that are not close to you, can you do it on Zoom and get the same healing properties, and experience…

That really is a great question, yes, I would say 98% of my practice is virtual all over the world. I offer weekly complimentary meditations you can join on Zoom. Everything is connected and we are all connected. And when you make it your intention to heal you will have the same visceral experience as in person. Because everything is energy.

Many that work with me over Zoom their experiences and transformations are felt.

I think it is important to note that the words that you choose to describe everyone’s journey are positive words, and they can make people want to continue progressing. I love your word choices. And acknowledging that there is energy even if it is through messaging, or digital, people can still feel energy and not enough people really recognize that.

Yes, so true, everything has energy. And vibrational frequency.

For people that are not 100% there yet. I know that you have a book out, and that is always a wonderful way to dipping in and becoming familiar, and comfortable. As well you also have your shop. So what minerals would you advise to start with...

Definitely, grab the book because it is tangible, and you can use it to refer to. Then join the Quantum Community, join our mailing list because every week we tell you what our events are, and many are complimentary. We have an Insight Timer. Also, we have Patrion for a nominal subscriber fee. I have YouTube as well. There is something wherever you are to support you on your journey to help you curate your journey, your environment to co-create your best life experience.

What is your advice crystal wise, I love amethyst…

I love amethyst and I love lapis it is one of my favorites. It is great for meditation and activating your intuition. I like Tiger Eye because it is really grounding when you are feeling anxious and scattered. It can bring us back to a place of centered.

How does a Guru start her day to stay centered and positive …

OH, great question. One of my gifts is Clairvoyance. So, I start hearing and I start journaling. I am open with my first breath to Gratitude and Receptivity. Make sure you get yourself feeling good. Sometimes I will start with a bath to get myself feeling better, centered. Then of course working with my essential oils which is an immediate way to shift your emotional response.

I also have a bit of espresso. I have my two girls that are home schooled, and we start the day with a lot of activities, and meetings.

**For people that are going through a lot, and things look bleak. What do you suggest for them to be Grateful for? I know for me I will begin my Gratitude with being alive. What is best way to get that vibrational positivity going…**

That is really a great and important question. Curating our environment is imperative. Protecting our energy and that means turning off the news, not letting a lot of media come into our system. That can immediately overwhelm the nervous system and we feel anxious; and less grounded. I would say the best thing is to work pure essential oil, it can be one oil, or a synergy and have something at your fingertips. It can be at your desk, or handbag. At those moments that you are feeling overwhelmed and triggered. Then put it on your fingertips and breathe it in. You are taking mindful presence of breath. These aromatics can interact with our life force, our mind, our emotions and they can act to calm our body, and to center us.

So, when I say curate our environment, I mean have beautiful music, have light, go outside. One of pitfalls of our technology is that we are always being fed different perspectives that are not always accurate and causes more frenetic energy. But if you can go outside, put your feet on the earth, and breathe deeply. If you can spend five minutes a day in meditation. Also work with the aromatics and work with the crystals. You will start to feel the shift. Bring plants into your environment.

I tell people that I love that they mean a lot to me. It relieves so much of our anxiousness.

I love it…everyone please keep going to her website she has so much amazing information. Her website is adorawinquist.com and take advantage of the Early Bird special for the retreats. Thank you so much again…

Thank you and Happy Equinox, Blessings, and I hope to see you at the Retreat. Yes, I am going to check my schedule and if I can I will see you there.

©ADORAWINQUIST

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Hi Andrea!!!!! So happy to be doing this live with you! Okayyyy … I want to chat today about all things SWIMINISTA, being a Glamorous Eco-Warrior, and kindness!

Before we jump into SWIMINISTA. I want to remind everyone that you are truly a badass and serial entrepreneur. You co-founded Rock and Republic jeans that was a global lifestyle brand. I myself had like fifteen pairs in high school. You have transitioned, I think naturally, into eco-conscious luxury swimwear. SWIMINISTA is truly a real woman’s answer to sexy and supportive swimwear that is flattering!!!

©ANDRÈABERNHOLTZ

The most important thing for me is that SWIMINISTA has a sexy cut, but super supportive.

Tell me about your process… when did you decide to create SWIMINISTA… and where do you get the passion to constantly create and get better….

Well, after Rock and Republic I really thought that I was done manufacturing clothing. Well, me and my girlfriends were in Mexico together, and we were all complaining about how the bathing suits just didn’t fit right; and you kind of wish that this fit tighter. Then of course they all looked at me and said, ‘you know how to make clothes why don’t you make swimwear’. I kind of laughed It off. I grew up in California and spent so much time in Hawaii as well, I was always in a swimsuit. When thinking back… I was always having issues, and having to tie things a weird way, so that they were comfortable; or just being uncomfortable. Or not being able to participate in a sport because I was in the wrong bathing suit. Yes! Or having everything pop out, or almost pop out. Yes! Right. I then started tinkering with my own swimwear, cutting them up, stapling and gluing them. Then the entrepreneur in me started thinking, if I did it what would the name be?

Its swim, its fashion…FASHIONISTA, so SWIMINISTA ..there we have the name.

And then I just started looking for pattern makers, and sewers. And it kind of grew from there.

Then as soon as we got up and running, COVID hit. Which was a bummer, and we were not sure what direction that we were going to take. We were fortunate enough to ride that wave. We then changed direction on what we were doing; and had time to focus on some things that we did not have time to before.

©ANDRÈABERNHOLTZ

And we came out screaming. Our new collection is unbelievable. We have resort wear, we have these mesh hoodies, caftans…I saw the caftans, which I am going to get for my trip to Mexico next week. I am doing this Shaman Massage… Ohhh cool! …Yes, at the W Hotel.

I love your Mommy and Me collection it is the cutest. Yes, its really cute. Although, I don’t have a child yet, but I feel like it could fit my Shit-Zu. Ahahaha, oh my gosh my daughter she thinks that we should make clothes for dogs, I swear. She was like we should make bathing suits for dogs’ mom. I am telling you I would be right there with you on that. I think your daughter is onto something, and I would be that person. Ahahahaa…

Now when you said that you were done after Rock and Republic, where did the inspiration and fire come from? As you know it is a lot of hard work to start something back up from scratch. Did you just think it was such a need…

No, I think that I just forgot, ahahaha. It was just like a slow burn, that just turned into a big forest fire. That is really kind of how I can describe it. First, we were like we will do something and sell it online. Then it was oh we will do something and just focus on resort. Now it is brick-and-mortar stores, a collaboration, and more collaborations. It is like a rocket, and it is going, and exploding.

Its more work than I remember. Ahahaha, but it is great, the satisfaction that I get when women are satisfied with swimwear. Because it is like ‘hello I am going to walk around in my underwear’… Yes, basically! When you stand around you don’t want to pop-out, you want to feel confident, and accentuate the good.

With your butt for example, the more fabric that you have covering your butt the larger it will actually look. Okay, really?... it is kind of retraining women in that sense. Although, I am offering wider bottoms in our next collection coming out. Like more of a medium to full coverage, for those that still want that more coverage.

©ANDRÈABERNHOLTZ

You have your try at home program. It is the most nerve-wracking thing to go swimwear shopping, and in public, nonetheless. Then the harsh lighting, and everything is accentuated. So how did the try at home program come about, I have yet to see that for a swimwear line….

Well, what I tried to do, and these elements were a result of COVID - how do you make this experience good. All our swimwear is made for a reason; each piece has adjustability, rouching, or something to help your body. The issue became how are we going to help your body, and how are we going to get it on your body.

So, I was like I always like to try on clothes in the privacy of my own home, and I thought other women do too. Then I also put together a very comprehensive fit guide. I cannot stand fit guides that say ‘okay measure your butt’…. oh my gosh, yes! I am like I am lying in bed shopping; I am not going to get up and go get a tape measure. Yes, I don’t even know how to read them properly… Yes, exactly!

I have that buried on the website for old school. But we all know our bra sizes, and the size jeans and dress that we wear. I put together a comprehensive fit guide that asked those same questions. Basically, your bra size you put that in and it calculates it, and that is the size that you would wear for SWIMINISTA. That alone gives you more confidence, because it is relatable, and you understand it.

Then I also have a new thing that we have implemented, that I just love, it is a Zoom appointment with our consultants, and sometimes with me. You can go on Zoom, and say this is my body, my face, and what do you think will look good on me.

This is where I am secure, and this (area) is where I am insecure. Then we select the perfect bathing suit for you.

If you have already bought the suit, you can ask ‘is this how you adjust it, or can I fix this’. All these questions can be asked at the Zoom appointment with one of us from SWIMINISTA.

To me it is like a five-star service that I am offering online, I want to offer that to everyone. Now that is brilliant.

I took what I love doing - trunk shows and doing meet and greets with women. Spending time with women and talking with women. I also love having them try on suits. Because a lot of times they will say, ‘oh it is too tight for me here’. Then I can let them know ‘yes, it adjusts for you right here’. Then they are like ‘oh my gosh this is the best suit ever, I love it’.

As well I am super grateful that our return rate online is much lower than the average, and I am proud about that.

It is so challenging to be kind to ourselves as women. With your patterns make people smile, and happy. So how have you managed to stay kind, and true to who you are through this whole process…

Well, you obviously do not know me at all, ahahahaha… I am just kidding. No, I went through such an intense ten years or so with Rock and Republic. So much was happening … so when you can take a step back and look at how I could do things differently, how do I want to lead my life, and what do I want to teach my children. How do I want to be treated? These are all the things that I have implemented, and this is how I lead my life.

So, how I live my life is how I run my business. I want to be fair, but I am still tough. I still am true to what I want. If you don’t want to do products that are eco-friendly, or a kids collection, or this collaboration; then you are more that welcome to venture out somewhere else.

My team is honestly full of some pretty amazing people. As a result, when you put positivity and great energy into everything that you do – I want to make women feel great; I want to be eco-conscious; I want to grow this business and give people a great opportunity; and I want people to be proud of helping to grow the company. I think when you go in with great intentions, and everything is a real win - win, it breeds good things.

I named the suits even with all of these names – ‘The Cheerful’, ‘The Marvelous’. All these little subliminal things (messages) go into SWIMINISTA to make everyone feel a little better. I try to put out what I want.

Now, it is eco-conscious, and it is from recycled bottles. Was the process challenging to find people to understand that vision. Did you have a hard time when you started…

I still have a hard time, aahahaa. No, a lot of people still don’t understand our mission, and that is okay. It is like two camps, some they just like our suits. Then others are… you want to do something fabulous, and it does something good for the world, now that is a win-win.

Some look at it just for eco-friendly, and others just look at it for the fit. I do try to be as eco-friendly as possible. Sometimes you find some amazing fabrics, but it is not eco-friendly.

We do beach clean-ups, and that is who I am as a person, and it is going to come out in what I do.

I have taken the lessons that I have learned and implemented it into the present. I am grateful for what I have accomplished.

How do you start your day…

Okay, well this might sound corny. I am super into channeling positive energy. Breathing in the good and getting out the bad. Then grateful that I have all my body parts and that everything is good. Grateful for the positive things in the world, even when there is turmoil, and just everything, and I open to receiving positivity.

Blocking off negativity. I do this before I go onto my phone and start my day.

Sometimes during the day, it gets hard, and I must pull myself back. That is how I start my day, and then I get my coffee. It is a choice, right… Yes, it is a choice to be happy, it is a choice to look at life – even when it is bad, to look at it and you can always find something good, positive from any situation.

©ANDRÈABERNHOLTZ

Thank you so much for doing this IG Live with me.

Yes, thank you…enjoy the light, shop SWIMINISTA.COM. We have an amazing sale right now, and as I say, ‘Meet your favorite swimsuit’.

Everyone grab your SWIMINISTA, I am going to grab mine for my trip next week.

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I am super happy that we will be talking to my personal brow guru, Venecia, of Venecia Beauty. The biggest topic that we get, and talk about lately is eyebrows.

More so with the mask mandate, with half of our face covered our brows have become so important. Even if you have had terrible experiences like I have had in the past, we are here to pick the brain of Venecia.

©VENECIA

So, before we get into all the fun stuff…let’s find out what made her a brow guru… Thank you for having me I appreciate it, and I am so excited.

You touched upon and brought up a good point with the mask mandate. People are paying attention more to their eye lashes, and eyebrows. It has become such a focal point Way back in the beginning we did not know where everything was going to go and for how long. But lately everyone is really paying attention to their brows.

Yes, because if half of my face is covered, I really need to have my brows look good. Before you could like fake it, if your brows were a little janke you could then put more emphasis on the lips … Yes, or do some contouring.

So, we are going to start with how Vencia got started. We are in Venecia’s Lounge which is in Phoenix; and I will put the address below the video. So, please tell us how you got started…

I started five years ago, and in 2016 I made that decision to go out on my own. Before I worked in different salons, and spas across the valley; and then managed a Franchise at one point. So, I thought that I had learned all that I needed to learn to go officially on my own. It was nerve wracking, and I didn’t think that I would do it. Yet, with the changes in our industry, it was more obtainable now.

It is so nice to be able to cater to your clients and offer the services that you want to offer to them. And most importantly to take that time (with your clients) that you want to take. I am not being rushed, and I am not being pressured. I mean goals are great, but they should not compromise your services. So, it was something that I was trying to work on, and I finally did.

Yes, and the services that you offer are simply amazing and I am so happy that you did (open your Lounge). Not only are you a brow guru, you are a businesswoman which is not celebrated enough. So, tell us about the first six months when you initially started. I know when we started Yhorlife, and I am going to age myself but in 2010; the first six months were horrific. We were online and that was even worse. When you don’t have something tangible to see, and yes, we had our articles but people didn’t grasp the concept. Which doesn’t help in any industry when you are starting out.

So at least people are aware what eyebrows are, so tell us about your first six months… It was really interesting, I mean it was really liberating, and then it was also really horrific. Because I was always used to managing teams, and educating. When you are by yourself it is the loneliest feeling in the world. Because I would always have my go to girls and be able to ask, ‘hey what do you think? or what should we do? or what do you guys need?’ I just love the teams. So being here and making those decisions, and the hardest part was realizing that this is all mine. You call every shot. No one is going to question you, doubt it (decisions), or go along with it (decisions), or even support it (decisions).

So, the second guessing and then having complete control, I like to share control. And I am not one to like … be super assertive, and do it my way… Right! Like it is only my way. So that was the biggest thing that was the most challenging. Besides from just taking a risk, and I think that you can relate to that. Yes! At that time, I lot of people didn’t do the same thing, so you really didn’t have a lot of people to go to. And you must figure things out on your own. It is good because it makes you more independent, but it’s also kind of lonely in a way.

Yes, not everyone knows the struggle, and the grind is constant You think you know when you work for someone else, and the grind is different when you work for someone else. You work to maintain your job, but you have a safety net …because for the most part it is going to be there. When you work for yourself, it is non-stop. Now with technology, Instagram and digital platforms it is non-stop if you want to stay in business. It is constant do you find that even in the beauty industry…

It really is and I think it is because beauty always tends to evolve – you not only have trends, you have products and innovations. Also, the different tools that come out, and to be relevant you must really stay up to date. The best thing is when you have clients that ask you about something, and it could be just a couple of weeks old, but you know about it. So, it is kind of challenging to navigate the innovation part - what different brands are doing, then products, as well the day to day services, and the day to day responsibilities. Your books, numbers, inventory, etc. it is a lot.

With my son if we are at a movie, I will say ‘I am going to just get back to this client, or just order these products. Or the ring alarm is on this product just got delivered.’ I enjoy that though, because it is a part of your customer service. Having the products in stock, your customers being able to ask questions. Also able to contribute if I have clients that ask if I can make charitable donations. That is part of it for me, it is challenging and that is a part of it…but you just must be organized.

Venezia is, she is super Zen, yet very organized. I will show a clip of how perfectly organized her refrigerator is – it is like a refrigerator that you would see on Pinterest or Instagram. All products are lined up, together and organized. Then she has her mini-cooler fridge so organized. With that I was sold.

I am from L.A., and I have gone to the best, Anastasia when I was growing up, as well Damone Roberts. Now I go back and forth, but I am predominately in the Valley. It is so important to find people that get you and do amazing work. They all do amazing work, but it is super important to have trust in who you go to. You also have some clients that come from L.A. … Yes, as well from Albuquerque, New Mexico, Casa Grande, different parts of the Valley – Gilbert, Mesa, Tucson. So, it is a big compliment, but I also think when you put in care (to your work) people also notice that. For me, when I go somewhere customer service you notice it, and you appreciate good customer service.

Yes, you go above and beyond, but you are also there helping people. When you have a client, it is important to be patient, understanding, yet realistic as well. I always like to set expectations that are obtainable, I do not like to lie to people and tell them ‘Oh yes, it is going to look amazing’. And I know it is not. In our industry there is so much talent and that is good, but at the same time it is so much pushing the boundaries.

So that often messes with results sometimes, instead of just being realistic. Not necessarily playing it safe but playing within your scope of experience and expertise. It makes you stand out when you specialize in certain things. Instead of trying to do everything. I am a licensed cosmetologist, but I do not cut hair. Ahahaha… Yes, I have not cut hair in like fifteen years. And I would not dare too either. I loved coloring also, but I knew that all my work was going to be on the face.

I am just focusing on the brows today, but Vencia does everything, facials, and she has the Shani Darden Wand, which is just life. Yes! I love that. Yes, I have it at home, but then I also have it here that Venecia uses on me. While you’re waiting for our next installment book your appointment NOW!

©VENECIA

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My Chat with Sobia was my dream come true, and it was beyond amazing. Sobia was kind, gracious and honest! I had to pinch myself once the interview was over! Enjoy!

©NICOLASINPARIS

How are you doing … I am doing just fine… look we are both wearing pink … yes,with green in the background.

I am so happy and grateful that we are doing this, this is literally full circle for me. I remember reading your interview with Refinery 29 when you had your handbag line (for people that are unaware). I thought then ‘wow she has her shit together…she has a loving family – and love being the most important, wonderful children, and you look well rested. Oh, I try. The schedule that you gave, I was like how does she do it. And I said ‘I am going to meet her one day’. Oh, I don’t even remember what I said…but I am so happy that you reached out.

It is my pleasure and my honor.

Also, before I forget you are also a UNICEF Board Member, and I really do not understand when you sleep. You know the funny thing in my family – my mother, grandmother, my sister, and hopefully my daughter doesn’t get it…but we have a hard time sleeping. I have tried Zanax. I am not going to lie, it was about six or seven years ago, and it was a complete disaster. I know how important sleep is, but somehow it works.

I know I have tried Valerian Root, to relax me, and quiet my mind. Because I am always thinking, and sometimes I will wake up in the middle of the night, and write my thoughts and ideas down (so I won’t forget it) … Oh!!! I do that! … Yes! because I might forget it, and genius only strikes once. Yes, in the middle of the night.

Then I will try to go back to sleep, but then I start thinking how this work might. Then I am awake. Yes, I can totally identify with that.

I did forget to ask how was your trip to Pakistan? Oh, it was lovely. While I was there my followers and friends were writing to me; and I felt like I was a tour guide of sorts. Though I did not mean for it to be, but I wanted to show that side of Pakistan that is good; that you don’t often see. I felt on a subconscious level that I needed to educate people about Pakistan. Often you see the negative side of Pakistan. And I did show the good, as well the not so good. So, it turned into a travel vlog of sorts.

Although I have lived in Pakistan my entire life, I have been here for 25 years now. Well, you should put that on ‘Shaikhen and Stirred’ your blog. Yes, I a plan to. Although I have not written much lately on Shaikhen and Stirred, with doing more on Instagram and the Paid Partnerships…but I plan to make that a part of it. So that is something that is planned to be done.

How do you think your definition of balance has evolved, as you have evolved on your career path. I know you have said the reason you stopped your handbag line is because you did not like who you had become. The things that you loved like cooking, that you stated that you could not do anymore. So, how have you put your boundaries in and evolved…

You know that is a good question, and to be honest at the risk of sounding direct and blunt, and this is not directed at you, but in general at the balance question. I feel that the whole ‘balance question’ is so overused, and unfairly so towards women. That question is never asked of my husband for example, and how he balances his life. And he does a lot besides work, he is very involved with our two children; and he bar-b-que’s, cooks as well, probably more than I do now.

Yes, we do a lot of multitasking as women, and we take on a lot as women. I wish that the term, or the question would somehow evolve.

I do have a list of my own priorities; I don’t endorse them they work for me. And they are somewhat three-fold; first it is my husband, children, family, and my home; second- is my work, content creation; then my work with UNICEF. Then I am learning French. Now all those things I somewhat put under the work umbrella.

Number three is Health and Wellness…but what I would like to do since the pandemic (and I saw this), I would like to shift Health and Wellness to number two and switch my work to number three. I do need my Health and Wellness needs to be more prioritize.

I so agree… I work with my brother and when he does a lot of things people just say, ‘oh yes, that is cool’. Then with me they are like ‘oh wow and you are doing this’. My response is like yes. Oh, my goodness that is so true. I think the best thing that you said is what works for you, and that is what is an important point to differentiate between a Content Creator and an Influencer.

That is a good point. We show what works for us in essence, we recommend this to you (a product). Now it could very well not work for you, and we are simply saying find a product within this product line that works for you. Whereas an Influencer is saying – be me. That is a very good way of putting it. I would like to say that I do think now that the world is in the process of differentiating between the two. But there is still a long way to go, but I completely agree with you (on how the terms are defined).

**I thought that was the simplest way of explaining it. I am not telling people to do it this way, or to like this exact thing. As Content Creators we are going out, and if you may we do the bitch work**… Oh yes! … **We try everything, so for this problem we have tried thousands of different products. And we are then telling you that these ten are the top products.**

We are saying my skin is not your skin, so within this line find what works the best for you. Yes, becausewithin Content Creating and showing products if we end up influencing someone then that is a bonus to me. It is not my aim to start with.

©SHAIKHENANDSTIRRED

Now we are going to discuss career paths, you started as a model as we saw in your stories from your recent trip to Pakistan; and yes, I was full blown watching every story that you posted. Then you created your handbag line, now you have your partnerships. I am sure you knew what you wanted your life to be, did you know what specifically you would choose to achieve that….

That is a very good question, you know at this time in my life I know that I was supposed to go through all these steps to get here. Did I plan it? Probably not. I did plan to go to art school in Pakistan, I did plan to work in marketing, I did not plan to model. I was asked when I was 17 years old, at that time I was in art school. A bit of background, I went back to Karachi to work for an advertising agency. I directed television commercials for six years.

I then moved to San Francisco, and I have been here for 25 years. I did briefly work for at an advertising agency. Then started a handbag line, it was called ‘Isly’; I started promoting it on Instagram. Then backed out (of my handbag line) and started my blog. From there the content creation and my love for Instagram just evolved.

And where I am today and the place that I have reached today is an amalgamation and has rolled into my content creation. I am so happy that I went through all these steps to arrive here.

However, I remember when I shut down my handbag line, Isly, I was so heartbroken, but I had to make that decision. I was just so unhappy, I was getting sick, and I was travelling a lot. Now with content creating I pick and choose my clients, and I have a lot of paid partnerships now. I really believe in what I promote, and I will not promote anything that I do not believe in; not use myself so why would I promote them. There are many that I have turned down. It is a bit of a juggling act, but I am happy now.

Let’s discuss the mental effects of Instagram and that perfect life on the young especially. You have a daughter but how do you show the realness, or should I say the non-perfections of life. Example, if you hit a roadblock how do you overcome it, and then how do you show it to your community…

©SHAIKHENANDSTIRRED
©SHAIKHENANDSTIRRED That is such an important thing that no one asks, and no one discusses. With content creating the best thing is the worst thing for me, in my mind. The best thing for me is waking up every day and thinking what I will post. Now I plan if of course. But it gets my creative juices flowing, however, it is very daunting at the same time.

People’s attention span is very short now, there are so many options available to people on different platforms. As well I want my content to come across as super genuine. Of course, it has to also look good, yet there are times that I see other content creators and I say, ‘oh crap should I be doing that’. And to be truthful, I have done that in the past; but I work with myself to not go down that rabbit hole.

I mean I do me and you do you, but it is not always easy…I look at it, but I go within. With my daughter, she is 18 years old, and will be going to college in the fall. And looking at everything on social media, and seeing how they should dress, who they should date, and even how their hair should look. I just keep the dialog open. We are all super close as a family, my daughter is super bright and we have an open space in our home where we discuss everything, I hope.

When you started Shaikhen and Stirred, and I love it and its beautiful. Do you think that your experience in the fashion industry helped when you started your blog…and then with your content creating and getting your firs client…

You know I think it did, yes and no. When I started my blog, my aim was to never have a business. I think it says that on my blog too. My aim (of my blog) was to talk about my life, travels, family, and the food that I like. But my aim was to never have a business, I said if it turns into that I would be so happy.

Most of my partnerships did not come from my connections in the fashion world. I did strengthen those relationships, yes. I reach out to a lot of brands that I like, and a lot of brands reach out to me. I think one of the key things is consistency. I know when people ask me, my followers, I tell them that being authentic, genuine, and sincere; as well finding something that you are good at, then excel at that. Then give it your best.

©SHAIKHENANDSTIRRED

As well appearances like we talked about earlier really matters as well. Not saying that all pictures must be on a white background and roses, now there are some folks that do that and that is fine…I am not judging that.

Consistency of posting at the same time, responding back to your followers. It does take time, but if someone takes time to respond to a picture I have posted; I have the courtesy to respond to them. People then are interested because they see that I am sincere and loyal, and then they in turn are loyal to me.

I think what people don’t realize that it is a lot of work … yes!... 99% of the time I do not look like this. Typically, I am in sweats minimal make-up and my hair is up in a bun. That is because you are working, and it is hard. Yes, there are so many out there, but the key is finding who you are and finding your niche. Yes, this is so true…. Owning who you are in essence and making sure that you do not go down that rabbit hole.

Yes, this is true… so true, it is hard…and like you had said earlier my life looks glamorous. Well, yes, it is. I have worked hard to get here, and sometimes I do flaunt it, and I am not going to lie about it.

When we moved to the States, and I know my kids are going to say, ‘oh here we go again with this story’. But it is true we lived in a tiny apartment, we took the bus everywhere, and we did not have money to send clothes to dry cleaning. So, I washed my husbands’ shirts, and ironed them (for his work).

@SOBIAASHAIKH
@SOBIAASHAIKH
@SOBIAASHAIKH
@SOBIAASHAIKH We have worked hard, and I am proud of that. Yes, I do flaunt it at times, and I do not mean to be insensitive to anyone. But this is my life, I am proud of where we are. It is glamorous a bit, I do travel a bit now that the kids are older. But it is a lot of work…because people want to see new things constantly.

It is almost my own little tv show. Then, there are the paid partnerships, and I put a lot of time into it. There is hair and make-up, the cameras and my lights; and I do it all myself. There are occasions when I do have someone do my make-up if I am going out. Mostly I do it all myself. It is non-stop. What people do not recognize is that yes, it is glamorous it is still a lot of work.

Yes why I think that it is important to share, like waking up in the middle of the night making notes…I mean the struggle is real. Oh my gosh that is so true! You absolutely get it.

Okay my last question, what is your favorite way to start your day…

During the quarantine we got a dog named Maple. He is sitting here next to my feet. Well, he has a bed right next to my bed and around 5:30 a.m., or 6:00 am he jumps onto our bed. He then alternates putting his head on my husbands’ pillow, and then on my pillow. It is honestly the sweetest way to wake-up. He is tiny about 14 pounds, he is hypo allergenic because I have allergies and asthma.

Then he snuggles on my stomach, and he looks for love. It is beautiful, it is unconditional love. Then my husband wakes up earlier than me and goes down to make the best coffee in the world. He will then sometimes bring it up to me, or I will go down to have it. I read the news on my phone, or iPad. I get energized, an then I will work out in the garage. Then the rest of the day just follows!

Yayy that was it…thank you so much for your time, dreams do come true! Oh! You are so sweet and thank you for reaching out to me. No, I think it was like 2012 when I read about you, and I was like she is so cool… I am going to meet her one day. I am so happy that we met, thank you and take care.

©NICOLASINPARIS

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After my vacation, I wanted my first interview of 2022 to be- fun, deep & bring joy. My brother (the CEO) recommended I try to interview Andrés Sandoval. In all honesty, Andrés wasn’t my first choice; can happily say my brother was right! Mitzy (Andrés international manager) provided me with so much information from the philanthropy, producing, and just overall talent. I was pleased that the interview could be deep but still was apprehensive about “clicking.”

The day of the interview, Andrés was delayed (flying back from Dubai). I was in panic mode & thought ‘this is doomed’. Quite the opposite! It was fun, deep and I never laughed so much during an interview- mostly because I was so frazzled and amazed by Andrés Sandoval’s humility, talent & personality. Enjoy this interview!

Andrés is the embodiment of why we do our interviews. It is to learn, listen, and to conversate with people … that you thought you knew pretty much everything about, but then you are surprised.

He is the perfect example of that – of course Andrés *was thrusted onto the international map from his character Juancho, in The Queen of Flow (Netflix - 2021). As well Andres was assistant director in Corazones Blindados (Netflix - 2012); Rosario Tijeras (Netflix – 2010); and 3 Milagros (Netflix – 2011).*

Hi!!!.....Yes!!!! Hi Andrés*! …. I always get so happy, how are you… I am so so sorry about the delay with the interview. No…no…no it is okay. I am sorry, I probably sounded so heartless – I was like go to a bathroom, go anywhere there in the airport and just sit so we can talk.*

Ahahaa … no my flight was very delayed. No! it is all good, but I was sweating – I was like woah what do you mean the flight was delayed, and it could be cancelled (IG Live). Ahahaha … no but thank you so much, and I really do hope that you had a safe flight. Not that how I acted was any indication of that…lollll.

No! everything is good, okay. Good! Then to make you happy, because you have made me happy… we are going to do theinterview in Spanglish! Oh! I am very happy already, thank you so much for the invite. But oh wow! I am going to try to do it in English. Perfect, well we will make it a perfect blend.

Okay the first question – You created a foundation, La Fundación Instrumentos de Paz, so please tell me why it’s so important for you to give back? … and what do you hope to achieve with this foundation…

We wanted to be there for the kids, the young people, the families in Bogota. First, we have a lot of things to do with the Foundation. We want to give them a lot of things. Not only money, and toys – material things. We must do more by giving them a purpose to live.

To know that they are important for society, and important to us. We have the ability to give them artistic, social, spiritual, and a cultural process.

I work very hard with the founders of the Foundation. We are going to try to give them the best, the most that we have. Ithink it is so important, like you said, to give them a purpose in life. People often think let me just throw money, and this will help them. But no people need direction to be, and know they are a part of society; because if no one helps them, how will they know. They just have money and nowhere to go. Yes, I agree with you. The cinema, the theatre, the spiritual rituals are very important to them. We want to do the right thing and not only with money.

Oh! My gosh! … then I was so flustered I didn’t introduce you properly. I will do that now. Okayyyy! So, you act, you sing,produce, and then as you mentioned Mitzy, and God bless her I know that I stressed her out before. You are also writing a book! Then of course traveling. I mean how do you sleep? I know…I don’t know! Ever since I met Mitzy, I sleep so so less. Yes! Because I can barely do this…ahhahaa. She is just making you go.Ahahaha…yeah she is a machine, yes I know. She is unbelievable. Yes, and she is truly so kind. I know I was freaking out. *My voice was high, ahahahaa, and I was like whattttt!!!*

***For those of you that do not know, Mitzy is* Andrés*’ International Manager. So please tell me about the book that you are writing. Now I do know that she (Mitzy) was in a wheelchair for nine years, it is absolutely and incredible story. Just the fact that she is even positive is phenomenal. I don’t know if I would be that happy in that situation. So why did you write the book, and why did you even want to tell her story…***

Well…Mitzy is a woman that dies nineteen times. She is a miracle, a miracle of life. When you die one time, you die one time. But when you die nineteen times you are superhuman. You have a lot of things to do in this world, on this earth. It is a Blessing for me to work with her. Sometimes we cannot talk about life, because we are very busy with our projects.

Yes, she makes me work. She has me to help write her life’s book. So, I will be her ghost writer. It is a pleasure to be a part of this work. Well, I love books, I love reading, so I will be one of the first to pre-order the book when it comes out… Yes!!!

So, when it’s out please remember to send me the link, I am a huge book nerd…

Okay, so as we can see in the comments… everyone is talking about ‘La Reina del Flow’. The world fell in love with your acting as Juancho in ‘La Reina del Flow’. That is what you are known globally for, but you are incredibly talented. You bring so much heart and vulnerability to the character. As well in your other projects, that is how you do all your projects. There is some type of vulnerability and heart to every character. What is your process – how do you decide to act in it, or even to produce it…

Well, I actually create an image with each character that I have. Juancho, Antonio, Raul, Fernando every character that I have in my hands – I bring them into my heart. I am in love with all of the characters, each one of the characters I love so much. I work passionately with all of them, I get into each character – I love the details of each character. I try to be there for the character not only on paper…but I make love to each character.

I would say though….and I did finish ‘La Reina del Flow’, I binged watched it. I am sorry for those that have not finished it, but the scene where you were crying and the actress Carolina Ramirez who plays Yeimy was crying.. I was crying! And I am not even a crier. It is so well acted. Everyone does such a phenomenal job, where you almost forget that they are not real people. Yes! thank you, thank you for that. Hats off to everybody involved and that is such a testament to your craft and how you work, the fact that you make people believe that these are real people walking down the street. It is phenomenal.

I try to bring what is printed to life. Yes! well job well done.

As I said before you are so much more than that character – you produce, you sing, and you are going on tour. The tour starts in Colombia. Then it’s going to the United States … Yes! and I am producer, director, and I also sing. Well, I sing in the bathroom, or the shower first. Well, the best acoustics ahaaha.

Yes!!! Well, we start the national tour. We will start tomorrow in Medillin, we will be here for four days, then we go to Argentina; Puerto Rico; Costa Rica; Chile; Peru; Panama; Venezuela; Mexico; United States; France; Spain; Switzerland.

Oh! Very nice! So what can people expect from your tour, like what are you most excited about to get started…

Okay… we are going to be with other artists from Colombia and an artist from each country that we are going to visit. I am going to sing a little. ***Ohhhh … just a little****.*  Yes, just a little! I will give a lot of kisses, and a lot of love.

Okay people hear that buy your tickets, get in line so that you can get your kisses – your love. Hugs! Are you going to give hugs?Yes! hugs everything. I am so generous.

What do you hope that people in America, like me, how do you want us to see you. Do you want them to see you as just an actor, or just a singer, or as a creative – a triple threat…

First, I want to be close to people to show them that an actor is not a star. I am a simple guy, an artist, that loves what he does. Unfortunately, actors think that they are big untouchable, heroes, superstars. No! you have to be close to people.

I hope to work in the United States as an actor, to be in movies, as a creator. As a director, producer, and writing movies in the United States. Be in theatre, in plays. I have a lot of expectations, and dreams for the United States.

What is your favorite, place to be in the U.S….. theatre, theatre - it is the most beautiful place that I can be, yes. So, you love New York…Yes! So, New York, Broadway. I would love to work on Broadway some time and I know with Mitzy I can do it.

Now, the last question so that you can go to decompress…how you start your day, how do you wake up, and what do you do to stay sane…

Okay… I begin my day with a Prayer. I am Catholic. I, we then, Mitzy and I walk around the neighborhood. We do that for our exercise. Then we work on a lot of things that we have - the book, the tour, and the series that we are creating.

I thank you so much for your time, and more so that you did it at the airport for me. And I do hope that when you come to L.A. that I do get a signature, or a hug. I hope that I am on the list. Just for the stress, don’t you think that is fair…

Yes, very! I will give you a very hard hug… I am going to crush your ribs. Colombian style! Thank you honestly Andrés, I hope that you have a wonderful tour, and we hope to see it in the U.S.

©SJP/ANDRÉSSANDOVAL

Okay thank you, thank you for this interview, and God Bless everybody. Bye!

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Hi Andres!! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our questions!! I’m going to jump right in!

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you? (¿Cómo se presentaría a personas que no lo conocen?)

For people that don't know me… I'm Andrés Wiese, and I am 37 years old and I have been an actor for 13 years. (Para la gente que no me conoce… Soy Andrés Wiese, tengo 37 años y soy actor desde hace 13 años).

**Congratulations on your new show- “Junta de Vecinos” What are you most proud of with this new role, and how did you prepare? (Felicitaciones por su nuevo programa - “Junta de Vecinos” ¿De qué está más orgulloso con este nuevo rol? ¿Cómo te preparaste?)**

In this new series “ Board of Neighbors” that opens soon in December. My character is called Sebastián Jesse who is very happy, but his dream is to be on television and to be a great presenter. (En esta nueva serie “Junta de Vecinos” que se estrena próximamente en diciembre. Mi personaje se llama Sebastián Jesse que está muy feliz, pero su sueño es estar en televisión y ser un gran presentador).

You have had an amazing career! Did you always know you wanted this career path, and how do you select the work you choose? (¡Has tenido una carrera increíble! ¿Siempre supiste que querías esta carrera? ¿Cómo seleccionas el trabajo que eliges?)

Thank you! I am very happy and above all very grateful for my career. Because I have had many opportunities I do always select the next job after the first reading of the script. When I ask to read the script I must feel it physically, as well feel it emotionally. I listen (to that feeling) and if it doesn't excite me, and does not generate anything within me I pass and just appreciate it. (¡Gracias! Estoy muy feliz y sobre todo muy agradecido por mi carrera. Como he tenido muchas oportunidades, siempre selecciono el siguiente trabajo después de la primera lectura del guión. Cuando pido leer el guión, debo sentirlo físicamente, así como sentirlo emocionalmente. Escucho (ese sentimiento) y si no me emociona, y no genera nada dentro de mí paso y solo lo aprecio).

List 5 things you can’t live without (enumera 5 cosas sin las que no puedes vivir) Okay… the five things happen that I can't live without:

My first chain with Saint Benedict which is a gift from my mother.

Secondly, my wallet on my cell phone.

I always always wear sunglasses inside, and I have headphones to listen to music anywhere. And then fifth a mask. (Mi primera cadena con San Benito que es un regalo de mi madre, en segundo lugar, mi billetera en mi teléfono celular, siempre llevo gafas de sol adentro y tengo auriculares para escuchar música en cualquier lugar, y luego quinto una máscara).

What is your favorite quote? And why? (¿Cuál es tu frase favorita? ¿Y por qué?)

“whenever you have one you deserve you deserve what you dream” because it is a phrase by Gustavo Cerati. Gustavo Cerati is an Argentine singer I like a lot; and because I feel that you really have to believe. (“Siempre que tienes uno te mereces te mereces lo que sueñas” porque es una frase de Gustavo Cerati. Gustavo Cerati es un cantante argentino que me gusta mucho; y porque siento que realmente tienes que creer).

How do you define success? (¿Cómo define usted el éxito?)

I define it as being able to live doing what you like, and adding inspiration. (Yo lo defino como poder vivir haciendo lo que te gusta y aportando inspiración).

©ANDRESWEISE

What has been your inspiration for achieving all of your goals? (¿Cuál ha sido su inspiración para lograr todos sus objetivos?)

[My inspiration] It has always been my Grandmother. She passed away a year before I started acting. All my jobs in television, theater and in the cinema I always dedicate them to her. (Siempre ha sido mi abuela. Falleció un año antes de que comenzara a actuar. Todos mis trabajos en televisión, teatro y cine se los dedico siempre a ella).

Last & most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind! (¡Última y más divertida pregunta! ¿Cuál es tu forma favorita de relajarte?)

My favorite way of relaxing is escaping to the beach with my dog. Yes, nowadays that’s my favorite way to relax from any problem! (Mi forma favorita de relajarme es escaparme a la playa con mi perro. Sí, hoy en día esa es mi forma favorita de relajarme de cualquier problema).

¡Muchos gracias!…Gracias

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How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you? (¿Cómo se presentaría a personas que no lo conocen?)

I would introduce myself with respect, I would tell them that I am a dreamer, and an actor who keeps looking and searching for the path of happiness. [I’m currently truly] in a constant search of personal growth; trying to improve, and improve day by day. I seriously try to focus on that. (Me presentaría con respeto, les diría que soy un soñador y un actor que sigue buscando y buscando el camino de la felicidad. [Actualmente estoy realmente] en una búsqueda constante de crecimiento personal; tratando de mejorar, y mejorar día a día. Intento seriamente concentrarme en eso).

Congratulations on your new show- “Junta de Vecinos” What are you most proud of with this new role… and how did you prepare?(Felicitaciones por su nuevo programa - “Junta de Vecinos” ¿De qué está más orgulloso con este nuevo rol? ¿Cómo te preparaste?)

Thank you very much, what I liked the most about this role was the purity that Sinecio has, he’s passionate, and falls in love with the character,Natalia.

She is a mother with a son named Fernando. The bond that he has

with Natalia's son was beautiful; he is his babysitter and his counselor. The character changes a lot. The changes that build a super healthy relationship. There was not the typical love conflict in this show. So as I prepared I studied the phrases and movements of the film directors; to see how they think, and how they are managed. (Muchas gracias, lo que más me gustó de este papel fue la pureza que tiene Sinecio, es apasionado y se enamora del personaje, Natalia. Es madre de un hijo llamado Fernando. El lazo que tiene con el hijo de Natalia era hermoso; es su niñera y su consejero. El personaje cambia mucho. Los cambios que construyen una relación súper saludable. No hubo el típico conflicto amoroso en este programa. Así que mientras me preparaba estudié las frases y movimientos de los directores de cine; para ver cómo piensan y cómo se gestionan).

**So I looked at your Instagram. And you and your girlfriend are GOALS! How do you balance career and your relationship? (entonces miro tu Instagram. ¡Y tú y tu novia sois METAS! ¿Cómo equilibras tu carrera y tu relación?)**

And if you can guess I am very much in love. Often love is not done well. She and I work in the same medium - she is also an actress, host, and a singer. What has helped us to strengthen our relationship, is to make our love a priority. The key is that knowing how to deal with the industry; it is not more complex than that. And [ignoring] the rumors…that’s it - just a little secret. (Y si puedes adivinar que estoy muy enamorado. A menudo, el amor no se hace bien. Ella y yo trabajamos en el mismo medio; ella también es actriz, presentadora y cantante. Lo que nos ha ayudado a fortalecer nuestra relación es hacer de nuestro amor una prioridad. La clave es saber cómo lidiar con la industria; no es más complejo que eso. Y [ignorando] los rumores ... eso es todo, solo un pequeño secreto).

List 5 things you can’t live without (enumera 5 cosas sin las que no puedes vivir)

That is very difficult, very difficult… it is not a phrase in English, but it is like spending time on love, and friendship. Friendships … it is very nice to have friends, you do not have friends for life. Or you can have the honor of a lifetime, and you can already be with that person. And that is beautiful. The fourth, good weather like here in Lima, in Lima Peru, but it costs a lot to live in Peru. It is very quiet, it is something in which I could not live without. The last bridge… I believe that art is life, you are an artist, and you are a spectator of the cinema-theater. (Eso es muy difícil, muy difícil… no es una frase en inglés, pero es como dedicar tiempo al amor y la amistad. Amistades… es muy lindo tener amigos, no tienes amigos de por vida. O puede tener el honor de su vida y ya puede estar con esa persona. Y eso es hermoso. El cuarto, buen clima como aquí en Lima, en Lima Perú, pero cuesta mucho vivir en Perú. Es muy tranquilo, es algo en lo que no podría vivir sin él. El último puente… Creo que el arte es vida, tú eres un artista y eres un espectador del cine-teatro).

What music do you have currently on repeat, and why? (¿Qué música se repite actualmente? ¿Por qué?)

Reggae and Rock! because a friend has changed me … Ahahah. Sweet reggae-ton that you hear, and reggae running music I like. Rock music, I listen to a lot of dramatic but classic rock. Ahahah… but I have no idea who are the singers of the songs, and I don’t know the lyrics of the songs. (¡Reggae y Rock! porque un amigo me ha cambiado… Ahahah. Dulce reggae-ton que escuchas, y reggae con música que me gusta. Música rock, escucho mucho rock dramático pero clásico. Ahahah ... pero no tengo ni idea de quiénes son los cantantes de las canciones y no sé la letra de las canciones).

What are you hoping 2022 brings you … (¿Qué espera que le traiga el 2022?)

That is a great, and beautiful question that I have not given much thought to yet. I have been very focused on the movie that I am about to release, “Neighborhood Meeting”. I am also recording other projects, and there are many things for January 2022. In 2022 I would like to have a chance to be in Mexico, and the United States. I really want to be in those markets in a series format. Also more time for, love, and more friendships. Even more than everything I answered in the question listing my five favorite things... ahahaha. (Esa es una gran y hermosa pregunta en la que aún no he pensado mucho. Me he concentrado mucho en la película que estoy a punto de estrenar, “Neighborhood Meeting”. También estoy grabando otros proyectos, y hay muchas cosas para enero de 2022. En 2022 me gustaría tener la oportunidad de estar en México y Estados Unidos. Tengo muchas ganas de estar en esos mercados en formato de serie. También más tiempo para el amor y más amistades. Incluso más que todo lo que respondí en la pregunta que enumeraba mis cinco cosas favoritas ... ahahaha).

**What has been your inspiration for achieving all of your goals? (¿Cuál ha sido su inspiración para lograr todos sus objetivos?)**

I am open to open the world, I am happy to go for my goals, and they are my engine. It is not that I have my engine for my goals, but without (my engine) I would not stay stagnant and it is not that I would want less. (Estoy abierto a abrir el mundo, estoy feliz de ir por mis metas y son mi motor. No es que tenga mi motor para mis goles, pero sin (mi motor) no me quedaría estancado y no es que quisiera menos).

Last & most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind! (¡Última y más divertida pregunta! ¿Cuál es tu forma favorita de relajarte?)

To call in more fun, I would play some reggae music. Good reggae music or relaxing music. I also listen to music that have mantras. I pay special mention to the lyrics that enable me to be calm, in my mind. Sometimes it takes time to relax me. I especially do this when I am tired from working, on a cold night it is better. (Para llamar más divertido, tocaría algo de música reggae. Buena música reggae o música relajante. También escucho música que tiene mantras. Hago especial mención a las letras que me permiten estar tranquilo, en mi mente. A veces se necesita tiempo para relajarme. Hago esto especialmente cuando estoy cansado de trabajar, en una noche fría es mejor).

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Hi Carson!!...Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our questions ...How are you Carson...Hi, I am doing great thank you...I am going to jump right in!

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you...

Yeah, I am an actor born in Toronto who has been cursed with the incurable disease that wants to make a living in the arts. When I am not in my room with a script for an audition, or watching the Raftors, I am an avid reader of any and all books. Brilliant...me too, who is your favorite author... Oh man that is a tough one, but right now my favorite author is Brandon Sanderson because ‘Rhythm of War’ just came out and I love that whole series. Patrick Rothbus is another one, Mark Lawrence is another one of my favorites. I am a huge history buff so I love anything Philippa McGregory, or Sarah MacLean they are both amazing... Oh! Nice.

©CARSONMACCORMAC

So you're a basketball fan as well... Uh huh,yes, a huge Raftors fan. Congratulations on your new movie, ‘East of Middle West’... Thank you! ...what are you most proud of with this new movie, and how did you prepare...

Oh man, the thing that I am most proud about is that it was able to get completed in the way and fashion that it did, because this project was running on fumes of pure love on 90% of filming. It was such a crazy schedule, we filmed the entire movie over about 22 days. So we were going non-stop the whole time. So the crew and cast I would say I am the most proud of, the way that we all worked together, we were all just thrown into the trenches together - and it was fantastic.

Did you find with this type of movie that you had to stretch yourself as an actor, is it harder to get into a character when it is more a love based film. Obviously if it is a bigger production it... Totally, I know what you mean. Yes, it was kind of a blessing in disguise and going back to your earlier question, of how did I prep for the character. I was totally excited when I saw the script, and I wanted to do my character, Chris, justice. So I spent so much time researching into how I wanted the physicality of the character to work, a lot of the questions that the film poses, I wanted to do my due diligence to obtain all sides of the moral debate that go on. So when we got on set we really didn't have any time to overthink anything. The actors were going to each scene with - I have no idea what is suppose to happen today, but I am going to be present and see what happens.

You know I asked if you were like 12 years old, because you have so much energy, and doing so many amazing projects. Ahahaha...Nooo, I found out that you are 21 years old. So, congratulations to you!... Well, thank you. So you also have a recurring role on ‘Locke and Key’, which is on Netflix. As we all know Netflix is the biggest streaming giant ever. So how does it feel to work with Netflix and that whole team. Knowing that your work is seen by so many people across the globe...

I am thrilled to be a part of it, its always odd when you come into an already established show. Because I was only coming in for Season 2. Oh man, Neflix and the whole ‘Locke and Key’ team were so welcoming right out of the gate. It was so easy to just integrate myself into what they were doing, and to do my part. They were so friendly, I have so many friends from that show, and it was a blast. It felt like going to summer camp. That is the best way to describe it. That is so nice...

In 2022 you will be in the ‘Luckiest Girl Alive’ which is a thriller! It is a new movie which is a Lionsgate and Netflix partnered. Now, I don't know if I will watch that because I am deathly afraid of anything remotely scary, but it seems really cool... ahahahahahah... but what was it like working with Mila Kunis and Connie Britton...

Well I am such a huge fan of both of them. Friday Night Lights was one of my favorite shows. Me too!!!! Did you binge watch on Netflix? I love it!...Well I wasn't too familiar with it, and it is on Netflix now. I was like what is this, from the first episode I was hooked. Ohhh!, it is too good and she is fantastic in it. I also watched it on Netflix. And once I saw it there I too was like well lets check this out. I already loved the movie so much, but the tv show is just as good. Ohhh I didn't know there was a movie. Oh yes, and the movie is just as incredible. So the movie was based on a book that was a true story. About this small town with all of these kids and the football team that they had. The movie is so fantastic and highly recommend you watching it. Oh well I will definitely watch it this weekend. Did you enjoy making the thriller, and was it a little bit different for you...

Oh for sure it was! I had a great time doing it. We really lucked out with the cast we all immediately clicked, and we’re all friends right out of the gate. On the first couple of days of filming the project starting us off with such heavy material. So we really got a sense of being thrown in the frying pan together, and you just figure it out. I think that it was really good for all of us to find out who we were as actors and how we were going to work together. Because being thrown into the very intense material that we had immediately made us click and immediately made us closer for the rest of the shoot as well.

Okay, well list five things that you cannot live without...

Five things that I cannot live without... number one is coffee definitely, that is where the 12 year old energy comes from. Aaahhhahah, yes... I can't live without books as well, basketball as well, movies, popcorn are the best thing ever. And a deck of cards as well, I love to play with my friends.

What is your favorite quote and why...

My favorite quote... oh that's so interesting. I love compiling quotes from movies, tv shows, and books that I like, it is like reminders of things. The one that has stuck with me for awhile, it is a quote from the movie, ‘One Night in Miami’, it is - One can never be too busy for some added perspective. I think that is such a great message for today.

That is very cool, okay...How do you define success...

Definition of success, that is so interesting I thought about this before...and I love the question. For me the definition of success is in the pursuit of things we love. I think it has to be tied to the pursuit of something, as opposed to the end goal. Just because I want to make sure that I don't want to define success as reaching some sort of goal. I rather say I want to be successful for going after the things that I love. Yes, so it is almost like its not reaching the peak of a mountain it is the climbing to it. Yes! For sure.

What has been your inspiration for achieving all of your goals, so in essence what drives you...

I think it started out for me and specifically with acting, it was the self growth that I loved. Playing all of these different characters helped me to figure out who I wanted to be, and who I already was. From there it turned into a love of storytelling in general, it is such a pure form of enjoyment for me. So to be able to loose myself in a great story as an actor, or as a viewer is the best thing in the world for me. And I want to be able to live out that fantasy for the rest of my life.

The last and most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind!...

My favorite way to unwind... I have a few. One of my more weird ones, well its not weird it was recommended to me from one of my old acting coaches years ago. I love going to the movie theater on my own to watch a film, I do not know what it is but being able to sit in a theatre by yourself, with that movie popcorn that I am so obsessed with and watch a film is such great escapism. So that, or I message my friends and tell them that we have to go play basketball or something, just physical activity is always for me a great way to unwind.

Well, thank you, I hope it was pretty painless, but thank you for taking the time sit down and doing the interview with us... Yes, totally and thank youfor chatting with me...this was really awesome. So, thank you.

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Yhorlife Conversates with Dr. Nigma on gut health and her journey.

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Hi Sabrina!! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our questions!! I’m going to jump right in!

©SABRINASEARA

  ©SABRINASEARA

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Yhorlife Conversates with Don Miguel Ruiz Jr. We discuss his journey, the path to authenticity and his Toltec Wisdom.

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Yhorlife Conversates with Don Jose Ruiz. An incredible Toltec Master, Author and his journey.

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Yhorlife Conversates with Bel Elizabeth on her journey, finding her voice and her new single ‘Lemon Drop.’

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Yhorlife Conversates with Dr. Shefali on her journey and her most recent book ‘A Radical Awakening.’

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Ana Belena is a talented Actress, Mother, and Health Coach. Her positive outlook on her life and the many hats she wears is infectious! I’m so happy Ana took time out of her crazy schedule to chat with us! Enjoy!

©RobertoMeza

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?

I am a Mother, Wife, Entrepreneur and Actress who has been working in the entertainment industry for more than 15 years.

Congratulations on your new show- “Diseñando tu amor”! What is your favorite part of playing Helena Vargas Reyna?

Helena is a very powerful woman, she is an entrepreneur who has been fighting against a lot of problems during her life; but thanks to her strength, focus and integrity, has been able to build an amazing business. I think that she is like a mirror for many women today.

You just had your son Thiago- 10 months ago- he’s absolutely beautiful! How have you balanced motherhood and working?

It is not easy as you can imagine. Work as an Actress is hard, but being a Mother is harder, so you really need to be very organized and confident that what you are doing as a professional will impact like the same way of what you are doing as a Mother. I want for my son to understand the importance of being what you want to be in your life. Thiago has an amazing Nanny who help us every day when I am not there, but there are some days than he can come with me and have lunch together.

How did you practice self-care while you were pregnant and after?

To be very honest, not different from my regular life. I am a very balanced woman trying to eat healthy (with my guilty pleasures). I used to workout every day and sleep my 8 hours a day.

**List 5 things you can’t live without-**

Food, I love to eat - Exercise - Family - Travel - Work

When you’re in work mode & you have late nights etc. what is your favorite “go-to snack”?

I prepare every day a special “Pancake” for those moments, and the recipe includes: oatmeal, spinach, withes and cinnamon.

Can you tell us about future projects you have?

As all the talent in this business, I am casting for some projects and hopefully I will have some news soon. I am very excited with projects for a Streamer and another one for Open Air TV… But you never know….

What is your favorite beauty staple? (Ex- bold lip, no-makeup look etc)

Sunblock every day before leaving home.

Please list the best things about being: an Actress, Mom, and Health Coach…

The best thing of being an Actress is performing every show in a different carácter. Of being a Mom, feel the deepest love ever. Being a Health Coach, to help others to understand that everybody is different and we need to connect not just with our hunger but with our emotional experiences

Last & most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind!

I grab a cup of coffee, a dessert and having a great conversation.

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Jorge Leon, simply put is a man of great passion and perseverance. Known as “The Kicker Lawyer” because he is professionally a Lawyer and Kicker for the NAL’s Orlando Predators. You read that correctly, Jorge is excelling at two professions where people can’t complete one successfully. I had the immense pleasure of interviewing Jorge. Enjoy!

**How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?**

I introduce me as the Kicker Lawyer (Abogadopateador in Spanish) because I’m a Copyright Lawyer and a Professional Kicker.

Congratulations on signing with the Orlando Predators! Please describe the journey of achieving this success.

It all started as a child. I always dreamed of playing various sports professionally like my idols - Bo Jackson and Deion Sanders. I was fortunate to be educated by my parents in sports and always because of that my passion for being an athlete. In my country, Mexico, I played two sports, soccer and American football, the latter in my thirties and today that I am 41, after 11 years of training in Jacksonville, Florida I was able to achieve the dream.

You also played fútbol in Mexico. How do you think your fútbol experience helped you prepare for being a kicker?

It helps of course, but is so different. Because my technique that I learn from my Coach Mike Is completely different than soccer.

You are also a lawyer! Just listing all of your achievements is tiring. How have you had time to achieve and give time to every area? It’s a good question because all the people think that you can only do one thing, but if you love what you do, you can do many things and search the time for doing them.

**List 5 things you can’t live without:**

Balls / Sports
Music
Family
Dogs
Chocolate

What is your favorite quote? And why?

“Sigue tu sueño, chase your dream.” Because I think that if you chase your dream you always be happy

What are you looking forward to most with being an Orlando Predator?

Fulfill my role as a Kicker and person. Managing to play well all season and getting the championship.

How do you define success?

Being Happy, doing the things that you love, not living the life of other.

What has been your inspiration for achieving all of your goals?

First, my inspiration is the child that I was many years ago, who dreamed of this and could not look bad. And people who have inspired me - Michael Jordan; Bo Jackson; Andre Agassi; Rafa Nadal; and Diego Armando Maradona. and also my Family.

Last & most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind!

Always with music, Hot Bath and a little bit of meditation. And sometimes with red wine and habano.

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I had the immense pleasure to get to know Lord F. This enigmatic musician is so positive, talented, and funny. Enjoy!

***Hi Lord F how are you***... Good! ***And thank you for taking the time to talk with me***. Of course, and thank you for taking the time to talk with me too.

How would you introduce yourself to people that are unaware of you...

Uumm...that is a good question. Hahaha...I like to start off strong. I love music, and I want people to know me for my music. I love dancing, just good tracks. I would say if someone is looking for good music to dance around, and enjoy good music - then go check out my songs. That’s good it sums it up. If you want to be happy. Yes, lyrical ambiance and dance floor bops. Lyrics are important, the melody, and my beats.

I put a lot of effort into my tracks. I also love popular music, then adding my little touch to it. I love the Monarchy, and I like to bring that into my music. I have been obsessed with Royals, and Monarchies since I was born. There is a joke that I was probably a King, or Queen in a past life. My first drawing when I was a kid was a castle, or a crown. So I incorporated that into my music, I think it adds that fun flavor.

***Congrats on your EP ‘Once Upon on a Song’. Can you tell us about the process of the EP...which came first because you have visuals, and we also touched upon your lyrics. How did you go about it? Did you know how you wanted it to look then built the visuals off of that; or did you create lyrics and the visuals were a representation that...***

Actually it is an album, I thought of it originally having ten tracks. I had a T.V. show , and I did that to create a larger awareness for my music. I took a break from the show to focus on writing songs. I knew I wanted to have a full album, because then I only had one EP with four tracks on it.

Then I knew the logical next step would be for me to have an album. I had some songs on the ET, but it was the logical next step to keep feeding my audience. I am also a filmmaker, I went to film school. Omg!...look at you! You do so many things. Hahaha - yes if you only knew all the things that I do. Even I am impressed at all the things that I do. I even having a clothing line. I know! that was one of my questions. Yes, I do it all. Yes! hair flipping all the way. I am visual oriented. When I was writing the song ‘Platinum’, I had this idea - I literally picture the music video. It is almost like a mutual process.

You are writing a song, and you are creating a scenario. Like my song ‘Touch’, I knew what I had to say, because it is based on a real life experience. The song ‘Platinum’, I never experienced that; but I wanted to create something like out of nowhere.

When you are creating a script you picture the image with the words. So it really depends if it is a life experience that I want to put into a lyric; or something that I think would be fun to write a story about. Then I will create that, and then the visuals come to mind as I am writing it. So it really depends... On the song... Yeah! the album is a mix of all of that.

Like ‘Once Upon a Song’, I had the idea about writing that like five, or six years ago. I never really finished writing it; yet I always thought it would be nice to have a song that was a tribute to music. It says how much music means to me, and that music is the magic that we have in this world.

It is magical for me to listen to a track, and mind-blowing to see how many people can listen and relate to a song in so many different ways. I always thought music had that magical factor, and I always wanted to write a song about music.

***How did growing up in Sao Paulo, Brazil influence your music, and fashion...***

Uumm...to be honest...I was always a homebody. I was always I front of the television, or the computer, and eating up what was on the internet. Even-though I am from there (Sao Paulo), I am very American in that way. Your heart was in America, you were here but not. Yeah...my heart was always here.

Did you every do carnival? hahaha...not really my cup of tea. You know that you have to ask someone from there - have you done it. I am a control freak, and I suffer from anxiety. Oh! that would not be the place...I feel you. Too many people, not enough exits. Yeah! and I do not like the music, just not my cup of tea. When you say that you are from there, people automatically say ‘Oh football and carnival’. Ahahaha, exactly. And I am like - no thanks, I don't like sports, and I don't like carnival. I only watch the Super Bowl for the half-time show. Yes! Hahaha...oh my gosh good job you really are American.

Now your clothing brand, FITX, I love it because it is timeless, and inclusive. Then for me it takes away the need to steal your boyfriends t-shirt. Because it is already made...

Yes, it is unisex. We really wanted to create something that was timeless, and driven on good quality. It is made to be the best quality that is out there at an affordable price. I am really about quality over quantity. Even when I am traveling, I am a minimalist. I do not like to carry much. Me too! Just a carry on.

Yes! just the essentials, but the essentials need to be the best quality and fabric. I like to describe it as timeless key pieces for his and her closet, things that you will have forever, never regret - nor get tired of them. Yes - a FITX t-shirt; cool jeans; dad sandals; and you are good to go. Yes...and we have our new collection coming out soon.

We are shooting the photo shoot for the line, and I got some really good looking models for it. It is all going to be done here in L.A., and it is pretty exciting. We are also planning on having the line in some retail stores. Awesome and congrats...can you say which stores. We do not have anything set in stone, but I am doing a convention in August. And it is just - FITX - like it Fitx you, and it Fitx me.

***Who buys Fitx the most, is it the younger generation, or is it a mix...***

I would say overall the average buyer is from 19 to 25 years old. We are trying to introduce the mentality of the older generation of having quality over quantity, to the younger generation.

We have two types of black hoodies. One is plain and just a good quality. Then there is another black hoodie that we created to be more fun, and it has a few sayings. I actually found this Tweet that I tweeted about Spirituality, and I had that embroidered onto the sleeves.

***Can you share with me what it is...*** ‘Slaves only dream to be kings’, then the other one says - ‘Having a life experience is not an easy job, but from the Spiritual point of view whatever is best is happening at all times. Our Soul is always seeking new experiences to grow and expand’. ***Oh! I like that!...*** Isn’t it cool!?!...***hahaha yes, if you must say so yourself.*** Yes, I was going through my Twitter the other day and I saw it, and I was like this is really cool.

Okay! What are five things that you cannot live without...

Uuummm...well obviously my phone; my wallet; a working credit card...Ahahaha yes!...my I.D.; this is very basic, but living in L.A. you need a car; a moisturizer - can't live without it. Yes!! what you are like 27-28 years old? And you look like you are 12 years old. Ahahaha thank you. Yes, I lather sunscreen on like crazy. I am all about prevention. What sunscreen do you use... I use Goop...Oh, yes! That is a good one, I switch between Dr.Jart+ and Shiseido. Oh yes, those are good too. Yes - hair flip, you are like a Spirit Animal. Hahaha.

What advice would you give to your younger self...

Oh my God! hold on tight...it is going to be a bumpy ride. I would say honestly move to the U.S. as quickly as possible. I have been here for four years now, but I always wanted to move here. Even before going to college I did a summer school here - because my parents wanted me to see if I liked it (the U.S.), and if I could handle it.

I went to school in the Valley, and it was hard. It was because I didn't know anyone, nor did I have a car. To get groceries I had to call a taxi, this was pre Ubers and prior to Smart phones so it was pretty hard.

I remember my plan was to always return (to the U.S.). My parents were like finish college, and then you can move. Then they tried to keep me there for as long as they could, they tried to bribe me - bought me an apartment, and let me decorate it. I was like I have everything I need, but I am not really content. I just needed more.

I literally left everything behind and made the move back (to the U.S.) - left my car; house; and my dogs. That is so brave, I don't know if I could leave the dogs. Congratulations on that. It was really hard, but at the end of the day the most important thing in my life is my goals. I have goals. That is so beautiful, and such a testament to yourself, that you knew that you would be successful. Leaping regardless (of any fear), because you have so much belief in yourself. Most get stuck in fear - because of thinking ‘the what if I fail’. Yet you still learn something from failing. Yes, and going back to what I said earlier from the Spiritual point of view - ‘the best is happening at all times, your Soul is always seeking to learn and grow, it is seeking experiences.

What is your favorite way to unwind...

Oh my gosh - I thought about that a lot. But...obviously going to Target. OMG! It is like the devil store - I literally go in for one thing, and come out $150 later. I am like what in the hell happened. I am like what did I buy!...You took the words out of my mouth! You cannot go in there for free. Yet I feel like it is Disneyland...they have it so your eyes goes to stuff you had no intention of buying, or needing. I knowwww!. But it is so fun for me, and one of my favorite places to go.

I go there more than I should. I also like...well I am a homebody. I work from home, and I like to take hot baths, unwinding, and watching a movie.

***Thank you so much Lord F...what a pleasure.*** It was, thank you.

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Trinitee Stokes! This accomplished young woman has passion, hope, and drive. Simply put, she’s an overachiever with an infectious laugh and makes you believe there is still hope for the future. Trinitee is the youngest person admitted to Emerson College and she’s still so incredibly humble. I had the immense pleasure getting to know Trinitee. Enjoy!

***Hi Trinitee! how are you.***.. I am doing great, how are you? ***Good, thank you. Well let me start off by saying typically I do not like to interview uber over-achievers. You know that I thought that I was one; but reading your bio I was like what the heck.*** Hahaha...well thank you. ***Yes, I was like this is going to take some sheer confidence...fourteen years old and in college. I mean when I was suppose to go I went kicking and screaming. I was like... that is good we need more people like Trinitee.*** Ahahaha, thank you so much!

How would you introduce yourself to people that are unaware of you...

Oh wow!...that is a great question. I would introduce myself as someone that is not afraid to do the unthinkable, and someone that is not afraid to break boundaries. And a fun loving only child. Someone that is socially aware, and definitely about changing some of the problems that are surrounding us today.

You made history being the youngest admitted to Emerson College. Congratulations! Was this your intention to make this accomplishment. What was the road that you took. Because kids at fourteen years old, you are 8th grade still trying to figure yourself out. So what was your process to go straight to college - was that your intention...

No , graduating three early then going to college definitely was not my intention - but it was definitely not something I was afraid to do. Last fall I was considered 10th grade, finishing up 9th grade year. Around November my school counselor told me that I was not only going to have enough credits to graduate, but there were not going to be able to keep me in school any longer. That is how much over credits I was going to be if I stayed any longer, because of my college classes.

Since I will be graduating with 29 college credits taking them to Emerson as well. So it is not in my playbook, but it was the next step, or the only step left for me to do after high school. However, it is something that is right for me to do now. I think something helpful for me is that I was able to find that hidden gem in the COVID quarantine. Because I would not have been able to take as many college classes over the summer, or buckle down on my school work as hard as I did if it were not for the lockdown. It would have been so busy, so I am very grateful that I was able to maximize the time that I was given. Now did you take your AP classes, and the AP test?...we had to score 3 or higher, maybe for it to be rolled over to college credits - so did you have to take your AP test too... So, I did not take AP classes. Instead I took college classes from a local community college. I took my high school classes, and 2 - 3 college classes at a local community college each semester.

With that the college classes, depending on the class, it actually qualifies as a college credit, and a high school credit. So that it is how it actually accelerated my experience in high school faster than AP classes would. So I did not take any AP’s because it would not have been beneficial for me. College was a bit better for me, because I started experiencing how college online would be, and how all that works. While still having a higher level of learning. Gosh, that is amazing, and should be celebrated.

©STOKES FAMILY

You are a motivational speaker, an activist for positive body image amongst teens. What was the catalyst that drove you to address this real pandemic...

I would definitely say my own personal experience. It sort of hit me when I wrote my first book, ‘Bold and Blessed’. Which was the culmination after having my own personal experience with low self-esteem, and not a positive body image. I realized that ‘okay, having a positive body image is so necessary, and so needed in a world where people often are compared to people on social media, models, and people on commercials. Yet no one knows what their mental health is, I realized that no one in the public eye was saying how they maintain their body image, and having high self-esteem when I was experiencing that. So I decided to speak up, and become a voice for positive body image, and high self-esteem, because if no one is speaking to how they were able to make it through, then no one would be able to make it through successfully with everything in tack. That is what sort of drove me to that.

What would you say is the largest influencing factor (regarding negative body image) for teens. And what can we all do to start making a positive change in this area...

You can never fit in perfectly. If you're too big there is an issue. If you are too small, then you are sickly. You cannot make everyone happy. And regardless what anyone says it does effect how you see yourself. The world can tell you, that you are beautiful, but you look in the mirror, we always remember the negative comments, or the negative; it just stays with us longer. What are your thoughts on that...

The largest factor would have to be social media. With social media people highlight the best parts of their lives, and they do not showcase anything that goes into how they look and feel. Especially with editing these days, it is so easy to edit yourself to be the way that you want. Instead of loving yourself just the way that you are. And I think that is the solution. Finding ways to encourage people to love themselves just the way that they are; because each year there is always a new trend. Always a new way that you should look, and always someone new who you should try and look like, versus enjoying they way that you are and the way that you look. So the more people that adapt to this way of thinking and the more people that adapt it, and encourage it the easier it will be. Perfect.

***What is your message to teens regarding ‘peer pressure’...***

For me peer pressure is definitely something that has come up before. The way that I have handled it is to remind myself of my values, and the things that I am not willing to compromise on; and if there is anyone around me that wants to change me or anything that I do; or try to push me against my will, morals, values - then clearly that person doesn't need to be around me or in my life. So that is how I plan, and have been tackling peer pressure.

It is all about remembering who you are, and staying true to those things that make you unique. If everywhere you go you change yourself to fit in with the popular crowd, at the end of the day you still will never be you, you would just be a carbon copy of someone else.

Trinitee you are a speaker; singer; author; talented actor; philanthropist; and college student - what would you say, drives you everyday...

What drives me everyday would be a combination of my dreams, and what I know I can be, and what I can do. So for me when I am doing any of the things that you listed, whether I am acting and I know I can do something better; or try it in a different way I will do it.

Or I have these big dreams, either it is going to college, or writing my own book just these evolving and constant dreams of mine continue to drive me everyday. I do the thing that I need to do to reach those goals - everyday.

Please tell us more about your being a Global Ambassador for ‘Read Across Africa’. How did you get involved as a Global Ambassador for this cause...

‘Read Across Africa’ is definitely one of my favorite causes that I am a part of; because I love literature, and reading. I also think reading is very important. So being the Global Ambassador for ‘Read Across Africa’ I am mainly the spearhead , and speaker of all things ‘Read Across Africa’. We started in Kenya, and making sure they have access to books, and proper school books. As well even having their own books.

About two years ago I went to Kenya and went to the first library in the area of Casema, Kenya, it is the first library ever in Kenya. Some kids were able to own their first book just because of the library.

I became involved with ‘Read Across Africa’, I was at a conference with the founder and I told her that I really wanted to go to Africa. That I really love books too, and we have to figure out a way to do something.

What would you advise to a young person that is unmotivated, and feels that they have a lack of direction, goals...

Figure out what excites, and drives you. It is going to be that thing that excites you, it will be either your career, or be important in your career.

For me I enjoy politics, it excites me, and I am a Political Communications major. Everything that excites you it is important, whether that is playing sports or cooking. Especially look around you, and take note of the things that excite you the most; and the things that really just drive you. And I would take it from there.

What is the next thing on your list ‘To Do’, and experience....

The next thing on my ‘To Do’ list today is to pick my classes for Emerson... Yay!... The next thing on list is to pitch projects of my own, and to get those in motion - some shows, and some movies. Yes, I am so excited.

What was the highlight for you playing ‘Tamika’ on ABC’s hit series ‘Mixed-ish’...what did you learn from that experience...

The highlight of playing Tamika would definitely be later in Season 1, when Tamika and Rainbow became friends it was so cool and sweet; because I love to see a good character evolution. To see Tamika go from being harsh and sort of non-accepting, to have her a leader. And leading Rainbow through life was something that was amazing for me.

What is your favorite way to unwind and have fun...

Yes, I relax in so many different ways - I love coloring; word puzzles; painting; and reading a good book of course. Also love doing my make-up and going on walks. All artsy things, I love trying and I love doing. So that is what you will usually catch me doing about 7:00 p.m!

***Thank you, Trinitee!***

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I had the immense pleasure to talk with the amazing artist Ruben Rojas. Ruben has made it his mission to not only spread love but to “Live Through Love”. I had a blast picking his brain! Enjoy!

©RUBENROJAS

Hi! Ruben how are you... I am good, good just navigating doing all of these things. I thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me - I love your artwork, and just your ethos. Well awesome, thank you.

How would you introduce yourself to people that are unaware of you...

You mean besides saying hi, I’m Ruben? ...Ahahah, yes! - you know people either dive right into that question, or just give a one word answer. Yes, this is always a funny question because I do not like putting myself into categories...but, I am Ruben an artist, and a designer from Los Angeles, California.

I love your ethos about spreading Love. Especially during this time it can be challenging to stay positive, upbeat, and loving if you turn on the news. What was the catalyst for you leaving your corporate job, creating Love Through Art, and your brand...

I was miserable at work. That is what it came down to, and I could not see myself doing it for the long term. Regardless how good I was at it, or the amount of money coming in. I did not want to be going home miserable.

At the time I wasn't married, or had a kid at the time - but I thought what if I end up divorce because I am unhappy. What if my kid resents me if I am not happy? Just saying that I am providing (for my family) is not enough.

In 2013 I painted a mural and the feedback was awesome. Then the following year I painted two murals, three, and then four. I started to try and figure out what does it look like to be an artist. Then I just stopped going to the office. Your murals are just very cool!

©RUBENROJAS

Did you find it was a little harder in the beginning to produce loving art.... was that challenging in the beginning. Or was it that you wanted to project, and evoke Love -

Well, creating is always hard. But this is who I am, and what I am. It is what I show. We operate out of Love, or out of fear. You turn on the television, and it is not hard to see fear everywhere. Most of what you see does not show the world as a happy place. So we need more, and more people showing this (Love and happiness). Live Through Love, it is not easy to Live Through Love. I am not saying ‘oh yay I love you’ and you are good to go.

You have to do the work. It is self-love, and looking at another way of viewing things. So that is what it comes down to - you can be a victim, or not be a victim.

***How did your book, ‘Live Through Love’, come to be...was it planned, or was it organic***

Very organic. I had an account that I use to share poetry on. My wife, well then she was my girlfriend...I said (to her) - ‘ hey, I wrote these poems check them out.’ She said I buy books of poetry, this poet, and that poet. She suggested that I start an account, and said you never know.

Then that account grew pretty quickly, then I stopped. Managing multiple accounts, and doing multiple things (was a lot). I had hundreds of poems over time. I would share them , and then I would paint them in my murals.

One day I grabbed a Journal and wrote the whole book of poems. Then I gave it to my friend, and said this is the book I want to publish. That is kind of how it happened.

List five things you cannot live without...

Ohhh...five things I cannot live without besides water, and oxygen? Ahahah...yes! Besides the human necessities....

My phone; family - wife, son, and dog...ooohhh I have never been asked this... Music; traveling; and... Do you like chocolate?... I love chocolate, but I could so live without. Fitness! That is my non-negotiable. It is something I definitely could not live without.

What was the catalyst for creating the whole Love awareness...you said that you were not married at the time. Do you think when you refocused, and made yourself happy, that is what brought in your happy family. Did evoking that (Love) cause you to create such a loving family -

Aaahh, no because I started dating my wife two years after I started just painting murals. I was still a financial advisor, I never told anyone that. So I do not think one lead to another, it is all part of the same thing. So more symbiotic, you were happy and naturally attracted the person that was the Robin to your Batman. Yeah...that was Bumble. Hahaha...did you say Bumble - The App? Yeah! We were each others first and last date on Bumble.

©RUBENROJAS

What would you say is your inspiration to push through life’s challenges and persevere. What do you tell yourself when life gets challenging - because it is a choice to Live Through Love...

I mean life is now. We do not have an option we are not going to be here forever. So we all have good days, and we all have bad days. You have to keep pushing forward. It does not matter if it is one step that day, or if you jump a mountain that a day. That is how I would answer that.

What advice would you give to your younger self...

Oooh...I do not regret any decision I ever made; because we are the sum of all of those decisions. Like if I looked back and said I wish I didn’t date her, I didn't do that, or didn't work there...All of that led to this. Honestly, it would be...I can't say that... because even the mistakes...or thinking I could have become an artist sooner. That might not be where I am right now.

If I said anything different it would take away from what I am now, so I would not want to say anything different (to my younger self). Okay, I understand that... That is the whole point, if I say something it changes my whole outcome. So it is serendipitous...Yeah!

©RUBENROJAS

Last, and most fun question...what is your favorite way to relax and unwind -

Ooohh, it depends on the day. Honestly, after work and it is all done; I put my phone, and my kid to bed - we just watch some shows, and disconnect from everything. What is your favorite show right now... favorite show right now - it depends on what's playing right now, right? I am more of a show and movie guy. I do not watch reality television, news, or any of that. Smart. Do you binge on any Netflix shows -

Yes! Netflix!...but it depends because if it's already over, and not on again, then it is not currently my favorite show. Like ‘Game of Thrones’, I loved that show but it is over. So I can't say its my favorite show. But! I love anything Marvel that is a good one.

©RUBENROJAS

Thank you so much Ruben! Check-out all his amazing artwork, clothing, and jewelry HERE!

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I had the immense pleasure to talk with Alejandra about Mr. Tortilla and her passions. Enjoy!

***Hi! Alejandra how are you...*** Good, good Adylia how are you... ***Good, thank you for taking the time to talk with me. I know that you are busy...***

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you...

My name is Alejandra Delgado, I am the Vice President of Sales, well I use to be the Vice President of Sales, and now I am Vice President of Operations at Mr Tortilla. Congratulations on Mr. Tortilla being the number one seller on Amazon, that is a huge feat. What do you think has been the driving force - is it the ethos of the company?, the pandemic? ...or a combination?

I would say it is a combination of both, but I take great pride in saying it is our tortillas. They are delicious, and they are healthy. Just one carb, and fifteen calories. People now with the pandemic they want to eat healthy; they are keto, and diabetic friendly.

Even for people that want to just eat healthy, they can still enjoy their favorite food - enchiladas, chilaquiles, and maintain that healthy feeling. They are delicious , I have to say. So pretty much you can get all of your guilty pleasures without the guilt. Exactly! one of the best pleasures that we can all enjoy. Then being calorie friendly that is literally hitting the jackpot. This is game changing for everyone. Adylia, I have people tell us that they are diabetic and they could not have their tortillas before; and they would just wish they could have them (and now they can enjoy their tortillas). That is beautiful, honestly I would not think or correlate how a regular tortilla digests, and the effects on your insulin. That is amazing.

You were a part of incorporating New Horizons into the business model of Mr. Tortilla. Please explain how this partnership came to be and what you love most about working with New Horizons...

Well, that is something that we always wanted to do, and give back to the community; so we thought of different ways of doing that. We were lucky enough to be introduced to New Horizons to help displace people with special needs, and different jobs. Honestly, for us it would be cheaper to get bags (tortilla bags) that are already printed.

We thought...why not get bags and the people from New Horizons with special needs could just paste the Mr. Tortilla logo on them; and we actually create jobs for them. That is wonderful. We did that, and we are so blessed and happy. They are exceeding our expectations, they are killing it. You cannot believe that is one of the biggest blessings. The company is going well, things are going great; and we are helping people eat healthy.

Then just to see them receive their checks every two weeks (the New Horizons employees).The best part is when you see the pride that they take, and what they do for us. It is just awesome, and such a great feeling. I think it comes from, and correct me if I am wrong, you are treating them like any other viable member of society. And not treating them like they are a bother, or an old ball and chain. You are sending the message - you are just like us, you are productive. People can feel energy, and everyone wants to be valued and feel important.

Yes!, oh Adylia you would be surprised. They give their opinion, and it is beautiful. They actually tell us..’ We should do this’, and we actually do take it into consideration, they have great ideas. It is giving them the opportunity. ***That is amazing. When I found out about New Horizons I did not know whether to smile, or cry. People don't realize everyone wants to be seen, and feel that they have a purpose. Beautiful.*** Imagine the happiness for their parents. They too wonder what is going to be of their son, or daughter. A quick story - when they got their first check our supervisor asked... ‘Hey Manual what are you going to do with your first check’. And he said...’ I am going to take my Mom out to dinner, and I am going to pay for it’. ***Oh my gosh, that is beautiful. Things you take for granted. Wow...you got me Alejandra.*** Yes, it is one of the perks of my job, it is heart filling. It makes you even value your life more. ***Oh gosh yes it does, it leaves you speechless.***

Okay, list five things that you cannot live without...

Well, five things... one - definitely my family, without them I would not be able...they are my backbone, my motivation, my motor, and everything. Two - coffee!, that starts my day. No coffee you have a grumpy Alejandra. Three - I am a very energetic person, and I do not think I could live without soccer, or sports. Any type of activity that helps me to unwind and forget about my day. Four - My husband, he is my biggest cheerleader. Having his support makes me stronger in what I do. Uummm let’s see...Five - Adylia, everybody needs love in their life. You work better, and play better with love in their life.

You are the first and only female board member for Mr. Tortilla, what is your mission statement to foster an inclusive company culture...

One thing is actually motivating other women to actually precede, and to do their best. At first I thought the position that I have now, was impossible to get. I see with hard work, and perseverance you can achieve your goals. I would love to talk to other women, and also guide them on things that I have learned along the way to being the first woman board member at Mr. Tortilla.

What would you say is your inspiration, self-talk to push you through life’s challenges to persevere...because we all have set-backs and bad days...

Well, Adylia there are many things that I tell myself to achieve my goals, and get myself going. One thing is to not ever give up. There are times when things get challenging, or you make mistakes - first of all you need to get up. You make a mistake - you learn from it, acknowledge, and learn from it. So that is one of the things I tell myself not to ever give up, and own up if you make mistake. And then learn from it.

What advice would you give to your younger self...

Hmmm, let me see. Well, again it would be to not to ever give up. Like hard work always pays off. Honestly, to always have a second plan. I have actually achieved everything I have wanted to this point. Always set yourself goals, but remember to always have a second plan after you achieve your goals. Or really, ask yourself what is next after you have achieved your goals.

Last and most fun question! ...what is your favorite way to relax and unwind...

Oh, wow! That is my favorite question! I would say dancing. I love to dance, Adylia. So I love unwinding by putting music on, and dancing. Wonderful, I cannot dance...but that sounds amazing. I wish I could. I bob my head on beat… but nooo (dancing). Hahahaha, well that is a start (bobbing your head).

Well, Alejandra thank you so much for your time... Thank you so much!

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Paula Garces- the definition of Beauty and Brains. When she’s not starring on Netflix’s hit ‘On My Block’ she is creating ‘The World of Aluna.’ With ‘Aluna: Sentinel of the Shards’ about to be available on PS4, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC; I had the immense pleasure to discuss Aluna, acting, and how she’s managed to stay AGELESS! Enjoy!

***Hello!...***Hi!, how are you?...***I’m good how are you?*** Good, thank you.  ***I am going to jump in because I know that you are on set now...***

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you...

Eeeww...well, I say my name…ahahaha - I am Paula Garces. If it is business related I would say - I am an actor, producer, a director, I am a mom, and an artist. Who are you!, and what are you up to? That's how I let myself be known.

I am very excited to be interviewing you. You are a successful actor, producer, director, and now adding co-creator of the video game Aluna: Sentinel of the Shards. Would you say the same tenacity that it took becoming a successful actress, producer-director applies to co-creating Aluna: Sentinel of the Shards...

Uhhh, yes, I think definitely co-creating Aluna had to do with me trying to expand myself as an artist. I have been very lucky having some success as an actor, from a very early age. I have been blessed that my career has kept going. Then I was introduced to the world of Comic-con. When I went to San Diego (to Comic-con) for the first time I was like ‘Wow! I am home’. There are people of all color, creed, and backgrounds here. And I was happy everyone were getting dressed up as their favorite characters, reciting lines from movies, and reading comic books.

Like all of that is how I grew up, and spent my childhood. That is the reason why I became an actor. I very quickly realized (and this was back in 2008), that there were no Latino Super-heroes, that I knew. There were no p.o.c. (people of color) representation, nor representation in a positive light. So it inspired me to go back home and create my own comic book. And then it just grew from there. I love that!

What I really liked about Aluna was the mix of Folklore history, the strong female role in your likeness; and you voiced it. Was there another reason why you wanted to bring this character to life…

Yeah, a lot of it has to do with my own ignorance. I grew up in N.Y., both parents are Latino. It was just a lack of understanding on my part, ignorance on my part, of my history. Where do I come from?...how did Latinos get to the U.S.?...what was that like?; and why is the Latino community kind of segregated on its own.

So I wanted to create a Super Hero that would kind of unite us. Not just Latino people, but African-American’s, and Anglo-Saxon. As well I wanted Europe, South America, The Caribbean, Central America, and African cultures to come together; and see themselves in Aluna.

She is based in a lot of the Inca and Aztec mythology which includes really everyone on the planet. It is about appreciating the planet and one another; and creating this Super-Hero that everyone could look at and see themselves in (the character). And through her struggle just make an adventure out of it. Where what if there was a Super-Hero that gave conquistadors a way to go, I mean how different would our history be? A lot...hahaha

That is really the big philosophical question. We as a team tried to make Aluna: Sentinel of the Shards a lot of fun, celebrating a different culture that has not had much light as far as video games go. Actually I am really excited for this, it is very cool. Thank you! The typical shooting games I am familiar with, and played with my brother; but this one I am very excited - and will have to get it.

Thank you I hope you get it. I hope you recommend it. It is a top down PG game, and we had a ball making sure that the world see something reflective of our culture. There is a lot of mysticism, so we play with history a bit, and play with mysticism. You know our culture calls for a lot of superstition. ***Yes!...*** People will see and identify a lot of folklore, mystic creatures, like in Invisible City.  ***Yes! I am so excited for this.***

I am simply obsessed with ‘On My Block’. No!!!! Really! ...Yes, I have been obsessed since the first season. It is a sickness. I have been waiting for Season 4, and do not understand what has been taking so long. I was devastated by the end of Season 3. I had to re-watch it (Season 3) like five times, and I am still confused. So my question is ...what do you enjoy most about portraying Jenny. And is there a hint of what Season 4 is going to look like, because I really want to know...

Well, thank you for being a fan, and having a sickness. Because of you, and because of our audience we have the three seasons that we have; and I will tell you this I am on set today. This is day one of shooting for Season 4. So you are definitely getting a scoop there. Oh! My gosh - yes!

As we speak I am getting ready to film my first scene of Season 4. We left off Season 3 with them having a flash forward. Yes, uh-huh. And there were a lot of things revealed about the flash forward. We are picking up Season 4 right where the flash forward left off. So there is going to be some growth to our characters, and some things that will happen.

For those of you guys that say...’oh it is taking so long’, thank you and trust me... if you the audience have been anxious and stressed out about the Season; the actors too, we really wanted to come back to work. Obviously because of the pandemic, there was a while where it was not safe to do so. Right now, being on set I was very inspired by all the precautions that Netflix has taken to keep the actors, crew, and everyone that works on our set safe.

So just pray for us to make sure no one gets sick. Oh, yes definitely. So, today is the first day, and that is all that I can tell you. No, that is fine I do not want to be selfish. So...go re-watch the last Season so you can see where we are going to take off from. Okay, perfect.

List 5 things that you cannot live without...

Oh gosh...I am going to be so corny . Okay obviously my kids, family, and friends are one. Oh!!! Food... is everything to me - I love to cook it, eat it, and love to try new things. And yeah I am very stereotypical to what a Latina is to be like...ahahaha. Ahahaha. I am not the one to be one-hundred pounds because I am an actor, I cannot do it.

I love Empanadas; Mexican food; Central American food, like Pupusas. If you are shooting in L.A. you have to go to L.B.Jr in Redondo Beach, they have the best bean and cheese burritos, L.B.Jr. Okay, I am writing it down - L.B.Jr. Okay, the next thing is drinks, that is included. The other day I celebrated my b-day, I realized I have a baby picture, and my mom is holding me. And I am reaching for the champagne bottle, of course! Ahahaha.

Yes, if anyone knows me I love anything bubbly, even my water. I am obsessed with Seltzer Water and Champagne, that is number two. Okay, three to go. What about your phone! Uh...ummm I can live without my phone. Oh, okay. My family and friends complain I don't pick up my phone, and that I don't answer texts - I love to be in the moment. I cannot live without my camera, because I love to document the moment. I can't live with out music, and music goes with dancing. Okay, and number five...I cannot live without art, honestly. It is reflective of what is going on in life, be it positive or negative, happy or sad. Art is what keeps society moving forward, of dreaming, and achieving wonderful things. Perfect.

When you are working, and it is late what is your favorite go to snack...

Hmmm...usually when I am working late there is a food truck that magically appears on the set. One of the perks of being on the job. My favorite is tacos, oh-oh and coffee, I love coffee. It should have been one of my five things. We will add coffee. Okay, so a good taco truck, and a good coffee truck when I am on set.

What is your favorite beauty staple - a bold look, bold lip, no make-up look, or strong brow. So what is your favorite day-to-day look...

My day-to-day I do not wear any make-up, and I let my hair be natural. My hair is naturally wavy, and I have a lot of it. People don't usually recognize me because I have no make-up, and my hair is big and wavy. I work out, I stay hydrated, and moisturized.

One thing is that I will do my lashes. I love my lashes. I will do individuals, or strips. Oh my gosh that is impressive, you are talented. I tried once and almost dotted my eye out. Ahahaha, oh gosh. Well if you say so (that I am talented). Then I will put that under my talents…ahahaha

What are you most excited about for people to experience with Aluna the video game, and the final Season of ‘On My Block’ and seeing you as Jenny.

I am really excited for anyone to play the game. It has been a dream come true for me to actually create, produce, and doing the voice. And everything that entails for the production of this game. I hope people give it a chance, and go buy it. Just to love it, and tell their friends.

The more people support video games like Aluna, the more there will be a chance for more roles for powerful women, for P.O.C. (people of color) to see themselves reflected in a positive light in video games. That is really the main focus - I hope that people love it, have fun, and that the whole family plays it when they can.

For ‘On My Block’ I hope a lot of people watch it, and people watch it so much; that it becomes such a huge hit - and that we get another season. Oh my gosh…me too. I was devastated when I read that this was the last season. I was like what are you doing Netflix.

Well, Netflix is known for respecting what their audience wants. If the audience wants it, their wish is Netflix’s command. Oh that is good to know. Everyone (the cast) that I have talked to wants another season.

What was your process for creating Aluna…

We started with the comic book - The World of Aluna. For anyone who wants to get into the real story, her origin, and the history. They should go to TheWorldofAluna.com , and purchase books 1- 8, which are now available, in digital or physical version. That is where we started. Then we licensed the likeness of Aluna, the character to an online video game called ‘Heroes of North’. And she became one of their top 10 heroes. She was chosen about ninety-thousand times a day at her peak.

That is what gave us the motivation. Ninety-thousand plus people a day worldwide liked to play her. We grew as the audience grew, everything is dictated by our fans; I respond to you (the fans). If you show me some love, I am definitely going to show you ten times more love.

What is your favorite way to unwind…

With my family, and playing some video games with my son. A champagne glass, or Prosecco on the side; with something sweet like a piece of chocolate. Very simple. I put on some music, and I dance. Even though the pandemic has been very sad in some ways, it has also given me a chance to be home with my kids, family. To really reflect on what is important.

I also like the quiet moment when I sit and let my imagination go wild. Then I write it down, and I start creating; because I think it is important. When I was little I looked up to people that looked like me. Like Sophia Loren, I was like who is that. There was not that many, and we still have a way to go.

My mission is to create a base for people of color to have a voice, and to create jobs. I have been working behind the scene in production for a while; my motivation to do that is for talented people of color to have a light, and shine. That is my motivation.

I invite everyone to please visit TheWorldofAluna.com, to follow Aluna Super Hero on Twitter and Instagram. And to follow me if they like. When the game drops , to purchase it, play it, and give me feedback I would love it.

Thank you so much…Thank you, it has been lovely. I remember watching ‘Clockstoppers’ (2002 - Sci-Fi), and I thought you were just the coolest person in the world…it is funny how things come full circle. Oh! Thank you so much, I really appreciate that.

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Michelle is fearless and makes the coolest clothes with a purpose- We Are Uprisers. Not only is she creating streetwear with a purpose, she has also created an amazing charity #HATEISAVIRUS. I’m so elated to share this interview, enjoy!

  ***Hi, how are you...*** Hi, I’m good. ***I am so happy that we were able to do this, and a fellow Palos Verdes kid. I have been dying (for this interview).*** Yes. ***You graduated from Peninsula High...right.*** Yes! ***Yes, I was at Chadwick School. Did you graduate in 2009...*** Yes, 2009...yes, we are the same year. ***No, way!***

Then my brother told me that you were an ice skater. I was a fencer. So I thought is was very cool we were both athletes, and both in isolating sports. Well, at least yours you could wear pretty outfits. Yes!, but so uncomfortable...I felt like I was being tortured in those tight clothes. Well at least you looked pretty. In fencing you had the mask, and you look like a boy - so at least someone sees you. Do you still do fencing? Oh!, no...I was recruited for Temple University but I quickly retired (after that). I love your t-shirts, then the tie-dye too - and done for a purpose. I was mind blown. And you can get them at PacSun. Hahahaa...thank you. Was it your brother that found me? Yes, it was. He was like let’s definitely reach out to her, she is a fellow Palos Verdes kid. Then you said yes, and we were so happy. Yes! I was so glad that you reached out.

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you...

I am Michelle Hanabusa. I am the founder of a community driven street wear brand, called We Are Uprisers. And also the co-founder of #Hate Is A Virus. I was born and raised in Los Angeles - Culver City. I moved to Palos Verdes my Sophomore year of High School.

You were an ice skater. What made you to re-focus on fashion, and what traits that you learned from ice skating do you apply in your day to day business.

I was a competitive figure skater since I was 14 years old. I started when I was really young, that was my entire life during my youth...and all the way up to college. It is interesting look back...it is not like I did sports then transitioned into fashion. I think fashion, and creative artistry was always within me. I think that was my favorite part within the sport. Outside of the competitiveness, which I am very competitive; I always designed my costumes. No, way! I would go downtown to the fashion district (in L.A.), to pick out the fabrics. Then all of the rhinestones that you see on the dresses, I hand glued every single one. It was a passion of mine, and I knew the amount of glue that I would use per rhinestone.

My wining costume, I think I was in middle school got me to be one of the gals that picks flowers for the Olympians. Well, that dress was actually made by my Mom after I designed it. I ended up picking the flowers for Michelle Kwan during Nationals for that time.

It was always embedded in my sports life. I have enjoyed the performance, entertainment aspect of it. So when I stopped figure skating, it was not like one day I woke up and stopped. I actually had to have hip surgery because of overuse, and all the impact overtime. It was kind of presented to me that they didn't think that I could compete any longer; but if I still wanted to do it as a hobby, or to do it for entertainment I could do that. So I did that for a while. As well in college, figure skating was a huge part of my life.

I made a clear decision since I was not going to be a professional figure skater anymore. I decided that I was going to go get a college education, and I started to explore what I was going to tap into. Actually at Peninsula High School they had a graphic design program. So, for my Junior, and Senior years(s) I decided to explore that, and I really enjoyed it. So, in college it was a mixed program...Communications, Fine Arts, and also Business. Because I knew at some part in my life I would be my own boss, or doing Freelance, and do my thing.

I wanted to get a bigger, and broader understanding of the creative industry in general, because I knew I was not just going to be a graphic designer. And that's pretty much how the journey started.

Congratulations on your collaboration with PacSun. As I have said I love Uprisers, the tie-dye and everything, it embodies authenticity with traditional streetwear. It is unique. Can you share how Uprisers came to be..

Yes, so the journey really began post-college when I....well (how do I explain this), outside of skating which I did not have anymore...I kind of lost who I was, and what my identity was. Because I was never able to really explore that (aspect of myself) outside of the skating world. So when I lost that (skating), I was very confused as to who I was, what my place was, and what my purpose was.

I never really tapped into my Asian culture, or my Asian identity until post college. Being in the real world, seeing how the world is shifting...by the time we hit 2016 I felt this urge having to bridge the gap between consumers, companies, and brands themselves. I did not believe in this top down, and companies telling you what you should be listening to, or what you should be seeing, or buying into. I really wanted it to come from the people, and to have the people’s voice themselves tell what they wanted to see in the world; and the change that they wanted to see.

In 2016 was the beginning of that journey, and I was still working my 9 to 5 job, but I wanted to find a different creative outlet to start addressing that. And my first journey within that was to hone into my Japanese-American culture, and my history. Throughout the years I was able to volunteer and was a part of the Little Tokyo Japanese-American Community, to really understand the businesses that have been around for decades. Even before WWII, the Concentration Camps, and not only understanding that side of my history. But then also seeing how I can creatively use my skills, and talents to address these things; and more so the story-telling aspect of it. I was really passionate about that. I had the opportunity to start my Brand under a Venture backed opportunity, and it was first venture into entrepreneurship and leaving my 9 to 5 job. Unfortunately that did not work out, and I took some time off, and took a step back. After all my learnings, the ups and downs in those two years of experience. I looked at what am I really passionate about with Uprisers, and for me and the two people who have been with me since my first venture. I am really passionate about telling stories in under-represented people, movements, and communities. And so the vehicle that I know how to do that is through fashion, and through street wear. Perfect.

***When you were Ventured backed was PacSun on the table as well...*** No! ***Yes, that is even more amazing.*** It was really interesting. I was scared, I was scared to go off on my own. Not only was I boot-strapping it with the savings that I had; I think I am still un-packing this as well - as a minority, as a woman in this industry that is predominately male.And just in general it took me up to this year for people to honestly take me serious. I use to get comments all the way back in 2016, when I started this...’Wow, oh Michelle that is cute’. ***Oh my gosh - yes!*** ***I know.*** Yes! Out of all the words (to use). Also, ‘Oh, Michelle that is a really cute hobby that you are doing’. I put all of my blood sweat and tears into this, and so it is very frustrating for people to not take me serious. I am running a business. ***Yes, when I started Yhorlife years ago it was very challenging. When you compare it to now when my brother has taken it over as the CEO, and the face. It is just digested better.*** Oh my gosh it breaks my heart, and not to say your brother is not doing anything. It took me a long time to get to this space, but I am very intentional with what I do; and I do everything from the heart.

I honestly believe that resonates with people. Even the PacSun collaboration, I would never imagined this opportunity presented to me in this way. It is like rewarding. Yes, it is super, super cool. I am also going to be doing something with Complex this year. No, way! with Joe La Pluma that is amazing. Yes, there is something to be said to...uhh, and this sounds so cliche - but believing in yourself. People feel when it is authentic, and pure. Congratulations. Yes, thank you.

© @JULIAKESTNERDESIGNS

You are also the co-founder of #Hate Is A Virus. Most recently we talked about this before...the latest hate crime where the man killed the Asians in their places of work in Georgia. When you hear these news stories, which seem like almost daily, do you get down and think will this ever end. And does it still make you want to spread the love and knowledge, and does it ever really just get you down...

Yes, that is really a good question. I think what happened with the eight people that were killed at three different spas in Georgia; I think that was a breaking point for a lot of us in the community. These things are not new, they always existed in the Asian-American experience in history; it is just coming more to the forefront. As well, covered by main stream media, and more of us are speaking up about this.

Hate Is A Virus started last year right before the pandemic hit. We had already started to see on my personal news feed, my personal experiences, and stories that I was hearing people hesitant to go to Asian owned restaurants. They thought they would catch CoronaVirus. There was a lot of misinformation, and also political rhetoric; and that helped fuel those ideas.

So Hate Is A Virus started with more of a local initiation because my team and I were talking at my dining room table, and trying to digest what was going on within our community. If there was anything that we could do locally with just our friends, and family - and just do it. Kari Okubo is also a core member on Hate Is A Virus, and she coined the term Hate Is A Virus. It started to help, and support these small businesses that were affected by the pandemic.

Then it quickly escalated into a digital movement once lockdown happened. My co-founder Tammy Cho, we have been running this movement that started last year; but has now become a Non-Profit.

Regarding what happened last week, oh my gosh... I think we all...uuhhh it has been a roller coaster of emotions. There have been days when I have caught myself crying, then angry, as well as those days when I felt defeated and exhausted. Like does our work help, or make it worse. But finding ways that we can take action, be it long term, or short term; allows me to feel hopeful for the future; and that we are making progress. As well, other communities reaching out to us, and saying we stand with you; that makes me feel hopeful. Congrats on your Non-Profit status. Thank you!.

Okay...a little less heavy...list 5 things, or people that cannot live without. If you were on a desert island what would you bring...

My phone; coffee; my family; measuring tape...ahaha; and my Wacom tablet - I sketch on it.

When you are in work mode what is your favorite late night snack...

Popcorn! - salted with a light butter.

What is your process for designing...

That is a good question! I have a Journal with me every night, and I try to write in it and doodle in it as much as possible. That is where I dump all of my thoughts. I have never been good with words, and so it has always been doodling and drawing; and the creative aspects that allows me to express myself. Now my cousin is our main designer for Uprisers, and she and I actually tag team when it comes to designing.

It has been such a cool process, to be able to work with family; and she understands Uprisers’ vision. We have these late night sessions every month, called the ‘Creative Juice’. Do you enjoy working with family... Yeah, she is my only family member on the team, and it is great. Same with my brother, I think it makes us better (closer) siblings.

What is your favorite beauty staple - is it a bold lip, lashes, or no make-up look...

Pre-pandemic it was my last extensions. My lashes just stick straight out. Oh yes!, mine too. Now I have not gotten them, I usually do not wear make-up at all.

What is the best thing about creating a Brand with a purpose...

I think everyday I am learning a million things. It allows me to do the work, keep educating and bettering myself more in this space. To meet incredible people, and activists who have been doing the work for a long time. As well to be collaborating, it is so rewarding.

***What is your favorite way to unwind...***

A glass of wine!

Thank you this was so cool. Yes, thank you. After the pandemic we will have to meet up for a coffee. Oh definitely! Of course.

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I had the immense pleasure to interview Award-winning director- Gabriela TagliavIni. She was so gracious to allow me to pick her brain, enjoy!

***Hi!....I am so excited to be able to sit down and talk with you***. I am so excited to be here as well.

Okay, how would you introduce yourself to people that are unaware of you...

I am Gabriela TagliavIni, a writer and director.

How does your writing-storytelling begin...When the movie ‘Despite Everything’ came out I really enjoyed it. Then when I was doing my research I found out that you were the director, and I was even more excited. It is such a serious subject matter, yet you did it in a comical way. Some parts were dark and sad, but for the most part it was a comical movie. What was it like working with Blanca Suarez, Maxie Iglesias, and Amaia Salamanca. And what did you enjoy most about this project...

Oh, the actors in Spain all have a high level of talent. They grow up watching really good television series, and a lot of theatre in Spain. They are very natural and their humor is grounded in reality. So, it was a honor...I knew Maxie’s and Blanca’s work from before, as well as Belen Cuesta’s work. It was truly an honor to direct all of the actors.

What was your process for directing ‘Casa Grande’...

Yes, ‘Casa Grande’ I directed. I have mainly worked in film all my life. So in the last couple of years I have been branching out into television. I had the opportunity, and they sent me this wonderful script, ‘Casa Grande’. The project had scenes with Immigration, and Racism, this was very important for me to do, and I directed five episodes.

***What do you find more challenging...you have been a film director predominately, did you approach directing television series in the same way; or did you change your technique for a television show.*..**

The work of a director is the same for both, television and film; but in television you have more pages a day. So there is a faster pace, that is mainly the difference.

When you start a new project that you write and direct, what comes first for you. Is it creating the story, or creating the direction that you want the audience to view, and the emotions you want to evoke. And then building the story from there...

The honest truth is that every project is different. Some ideas you get in the shower, some ideas come to you already a completed script. Then I have to see if I relate to the script, but to answer your question I always have to feel emotionally invested. Always for me the message is very important, having a positive message is important. Because I feel like we always have a responsibility, or at least I have a responsibility. What is my purpose in life, my purpose is to send a positive message, to elevate the world. It might be too ambitious but...No, you do a great job.

Do you prefer to direct movies, or a series that the subject matter resonates with you. ‘Casa Grande’ is such a politically motivated series.

Yes! It has to resonate with me, otherwise I will not do it. Not even if they pay me a lot. A producer sent me a project, it was from a big studio (not mentioning any names). It was a womanizing man as the lead character. I said I am not going to do that. I was then offered more money, and my answer was still no. I told him do not even tell me, there is no amount. Wow, and that takes guts.Yes, I am very proud of that. This just happened last month.

Do you think that you are able to walk away from projects now, because you have such a track record with producing such emotional, and audience captivating movies - that you can say...’No I am not doing this’. Have you always been like this since you started in your career, or more so now because you have proven yourself in the industry...

Honestly, when I said no, I did not know if I was going to have a job afterwards. It is still very scary, it is always going to be a scary business - because it is unstable. For the first person who starts, a young person; or an accomplished person. You never know, you have to trust it. When I said no I was in the process of finishing ‘Casa Grande’, and I didn't know what other job would come. Then I was offered other projects, so I think that you have to trust the process. You stick to your guns (values, morals), and the right projects will come to you. That is what I believe.

So, to answer the question...you say no, and you never know if you are going to get another project or not. If you say no, at least you know, and then it opens the possibility for something wonderful. Yes, and on top of that you are a lot happier.

***What motivates and drives you to continue directing, whether it is in film or television; and what do you enjoy most about it...***

Well, so many things. Yes, I love working with actors. I love to be surprised when they bring something to the table, they improvise and just surprise me. I love that part. I am an artist. I study painting, cinematography, and photography. So I enjoy the colors. If you see my movies you will see colors.

I enjoy also working with the music. I have worked with the same composer in the last five projects. He is an Argentinian, an amazing composer, and I enjoy our process together. I love collaborating with other artists. That is the wonderful thing about being a film director, you coordinate with one vision; and the different artists that bring amazing different ideas to the table.

Is there another signature stamp in your directing, when someone is watching your films they automatically know it’s yours. I would say colors, but is there something else...

Yes, I have done seven films and I would say the consistency is colors in the production design. Another signature in my films is that I like to put in a lot of music. If you see any of my movies you will see every other scene has music in it. If there is something underneath it, it is very subtle. I believe in the marriage of visual and music, and I use a lot of camera movement. I try to keep the camera moving.

I use a Pelican as a second camera, and I use it a lot. Those things are pushing the envelope a little with the story, and with the positive messages.

The last and most fun question...what do you do to relax and unwind....

Oh, I love it! I have had so many interviews and no one has asked me that - I love it! We keep you on your toes...hahaha...

It is a super fun question. Okay, what I try to do...I like to go to the beach for lunch every two weeks. The ocean has a wonderful energy, it makes me calm and happy right away. Also, I really enjoy my time off with my friends, family; and now talking on the phone with them (due to COVID). Or seeing one friend at a time for a glass of wine, I enjoy the conversation.

I also meditate every morning, and of course I love watching movies, and television to unwind. I love watching them as much as making them. Beautiful.

Yes! go watch the movie(s)...’How to Break Up with Your Douchebag’ from Netflix, also my movie with Sharon Stone, ‘Border Run, on Amazon. Oh!, and also ‘Without Men’, with Eva Longoria and Kate del Castillo. Then see what I have said about my signatures in my movies. Thank you! Thank you!

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Alessandra Villegas makes multi-tasking look easy and glamorous! From a successful TV Host, Entrepreneur, Co-Founder of VJ Official and being a mom shows me that if you want something bad enough you can always create time. I had the immense pleasure to interview Alessandra and couldn’t happier! Enjoy!

©EDEN BLANCO

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?

So excited to be interviewing you! You’re a TV Host and Entrepreneur. Do the same traits that make you a successful entrepreneur, apply to how you’ve been a successful tv host?

I love your brand “VJ Collection ”. What I love is how the brand is embodies simplicity and authenticity. Can you share how “VJ Collection” came to be?

You also recently have started doing MasterClass about gratitude. How did you get into the Practice of Gratitude & what do you enjoy most about your MasterClass?

list 5 things you can’t live without

When you’re in work mode & you have late nights etc. what is your favorite “go-to snack”

What is your process for designing

What is your favorite beauty staple? Ex- bold lip, no-makeup look etc

Last & most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind!

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Dalen Spratt, Juwan Mass, and Marcus Harvey (in no particular order) are the hilarious trio that comprise, The Ghost Brothers. I’ve never laughed so hard or gone over my interview time limit except with this trio! I’m not a fan of being scared or ghosts but after this interview every Tuesday I’ll be tuning in on Discovery+. Enjoy the most liveliest interview to-date!

***Hi Guys, Dalen Spratt, Marcus Harvey, and Juwan Mass...how are you doing***. Hey hey how are you - we are all here! ***I am doing well, okay let me just say I can feel this is going to be a fun, and fast moving interview.***

Introduce yourselves - if we were on the street and saw each other how would you introduce yourself... [Dalen]...I have never been asked that question before. Well, I would say ‘ well hello I’m Dalen...but I don't think that we would go right in and say that we are the Ghost Brothers. [Marcus]...No, I would say - ‘ well you must recognize me from Ghost Brothers, nice to meet you.’ Ahahahah, okay... [Marcus]...and every Tuesday we release a new episode of Ghost Brothers on Discovery Plus, I’m Marcus Harvey it is a pleasure to meet you. [Juwan]...I would introduce myself as...this is Juwan Mass of the Paranormal Posse. Okay, the Paranormal Posse - PP. [Marcus]...Ahahaha hahah, if that is what it stands for, then yes!

Okay now I am asking this question because I am part black, and I can say hundred percent ethnic folks, and myself included we run away from ghosts. So what made you guys run to them willingly. Aaaahhhh...ahahahahah...hahaha [Marcus]...Wait...wait...wait whatttt did you start off saying? You are pro black? Ahahahaha nooo I am half black, ahahaha. [Marcus]...Ahahahaha, ohhh I thought that you said ‘I’m pro black so I can say this’ ahahaha. Nooo...I am half black, ahahaha. [Marcus]...First off all - let me say first, power to the people before I answer the question. [Dalen]...No, to answer your question you are absolutely right. Black people typically do not mess with Spirits. My mother is a Pastor of a church, and I grew up in the church my whole life. We were always allowed to wonder about God, and Angels. But as soon as you speak about Ghosts that is just like this whole taboo thing. Exactly! [Dalen]...Yeah, right but it wasn't until we were older, and moved out on our own that we felt the freedom to question some of these things that we were taught. Or, told to not even address back in the day. Yeah, and that is why we are here now - chasing Ghosts, Bigfoot, and Aliens. Yes, I am loving it. I cannot wait to watch it. But I am going to burn some sage, and have my crystals. Because I do not need someone to come bumping near me.

All of you guys are friends, and have such a camaraderie, and you like each other. But I will say this is not your typical conversation to say - ‘ do you guys see Ghosts too’. So how would you guys evolve to discussing your gifts, and making in essence a career out of it, and being enlightening on your show, and helping people.

[Juwan]...Our conversation came about really organically. Dalen’s mother is a Pastor, he grew up in the church. Marcus grew up in the church, and I grew up in the church. So we use to have honest conversations about Religion; then from Religious to Spirituality conversations. Then we would be in therapeutic settings, we would all be at the barbershop. The barbershop is a therapeutic setting for our culture. When you are at the barbershop you can talk about anything. So we would have these real raw moments of talking - ‘man what is going on - tell me what you are dealing with’. Then the conversations would unfold from there, and that's where we would end up sharing stories. It was real organic how it came about.

Can you guys share your first experience with the paranormal. [Dalen]...Yes, for sure to truncate my story. I was about seven years old, and visiting my grandmother. It was a really small town. There was this young man there (in the town), and he ended up killing himself. So, my grandmother and her best friend - they decided to bring me with them to view the body. My grandmother’s friend made me touch the body in the casket at seven years old. Ohhh...mmmmhhhmmm ohhh no no. I remember going home that night, and waking up in the middle of the night literally, seeing that same young man standing in the room staring at me. I remember being freaked out, and screaming as loud as possible. Since then, and to this day I often think ‘did I really see what I thought I saw, or was I just having a really really bad dream’. Yeahhh that is...wow. Now that is heavy - ahhhhh ok...Juwan and Marcus did you guys want to... [Dalen] Yeah, you know I had to tell someone that. I had to get that out there. I am glad that you did...yeah...I am glad you did. Yeah just threw me a curve ball though. That hit hard. Ok, Juwan or Marcus do you guys want to share your first experience with the paranormal. [Juwan]...Yeah, my first experience happened when I was about twelve years old, and I felt like I was in the presence of someone. I was with the kids in the neighborhood, and it was a truth or dare. We were daring each other to run through the graveyard. And I decided to take the dare to do so. That is when I first identified that Spirits are real. I felt like something was running behind me, I could not see it, nor could I out run it. This was an eerie, weird presence that was with me the entire time that I ran. Okayyyy that is really good as well, and last but not least Marcus. [Marcus]...Yeah well, nooo...hahaha - my Mama didn't play them games. She did not let me have no experiences with no Ghosts, she didn't play that. She would give me a whooping so fast. Like wham-wham-pop! Ahahaha... So I didn't have mine until I met my brothers. So I have always been that one that's been more, or let’s say has more skepticism among the requests that we do. My mom wouldn't play those games - ahahaha that's it. Okayyy, cool.

***In your show ‘Fright Club’ ( Discovery+ ) you deal with it through humor. Do you guys think it is a good buffer for this subject. I mean obviously Spirits, Extraterrestrial, anything that is above what the majority of people can see it really freaks them out. Do you add the humor for people to mentally digest what they are expeeriencing.*** [Dalen]...I think humor comes from two different ways - us being best friends, and anything you do with your three closest friends is going to be a funny time - from getting arrested, getting in fights, even just going to the movies it is going to be a joke or a laugh. Then the second part of that it is just black folks, we make a joke out of everything. ***That is so true.*** It can be the end of the world and we will be like...’eewww it is getting hot’, it is going to be a joke no matter what. ***True.*** That is just who we are as a people - we are resilient, fun loving people, and people that can always make the best out of nothing. [Juwan]... Humor is just like Soul Food, you have to keep from crying in certain instances (in life). Humor feeds the Soul. It adds a certain levity to the genre that people are able to connect with, and it does allow it to be a little bit more palatable, from the paranormal standpoint. [Marcus]...We get more responses, and results in our investigations because we are humorous.

Like anyone that you walk up to, you have more of a chance for the person to be more receptive to have a conversation with you, if you are funny. So that is what makes us relatable with people that are alive, as well with the people that have passed. We feel like someone that you knew before, and I think that is why we get the results that we get. And the humor helps with that.

I just have to know when you guys first got together, since you guys are named Ghost Brothers did you ever play the classic theme song Ghostbusters when you guys got together - ‘Like who are you gonna call Ghostbusters’...Yeah! That is my ringtone on my phone. Yes!, now is it the classic one with Ray Parker Jr., or the new modern one with Zayn Malik singing it. [Marcus]...The classic! Come on now that is the only one we know (Ray Parker Jr.). Gotcha! I knew that someone had to have that as their ringtone.

Tell us more about ‘Fright Club’ with Jack Osbourne. [Dalen]... Fright Club is just a good time, it is just best friends sitting on the couch late at night on the internet. But not in like the creepy way, but in that cool way. Ahahahaha. Yes, just that. There is no other reason that no four 30 year old men are sitting on a couch watching a computer screen but for watching Fright Club. Yesss...it is socially acceptable in that instance. Ahahaha. [Marcus]...My man said not in the creepy way, the cool way, but yet we are searching for paranormal stuff, that is what's funny. [Juwan]...One thing I would like to add it is almost like a group chat, it is like your best friends, and you're showing each other funny videos, memes, and photos. Everybody has a joke and is low key taunting the other one, it’s fun banter; but it is healthy and its funny amongst your friends.

***Now you will also be premiering your 4th series on Discovery in April, what can we expect from this show...*** That show shows us getting back to our roots. That is the original Ghost Brothers, us being put in some of the most horrifying situations to prove, or disprove that Ghosts really do exist. It is with a different twist. This year it gets straight into the action. We will see how that plays off, it is like resetting fear factor back into these investigations. ***Congrats on the 4th series, that is a huge accomplishment.***

What is the best advice (or way) to tell someone to not be afraid of a paranormal experience...[Dalen]...I guess it is that they cannot touch you. They can knock things onto you, but they can't touch you. So just kind of move out of the way when you're investigating. Okayyyy... [Marcus]...to be honest, to tell someone whatever your emotion, or reaction is...it is okay. Because I guarantee you someone else has felt the exact same way - you are not alone. Ahahaha...ahahaha. Yeah, I ain’t going to lie to you, and tell you it’s going to be all good.

How do you guys unwind... Watching ‘Coming to America’. [Dalen]...Honestly, it is doing nothing paranormal. Because that is a lot, and it can take over your mind. You are exploring the after life, the unknown, and it can be a lot of darkness. So just chilling and doing nothing in that regard is how we relax. [Marcus]...Sho-nuff...I also like taking long walks on the beach, writing poetry, and kite flying. Ahahahaha. [Dalen]... aggressive kite flying. [Marcus]...I am in the combative kite flying league, and that is really taking off. [Dalen]...He is being modest, he is like the Michael Jordan of combat kite flying. Stoppp...ahahaha. [Marcus]...I have my Masters in Kiteology, it was a very daunting undertaking. [Dalen]...I don't think that major is at Temple University. I do not think so, but I was only in the Business School at Temple University...ahahaha.

So that is the end of our interview...do you guys have any questions of me. [Dalen]...Do you remember what your homework assignment is? To watch ‘Coming to America’. [Dalen]...Annnddd first rule of ‘Fright Club’ you have to tell everybody about ‘Fright Club’. Oh! Yessss, of course. [Dalen]...And all of your friends at Temple University (tell them).

Yes, I will. Thank you guys, this was so much fun.

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Rawan Bin Hussain- the name associated with glamour, authenticity, and all around Boss Lady! I am so excited that Rawan took the time out of her busy schedule to chat with us! Enjoy this inspiring woman!

©RAWANBINHUSSAIN

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?

I am half Kuwaiti and half Palestinian Entrepreneur and social media influencer. I have grown up in Kuwait but I have lived around the globe like Los Angeles, London for my studies and now in Dubai, where I moved in 2019.

I have studied Law at university in London which is my passion, and I am planning on going back to continue my Master’s degree soon. I have a following of over 9 Million across my social media pages, and feel like I have found my passion also with connecting with brands and being an actual influencer. I have also been blessed to be a mom to a one year old baby. I love my work and enjoy every bit of creating wonderful things with amazing brands and people.

What drives you?

Being grateful for how far I have come, all the challenges that I have overcome and my biggest blessing, Luna.

Like everything in life, there are always two sides to a story. How a person perceives it depends on how they are and how they react to information. Social media allows me to share my lifestyle, it is my work, and I have been fortunate to work with amazing brands, grow my own brand and step into the world of entrepreneurship. I am lucky to get the love and adoration of several like-minded women and girls from around the globe. However the downside is the same too. I have opened my life and work to so many people, not everyone is out there to support you and cheer for you. Some are not going to like you and that is okay. I learnt early on how to take criticism and how to not let myself get affected as sometimes, people can get very negative. I focus on the love I get, the respect I’ve earned and the brands that continue to trust in my work. I think being grateful is above all for me, tough times come and they come around for everyone. We just have to keep pushing.

You have a degree & your business is about empowering women to curate a style that not only speaks to them but helps them achieve what they want. When did you decide to blend your degree and empowering women?

My degree is my love for Law and for educating people and raising awareness about the Law. I always knew I wanted to pursue it. My social media exists because my passion is also bettering, growing with people and doing my best for those around me, even if it is changing or impacting one mindset.

My purpose is to break the stereotype and inspire more young girls like me who has dreams and who want to express themselves. I think that my social media exists for a reason. I want to send out a message to all the women in the world that you are beautiful as you are. Don’t try to be a copy of another women. God created us all differently and that’s why we are beautiful. We are beautiful because we are different than one another. If we will be copies of each other, you will never be someone else and you will never be yourself. So, you are beautiful because you are you, because you are unique, not like any other. And beauty comes in all sizes, all shapes and all colors. So, be confident, cheer up, you are beautiful the way you are. Don’t let the society that you live in, don’t let them set a certain standard of beauty, that’s not healthy.

**Did you always have an entrepreneurial spirit?**

I have been fortunate to work with amazing brands, grow my own brand and step into the world of entrepreneurship. I am lucky to get the love and adoration of several like-minded women and girls from around the globe. My audience keeps me going too!! We stayed connected during the pandemic even more. The tough time of lockdown and people restricted at home, social media proved really beneficial and made us all realize the importance of social media and virtual activity.

Working with top notch brands also gave me the entrepreneurial insight that is crucial and so important. A smart business woman would try to use that platform to establish her own brand. And working with so many successful beauty brands taught me a lot about that business so I try to take all of those experiences and beautiful journeys with brands and put it all in my own brand to combine my love for beauty and my global experience.

I think this spirit comes over time, experience and your growth and your passion, everything combines into one to take you to the next level. I now know that with business, we face we face obstacles every other day and we must overcome them, unless we want to easily give up. And you will only succeed in your business if you fail and fall but you stand up and try again.

What are the 5 best personal investments a woman can make in their wardrobe? And why?

For me essentials that a woman must have in her wardrobe are a leather jacket, a little black dress, and a comfy pair of sneakers. I also think you should invest in a good bag, something classic that would last your style and not just mere trends. And of course the most important part of your style, is your boss style, a nice fitted blazer is no match for anything else, ladies!

What advice would you give to your younger self and why?

I would tell younger Rawan (although I'm still young!) to be more realistic, to leave emotions on the side; to be less emotional and to be more rational, use her brain more :).

**Describe your personal style...**

I am very chic, and very classic. I am someone who likes to be safe, I wouldn’t go for the bold looks or bold trends. But recently I have been into more color, I have been adding some stunning shades to my looks, and my style because I think I am too young to be too classic!

Last Question! What are your favorite face and hair products? And why?

I am minimal person and believe in less being more. Because every person and every skin is different, I think there is a no size fits all approach.

I do invest in good quality products. For more hair, recently I started using a shower filter and it was something that showed results but more importantly I felt the lightness in my hair.

©RAWANBINHUSSAIN

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I had the immense pleasure to interview Cynthia Klitbo- legendary Actress. I was so excited to find out about her new sitcom! Enjoy!

MAKEUP: REY SANDOVAL

PHOTOGRAPHY: WILL ACOSTA

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?

I would introduce myself as Cynthia Klitbo, an international actress of TV soaps in the Latin market, who has worked in more than 30 TV soaps along my career that have been translated into many languages, and transmitted all around the world. I also would introduce myself as a theatre actress, who has represented my country in different festivals, as much as in commercial theatre. I also work as a producer, director and as a television host in many programs along my 40 years of trajectory. I have worked as well in the cinema market, and I just started working on platforms.

What is one of your passions, besides acting, that you enjoy and helps keep you calm?

It would definitely be traveling! It is definitely one of the things that have helped me carry on. I adore getting to know a country by its gastronomy, history, art, culture, dances, festivities, language, slangs, and much more. I consider myself a very curious person. I love to explore, especially the most inhospitable places. I've been in the amazon jungle, and most recently I did trekking in the 5th tallest mountain in Peru, conquering a landscape with my eyes is what relaxes me the most, just like going out to the sea.

You’ve been in this industry since the mid-80s. Please describe how you started and was acting always your intended career path?

Yes, although there were things I would have enjoyed doing, such as: archaeology, hair styling or marine biology. What definitely accompanied me since I was 4 years old, was acting, to realize myself as an actress was always my wish. In fact my career started as a contemporary dancer, I studied in Bellas Artes, in the national dance school, there I started with other classes like theatre, choreography, corporal expression, music and others. This is where I fell in love with acting. When I was 13 I made my first television show.

In an industry where youth and attractiveness is currency, was there ever a time where it was more challenging to book roles? If not why?

I believe there are characters for all types of people. There are those who become great stars because of their appearance, and others because of their amazing talent. I think it depends on who the story requires.

I LOVED you in El Dragón! How did you prepare for the role and what did you enjoy most?

As an actress it’s always important to know the script, and immerse yourself in the character. Sometimes I enjoy dressing as I imagine the character, play with it, and I think actors should always be connected with their inner child. An actor should always have the imagination of a child, who does not have shame of playing with their imagination, and letting themselves fly and get lost in the character. This is what made me love acting, the fact that I can be whoever I want, live in the most beautiful parts of the world, and have dangerous adventures. Day by day I can be a princess, a witch, a cowboy, and the rest relies on the director. And what I adored most was feeling as a powerful woman hahaha.

Please tell us the new project you are working on! What are you most excited about?

I am starring in a sitcom, which is called Junta de Vecinos (neighbor’s meeting). What I most enjoy, besides my job, is the marvelous people I work with. And of course discovering Peru, and it’s beautiful and lovely people.

What are your favorite face and hair products? and why?

Sunscreen, a good cream (anti-age), and at this point a moisturizing hair mask, Hahaha.

What are the lessons from 2020 you hope to carry over into 2021? What is your main goal for 2021?

My lesson is that material things are useless, health is the most important, just as much as the family and friends. I learned to accept that I am fragile and to stand up to reinvent myself. My goal for 2021 is finishing my monologue, which I'm working on right now, and keep working around the world.

The last and most fun question! What is your favorite way to pamper yourself and get a boost?

I love bohemia, sharing my ideas with my other artist friends. Good music, meals, and a fine glass of wine.

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Yhorlife Conversates with Chelsea Harris about being a believer, her journey and what’s next.

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How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?

A cool, down to earth, and stylish guy from NYC,Queens to be exact.

Please describe Stxne Architect? And how did you come up with the idea?

Stxne Architect is a lifestyle brand that is deeply inspired by film, architecture and art.

**I LOVE your sunglasses! The frames are lightweight but amazingly crafted and I am a big fan of the yellow lenses. How do you go about designing?**

Thank you. I appreciate that. I like to reinvent popular styles from the past. Styles and lens colors that were commonly worn in the 70's-80's had some funk and style to them that a lot of people these days seem to look past. Simple light colored tints on your frame can enhance your glasses from being labeled boring or cliche to being a statement piece.

What was the most challenging part of creating Stxne Architect? And why?

The most challenging part of creating Stxne Architect was sourcing quality manufacturers. Providing quality sunglasses and frames to our customers is very important to me.

What are the 5 best personal investments a person can make to their wardrobe? And why?

5 personal investments someone can make for their wardrobe is investing in some dope eyewear of course, quality denim or slacks, a everyday classic watch, and some solid shoes whether its boots or sneakers.

What advice would you give to your younger self and why?

The best advice I’d give myself is to KEEP GOING, KEEP BUILDING no matter what. Growing up I had a tendency of starting a task or an idea and quitting before I actually finished it. The goal is sometimes hidden on the other side of quitting, so keep going & Keep Building!!

Describe your personal style in 3 words.

Subtle, Detailed, Effective

How did you create the name “Stxne Architect”?

The name Stxne Architect was deeply inspired by my interest in modern and historical architecture. There is a reason why the ancient pyramids and other landmarks are still standing today. I believe it’s because they are made of stone; so that is where the idea ‘stxne architect’ came from. I’m here to stay.

What was the biggest lesson you learned in 2020 and what are you hoping for in 2021?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned in 2020 is, a positive mindset brings positive results. You can never get positive results with a negative mindset.

The last and most fun question! what is your favorite way to pamper yourself and get a boost?

Working out is my favorite way of pampering myself. I get a huge boost after knowing I took care of my body and mind in a positive way. I also like stopping by the thrift shop for some deals after my workout too, I might add lol.

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Such a surreal moment and complete privilege that I got to interview Dr. Gail Jackson. Even though her practice has transitioned to helping women age amazingly and fabulously; she’ll still be the woman who helped deliver me. Enjoy!

Hello Dr. Jackson! Thank you so much for doing the interview! Let’s jump right in!

How would you introduce yourself?

My specialty has transitioned with my patients to menopause wellness. We offer all the secrets to insure women are absolutely fabulous.

What is the most effective way to increase our levels of testosterone?

The best way to increase your testosterone is via testosterone pellets. It is not absorbed well orally. Many clients use testosterone in the form of a cream. We have seen that the pellets are more effective than the creams because the skin is difficult to permeate.

What is the Celebrity Fit Program, how can we get access to the program?

This is our novel program utilizing HCG and a defined food program to effect rapid and sustainable weight loss. Make an appointment for a consultation.

What would you say is the biggest misconception about hormones?

Women are concerned that hormones cause cancer particularly of the breast .

What is the biggest medical advancement for women transitioning from peri menopause to menopause?

The biggest advancement is the availability of bio-identical hormones which can be tailored to her specific needs as she transitions from peri-menopause to menopause.

Is there a hormonal link to Alzheimer’s, Osteoporosis, and/or Dementia? What is the best way to combat that?

Estrogen and testosterone both protect against the above .

My family has known you, your practice for almost 30 years. I remember when you delivered babies. So, when and why did your practice shift to Women’s Wellness?

We shifted our practice to assist our patients as they aged and matured. I ceased delivering babies in 2010 and focused our practice solely on menopausal wellness since that time.

What would you say is the most important message for women facing their 40’s plus, and with regards to Women’s Wellness?

The transition into the forties should be met with excitement, anticipation and a awareness of the anti-aging options that are available.

With bio-identical hormone replacement, you use natural plant derived bio-identical compounded hormones. Can you explain the benefits of plant derived bio-identical compounded hormones?

When the plant (yam) is used, the hormone produced is chemically and molecularly the same as naturally produced hormones. The body receives these hormones as their own.

What is your favorite way to unwind and relax?

I love a walk savoring the glory of nature.

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It’s such a huge honor and pleasure that People En Espanol's 25 Most Powerful Women & Founder/ CEO #WeAllGrow Latina Ana Flores took the time out of her busy schedule to chat with us real quick! Enjoy!

Hiii Happy 2021! Thank you sooo much for taking the time to do this interview! Lets jump right in!

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?

I would get to know them at a personal level and let the details of who we are and what we do unearth themselves as we connect. What I do is so personal to who I am. I’m a bridge, I’m a connector, I’m a community builder.

Please describe #WeAllGrow Latina and how you think celebrating each other has led to such a wonderful platform?

WeAllGrow Latina’s mission is to elevate the voices and stories of Latinas via the power of community. I created this platform out of thin air 10 years ago driven only by the power of my vision of a sisterhood of Latina women that could defy all stereotypes by elevating our voices and stories to truly represent the beauty and power of our collective cultures.

Ten years ago when I launched my business with absolutely no capital, partners or celebrity endorsements, I didn’t know what #WeAllGrow Latina would become today nor did I understand how the vision would manifest itself because it was an uncharted path.

It was the actual vision of a global community of thriving Latina women who support and uplift each other that moved me forward.

If you could tell someone 1 thing to empower them, what would it be?

You already have the power.

What is the legacy you hope to leave?

A world where we honor our interconnectedness and lead with love. A global community of thriving Latina women who support and uplift each other.

The last and most fun question! what is your favorite way to take care of yourself and stay balance?

Disconnect from everything.

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Gigi Gustin- Energetic, funny, and a girl you’d totally love vintage shopping with. I had a blast talking with Gigi and about her upcoming Lifetime Movie, “Killer Advice.” Enjoy this interview!

Hi GiGi... Hi Adylia how are you. Good, I just want to start by saying congratulations on your new movie. Thank you, thank you so much.

Okay, so GiGi how would you introduce yourself. I am GiGi Gustin I am an actress, and a lot of people know me from ‘American Grit’ Season 2, hosted by John Cena. Now my latest movie is ‘Killer Advice’, and I cannot wait for everybody to see it.

Congrats on your Lifetime movie, ‘Killer Advice’. I was doing a little of my investigative research, and I saw the poster (for the movie) with Eric Roberts, and it looks so good. Honestly, Lifetime movies are my guilty pleasures since high school. So what would be the message for this one. I feel like anytime Eric Roberts is in a movie, it gets real dark real quick. Ahahaha… it is amazing (the movie), and you are absolutely right. To not reveal too much, I would say that. There is a lot of scenes of family, trust, overcoming things, and being stronger together.

My character is having a hard time because she has gotten into some trouble that caused her to loose her mother’s trust. So throughout the movie she's trying to gain that trust back. Then the villain comes in, and makes it harder for everybody. Gotcha!..okay is it Eric Roberts? I swear I feel like he's Jafar from Aladdin, he is always just there. You know he is there, and going to start some trouble. Can you give me a hint?

Hahaha...actually not this time. Noooo! Really. He's changing it up! Yes!, it is about time he changes it up though.

Yes, because the last (movie) I remember he plays a Doctor that is super obsessed. He kept drugging the people because he could not make the relationships work....hahaha. Yes, but I am with you though I love the thrillers, and those types of movies. And I love Eric Roberts. This is actually my third movie with Eric Roberts in it. No, shut up! Yes!

***When was the time that you knew that you had the acting bug.*** Oh my goodness, well actually I started out as a child actor. I was doing Chuck E. Cheese commercials, and other commercials. Then unfortunately my parents ended up getting a divorce. So my mom who was driving me to New York constantly, she had to get a full-time job.

We ended up moving into a little apartment. So there was my mom, and three little kids in a one bedroom apartment. Soooo… GiGi did not act anymore. Hahaha, no I am not laughing at the situation, but just how you are speaking in third person. That is when you know stuff is getting real. Yeah...ahaha..so life took a turn for GiGi. So I started doing voice lessons as my creative outlet. I always loved movies, and imagined myself in them. I just did not have the chance to take it that far. So as I started getting a little older, I started asking questions. I knew college was not for me. I also knew it would be difficult to get back into it (acting). I had not booked a national commercial since I was eight years old.

I decided to sign with a small Talent Agency on the East Coast; and that is how I got on the site with booking American Grit. Then after winning that show, I got the means and finances to move to L.A. to pursue acting further. And that is when I really got back into it.

Awesome, I love that. You are so happy, and positive...often people forget that life is meant to have twists and turns. It was not always meant to be rainbows and unicorns. Yet you remained happy and positive. Oh, I appreciate you saying that. I learned at an early age - that the best things are on the other side of difficulties and challenges. I am like bring it on! Exactly, I just feel like nowadays people seem to forget that. They expect everything to be perfect, and that is just not life. There will be challenging days, as well there will be really good ones. Of course, yes! Life is going to kick you in the booty...even if you are Beyonce. Yes, and that is Beyonce.

This is your third movie with Eric Roberts. How have you matured, or grown as an actress working with an industry veteran... I will give you a little insight that most people would have no knowledge of unless you were there. Now it is the third movie with Eric Roberts...I have only had one scene with the man. What!, no.

Where we actually worked together. I did have the opportunity to introduce myself to him, and to tell him that we were both in ‘Asteroid-A-Geddon’ on Amazon Prime. Then in another movie, ‘Angel with a Gun’ (its a horror movie that is not yet out). And the ‘Killer Advice’ we are in (together), but we had different shoot dates. As he also did (different shoot dates) in’ Angel with a Gun’. So isn't that something?  ***Yes, that really is...look at it as you guys are getting closer.*** Well, that’s the thing no one has any idea.

Like on ‘Fast and Fierce: Death Race’, that aired on Showtime (2020). I have a whole scene with DMX. A whole crazy phone call. We filmed that separately. But I will say though I have had the opportunity to work with some great amazing actors.

That is the key…I love to be the least experienced person on set; because I have the most to learn. I came out here (to L.A.), super excited, just telling everybody I am an actor. And just talking their ear off, and so excited to be on set.

Yet, the moment that I learned just to be quiet, and to listen; I started learning and picking things up. And now I am in the position that people are listening to me. So its incredible the roles that I have gotten in these last two years since I have been out here. I have learned so much.

You also see how different actors prepare, at first I was like…oh maybe I can try this (method). I have learned that you have to find your own way of preparing. Every actors process is different. I have learned that from looking, and following some of the greats like Nicole Kidman. Working with so many seasoned actors has helped me to find my own way, my own voice and process.

***What would you say is one of the most rewarding things about your art -*** Oh my goodness, it’s an opportunity to heal. I know that sounds cheesy, but the truth is when I act I got my Ammo. It is my arsenal of crap that’s happened to me in life, and I have that to pull from, and use in my art. And I eventually let it go.

I think that is part of the reason why I appreciate horror films, and intense films; it is always those types of emotions that I don’t know how to handle them. Art is my way of releasing them, and that’s why it (my acting) comes from an authentic place. I am choosing to feel, and experience those emotions on my own terms. There is something very freeing about that - when I can use my Ammo from past experiences.

Then to also be in the moment. I take what I have learned from my art into my relationships. My art is my therapy.That is awesome…Well, thank you.

Is it the same love, or fun as when you do voice-over as when you do a movie. Do you have the same passion - Uuumm…I’m going to say no. I do love voice-over acting. It is a lot of fun, and it is still acting. The difference is with voice-over you are in a booth by yourself. When you are on camera you are working with another person. You are feeding off of their energy, it offers a lot more than voice-over does.

We kind of touched upon this earlier. It is the inevitable challenges of acting. How do you handle, navigate those challenges, and get through them. Well, you have to use all of it; every failure and stress as experience, as a lesson - or motivation. You can easily let it get you down. But it is always a flip side - ‘the glass is half full’. I booked a couple of films this last year, and that is great. But you should see the folder on my laptop, it is about 230 films in there. I did not book 230 films.

You have to fail it is necessary. Perseverance is what gets you through everything. It is hard to beat someone that does not quit. It’s hard to loose if you do not quit. Not quitting is the key. You are a better one than me, I’m thinking about at the 150th one, I would be ready to tap out. No!!! Remember whenever you are about to tap out that is right when it is about to happen.

That is so true, and you logically know it but at the same time… Yes, and the mini pep talks in my head are real. I do have those moments when I say ‘why am I even an actor, I should have went to college’. That never lasts more than an hour. Never. Normally, it is around that freak out that I end up booking something. Yes, whether it is negative, or positive energy it’s all energy you can harness. So, I give myself about an hour, then often I get a call that I have booked something. Then, I am like ‘Yes! woohoo’. It is the Law of Attraction.

You know that is when you know that you are meant to do something; when you have that challenge, and it motivates you to work harder - and you don’t run away. That is when I know that I have to pick up my game. Roadblocks are not blocks, they are just ways (paths) to take you to do something. To get you to where you need to be, and to accomplish what you need to do. You know you are so wise.

Best advice that you would give to that young 15 year old girl that saw you in ‘Killer Advice’, and wants to get into acting - Uh, well to put it point blank - just go for it. And go for it whole heartedly, if that is what you want. It doesn’t matter what anybody says if you feel it, and want it bad enough; you can make it happen. Also, keep the people that believe in you very close; let anyone that feels a different sort of way - let that fuel you. You do not need everybody to agree, and have your back.

You are the only person that really wants it, because you are the only person that can make it happen. My mom is still upset with me, after I dropped out of college after three and a half days. I got to attend college tuition free, because my mom worked there. She told me not to do it. Now, my little successes are easing her pain. So if you can’t imagine yourself doing anything else, you have to go for it.

I love that.

And the last, and most fun question…what is your favorite way to pamper yourself, to get a boost, and relax - I have a vintage jacket shopping addiction. Some like pampering with massages. I go out thrift shopping, get a cool jacket, and maybe buy an expensive pair of shoes. Then if I am really feeling fancy I get a facial. Oh yes! Well thank you for your time GiGi - Thank you too, I appreciate it.

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Faith. Love. Acceptance.

3 little words that define our human existence. As we evolve and grow so does our need to feel wanted, secure, and the freedom to be authentically ourselves without judgement. As humans we attach ourselves to things or people that can evoke these feelings. Now, I work with myself to be truly non-judgmental and keep an open mind. That was tested with Ed. I didn’t know what to expect. At first my initial reaction was immense prejudice and bias for a man who simply was born into his privilege. I don’t mean the monetary privilege, I mean the privilege that has caused our nation to be so divided since the Civil War.

I instantly felt guilty because how ignorant to judge anyone without understanding.

I can honestly say this was my hardest interview because Ed Kressy was honest, introspective and shattered my ignorant notions and left me speechless. By speechless I mean teared up with his answers. Ed is truly a remarkable and accountable human that shows Faith, Love, and Acceptance is a constant journey that no matter the turns is always unwaveringly. Please enjoy this interview!

***Hi Ed, how are you...Happy 2021***...Hi Adylia, Happy New Year to you! ***Let me start off by saying , because I know often texts don't always convey the tone of a message...I just want to say that the second question’s intent was not to be harsh, or rude. But to touch upon and reflect the tone that society is facing. I want to touch upon it without really saying it in a negative way. Your story, courage, is amazing and I do want that positive message to be conveyed.*** Hahahahaha, no but thank you. It did not come across like that at all. Your questions definitely came across as insightful, and thoughtful, and they really got me to thinking - so thank you. ***Oh good, thank you.***

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you.

I am almost certainly the only person ever who was once arrested by the FBI, then recognized with a community service award by the FBI Director. Ahahaha full circle...Yeah, as a person who spent two decades addicted to drugs, my poor choices cost me my family relationships, my career, home, life savings, and even my beloved dog. I hurt those around me more than I hurt myself.

Then after I quit drugs in 2007 I battled severe mental health challenges. Thanks to God, second chances, and some amazing people I achieved my childhood dream of becoming a writer. People are hopefully inspired by my writing, and my speaking to overcome their own obstacles, and achieve their own dreams. I like that. I will say everyone talks about reinventing themselves, and it is hard sometimes if you are around the same people, or triggers (and not just addiction); whatever you think that you need to change - it can be very challenging. It can be something so small as positive thinking - it is amazing.

So here is the tough question that I was referring to in the beginning...hahahaha..- but I am going to say it better than I wrote it (initially to you). So from your picture - you look like a very unassuming, and engaging - white man. You would never think you were arrested by the FBI. And I am ethnic, I am ignorant as well...and when you say FBI, and drugs you automatically think of a Latino, or someone a little more brown in color than you. The ignorance stems from that we are conditioned. So I was truly, truly shocked - so my question is...your appearance is classic Americano. A very astute white man, and because of that people assume that you would not have a problem with a drug addiction. Or, if they did suspect something, they made allowances - ‘oh Ed’s just tired today, or we know he knows it’. So people allowed you to continue and they did not nip it in the bud, do you think that is what caused everything to kind of explode in essence. Well, it definitely contributed. It is a great question, it is very insightful and you really got me to thinking. I am sure others made assumptions about me. I definitely assumed things about myself, so the fact is I am a privileged white male.

My belief is society gave me many unfair advantages because of the color of my skin, and my privileged socio-economic background. As a result...yes, I use to think I was better than other people. And to my deep, and utter shame I use to harbor implicit, and explicit biases.

Confronting these biases was a major part of my recovery, and still is. Uummm... you got me thinking - I remember one night I came too on the floor of a padded cell. The police had stripped me naked, and locked me up. And as well they should have, because I broke into my relatives home to steal money for methamphetamine, and disrespected the cop that was trying to help me.

I was a danger to myself and others. That situation and many others like it have turned out to be a blessing. When all of these unfair advantages that society gave me were gone, when I had thrown them away; I began to deeply examine how my own selfishness harmed me, and those around me. That is when I started to search for God, and personal redemption. So those searches turned out to be good decisions. They led me to this point today where I am the best family member that I have ever been, and I live a life of service to others. I am still very far from perfect. Well, who is not.

I have learned, however, to turn the unfair advantages society gave me - as a privileged white male - to benefit community, and society. So I guess the point is, as best we can try not to assume things about others - good, or bad. I like that, and it takes a lot of guts to even admit your biases, or anything like that. So kudos for even saying that, because I do not believe I would have admitted it. Ahahaha...hahahaha. I would have said ‘ it is what it is’...but seriously, thank you. I had a lot of help, so that is honestly the reason why.

***If you could tell someone one thing to empower them, what would it be.*** Another excellent question - there is a quote attributed to the Buddha...’it is better to conquer oneself than to win a thousand battles’. There is a similar story about the Prophet Muhammad - how he once admonished Muslim soldiers returning home from a terrible battle. Muhammad told them that the war they fought was really only the small Jihad. Muhammad pointed to his own heart, and said that is where the struggle really is. That is where the big Jihad really is.

Even today when you look up the meaning of the word Jihad, you find it means something beautiful. It means a striving, doing one’s utmost to do good, avoid doing evil, and to make oneself a better person. So for me our greatest modern day leaders are people like - Martin L. King, Jr, who we are going to honor on Monday, January the eighteenth. Nelson Mandela; Gandhi; and the Dalai Lama. Their principles were similar, conquering hatred of our enemies to instead practice love and forgiveness. So I found that if you want to empower yourself, first conquer what is within you - Fear, Hatred, and Anger. Win the war in your own heart.

Jumping off from that, what is your opinion about social media, and what often times evokes similar thoughts and feelings of ...’oh, am I good enough’. And this can lead to so many other issues of coping mechanisms. Since social media is a necessary evil, it can exacerbate those feelings of less than. So do you think the same tools that helped you to overcome your challenge with addiction, can also help someone handle the issues of my generation - where the addiction is social media. And that addiction causes just an empty pit of worthlessness. Good question - and more so because the issue of addiction is so complex. When it comes to drugs, social media, gambling, food, or any other addictive behaviors - to me the most important thing for me to remember, is that the drug, social media, or food is not our problem.

Those things are our attempt at a solution. So when we are using drugs, social media, or food as an attempt at a solution, that is when we may want to step back and say ‘ I may be using these things addictively’. When it comes to social media, the way I like to look at it is...we always have a choice. Maybe, not how social media makes us feel but how we respond.

We can respond in an encouraging and supportive way, or in a passionate way. As well, we can choose not to respond at all to someone that conjures up negative feelings in us. The true empowerment comes at the choice that we have, in how to respond. That is how we can turn something like social media, an addictive behavior into something that we use as a solution to our problems. And also into something that empowers us, and that we can use to benefit others. Thank you.

What was the moment you realized your purpose was to inspire, guide, and to help others. Those are very kind words, and hopefully my words do those things. Being of service to others I found gives us a personal freedom. The moment ironically I began to find my own freedom was when I was in jail. I remember I was sitting at this jail house table...it was this big steel table, and bolted to the jail house floor. It was a table as solid as a bow of a ship. I was sitting there, and I remember I took out my notebook and pen; and I picked up my path of becoming a writer. That day I drafted a letter to the Secret Service telling them how I thought I had inadvertently befriended a 9-11 terrorist.

Ohhh, ahahaha... hahaaha, yeah you can kind of see where my mind was at. I was in jail, but I was still coming off of the Meth, the psychosis, and addiction that I was in. It is a long story with many twists and turns. Basically, that day in jail I began to find my freedom when I began to face my deepest fears. Putting my trust in God, God that I before did not believe in.

I began to start to undo so much of the damage that I caused to myself, and those closest to me. So, if we are going to follow a Path like that - a Path of facing our Fears, putting our Trust in God, a Path of undoing damage we caused. If we are going to follow that Path(s) it really helps when we do it in service to others.

Service to others represents our best hope for ourselves often times. Addiction is something the majority of people have dealt with either directly or indirectly. Do you think genuine Love without judgment of a person is the best way to help someone dealing with addiction. Because someone legal, and of age can not be forced to get help. So do you unconditionally love, and support - is that the best way to combat it.

You know when I read that question of yours, I was like you need to be the one being interviewed. Ahahaha, oh no... Nooo, it is such a beautiful way to phrase that, it is a beautiful sentiment. And I do not know if I can top it. I would say absolute genuine love without judgment is probably one of the best ways to help anyone, and especially ourselves.

Another way to help someone who you love, who may be struggling with addiction is to remember the best way to help someone is to first help ourselves. Think of them as being a drowning person. Imagine someone drowning - they are desperate, thrashing, and gasping for air. You do not want to leap into the water to try to help a drowning person, because you are likely to get pulled under too. Hhmmm ok.

You want to have your feet firmly on solid ground, you want to throw the drowning person a life line. And encourage the person to grab on, and pull them to safety. The analogy is when it comes to helping an addicted person, make sure you are on solid ground in your own life. Be certain you are solving your own problems, and improving your own situation (life).

When the addicted person sees that you can handle your own life challenges, then they are more likely to take your advice. To grasp onto that lifeline that you throw, what that lifeline can be - it can be a twelve step program, it can be a Faith based recovery, or medical intervention. There are a number of excellent solutions. But first before you help someone else be on firm footing in your own life. Perfect.

How do you handle the stresses of life. I handle the stresses with the 3 C’s - caffeine, chocolate, and ice cream. Ahahaha. Yes, hahahaha. Now that is true, but seriously also the effective was to handle stress is definitely Faith in God, how the Faith manifests itself is daily practices; and the daily practices from that firm foundation to withstand the inevitable storms of stress, stigmatization, and self doubt. For me daily practices include - meditation, fasting, and prayer.

Most recently, since November I have been doing a daily dip in a river. So I live in Massachusetts...Oh my gosh, it is cold. Oooohhh yeah, it is a wake-up call. Yes, there is no shortage of cold in that river. Ahahahah. The health benefits are remarkable, I truly believe 2020 was the year that I said goodbye to depression, and anxiety that has dogged me since I even quit Meth - which was in 2007. I stress again Faith in God, and daily practices.

For people that try, and they fall...from whatever religious text they follow, and they have a bad day. They go back to that bad habit, or the thought of that bad habit overcomes them. Then they are like Faith does not work, or they got a bad call - and then they say “If God was real why did he let this happen”? I have heard it, a lot of people say I have done the right things, I have prayed, and if God was really real how could this happen. How would you combat this...what would you say to that, or say it to someone. Hahaha...that is a wonderful question, and I have said that - I have asked that very question. ‘God why won’t you move this depression from me?’. ‘God , I could be of much better service if you could move this anxiety’. Yes, that is a question that I put to myself and God all the time.

One of the best answers I have found is in the story of the Butterfly and The Cocoon. There is a hiker going through the woods, and she happens upon a butterfly that is emerging from a cocoon. The Butterfly is struggling, it is trying to fight its way out of this tight restrictive cocoon. The hiker pulls out a little knife. She is going to cut the cocoon to try and help the Butterfly. Now the hiker has all of the positive, and best intentions in the world, but what she is really going to do is to harm the Butterfly. Because it is the struggle of trying to free itself from the cocoon that is giving the Butterfly’s wings its strength.

The analogy is that we as human beings are much like that Butterfly. We struggle in life, and often we do not understand the purpose and value of a struggle. But ultimately it is that struggle, that fight, that gives our wings their strength (metaphorically).

Beautiful. What do you want people to take away from your book, and lectures. I would love for people to take away that second chances do benefit those that give them as much as those of us that receive them. That redemption is possible, in the most seemingly hopeless of circumstances. Never give up Hope. Not for yourself, and not for someone that you love.

I was that person that abused animals, I fueled the sex and narcotics trade. I spent tons of money financing those trades. I devastated my family. Still amazing people showed me the path to God - Service, Family, and a Beautiful Life. Redemption is possible, never give up Hope.

Your volunteer work is amazing. What is the most rewarding aspect of your volunteering. Thank you. The reason for that is that amazing people, and organizations allowed me to be of service. I have worked inside one of California’s most notorious maximum security prisons with incarcerated men; that society has labeled the very worst, and have been convicted of violent crimes. Some of murder, and men affiliated with street gangs. I have also worked closely with cops, FBI Agents, and FBI executives. These are people that represent an institution, law enforcement that is often hated, and feared. I have helped law enforcement better serve communities effected by incarceration, and addiction.

The most rewarding part is when cops, and those convicted teach me that some of our sisters, and brothers that are incarcerated are some of the most beautiful people. And many men, and women who wear badges are true heroes in their service. Of course, in no way do we condone actions that hurt others. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their loved ones.

I know that human connections solve human problems. Society works best when we look past uniforms, either when they are worn by police, or people in prison. Behind bars, and behind badges beat the hearts of human beings.

The question in my mind is...how hard are we willing to look. Whether you call it reinvention, or second chances... what do you think are the three best attributes to successfully change. We kind of touched upon it earlier with the Faith question. Yes, I always think of the 3 S’s - Spirituality, Service to Others, and Self-Improvement. If whatever we are doing falls within one of those categories I believe we have a good chance to successfully change.

The last and most fun question! What is your favorite way to take care of yourself and stay balanced. I know you mentioned that - river, yeah no!. Aaahahaha. I cannot imagine that river. I love to wake-up before dawn, brew a nice cup of strong coffee as the sun rises. I sit back, sip my coffee and contemplate God. I think about the people that I love, Focus on Gratitude, and I pray that I can improve myself; and be the greatest service until the next sunrise. Ohhh my gosh that is beautiful. You know Ed you are really, really cool. I did not know how this was going to truly go - but you have knocked my socks off. You are a cool dude.

Oh! - well, thank you that is so nice. Yes, I did not know what to expect - I was like God just let him be nice; but this was truly insightful, and enjoyable. Awww, thank you and that is high praise. I have read so many of your interviews, and you have met many amazing people - so your words render me very Grateful. It’s been wonderful. Thank you Ed, so very much!

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I am so happy to start 2021 off with one of my favorite interviews! Haneen Al Saify is the entire package- brains, sophistication, and a strong work ethic that would make anyone re-evaluate their career path to make sure they were living their passion. Enjoy this interview!

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?

Haneen Al Saify, a chemical engineer by specialty, and a blogger by profession.

You have a degree in chemical engineering but your business is about empowering women to curate a style that not only speaks to them but helps them achieve what they want. How did the switch from engineering to business happen?

A profession is an everyday activity we perform for 8-9 hours! I chose a profession that I enjoy to an extent that I dont feel like working. Truly, very few know this about me, but I love what I do, I do not feel like I need a vacation from this profession. I did study chemical engineering, and I hear this question quite a lot! I may not use the equations or implementation that I studied in class, but let me be frank, without this education, I would not be the person I am today! This education gave me critical thinking skills, analytical thinking skills, tolerance, management, and many more skills that gives a blogger a strength! We live in an era where many ladies choose to become bloggers, but very few have that extra topping that makes them succeed, that extra topping is my education!

What are the 5 best personal investments a woman can make in their wardrobe? And why?

I will not categorize them as top five. However, I would love to say that all classic pieces are considered as an investment: classic bags, classic shoes, classic dresses, classic watch and a piece of jewelry.

I love how you creatively showcase the Abaya and have built the Abaya around your central wardrobe. Please describe how you decide what outfit you want to incorporate an Abaya and why?

I always used to think- why do we always see magazines and the big names in the fashion industry focusing on developing only the fashion that we know? Yet the abaya stayed as it is for many years without growing, or changing. I felt I needed this for me and thats why I did it for [myself] and all.

What drives you?

I’m driven by Passion! Passion gives me strength, the will, and the motivation. It makes you work like their is no other option except to succeed.

Describe your personal style in 3 words.

Simple, classy, and smart.

What are your favorite face and hair products? and why?

I love aloe vera for the face and hair, because of its calming effect to the face and scalp.

What are your thoughts on 2020 and what was the biggest lesson you learned from this unprecedented year?

Patience. We always knew how important patience is but then with experiencing the pandemic, I learned to be patient and have a strong faith in God that things will get better even when it doesn’t feel like it.

The last and most fun question! what is your favorite way to pamper yourself and get a boost?

Travel and eat a lot.

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This interview was an inspiration, and absolute pleasure to sit down and talk with Al Coronel, the new face of Call of Duty: Black OPS Cold War….

How would you introduce yourself to our readers who might be unfamiliar with you…

Oh, I am Al Coronel, I am an actor and a native of Los Angeles. And as you know I am one of the characters in the new Call of Duty Black Hawks video. Yes, very cool…I’m so excited and so is my brother, he’s a die hard Call of Duty fan.

**How powerful/strong would you say that Dreams are…was it your Dreams that kept pushing you**

It’s just so crazy.. like when I talk to people about my life experiences, and the slightly different career paths that somehow merge together to get to where I am today. It feels like I lived a couple of life times, but yet it’s something that has always been in me to be an actor ever since childhood. Especially being raised in Los Angeles with the entertainment industry constantly around you. I was a huge fan of television growing up. I knew all of the TV Shows, and all of the characters in the shows. I always thought to myself as a kid...’ wouldn’t that be cool to do that’. Of course as you get older, you are told to go to school, get an education, and degree. Also, to find a career, a stable career, and we all know with acting you have more failures than successes, and it can be very challenging.

And some people may give up too soon on that dream, because of the difficulty of that dream. I went to school, got my degree, and while I was working in the military (and while I was in school), I picked up the hobby of Salsa Dancing. Through Salsa Dancing, and becoming a professional Salsa Dancer I was asked to be involved in TV, and Film projects. Based on many peoples inputs, and also famous people - like the actor Edward James Olmos. He was a big influence, and he told me ‘if you really want to do this you have to go back to school, you have to study, you have to get knowledgeable at what it is you want to be successful at. You are going to guarantee yourself more successes than failures’.

So that is when I decided to go back to school to study theatre and acting, and I am so glad that I did. I like that point…because I am born in Los Angeles, and if you are not from there you only see the fun aspect of it (acting), like the red carpet, and they don’t really grasp that it is a talent, an art. And I think they think you can get up one day, snap your fingers, and say I want to be on television. Even though you had the Salsa Dancing that led to your first introduction to the acting, you respected it (acting) enough to go back to school.

Yes, I had many people ask me – how can I become an actor, and do what you do. One of my first questions is – what are your reasons for wanting to become an actor. And I listen clearly to their answer. And if their answer is ‘ I want to be famous, I want to be rich’ I always tell them, you might need to rethink that. That should not be your primary reason for doing it, you are setting yourself up for a serious disappointment.

It is an art, I am so much about the love of what I am doing, and enjoying the process…the byproduct of it can be fame, and financial stability.

What is the current project that you are working on, and what is the character that you play –

On Call of Duty Black OPS Cold War, I am the face and likeness of a character called DGI Mendo Garcia. He was a former Cuban military assassin, who once he left Cuba he became a hired assassin. So he works for whoever will pay him..uuhh the money that he is looking for. He is very ruthless, and very cold blooded.

What was most demanding for this role and why…since you are the face and it looks so futuristic…

Well, first of all for me I am the PacMan, Centipede, and Missile Command generation. I grew up playing those video games, so for me to find out that I was going to be involved in the game that I am a huge fan of, and have played all the previous versions of Call Of Duty – was a dream come true. I would also say it was a bucket list item. So to say was it challenging…I was having so much fun. That knowing that I was going to be a part of something that had a huge fan following. And I did not know to what extent my character was pretty dominant until I started hearing that they liked what they saw in my character, and true to form they have used DGI Mendo Garcia in a lot of their commercials for not only Call of Duty, but also to promote the multiplayer platform to promote Zombie version of it. And now I am seeing today they released another commercial for Season 1, that had my character all over it. It is all of these things that are very nice.

If there was one thing that was very challenging was for me to hold completely still; and to hold different facial expressions when they were scanning my face for the likeness. It was tough because they had about eighty cameras above and around my head in a dark room. Then these cameras would flash consecutively, and I was trying to keep my eyes open while these cameras took pictures. For a second I had the thought – oh my gosh ‘ if I’m not able to keep my eyes open will I get fired, am I going to loose this opportunity’. Thankfully I was able to get through that, and I spent about two and a half hours in this dome that looked like a time machine. This machine scanned my face in every gesture possible that I could make. They had the samples of what they needed me to do, and I just had to hold it while these cameras took photos.

Your past experiences, a Professional Salsa Dancer, and a Veteran – thank you…would you say most prepared you for this role, and how…

Thank you…all of my life experiences have all come back to be beneficial for me, specifically the military experience because I tend to get cast in those roles of law enforcement, detectives, CIA, and FBI. And I believe that the military experience lends itself to me having that presence. Sometime I am at an event, and people will come up to me and say…’ you are part of the military’. I then say how did you know, and then they say…’ oh, it is the way that you stand, and carry yourself’. To have that in my body has truly been beneficial to my acting career.

What is the best advice that you have been given…

Study. You want to be successful (to be good), you have to study, you have to make yourself undeniable. When I work on a project you have to be the first one there, you have to be prepared and ready to go. I don’t want to be that person that holds up production because I am not prepared; not on time, or I do not know my lines. And all of these pieces have to fit together for it to be successful. It is very important to be prepared and to study.

What is the self-talk(s) that you give yourself when challenges arise in your life…

Sometimes it is not just me saying it, it is my wife as well. Gosh, I have had instances where I have said…’ I don’t know if I will be able to do this’…and my wife has been there and says…’you can do this, now get your head on straight, and get it done’. An example of this - I just did an episode of Westworld, where I had to speak Portuguese, I do not speak Portuguese. I speak Spanish, and English fluently. So I had to learn how to speak Portuguese in less than a day, more like twelve hours. There was a part in getting ready that I looked at my wife and I said ‘I really don’t know if I can do this, I’m concerned’, and my wife said...’you’ve got this, just focus your energy you can do it’. And thankfully it worked, and got me through it, it came out very well.

What is something that not many people know about you…

Ohhh…something that not many people know about me. Well I am avid scuba diver, it is one of the more peaceful activities I have gotten involved in the last twenty years. Right during the pandemic I was able to get out and go scuba diving, and it was welcomed. I am a certified rescue diver. That is so cool!

**What are your thoughts on 2020, what was the biggest lesson you learned from this unprecedented year –**

Patience…patience. People lack patience, especially now people go from zero to angry in no time flat. I think it has shown me how being isolated has its effects (on people); because we are social beings. Our ability to socialize has been limited or taken away so it has shown me the need for patience, and to focus our energy away from this pandemic. That is one of the biggest lessons for me, and how once this social factor is taken away how it effects everyone in general, and negatively.

The last and most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind, recharge, and relax…

Watching YouTube videos, hahaha…I drive my wife crazy. I have been watching a lot of Tesla videos, because we just bought a Tesla. So I have been trying to educate myself to all things Tesla. Yes, right now YouTube has been my guilty pleasure. Thank you Al!.........Thank you for inviting me, and to talk to you about the Game, to share the excitement, and also the love for the Game. Thank you so much! Oh!!!...they released just last night a new skin, outfit for my character. It is called, and copied from the character Tyler Durden from the movie with Brad Pitt called Fight Club (1999). They dressed up my character just like Brad Pitt’s character in Fight Club. It is very exciting!

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I had the immense pleasure and privilege to interview Nada Baeshen. Founder of ‘The Huntress’ and all around cool girl. I was excited I even fangirled about her career in Finance before I was able to focus and ask the questions! Enjoy one of my favorite interviews!!

Please sit back and enjoy our refreshing conversation with Nada Bashen, someone who is unapologetically authentic, not looking or believing in fame, just doing what she loves and what brings her Joy…..

How would you introduce yourself to our readers that are unaware of you…

I would introduce myself as Nada Bashen, and that is how I would introduce myself – Nada Bashen. There is no fame, this is what I believe, that is why I say just my name. If, or when someone asks me what I worked in, or my field…I would say that I have been in finance for ten years, and I opened a retail company while I worked in banking.

I love your company - The Huntress! Please describe the process of how you created the idea and how you select the designers for your boutique? And how has COVID changed your business projections/plans –

I have always been into fashion, when I was young, and in college in Boston. There was a street called Newbury Street, with all these new and upcoming boutiques. And I always said that I wanted to open a store like that, sometime in my life.

And I did, and it was not like it was a really long time ago. Basically, it’s been now twelve years, so after about three years in banking I opened the store so it’s been in existence for approximately fourteen years.

When you focus on brands that work in the market, I do not think of Saudi Arabia. I do not try to mimic, or copy a concept that I see that I like, because I actually believe that not everything sells in every country. Every country has a different clientele, it has a different style – what works in the market in every country is very different.

I try to do a concept that fits in the market, that is exciting, and innovative. I like to choose a lot of upcoming Bohemian designers that are not found everywhere.

How do you balance being a wife, mother, and entrepreneur…

I have always been good with time management, so in the terms of balance I think it is normal to be able to do these three things. Balancing my life as a mom – I do have help, I am not going to lie. At the same time I think it is very rewarding to be all of these three things – wife, mother, and entrepreneur…at the same time. Because I would not be who I am as a mom, or wife without having this job.

How do you practice self-care and self-love…do you think it helps you to stay balanced –

Self-care, and self-love comes with time. When you start being more content with yourself, and loving with yourself. But that is a thing that takes time, and it is a gradual thing. How do you say…the more you accomplish the more you are happy with yourself. The more you become that person – that confident, strong woman. Also self-care for me is… I work out every day, and have time for myself. I like to travel at least two, or three times a year…and have some time to enjoy myself.

How do you feel when people diminish your accomplishments, because they perceive you to be another pretty face – do you challenge this perception, if so how…

Hmmm how do I feel when people diminish my accomplishments…I really don’t think folks do that to your face, they do it behind your back. But for me I have reached a point in my life that I am very content with my accomplishments, and other folks opinions really do not matter.

Then I look at those people that give you that negative energy, and they usually have not accomplished anything in their lives. I am happy where I am, and the achievements in life are not judged by an individual - because each person has different goals in life. Accomplishments are different for everyone, because each one has a different goal. Accomplishments can be many things, they just do not have to be money, or businesses. Perception of an accomplishment can be different – let them diminish them, but at the end of the day let me be content, and happy.

What drives you…

Seeing my business grow. I love the thrill of this job. I enjoy it, it drives me to do something better. I do enjoy what I do, and I am someone who needs to be working. For me it is like seeing a baby grow, it is like my baby (my business). So I want to be a bigger company, a more successful one.

What is your favorite activity, other than being an entrepreneur, that you enjoy and why…

The other activity is to travel. I like to discover new cultures, countries, and exploring new places. This is to me the biggest joy in life - exploring the world.

What are your thoughts on the year 2020, what was the biggest lesson you learned from this unprecedented year

The year 2020 is the year that made me chill, and calm down. Which is amazing because I needed this break. I needed to be home, to spend more time with my son. And I needed to be just working from home.

It helped me to realize that we did not always have to be present, it is a job – I am thinking I had to realize that. In addition to having a lot of time to be home, also time to sit down and focus on the weaknesses in my business to make it better. To change some things, concepts in my business to make it better. So this was a year to re-evaluate, there were no lessons, it was not a bad year – it was a year that gave me perspective.

The last and most fun question! What is your favorite way to pamper yourself and get a boost

Honestly…it is just to travel, I know I mentioned it before. But I really enjoy dressing up, and traveling. To me, and for me it is the thrill to be in some place new that I have never been before.

Thank you…

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I had the immense pleasure to interview legendary actor Eduardo Yañez. His charisma, passion, and honesty made this interview not only an immense pleausre but incredibly humbling. Enjoy!

**How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you…**

Eduardo Yanez. I am an actor, and I am from Mexico City. I have been working for more than forty years, and that is who I am.

What is something that not many people know about you –

Maybe that I was a football player in Mexico. I played quarterback for the Silverwolves…maybe not many people know about that.

You have an amazing career that has spanned decades. Can you describe how you started your career, and how you have selected the projects -

I started doing experimental theatre, plays, and after that I went professional. I started as an extra then I did bit parts until I became a lead actor.

You won an Emmy in 1993 for Guadalupe. Can you please take us through the process of preparing for this role and the feeling of when you knew that you won the Emmy…

Well, Guadalupe was so significant for me. So I left Mexico to go to Miami to work on the Telenovela., Guadalupe. How I prepared – Alfredo Robinson, being a lawyer, and being married. I did a lot of search into that profession (legal). Wining an Emmy was amazing…my first experience wining an award out of my country, that was amazing – just amazing. I was the first Latin actor wining an award, an Emmy Award.

You worked on Falsa Identidad as Don Mateo Corona. How did you prepare for this role, and what did you enjoy most about being a part of this series…

He was such a difficult character being a psychopath. The research I did was enormous. I visited mental hospitals, places where they treat psychopaths, sociopaths, and schizophrenics. So I spent some time with those guys, and it was a mixture of being close to people that suffer from those mental disorders. I got a good experience in playing the character, it has been awesome – the audience welcomed the character so much.

What drives you –

What drives me, well… thirst and hunger is what drives me. Yes!

What is your favorite activity, other than acting that you enjoy, and why -

My favorite activity that soothes me is exercise. When you are done with the workout, all of your body, brain – everything comes together. You can then focus on anything else that you want to do. That gives me a lot of pleasure. Exercising is just relaxing, it gives me pure creativity for my work.

What is your favorite quote

What are your thoughts on 2020, and what was the biggest lesson you learned from this unprecedented year…

Well, it has been a difficult year, 2020. But what I learned…ahahah, well it is about the COVID pandemic, obviously. But, you have to take better care of yourself, eat better – we typically do not take that into consideration, unless you are getting into shape for a role. In reality it is something you need to do to be strong, physically and mentally. And to be able to fight against this type of pandemic.

The last and most fun question…what is your favorite way to unwind and get a boost –

Acting – acting does that for me, it is my best way to unwind, and it boots me. To be able to create a character to be able to be on set and develop, and to just deliver.

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I had the pleasure to sit down and talk with ‘Bonzie’ – Nina Ferraro…who I found wise and insightful. She is inspired through music, and expresses her thoughts, and feelings through her music/songs. We jumped right in…

Hey! How’s it going…Hi!, how are you doing…I’m doing great….

Please introduce yourself

Yes, so I’m Bonzie a 25 year old, and I am living in Chicago. I make music, I write it and produce it for fifteen years, soooo since I was 10 years old. It’s hard for me to say what type of genre it is but I guess I would say it’s Alternative music. Omg, I just realized I just assumed it was ok to call you by your stage name, Bonzie, and not your name Nina. I apologize is that okay? Oh gosh yes! ‘Bonzie’ is fine. Oh good, lol. I get that a lot, and it is all good…lol.

Your musical journey began at a young age. What gave you the courage to be different in your music/songs…you stated that your genre is Alternative. And that genre alone defines as not your conventional, like your bubble gum pop, and being so young…what made you just jump into that genre

Well, when I started making music and on my musical journey of writing songs…first, I didn’t come from a musical family. I really was doing it on my own, for myself, and that fact alone made it where I wasn’t necessarily doing music for other people. Definitely I wanted to share it (my music), connect with people, but I really wrote songs for myself. And that’s where my style comes from, I am always listening to music. I am definitely a music fan, growing up playing video games, and listening to the soundtracks. I listened to music all the time. And that ended up with me making what I like, that’s what excited me, and just as a music fan.

Who was your favorite artist, and who inspired you the most when you were younger

Starting out a lot of the female songwriters. I really idolized when I was young like…Joni Mitchell, Katie Tunstall, was very popular…Omggg, yes Katie Tunstall…she is folklore, I know Katie Tunstall…Yes! She was the best, uumm yes unique and different. Also like Fiona Apple, and it was naturally in me since I was about 10 years old, I loved Bjork. Omg, yes Bjork! Oh! yes you also like Bjork? Oh Swan fashion, episode…and I laugh but she’s so much more than that. I also like Yoko Ono, the way that she would do the Haiku’s over John Lennon’s songs. And I feel like Bjork somewhat took from that sort of vibe. Yes, no I love Yoko Ono too! I feel like she gets a lot of flack unfairly. Right! I so totally agree with you. She still makes music, she’s great, she’s a cool artist…people like that really inspire me.

You stated that you do not come from a musical family, so where did the intention, and determination to become an artist come from – typically our family’s have ideally what they would like for you to be, or to fall in their footstep

Yes, I would say that my family was specifically against it. I really was encouraged to get a proper job. My family was very education focused. So when I was 12 years old, I wanted to play my music at a coffee shop, play my songs, and I was teaching myself guitar. My family saw this, and they got completely scared. So they said…’Well, if you do this you will have to do this on your own’. That definitely made me realize, that if I really believed in this, then I have to really give it my all. Music is so important for me on a personal level, I think that is spiritually motivating for me.

What would you say is the biggest gift that comes out of being open to learn and grow

The biggest gift of that would be to have a full life. Nobody ever completely learns anything by staying in their own lane. Although that lane may, or may not have been carved by them. As a person by being curious, and open minded you will end up leaving a better impression on the world, I think. For me making music, I never really want to define myself. Who knows in five years from now who I will be also, always adapting, just even on an animal level…Yes, growing evolving…lol. Yes, totally. Yes, art definitely follows the same thing.

Please tell us the underlying message of your new release ‘Reincarnation’

Yes, well obviously this whole year has been influential to everybody. Especially like if you are writing, and are creative - you just feel different things, and think different things.

‘Reincarnation’ for me is more than the traditional definition of that word. It represents a lot of things that I feel are happening even in my own self, so hopefully its also happening all over the world – that we can kind of be reborn. Turn over a new leaf with the result of everything that’s been happening. For me it is kind of in a way of forgetting everything that you know; and starting completely new and have fresh eyes on everything that you encounter and come across. I feel that hopefully what is happening in the world, and it would be a beautiful thing. So hopefully its also happening all over the world – that we can kind of be reborn. Turn over a new leaf, with the result if everything that’s been happening. For me it is kind of in a way of forgetting everything that you know; and starting completely new and have fresh eyes on everything - on everything that you encounter and come across. I feel that hopefully happening in the world, and that would be a beautiful thing.

Also, being at this age you are also being reborn. Your memories turn into different things, your childhood becomes something different.

Do you think there is any one thing, or catalyst that can spark a person to want to grow and/or change

Totally – it can be as simple as a relationship ending, or it can be as simple as waking up one day understanding something that you did not before. It comes down to love, if you love someone or something, that’s a real motivation for me. Also to try to really understand something, or empathize with something I never came across. It can be anything that really motivates you to grow.

With the lead single on Reincarnation, ‘Alone’, please take us through the message you wanted to invoke

That song is a really special song to me, I wrote it, like really indulging in kind of being alone. And not even in a bad way (being alone). I am learning Japanese too, in that language there are multiple words for the word – there is being alone physically, and then there is loneliness, and those are two different things. There are so many connotations with the word, alone. We hear it (alone), and automatically think ‘Oh that is not good’, and we have an aversion to it. You can also speak to being alone, for spiritual learning, and all kinds of things. It is not bad in and of itself though. And more people that are alone around the world because of quarantine it kind of goes away, because everyone is alone, so no one is alone. It is almost like theoretical now – before people called people introverts, or you are with your own thoughts. Like when you meditate, you are alone – to hear yourself, to hear your thoughts. And everyone is now their own mini island. Exactly! Exactly…it can be really a beautiful thing to be alone. I have tons of fun when I am alone.

The song is recounting of my experience during this time. So I had to put it out now. Well, it is perfect time, and it can be positive.

What do you feel is the most powerful way to inspire a young songwriter with the same aspirations that you had

I know what was important to me was to feel like you cannot do any wrong. As a writer, or anybody creative, there are a lot of ideas of what you should, and should not do. These are the right cords to play, these are the wrong cords to play. And I think knowing that you can do no wrong. If it’s what you really think and feel, you should say it, and you should make it – please do that. The works of creation that have changed society, and influenced art and culture so much are the ones that have been unapologetically honest. That is what I would really want a young songwriter to know. Because kids are often so focused on not doing anything wrong, and good, or bad – that doesn’t exist.

Has the current social situation with BLM movement had an impact on you, and the songs that you write and sing

Yes, of course. I have been aware of the systematic oppression and corruption that our country, and really the whole world has in terms of black lives; as well as the treatment of black people in society. For me I have learned so much that I didn’t even know before George Floyd, and the whole movement. Just reading more, seeing more, hearing more stories. I am coming at it from a perspective of someone who has not experienced those issues. Literally, just driving and being pulled over just because of the color of my skin. It has 100% affected me, and the way that I view everything. And it has been an extremely important, and educational time for the whole world. I am really, really hopeful that we can see more people being forced to taking more responsibility, and being held to their actions; and more justice put forth. I really hope we see that moving forward.

Last question, and not such a heavy question – how do you pamper yourself, to take care of yourself

No, no that is okay. You have to always take care of yourself. It has been such a crazy time for so many people. The more self-care you can do the better. I honestly listen to music one-hundred percent, a song that feels like how I am feeling. I listen to different records – I love Marci Washington, Tyler the Creator, and Fiona Apple’s new record that is my solace, my safe haven.

Thank you so much…. Yes, thank you!

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Bold, Fierce, Passionate, and Latina. These are just a few adjectives to describe Julissa Prado. Not only does Rizos Curls celebrate the curls a person is born with but the beauty we all naturally have. It was such an honor to interview this dynamic powerhouse. Enjoy this interview!

©JULISSAPRADO

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?

I’m Julissa Prado, a proud Mexican-American, born and raised in Los Angeles. I’m the proud founder and CEO of Rizos Curls, my hair care brand creating products that embrace and celebrate the beauty of curls, coils and waves everywhere.

Please describe your company Rizos Curls and what was the first product you created and why?

©RIZOSCURLS

Rizos Curls is a hair care brand creating products that embrace and celebrate the beauty of curls, coils and waves everywhere Rizos Curls. Rizos Curls is a a mission-driven company -- Curls, Community, Culture is at the heart of Rizos Curls. Everything Rizos Curls does is motivated by what is the best for our Rizos Reinas & Reyes customers, whether it be our high-quality hair care products or our philanthropic efforts.

The first product that I created, which I already knew would be the hardest to create because there was nothing on the market like it, was the Curl Defining Cream. There are lots of products that give moisturize and create hold, but there was nothing that took whatever your texture was and made it even better.

You are self-funded. You were initially working in Corporate America and creating Rizos Curls. How did you balance both? Was it the urge to create your dream that had you working extra hard?

Balancing both my corporate job and Rizos Curls was a lot harder than I anticipated, especially after we launched. I went full time with Rizos Curls pretty soon after we launched, within a month or two. I never anticipated to go full time so quickly. I thought Rizos Curls would be my side passion project while I worked at Nestle for a few more years. Luckily, there were so many orders when we first launched that I couldn’t keep up. I was forced to go full time in order to keep up with the demand.

As a Latina, Woman, and Entrepreneur what did that moment feel like when you knew Rizos Curls would be available in Target?

Seeing Rizos Curls, a self-funded independent family business, at Target feels great and completely surreal. We launched in January 2020 in 120 stores and by July 2020 we expanded to more than 400 stores because our customers kept demanding more and more. It feels like all of my family’s hard work is being paid off. That the idea that a brand can lead as a purpose, mission and passion focused business is worthwhile.

©RIZOSCURLS
©RIZOSCURLS
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©RIZOSCURLS Did you always have an entrepreneurial spirit or was it acquired? What drives you?

My entrepreneurial spirit came from growing up in my community. Back in Mid City LA when I was growing up, I’d wake up every morning to a man shouting “Pan! Elotes!” He’d come around every morning in his truck at 8 am and sell bread and tortillas from his car. I’d see my people hustling! I grew up seeing one of my neighbors selling pupusas from her house, people would take orders, and then later she got a cart, and then later she made a little shop on the corner. Seeing so many examples of people who had very little and were able to make something out of nothing. Immigrants are entrepreneurial in nature because having to rebuild in a totally new country to survive that takes heart and hustle. My father crawled through a sewer to get to this country and making him proud for our culture and our family is my biggest motivator.

How did you know Rizos Curls was no longer a dream but a real viable business?

When I couldn’t keep up with the sales demand. It was just so crazy to me that the community of women I had helped years prior with my own formula were my first customers. Then those women told their friends and family members. The news of our launch spread so quickly via word of mouth. It was very apparent right away that the formula I created with the Curl Defining Cream, but also speaking to our customers in a way where we understand them and celebrate them – culturally – was pulling in all of our customers.

I think the BLM movement is amazing, and I have so much respect and admiration for the organizers. Black people have disproportionately been the victims of police brutality and other forms of institutionalized racism in our communities for far too long. It’s time we all come together and take a stand against racism and injustice.

The last and most fun question! what is your favorite way to pamper yourself and get a boost?

I love baths with loves of bath bombs and candles!

©JULISSAPRADO

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I had the immense pleasure to interview the effervescent Ximena Cordoba. This dynamic triple-threat allowed us to pick her brain and figure out what makes the Ximena Cordoba.

**How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?**

I would tell people that I am known for being an Actress and TV Host! My whole career started on a reality show in Colombia called Protagonistas de Novela. A few years later I came to the U.S, and started working for Univision, and then was a protagonist for a Novela (Soap Opera) called “En Tierras Salvajes”. Now, I am currently hosting four TV Shows: Mas Noche, Cuentamelo Ya Al Fin, Aqui Contigo, and Noticias Internacionales.

Congrats on your new movie “Hubie Halloween” with Adam Sandler! Please describe your character and the process of working with such comedic legends like Adam Sandler, Kevin James, and Maya Rudolph.

Thank you so much! Honestly even though it was a small part, it was an honor me to work with such comedic actors! I still can’t believe it! I played the Weather Girl in Hubie Halloween, and it was so much fun to film in Boston with Adam Sandler as my director. I’ve watched Adam Sandlers movies for as long as I can remember, it was such a great experience for me. I hope to work with him again soon!

You are also the host of “Más Noche” please describe this program and what do you enjoy most about hosting?

Mas Noche is a Saturday Night show currently airing on Televisa/Univision and Canal de Las Estrellas. We interview celebrities, and play some crazy games! I love hosting Mas Noche because it’s honestly so much fun and the perfect show to watch on the weekend. It will definitely make you laugh.

What is your first passion: modeling, acting or hosting? And why?

If I have to put it in order, I would probably say hosting! I am able to show who I am, and my personality. I have had the pleasure of hosting on TV for so many years and it’s been such a great experience for me. As a host, I have had the pleasure to meet a lot of great celebrities like Shaquille O’Neal, Will Smith, JLo, Ricky Martin, Keanu Reeves, and so many more! Acting is also a huge passion of mine, as I mentioned earlier I’ve acted in a few Novelas, and of course, recently in Hubie Halloween. I would love to continue to act!

What drives you?

I would say my Fans, my Faith and my Family drives me to continue in my work!

What is your most treasured possession and why?

I have a few treasured possessions including a few awards that I have won throughout the years. The one that stands out to me the most, is a napkin with a quote that a man gave me to me when I was on a plane for the first time. I had just won the reality show and was traveling to work in the city. The man next to me saw how excited I was and gave me a napkin that says “fight for your dreams because the universe will help you reach them.” In that moment I was so inspired, and so ambitious, I thought it was something so amazing!

Do you have any exciting new projects you’d like to share with us?

I can’t really share too much yet, but there are some great things coming soon and I can’t wait to tell you guys! Follow my Instagram @ximenacordoba to find out what’s coming soon!

**How do you stay in shape and balanced?**

I exercise at least 3 times per week, and try to eat as healthy as possible! But, don’t get me wrong. I will gladly eat a bunch of tacos or a Colombian plate in a heartbeat haha.

The last and most fun question! what is your favorite way to pamper yourself and get a boost?

My favorite way to pamper myself is to stay at home and relax. I love to watch a good movie, do my nails and a few face masks

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Danilo Carrera, one of the most beloved Actors right now after bursting onto the scene playing beloved villain Franco. I had the pleasure to find out more about this charismatic Thespian. Enjoy the interview!

**How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?**

La primera pregunta...I’ll introduce myself as [Danilo Carrera] a normal guy with a special job; I’m a kid from a small town — Guayaquil, Ecuador.

Your first project in Mexico was “Pasión Y Poder” playing Franco. How did you prepare for this role?

For me moving to Mexico for “Pasión Y Poder” was crazy. I had no time to prepare anything because it was on a Tuesday, and they told me I had to be in Mexico by Wednesday, and I started shooting on Monday. So I was just trying to pull whatever tool I had in my career or from colleagues. I had to create this character. That ended up being the villain of the story, but it has helped me to grow so much. It was an amazing process but I was just tyring to handle/solve every problem in every scene as it appeared.

What is something that not many people know about you?

I guess not many people know that I have a family, and I’m a family guy. I am devoted to taking care of my mom, and spending time with my brothers. I am the oldest of five, so for me it’s very important to keep the family together, and to be an example for my brothers- that come after me. So that’s really something that many people don’t know about me.

You and your partner Michelle Renaud are serious Couple Goals! How do you guys balance your individual career ambitions and your relationship?

It is crazy to hear all of the time that we are “Couple Goals.” It is hard, we have a normal relationship like everyone else, and for us it’s hard to have differences—arguments— discusstions. But we try to manage everything privately, and not share everything — there is a saying in Spanish, you know… “Dirty clothes you wash at home.” So when we have a problem, like everyone else, we try to work it out in privacy. And try to keep our careers as our priority too. So that we can keep growing and achieve our dreams together. Whatever I can help her with, I will, and she’s shown me that whatever I need she will be there for me— so we manage that way.

What is your first love: acting, modeling, or hosting? How did you get into the other areas?

My first love none of the above, none of the above. It was soccer, soccer… my love is soccer, to be a soccer player. Believe it or not—I have to say writing. It’s something, my fans and the media have not heard about. I will be coming out with a book soon. That’s my first love even before — modeling, hosting, which I like, I love all of them. My first love is soccer, and in the creative world it is writing for sure.

Please describe your upcoming show “Quererlo Todo”

“Quererlo Todo” —means wanting everything, wishing to have everything, and la novela is just amazing. La novela we have everything we need, we have an amazing cast, and an amazing story, amazing locations. People right now are in their houses, and are not coming out of their houses. So, for them to watch all of the places that we are shooting—watching have teh forest, seeing the green, and seeing a lot of spaces. It’s going to be amazing for a lot of people who are home right now. My character es “Un Macho.” He’s a tough guy who falls in love. He’s ahead of his time, he’s like a hero, super-hero, but without super powers, it’s crazy. If he needs to get into a fight to take care of someone or protect someone, he will. He’ll go against four or five guys, take a beating, it doesn’t matter, he will keep moving forward. He will get on a horse and he will do anything form a horse to help all the people he needs.

What do you do to stay balanced and healthy?

To stay balacned for me, it’s a mix of many things. I try to sleep, that’s the hardest for me to sleep 8 hours a day, but I tyr to do it. Then I try to eat healthy. I try to eat a lot of Salmon, and I try to eat not many things with fat, you know good carbs. The thing I enjoy the most is jogging—running, going out and playing soccer. Going jogging before you have breakfast every morning is so amazing, you burn so much fat. Three times more fat than you would burn if you went jogging after you had breakfast. For sure it’s so amazing for your mind, you prepare your day while you run, you plan to run for 20 minutes, and then all of a sudden its been 30 minutes or 40 minutes, because your mind just flew. With all the things that you are going to achieve during the day, and you did more exercise than you expected.

What are your thoughts on the current BLM movement?

I believe that if one day every single Human on this planet, would act from the strongest feeling there is—that is Love. We would not have movements, or bad news on the media, or sad stories. We would have Respect, Unity, and we would all be in Peace and Harmony. There would be no differences, no frontier, or lines dividing Countries. There would be no people telling from here to here we eat this, and from here to here we speak this language. We would be one World thinker. I believe we should all act from Love, it’s hard but I do believe one day we will get there.

The last and most fun question! How do you unwind?

How do I unwind and relax… for me it’s very easy. I just need to get to my family. Sometimes work— media, interviews, photo shoots, scenes working; meeting new people; new meetings for new projects, shootings again, recording. The rush goes for so long, that we don’t have an escape, I don’t know, even if we go on a cruise, or on a trip we get tehre and it’s the same. There’s a camera waiting for you at the airport, then there’s a camera at the hotel (because they know where we are going to sleep). Then you have an event. It’s fun, but it’s a rush. When I need to disconnect I go to Ecuador. Yes, there are cameras at the airport when I arrive but when I get home and go to my farm, I don’t have cell phones there. I don’t have WiFi there. I am just with my family. Listening to my brothers and going back 10 to 15 years when we were little and had no responsibilities. When we were able to play all day— for me that’s just priceless and that’s what I do. I go to my family, to my Mom, Dad, Grandma, and my Brothers.

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Yhorlife Conversates with Moe Al Thani on his journey and purpose of Inspiring others. A true Modern Renaissance Man.

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Michel Duval — Actor, Singer/Songwriter, Composer, and Model. His list of accomplishments and widespread talent made me intrigued and nervous to interview him. Got past my nervousness and have never laughed so hard or been so enthralled by how someone’s mind works and overall cool man. Enjoy the interview!

©LUNA FILMS

Nice, hi!...How are you doing, how are you doing with quarantine…Good, being mindful of quarantining, social distancing, wearing masks, and all of the guidelines…Oh, good!

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you

Well, my name is Mich Duval. I am an actor, but I’m also a crazy creative guy. I like to tell stories, I am a director, writer, musician, actor…whatever art can do – I try to do to fill my heart. That’s what I want to do for the rest of my life, what art is that’s me.

What is something that not many people know about you

I think….some people know but I do not think they know how real it is, I have a phobia of clowns. People know about it, but I do not think they understand..

OMG...ahaha..what!!!...Yeah, I know. It is like real men are afraid of clowns, I am sorry I just wasn’t expecting that…Ohhh, well it is a real one, I am telling you…ahaha, okay is it their make-up, or is it that they are just happy? Well, you know it started when I was about five years old. I was on vacation with my family, I think my mom was in the shower. I was switching through channels on the T.V., and I encountered the ‘IT Movies’…ohhh, no…and I am like oh the clown he is going to give the boat back, and of course not. And it is like from there…I’m like ugghhh. I never expected the clown to turn into a monster…ahaha ohh no…that right there just took the clown out of my system! And I don’t know its got to be like the make-up. In Mexico, you can see people in the streets dressed like clowns, and they just have the red noses, no, no that doesn’t affect me. It has to be full on make-up, and the big shoes…so, it is the American version of clowns…yeahhh…because, when I was a kid, and go down to Nicaragua and Venezuela there were clowns, but you knew there were people behind them, but in America we take it to another level. Full face paint. Hmmm. Yeah that’s a big fear of mine.

©LUNA FILMS

You are incredibly talented. An actor, singer/songwriter, model, and entrepreneur. How do you find time to be successful in each area

That’s a really good question, because I have been battling with myself this year, trying to encounter the balance between everything. I love to do everything, but it also sets me back a little bit – because I do everything but not a master of one thing. I love acting, and music - acting that’s in my blood. I have gone to different schools to nurture that talent to take it to the next level. Directing, and producing stories that is new. So, I have to learn how to balance, because I love to give one-hundred percent of myself to what I’m doing. I am a person of the moment. When I am acting, in that moment I am acting. If an hour later I am making music, then I am making music.

I do not just act for a month, then make music for a month. I know how to be present in the moment, I think that’s a good ability; because then you do not have to balance anything. You are just in the moment, so in that moment if I am acting, then I am acting. And that is the same concept for when I’m doing music, producing, and directing. It’s not about balance at all, it is about being in the moment, and giving one-hundred percent in that moment.

Please describe your company Luna Films, and what type of content do you like to produce

I started Luna Films about a year and a half ago, because I was meeting a lot of creative people with a lot of hunger for different types of content in Mexico. I am a witness to what Mexico likes – the Telenovelas; the happy endings; the rich falls in love with the poor; the ugly man gets the beautiful girl. I love it, I respect it, and it’s kind of what sets Mexico apart in a way. But, I also see to the North, our brothers in the U.S.; I see they tell stories, movies with different emotions. They are not afraid to play with their feelings. The U.S., Spain, and Latin America they play with the audience. And I want to make people play with their emotions with my stories. That’s what I love about it.

Leo es un chico solitario y sin rumbo en la vida, su pasado complicado lo ha dejado varado en las calles de la gran Ciudad de Mexico. Leo descubrirá un negoc...Your last album was super popular. Will you be releasing more music or covers (more Zayn)…and if I may say, while I was doing my research I really like your Zayn Cover sooo… Oh! really!!...Yes! because Zayn is super falsetto, and that is cool it matches his vibe, but then I was expecting (from you) another type of falsetto, a little different. But no, your version is more soulful, and I loved it.

Yeah, yeah I’m going through a little change in music. I haven’t been releasing music because I’m trying to change creative stuff. I already have an album planned, but I am going to go independent for the next album. So, I need to get some things together, I will start releasing music as I please. I am finding my own voice in music. I have gone through a lot of ‘molding’, and I realized that I was not that person. But you have to do it because it’s a part of the process.

Now I’m excited to be on my own path, and to discover what this Mich wants to sound like; I never got that opportunity to create my sound. When I got out of music school I was acting for five years with Telemundo. I didn’t have the time (in my head) to make music.

Since I have this time during quarantine, to be with myself, be in my own meditation, and space – I realize I am ready now to release music. So I am ready to do it and release what I want to do, not what others want to do for me. I am going on another path, and I’m doing this for me, my own mental health. I have this time to sound like me.

I have so many ideas in my head, I have to release them, or it will explode. I am ready. I just have to settle some little changes, and I hope by the end of the year; or before I can give you a little taste with a single so you guys will know where I am going with the music. That would be so cool, I can’t wait.

How do you prepare for roles… Do you try to put a little bit of yourself in each character you play, because you mentioned authenticity

Yeah, every process is different, and every process is the same – I hope I explained myself well. I know what works for me to find the character, and I let myself go. So that I can completely embody this character. I am never judgmental about the character, I never think ‘what will they think of Mich if the character did this’, I’m like I don’t know it’s not Mich it’s the character. I try to physically and mentally be as far away from Mich as I can. I change the look, I change the clothes – everything. So when I see myself I do not see Mich. I have a process in the mirror, it sounds a little crazy, but I find the voice, the face, and find the physicality of the character. Then I also do visual research, on YouTube, I go to different videos to find different tones. But also the script tells you where it is going to go. I started writing, not only to write my own stories but to understand the script. Because if you know how to understand the writer you know what he wants with the character. When I was on the Telenovela, Señora Acero, I became really close with the writer, Roberto Stopello. When I had his script, he was so specific in the script (he did not leave a lot to the imagination), and I knew exactly what he wanted with the character. The script helps you to understand the story, and if I can make it as different from Mich then I have succeeded. If the audience can see the material and say, “ oh wow that’s Mich ?”, then I’m like good I have succeeded. Yes, and that’s good for your mental health too … Yes, it depends on what method you’re doing. Some characters demand more. Like for one role it demanded that my character hit someone in the skull with a bat. Well, of course I couldn’t practice doing that. So, I got a watermelon, and I hit the watermelon with a bat, so I could get that same sensation. Then when I was on set I already was familiar with that sensation. I know what it felt like – because I already did it with the watermelon. I knew what the movement was, and felt like, as well, I knew what the face (expression) felt like. Different characters demand different ways of approach, some for me are more imaginary. And some require physical challenges, you have to change your physique, like through your diet. For one character I wanted to get braces, so one side of my mouth would be closed. They would not let me, but I was up for it. Ahaha, oh gosh, did you ever have braces, because that is not something someone would willingly do… Yes, of course…yeah, yeah. I not only had braces I had the head gear. Yes, that was a mess.

PuñoLimpio Leo es un chico solitario y sin rumbo en la vida, su pasado complicado lo ha dejado varado en las calles de la gran Ciudad de Mexico. Leo descubr...What drives you to work as hard as you do

I have been very blessed my whole life with the mother that I have, with the family that I have, and the opportunity that I have. What drives me is the promises that I made to young Mich, and to make those promises come true for young Mich. I remember being that young kid, and looking in the mirror, and dreaming those dreams – my intention as the years go by is to make those dreams to come true.

What are your thoughts on the current BLM (Black Lives Matter) Movement

It is a crazy time in the world, and not only with the BLM Movement – but the world is demanding a change. In nature, in consumption, and in race. Oh, the world is screaming at us…’we got to change, change everything’. We have to listen. I don’t know why it’s so hard for humans to understand we are the only thing that can destroy each other. So I am happy to see people finding their voice, it is time for people to realize who they are; and the power they have. I always love moments when people see everything so clear, it is their moment of clarity. We are waking up and realizing we have the power, and I hope this brings us together – and not tear us apart. Yes, we are all more alike than we are different. If you do not like someone simply leave them alone, do not be mean…Yes! When you tear us all down, and there is nothing but bones, you will not be able to tell who is who. That’s so very true. No one grows up knowing hate, it is taught…Yes! Exactly… So teach love, respect others’ differences. Be open. I think that is the beautiful thing we have is our colors (different), so why use that beautifulness against other people. It is crazy. I hope we wake up.

The last and most fun question! What is your favorite way to unwind and relax

WOW!!! You’re going to hate me for this, but this, what I’m doing right now. Working? This is how I unwind… finding that script that literally blows my mind, hitting just that right note. This is my escape from this ugly world that we are living in. When I look at reality, I get scared. There’s a saying, it sounds better in Spanish…”They pay me to wait, because I act for free.” Literally the payment that comes with the job, I would do for free, anytime, any day. Payment comes with exposing your privacy and being a target for other people, and not being welcomed in some societies, for not representing what they want you to represent. It’s a hard business and life- because you’re out there, you’re a target. Acting I would do for free, I know I am Blessed. So you are simply an overachiever and there’s nothing you do besides that to unwind, recharge. Hahaha…I don’t know…maybe eating. I always have something to eat…Ok! I will take that. I do workout, it’s for me my mental health, I see it as a way of life. I am happy and that’s it.

Thank you! Thank you!

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I had the immense pleasure to interview Chrissy. This bubbly, energetic and incredibly humble singer spilled on what drives her, what to expect from her recent album, and of course a little girl chat. Enjoy!

***Hi Chrissy! How are you...***Hi! I’m good, how are you?...***Good! Before we dive in. I’ve been dying to ask, what nude lipstick do you wear in your pics...***Hahahah ooh, I just use Vaseline...***SHUT UP!...***AHAHHA...***No seriously. Is it the Creme Burlee Vaseline, because I have that and my lips don’t get that shine...***Hahah it was just (regular) Vaseline...***Haha well good to know! I’ll need to get the strawberry Vaseline so I have a little more rouge action going on ahaha...***HAHAHHAAH...

**How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you**

I would just say I’m Chrissy. I’m silly and goofy - because actually a lot of people who look at my Instagram kind of make judgements off of my Instagram but I’m pretty chill and cool. I also like to sing.

Your single ‘Relax’ is awesome! What was the process in writing this song and how did you find the inspiration

The process was pretty cool. I worked with a producer named T-Black and his company God Made Productions. He actually co-wrote and produced the beats for this song. It was easy because my husband, is a hard-working man. When he comes home from work I just want him to Relax because he is taking care of our family. The song is dedicated to my husband, and my husband inspires me.

Official Video to Relax by Chrissy from the forthcoming album "Taken" available October 16, 2020Your album comes out October 16th! Congrats! Can you tell me what your fans can expect from this album - feelings, happy etc

It’s in your feelings, happy, and love. It’s just about love, like a Buddha album haha. Ahaha so very namaste and drink some wine vibes. Ahaha yes! It’s pretty chill, drink some wine, and dance to it kind of album.

You are incredibly talented. An actress, singer, entrepreneur. How do you find time to be successful in each area

Hmm, I don’t know. Maybe because I was born into this industry. My dad is Chris Stokes and I’ve watched him do it. So it’s like second nature. I don’t try to be good in each area but what I do comes naturally to me.

You started a makeup YouTube Channel with your best friend Miya. How does your YouTube channel differ from others

So I have my YouTube Channel with Miya and I am about to start releasing content on my own YouTube Channel, I AM Chrissy. I’m also doing a family channel called Chrissy & Gio, with my husband and baby. The YouTube Channel with Miya is different than others because we are being so unapologetically us; hoping that everyone accepts that... haha. I AM ChrissyChannel will be more behind the scenes of everything: music videos, the studio, and makeup. There’s no content up yet, but very soon content will be up.

How do you and your husband balance each other, since you both are entrepreneurial

Ooooh, okay. The balance is because our personalities compliment each other. My husband owns his own business and I’m doing my music so sometimes it can be hard but we always figure it out at the end of the day.

What drives you

My family is the number one thing that drives me.

How do you feel when people diminish your accomplishments because they perceive you to be just a pretty face... Do you challenge this perception, if so how

That’s actually one of the reasons I’m starting my own YouTube Channel, I AM Chrissy, just so people can get to know me more, and see I’m a real person. When people just see my Instagram they don’t see who I really am, they only see the 1-2 times a week I wear makeup because most of the time I don’t wear any make-up. The YouTube Channel is great so people see my personality and what I’m about.

I know I’m not a bad person and if people drop their little hatorade comments, it’s just like oh well.

What are your thoughts on the current BLM (Black Lives Matter) movement

I feel like at the end of the day, every single life is precious and matters. It hurts me to see brutality going on because I don’t support any type of violence. My prayers go out to anyone that lost family members to Police brutality. It’s just sad, and there is just a lot of negative going on in the world.

The last and most fun question! what is your favorite way to pamper yourself and get a boost

I like to get my nails (mani & pedi) and my eyebrows done!

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CORINA MARIE HOWELL

I had the immense pleasure to interview Hilary Roberts! Her new LP is available NOW! Not only does her new music make you feel happy but Hilary’s amazing activisim and heart is inspiring. Enjoy this interview!

Before we start, I wanted to say that I love the sampling of your single, ‘Back to Life’. It is my favorite on your new album. Ohhh, well thank you.

Introduce yourself to our readers that are not familiar with you

My name is Hilary Roberts, with one ‘L’, I am a recording artist, a speaker, and a philanthropist…and I love to dance, just so that everyone knows that. Well, your music definitely conveys that. Thank you, thank you.

Where does your real and genuine intention to give back to this world come from

Well, I experienced a lot of trauma, and hardships growing up, and I think through great suffering people go either of two ways – better or bitter. And fortunately after a lot of very painful times I was able to get with a group of people, and I was able to get better. As I began to heal , and the gifts of release, getting peace from the horrible things that had happened; I knew I wanted others to feel that release, that joy. The joy that came (to me), and I just wanted others to have it. I think you are so right, it is almost like a crossroads in people’s lives, that is really cool. Yes, yes.

Something very special and exciting happened in your music career on September 4th ….can you share what it is

My LP came out on September 4th, and I am so excited. For those who do not know what an LP is, it is an album…ahaha. It has to be twelve or more songs, I am so excited and fired up about it.

Ok, what is your favorite song, I have already said my favorite

Oh my W-0-R-D… Oh, they all have a different meaning for me . Gosh, it is like trying to pick your favorite child. They all have special meaning for me, so gosh …no I can’t choose. But let me say this…I leave it to my fans, and my amazing audience to choose theirs. And I want to hear from them what that it is.

Is there an underlying message behind this album

You know it is interesting, because its about elevating love, compassion, and kindness in the world. And also about having a body of work that people can relate to. So on that note, one of the songs is about suffering from someone who is a narcissist. In dealing with a narcissist you can have love and compassion towards yourself for suffering through that; but those people (narcissists) do not have a conscience. It is best to get as far away from them as possible, because they will continue to harm you, harm you. We are not saying there doesn’t need to be justice in things, what we are saying is that you have to love and forgive yourself in the midst of being taken advantage of.

So, it is about elevating ourselves in so many ways. Loving others, and dealing with people that have no conscience the best thing is to forgive ourselves for being taken advantage of for so long, and then stand up for ourselves. But for the majority of the planet we ask – ‘ how can we help them, and how can we lift them up, how can we make a difference, stop someone for taking their own lives. Or doing something that is harmful to them, acting out, or allowing the abuse to continue. It is about that. It is about healing the twisted relations that we have with one another, so that we can love each other better.

Can you please explain the Jaana Woodbury Scholarship, how are you involved, and what does this Scholarship mean to you

Oh my word…Jaana Woodbury…pause…They gave me this scholarship, and the treatment center, Safe Harbor in Costa Mesa, CA. This scholarship was presented by Jaana Woodbury, and the treatment facility is $30,000.00 per month. It is a 90 day scholarship for a woman to get help – from alcoholism, drug addiction, trauma, eating disorders, and co-dependency. So they will be able to get immersed in so many areas of healing for 90 days for free. It is a woman gifting a woman, so we can give it to another woman. So, it is lifting women up.

When it was presented to me, I cried my eyes out, I had no idea it was happening – it was amazing. That is very amazing, and just cool. Yes, it just means so much. I am 23 years sober now, and when I was 6 years sober I had to go to treatment for trauma, sexual trauma. This happened at a very young age by different – perpetrators. So, when I was in treatment, the scholarship paid for half of the treatment; and I borrowed from two people for the other half (of the cost of the treatment facility).

That changed my life, I swore that one day if I had the means, the platform, or both, that I would give back. So other women, like Jaana Woodbury are jumping on board, and I can not thank her enough. The treatment center, Safe Harbor, is just everything. Before we continue let me just say this – you are genuinely a happy, and bubbly person, that is amazing. You are a poster child for being reflective, and that you can overcome anything. Because you would think that someone that has had your experiences would have a chip on their shoulder, and rightfully so. But you are kind, bubbly, and just so positive. Thank you so much, it’s been a gift, and it takes a village. Oh, I have not been an easy case...ahahaha.

There is another event that is close to your heart – The Jason Davis Scholarship/ Race to Erase MS Event – please tell us what this scholarship does, your involvement, and how can others get involved and support

This Foundation, that Nancy Davis who started ‘Race to Erase MS’ years ago, who is loved by so many people. Her father was the head of 20th Century Fox. Nancy knows a lot of people, and she has made it her life’s mission to make a difference with MS. She and her sister, both, have MS. Nancy has worked with doctors to have medicine to get passed , and to people to help them with their MS. Then her son who I met, and Jason Wahler who has known the family for many years, he is like family to the Davis family, and to Nancy.

Jason Davis passed away in February, he had so much love to give; and he gave, and gave, and gave. He had a wonderful heart, and was an amazing talent – he left us way too young, just too young. My heart was broken for Nancy, as was for Jason. So, we were talking to her, Nancy, and she was saying what people who have MS suffer from is suicide and depression. We talked to her, and mentioned to her that we should establish a scholarship in his honor, to help for someone that has MS – to help them.

The way that people can get involved and help (if you would like to donate); you can donate to Red Songbird Foundation in Jason Davis’ name. When you donate to Red Songbird Foundation (you can message us through the website ) you can put notes to the Executive Director, Alex; and say that you want to donate to that specifically.

Every year we will be donating to the Jason Davis Scholarship for Race to Erase MS. I use to fence, and Jason came to our fencing center to watch us fence. He was there to watch us for a film project he was doing. I remember how he was like a quiet gentle giant, such a kind person. This was years ago in L.A., it is simply tragic.

This year 2020 , has been a challenging year for many. What is some advice that you could give to someone challenged with the events in the world, and trying to make sense of it all.

I am a woman who has Faith, and I am a woman who struggled during the pandemic, quite frankly it is important that I do the mundane things magnificently. Meaning, what am I doing to help my body, mind and spirit. So, I get up in the morning and I pray, meditate, and make my Gratitude list. I think about what am I going to bring into this day. Then all the big things that I cannot control, I just turn it over to God. Because I cannot control it – I cannot. Then I list the things that I can do today, for self-care – I can exercise; get out of myself, and think about helping someone else. Like does someone need groceries ( who cannot get out of their homes), call them (because they feel isolated). Then the other thing – I have been writing songs. I have committed to working on my voice, and vocal technique. Also, good for people to do things like painting. Think of what kids do for fun, take it down to simplicity – paint, coloring books. We have had challenges in the past, and we are going to get through this. It is like music with message, what can I do to make a difference. So I take care of me, I can be loving, and take care of others. So, I focus on that, and cherish the small things.

How do you take care of you, what does your ‘me time’ look like, to unwind and recharge

Since COVID and there are no massages, I have a massage chair, and I sit in that. I do stretching, I take hot baths with Lavender and Ylang-Ylang – I just love that.

I also get into my bed after my bath and I love to read uplifting things, very light reading. Oh! And I get into bed with my two puppies, one is a Bichon Poo, fifteen pounds, and a girl Poodle that is also fifteen pounds. I play with my dogs it makes me so happy.

Another secret that I do is put on this machine that has ocean waves sound, I just love that sound. No matter where I am I bring the ocean with me.

Please go and support Hilary’s album and Foundation, and give the love that Hilary gives to the world daily!

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Damon Sharpe took a break from his busy schedule to interview with Yhorlife. Thank you so much Damon and enjoy!

MATT DOHENY

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?

My name is Damon Sharpe, I am an award-winning producer, songwriter, DJ and recording artist who loves to travel the world.

What is something that not many people know about you?

I actually started my career as a professional dancer. It still influences the way I make music and my work ethic every day.

How do you find inspiration and keep producing original content?

Traveling, experiencing new things and balancing personal and professional life to refill my creative well. I also consume content constantly. It’s important to keep our finger on the pulse as creators to stay relevant and inspired.

What drives you?

I'm fortunate as I innately have high drive. No matter what level of success I achieve, I strive for more. I operate like it's the first day of my career every day. The heart of a newbie with the wisdom of a veteran.

How do you feel when people diminish your accomplishments? Do you challenge this perception, if so how?

I actually love when people try to diminish my accomplishments LOL it just makes me work harder and success is always the best revenge. ;)

What advice would you give to a young kid with the same aspirations as you- being a producer and podcaster?

There are millions of people with talent out there but if you can outwork them and stay the course, success is inevitable. Persistence and positivity are key. Work ethic trumps talent.

What are your thoughts on the current BLM (black lives matter) movement?

We still have a long way to go but I love that we are uniting and seeing some long needed changes!

Please describe your podcast and how you came up with the idea?

I wanted a place where I could share new music and give people a sense of community and belonging. Somewhere for me to tease my new songs and give them a peek into my world through dialogue. Damon Sharpe presents Brainjack Radio was born. Where my Brainjackers at?

What is your favorite way to pamper yourself and get a boost?

I love to get away. A spontaneous trip to Mexico complete with beach time, good food and massages will always boost my energy and inspire me to keep creating.

MATT DOHENY

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JOHN PARVIN

I had the pleasure to interview resident “cool girl” Lexie Lombard. Enjoy this interview!

Lexie, how would someone who has followed you on Instagram, watched you on your YouTube channel describe you?

“girl next door”

In a world where there is a lack of individuality, how and where does that intention for you to be unique you come from?

I’ve been one of the lucky ones who’s always been rewarded for my unique behavior and perspective. I don’t want to encourage outsiders heavily impacting your self-worth, but I would be lying if I didn’t admit that positive reinforcement from others helped build my self-confidence to be myself.

What inspires and drives you?

My inflated ego as a child led me to believe I was destined for greatness. Now, I’m just working to make that little girl’s dream come true.

What do you think is the biggest, most positive shift currently in our society?

The ability to make a living on the internet. Privilege still plays a role, but there’s more opportunity available for others to be entrepreneurial and creative with their career path through the internet.

What is the best advice that you would give to a 13 year old young lady today?

Explore every interest you’ve ever had. Take chances and never doubt your abilities.

JOHN PARVIN

What have you seen as some of the more prevalent challenges during the pandemic with your generation?

Walking the delicate line of knowing our physical safety is threatened, but our mental health is also declining.

What can you say was the catalyst for your decision to lend your voice, platform to activism?

It wasn’t something I thought much about, really. I know I was born privileged, and it important to use it for good.

In particular with the BLM movement - during your peaceful protest with George Floyd, what would your message be to individuals who just don’t understand - why the protests/riots?

If you’re not black, remember this is not about you. Do not take lead, take a back seat. You are there for solidarity and support. Also, listen; There’s always more to learn.

What would you say is the most important intention with your platform?

To continuously create a fun “safe space” on the internet.

The last and most fun question! What is your favorite way to pamper yourself and get a boost?

I have so many favorites, because I love pampering myself. Laying out in the sun in my favorite bikini. Taking an afternoon nap. Calling a black car. Getting my hair done. Making a playlist then driving down one of my favorite roads. Truly, I could go on and on.

JOHN PARVIN

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Sarah MacLean. 2x RITA Award Winner, New York Times & USA Today Bestseller, and my literary hero!! I first discovered Sarah about 10 years ago and was instantly a fan (own every book she’s written lol). The reason I was hooked because Sarah has her heroines- smart, bold, fearless and uniquely themselves and they get the guy! This unique blend of standing out in the crowd and getting your happily-ever-after seemed far reaching, especially in the ever present conformity era, but Sarah brings to life that being happily and uniquely yourself is the truest happily ever after. Enjoy my uber fan girl interview!!

Hi Adylia!…**Oh my gosh hi Sarah! It is so nice to talk to you, you are literally my favorite author! I am rereading the final ‘Bareknuckle Bastard’**. Oh thank you for reading. **Yes, I have read every book of yours. The first was the ‘The Nine Rules to Romancing a Rake’. I was obsessed with your books, and my bookcase is like a mini library of your books.** Oh, well thankyou. Are you reading by yourself, or are you going to do Summer Sarah MacLean on Instagram? **What!?!...No, I did not know it was going on…what? I have no personal social media. Well, I love you, and your writing – so let me just jump in, I just had to fangirl for a moment.** Oh, well thank you!

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you

Oh…well I am Sarah MacLean, I write romance novels and I read romance novels. That is how I introduce myself on my Podcast as well.

When you were growing up what authors did you look up to

Oh, I started reading romance when I was really young, about ten or eleven years old. So, it was almost entirely romance writers. People like Judith McNaught, and Jude Deveraux, Johanna Lindsey, Beverly Jenkins, and Julie Garwood. That is probably the five, if there was a book out by them I read it.

Why did you start so young (reading romance), most think romance novels (skills) as a joke; but it’s such advanced writing skills in these novels. Is that why you gravitated to them at such a young age (the complexity of them)

Simply, I came to romance reading because of my sister, who is ten years older than me, and she was a romance reader. I was just a reader, period. If there was a book in the house, I wanted to read it. We shared a room, and she was hiding the books from my parents, under her bed. So, when she went to college, I found all her books in boxes under her bed. I still remember my first romance, by Jude Deveraux, ‘The Black Lyon’ a book of its time. I would not necessarily suggest someone to begin there with romance. After that I immediately fell in love with the genre. I was in middle school and I was just an awkward kid. I had a small group of friends, I was overweight, and uncomfortable with myself. So, romance novels were a place to find triumph for women, and people like me. So, for me happily ever after has always had to do with hope. When I was in middle school hope was…thin on the ground (let’s just say). Oh, I know, school can have lasting memories, some not so positive. Sure, and now that I am forty years old, I can look back at that time and realize everybody feels awkward and uncomfortable; and that is a part of the DNA of middle school. Yet, we all feel so alone. Although books, and romance novels made me feel not alone.

Did you always know the genre of writing you would write about, if you had a second choice of genre what would it be

I think I would probably write thrillers. I would definitely write something that was genre based. Also, I would write something that had clear goals, because the joy for me is writing within a rule structure. So I’m thinking that’s where I would go – thrillers, or mysteries.

I read mystery novels for fun, and what is so cool about it is that it has a similar structure of a romance. In that the end is always the same. We will find out who did it, because if we did not it would not be a very rewarding mystery.

What is amazing to me is how that in hands of brilliant authors, is that both romance and mystery…Coexist. Yes! Also, that these authors are able to write different books every time. I think that’s what most people don’t understand about genre fiction in general. They are all the same, but the trick is making them all completely different. Yes, and unique. Have you read the ‘In Death Series’ by Nora Roberts. Oh yes, of course. That made me think of the duality between romance and mystery, because she writes in mystery, and low key futuristic. As well she also has notes of the romance.

As you are known for your romance novels, what do you think makes a fantastic romantic gesture

Well, that is kind of personal (romantic gestures)…right? Oh, you know it is funny when I was younger, I use to think, and in my books too, that grand gestures are so important. I think about Haven climbing that wall in Parliament, and giving Seraphina that divorce, that is such an iconic moment. Yet, in real life I feel like the grandest gestures are the quiet ones. I feel like when someone notices you are having a rough day and buys you flowers; cleans the kitchen; or does small things that is incredibly special - It makes you feel seen. I do feel why romantic gestures are so big in romance novels is because of love.

This is weirdly personal – but the other day my husband walked into my office with a box and said, ‘I noticed your mouse was being weird, so I bought you a new one’. I was like my mouse was acting weird. I do get that someone would not think that gift as a romantic gift. But yes, it is at the same time, because he noticed. Yes, he noticed my mouse was being weird, and knowing I would not take time to get another one. That kind of lifting is light lifting, but its such heavy lifting in a relationship, just to see someone else.

In all your novels all of your characters are multi-dimensional, bold, different, and fearless, how do you balance them and keep them interesting

Well, that’s such a nice thing to say. I think it’s real easy for me to create heroines because I am surrounded by real remarkable women. For me it is not complicated to create an interesting multi-dimensional nuanced heroine. Because women are interesting, multi-dimensional, and nuanced in the world. With creating heroes, it goes back to what I was saying before about romantic gestures. It is about building someone to see that heroine for who she is, and for her strengths, flaws, her beauty, and for her power all at once. So, for me the creation of everything starts with the creation of the heroine, because for me she is the center of the story.

What type of relationship best inspires your writing

Yes, my relationships to other books also inspires me. I think romance novels are iterative on the world, and on each other. When I read romance novels by magnificent writers – ‘Queen Move’ by Kennedy Ryan; ‘Like lovers Do’ by Tracey Livesay; and ‘The Virgin and the Rogue’ by Sophie Jordan. I am compelled as a writer to tell a story that competes. Like Kresley Cole who is one of the best; so, when I read their books I am inspired to write better. To meet the standard that they are setting. As the genre broadens and becomes more rich, my work gets better by the virtue of the great other texts in the genre.

**Please describe what your Podcast ‘Fated Mates’ is about**

Yes, we just started Season 3, which is mind blowing. Jan Krakow, who is a romance critic, we met on Twitter several years ago. We talked about how much we adored Kresley Cole’s ‘Immortals After Dark Series’. I was reading it for the third or fourth time, Krakow had done the same, and I was tweeting about it. We cannot remember who suggested it first, but we said we should do a Podcast, a read along Podcast. Our intention was to have 18 episodes, and when we started talking about romance, we knew we were not going to stop.

So the first season is a deep dive read along, of Kresley Cole’s ‘Immortal After Dark Series’. We do interviews with brilliant authors that do interesting things in their books. In Season 2 we went back to the beginning of our lives as romance readers, and books that taught us how powerful romance novels could be in ones lives.

This season we are doing modern romance, and the first read is ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’. The Podcast is every Wednesday. This season should be real fun with great interviews. We will really see how books evolve, and how the whole genre evolves.

How did you come up with ‘Bareknuckle Bastards’, and why do you save Grace’s story for last

I knew that Grace would be the last book for a while. She was always the most important character in the book for me. If you go back to ‘Wicked in the Wallflower’, and you read the Prologue its told as a fairytale. At the end I introduce Grace, by saying something like…’ her story is for another time’. This story must end with Grace because she is the girl who had her life stolen for all these boys. It is not a secret I spend a lot of time thinking about how the world treats women. When I say women, I mean women of color – all women…trans women, and queer women.

For me, Grace’s story was a lot about me working through my own concerns and anxiety about the world right now, and this is how romance works. I wanted to tell this story of how women can triumph with a partner by their side, not all men are the worse. There are men who understand and are willing to be good allies. This book is about allyship. Grace is the queen. Adylia, you are a romance reader, so you know historically there is always the big Duke that comes last in the series. I love that set-up in a series as a writer, and a reader; in this case Grace is literally the Duke, and her story has to come last. Yes, because if not, no one would have cared about Devil. Yes, the movement from Devil, to Wit and essentially to Grace that are the Bastards; it’s very much like leveling up on society. Devil’s conflict is very tactile, he is mad, he wants revenge. Wit is trying to reckon with his own life, Grace and Wit are really reckoning with the world.

In Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake (my favorite), why did you make Lady Calpurnia Hartwell so bold? From fencing to smoking. I fell in love with this one because I was a former fencer.

So when I read this I was like yes someone that gets it (fencing). I do not care what century you are in, it has never been a real crowd pleaser for a girl to be a fencer…. That is so cool. I wish I could say it was thought out and intentional, but it was my first book. Nine Rules was where I sat down and wrote all the things, I love about romance novels. The hero is the twin, and heroine is Callie. She makes list of all the cool things she wants to do. It is her way of pushing against what the world wants her to be. I wrote that character over and over, it is a character I can never escape. For me building Callie like that was me tapping into my own insecurities, desires, and my own way of being in the world.

I wrote it in my twenties, this was my way of working through things. I was trying to figure out who I was, and so was Callie – we were doing it together.

**How do you pamper yourself, get relaxed and recharge**

That is weird in 2020, I don’t (relax and recharge) …I feel like a ball of anxiety. I know that it is about filling the well between books; I try to fill the well, to think outside of my book world. I try to read three to four other romance novels a week, so that is a part of it. Making sure that I do not get bogged down in the work of writing.

Perfect, thank you.

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I was the given the immense honor and opportunity to interview Alejandra Rodriguez de Palomera! When I initally got the confirmation I initially jumped up to do my little happy dance and then sheer “pinch-me” moment that People En Español’s Most Powerful Women was doing this interview!! Hope this interview makes you as inspired as I was to learn about this Titan of Industry but one who is making such an amazing difference, Thank you!

**How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you?**

I would describe myself as a woman that loves what she does personally and professionally and gives the best of herself day in and out. I am demanding, disciplined, a woman of faith and very happy with the life I have made for myself. I am a woman with a family who is the center of everything I do. I am respectful of others and especially of myself.

Alejandra, you are the co-founder and CEO of a highly successful talent agency, Palomera Group. How did you transition to starting The Healing Steps Foundation?

I don’t think a transition is needed. Healing Steps was created from the conscious awareness of the need that exists to heal the minds and hearts of those who will be in charge of our future.

What is the Mission Statement of The Healing Steps Foundation?

Healing Steps is dedicated to the emotional rehabilitation of children that have suffered any type of abuse. We are committed to supporting victims despite socioeconomic or migratory status, race, sex, religion or disabilities enabling them to integrate into their familial and societal lives with a boosted self esteem and confidence.

When can you trace that seed/desire to work on building a new organization The Healing Steps Foundation?

I have worked with many different organizations, like the Global Gift Foundation, and for many years now, I have contemplated the idea of creating Healing Steps Foundation. Now more than ever, there is a greater need for action, as the global pandemic has entrapped children, who used school and extra curricular activities to escape abusive household, in those environments. The pandemic has given me free time, that I rarely have, to focus on making this vision a reality.

Where does the name Healing Steps come from, and what age are the children?

My sons Julio Cesar and Juan Pablo, who are part of this dream and initiative, came up with the name. In fact, my oldest son Julio Cesar, is the President of the foundation. We envision a world where all children who are victims of abuse have access to mental health resources that enable them to live full and enriched lives by providing psychological treatment to equip them with the necessary tools to overcome the difficulties they have endured. We aim to empower victims to take control of their lives by improving their mental health and expanding their capacity to cope with past and future trauma. It is our hope the psychological tools they gain will have a lasting impact on their ability to thrive as members of their communities.

How can they get in contact with The Healing Steps, and where is the organization located?

Through our social media @healingstepsfoundation or via email. It is Located at 1460 NW 107Ave. Suite Q, Miami FL. 33172

You have accomplished so much in your career, where does the drive to create a better world come from?

I don’t like to measure goals in many or few, because every day there are small goals to achieve and hopefully to always have them. It is the world that measures what we have done, and I don’t focus on that. What truly drives me to create a better world is the gratitude I have for all my blessings in health, love, and challenges that have helped me to grow. These blessings have led me to understand that the origins of our childhood significantly impact our future and our view of the world.

Many of the children who grow up without the ability to rid themselves of pent-up anger and pain, fall into addiction, criminal behavior or in the worst of cases take their own lives. That’s why I want to help those who experience violence, avoid aggressions in the future, not only in their lives, but also when facing tragedies they will inevitably experience as consequences of life.

What drives you?

Being alive drives me. Today more than ever it drives me to be alive, healthy and knowing that I can do more for others.

You have launched the career of over 100 talents! What do you think separates you and Palomera Group from the competition? How do you select the talent you work with?

There is no need to separate Palomera Group from competition because our competition is internal. I always have said that the competition is in executing better tomorrow than the previous day.

What would you say are the top 3 characteristics that have made you successful and why?

I’m very disciplined and discipline must exist in any task or project you choose to take on to effectively create goals and reach them.

I’m optimistic and I believe that’s the best medicine for anything.

I’m also a woman of faith which gives me an extraordinary power to concretize my visions.

Alejandra, you are the epitome of feminism and leader. Did you find it hard balancing your femininity in a male-dominated profession at the beginning of your career?

I love being a woman, I love my essence, and I have never viewed this world as being for one sex or another. I simply do the things I know how to do and motivate my team, so we can focus on giving our best to improve ourselves every day. We must be aware of who we represent, so that together with them, we can achieve their goals, which ultimately are our goals.

Do you select your talent that aligns with the ethos of Palomera Group?

Nowadays the talent that reaches out to Palomera Group knows exactly who we are, how we work and what we stand for, so they don’t need to align with anything. Rather, they come to us because an empathy already exists between their way of being and our way or working. It’s like meeting someone and having an instant chemistry that lets you know that you are going to mesh well together

The last and most fun question! what is your favorite way to pamper yourself and get a boost?

Travel. I love traveling with my family, enjoying a nice wine, a good cheese and the sea.

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Let me first just say before we start…from doing my research (for the interview) you are the coolest, and the most positive person ever – it is just so inspiring. Well, thank you.

David, please introduce yourself to our audience who do not know you

My name is David Fernandez Jr., I am an entrepreneur, actor, director, and producer. I have also just launched an App called ‘Earn Your Life’. Most importantly, I am in this human experience following my heart getting to know myself every day, and continuously challenging myself to step into the unknown. That is where I am at… kind of easier said than done. Challenging but always rewarding.

Would you say that you are naturally a positive person, or that you have a positive outlook, or is it a daily reminder to stay in a positive zone

You know I believe it is all three of them - just understand for me to have that level of awareness of focusing on the positive, it is because I have been to the darkness. Does that make sense? Yes. So when I do put out energy of positivity, love, empowerment its ultimately projection of what I am creating for myself. So in essence I am a student to life – I am continuously going inside my heart. And I am learning to go inside, because I am learning the answers are inside. So, especially right now with everything that is happening….I think I am at an impasse. It’s a lot of the anxiety, panic, confusion, sadness – all of the stuff that collectively happens to us; because of all of the fear being put out there right now. The best way to find that harmony between both is the positivity, because there is a lot of fear being put out. It’s a good thing though, because it is forcing us to look at ourselves and to question. I want to be a reminder of our greatness, the love that we possess, and the love that we are. That is how I am showing up right now, in the things that I am doing.

Perfect. It is like you have a crystal ball and you know exactly what my next question is…hahaha It is All Good.

How do you motivate and encourage someone to be positive and give Love when faced with a negative situation

Yes, it is really heavy, absolutely. So, to feel everything that you are feeling, to drop down to your heart, to breathe, and continue to breathe. Breathing is so important. If we are able to focus on our breath, it is a huge step to experience whatever is coming up for us. The most important part of the puzzle is to focus on energy that is going to uplift you. To elevate you, to remind you of who you are – which is Love. That is what we are (Love). This is like a birth of a new awareness.

The shift might not feel good inside. If we empower ourselves to realize that it is showing up for a reason; and to be gentle with ourselves and not judge it. To just feel it, express it and release it, and there are different ways to do that.

We can write our feelings down, talk to somebody, we can cry, punch a pillow, yell into our pillow, sing, or dance. So many ways to express – paint, draw. Find your outlet, find something that you are able to release that energy. That is all that it is, energy. When you really break it down on a cellular level, all we are is energy. So if we go through trauma, or just focusing on the negative things in life, it can get trapped inside of us. It’s all just awareness. I can not take credit for this. Bob Proctor is one of the people that I listen to, and study. He says…that we are all trying to find that new level of awareness. We are not taught this in the beginning, not taught this in our schools, and for the most part not taught this as we grow up.

The time is now to focus on growth, focus on ourselves, and to learn about ourselves. And to connect to people. Most important thing that I have learned through years, where we create these spaces to open up with people – the most important medicine, and magic happens the minute someone is willing and courageous to share their heart, and be vulnerable. It is the most beautiful thing in the world. Then another shares, then we realize that we are all in this together, that we are feeling the same emotions. Pain is pain, all of us have been exposed to it, especially now. So, people just need to reach out to people you can talk to, or maybe even a stranger.

Let me share this story with you….I was having a panic attack while driving to the golf course. I was legit having a panic attack, so I reached out to someone that could support me in what I was feeling. She gave me one message that was beautiful and divinely needed in that moment. Then I get to the golf course, I get outside and I am taking some deep breaths. I am walking to go pay, and there is this one brother who I have seen there before. He greets me and he is all happy, and bubbly, and he says – ‘how are you doing’. And I told him…’I am not feeling well, I’m freaking out, I’m having a panic attack – anxiety’. He said ‘ brother I feel the exact same way, I have felt that so many times I thought I was having a heart attack’. We just instantly connected, it was so beautiful. It was a complete stranger, but I chose to be honest and open. He did ask me how I was doing, so I was like okay I am going to give it to you. It was so beautiful, we instantly connected and we have a deeper understanding of who we are – just by that conversation.

After that we were both like ‘bro I thought I was alone, and the only one feeling it’. It was almost like he was mirroring me, and he physically looks like me, it is so crazy. He is your doppelganger. Yes! It is so crazy. We just have to remember man, we are not alone, and it is temporary; emotions are temporary. Sorry to keep going on….No! this is who you are.

What does ‘Earn Your Life’ mean, and how are the concepts of Earn Your Life taught on your Podcast

Thank you for all of these questions, they are amazing by the way. Thank you, in doing my research you intrigued me – your bio, your App is so positive, and then the Netflix Show. I am like he is cool.

Earn Your Life originated when I was 21 years old, and I lost a son. In the hospital, I literally held him dead in my hands. Oh, I am so sorry. Yes, it literally changed my life. It took me to about two to two and a half years of darkness. Because I was 21 years old, and I did not have a lot of tools under my belt – emotionally, mentally, or spiritually – I just didn’t. So, I did the very best that I could, but I was numbing myself. I did not know how to deal with the trauma. It was so deep, because….pause….I am getting so emotional. I am coming full circle right now. So when I held my son, my son that had already transitioned; I was talking to him in the room as I was holding him. I was telling him all of the things I was going to teach him, the things not to do, the bad things – the things that I was doing. I was going to teach him to not do those things. When I said his name for the first time, it was like he was trying to take a deep breath in that moment – this happened three times. It scared me so much it taught me to be appreciative for life, Grateful for life, because life is fragile. And I think in essence why I have been an overachiever, gone for my dreams, or been in search, is because of the message that I learned from him – my son. It was to Earn It. It is so deep for me right now, I feel it, I am about to level up now. I am about to go to the next level right now. But it’s all been scaring the shit out of me.

Earn Your Life, that is what Earn Your Life means to go inside yourself – to learn and discover more about yourself, to continue to learn and evolve. To go for your dreams, your purpose. You do get challenged on so many different levels, because for you to be open to receive that next level you have to do that internal work, to be open to receive it. That is what Earn Your Life is, but to simplify it, to ask yourself the question – Why am I here on earth. What is my Purpose, What is my Joy, What is my Happiness.

Those questions will lead you on the path to your Heart, and when you go to your Heart – it is a beautiful thing. Because the world needs your Heart, but you have to discover your Heart first, to be able to share your Heart with the world. And that is what Earn Your Life means…so, it is an extension of my Heart. It is an extension of who I am. To be able to accomplish what I have accomplished so far, and to accomplish what I will accomplish in the near future, I had to do that (work), I Earned My Life. So does that make sense? Oh totally, that is amazing…phew…Yes, in this journey to overcome whatever trauma, I mean I do not want to label anyone’s trauma, but whatever that challenge is for people it is hard, it’s debilitating. I think it is cool to have this outlet and you show – take a minute, it is almost like grieving. You take a minute to process whatever pain. Yes! But then you cannot die in time, you have to keep moving, the world is moving, and you have to keep moving as well. I think it is really awesome. Thank you, thank you so much.

Some days are more challenging than others. Yeah, but it’s ok, because it is all a part of the journey. You are not alone. I have your App. What!!!, oh thank you, we are going to be expanding the App. We are going to have a yoga, and meditation section. I am about to do something big. I am merging with my mentor in ‘Be the Change Movement’. We are going to have a Disneyland of Light Workers. There will be a production studio and healing center. We need this. Congrats.

You have been acting for approximately ten years, your new Netflix show is Selena. She is probably one of the highest selling Latina artist of the 20th century. Please tell us about your character in Selena, and what it means to bring her back to a larger audience in the Netflix show.

Yes, well I feel like the most blessed person in the world to be a part of her legacy. It is an epic series so it is going to dive deeper into her life. There are six episodes and one hour long per episode. Her brother and sisters are the executive producers, to make sure we tell the story correctly. I play the role of David Kramer, he was her personal bodyguard. The beautiful thing about it is that through my process as an actor, I looked for the real David Kramer. I was able to find him – through the power of social media. I reached out to him, and the first time we talked on the phone it was over four hours. We cried together, he shared intimate stories about Selena that only he , and those close to her would know about. Some of the stories he shared were funny, and some were intimate.

He is a gentle and giving soul, he took her like she was his daughter. That is how much he loved and protected her, he was loyal to the family, and respectful. So, I feel so blessed because I got such an insight into my character, and I took it very serious. Because I am portraying a real human being. As an actor you don’t get those opportunities often, especially in a story of such a legendary person as Selena. I want to honor him in the show.

What would you say is the best gift that you can give to someone

Your Heart, Kindness, Love , and your Authenticity. I think that does so much on a deeper level, a true connection is made. You can also provide hope for showing up in that way. This world needs connectors more now than ever. We need one another more than ever in life, that’s the biggest gift you can give someone – your Time, Love, and your Heart. Imagine we are in this human experience, and to experience this Love – to be seen and celebrated by someone is the most beautiful thing in the world. That is freedom.

To be yourself one hundred percent, cry and feel when you want, and not be judged, or rejected. That is being who you are, you are saying I am enough, take me for who I am. Yes!, hahaha.

My mentor, who is the founder of ‘Be The Change Movement’, they have done work for 33 years all over the world. He told me….’ When it is hard it is ego, when it flows and it is easy it is God – the Universe’. Just think about this for one minute. All that I have been going through, and experiencing lately (the panic attacks), it is death of the ego. When I tried to control it, it was worse. When I just surrendered, and let it go down to my Heart – it just goes away. With anything, if it keeps coming up, it’s hard, and we are struggling, it is the ego in place. If we would surrender our mind, because our mind is wired to keep us safe; so it makes up stories of fear, or possibilities , outcomes that are not going to serve us well.

In reality these things will not happen, unless you focus on it, and then it will manifest. The minute we surrender, which is going to our essence our higher selves, that is when things start shifting. The more we continue to connect with Mother Earth and be in the flow state, the easier everything manifests, and comes my way. Then every time I try and control, or force and manipulate, it never happens. How crazy is that.

That is The Magic , The Journey, The Beauty. That ego is in the subconscious mind, it is the trickster. The key is to surrender, to go down to our Heart space of Love, and remember it is always happening for Us.

What do you do for fun, what brings you Joy

Right now it is golfing. Actually it is the small things – being by the ocean, seeing a sunset, going to my park in San Diego, and hearing the laughter of little kids. Gratitude is the biggest thing for me, because what we focus on grows. We have to be vigilant at the gate of our minds to stay in Gratitude. So it is playing and getting to the little kid in me.

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©MARC COLCER

Montana Tucker is a singer/songwriter, dancer, actress and social media sensation! Before our interview I did my research and she looked like a fun, cool girl who I assumed got lucky through the power of social media. To say I was in awe would be an understatement! Her drive and ambition from 8 years old had me feeling like a slacker; her tenacity and work ethic made me feel incredibly antiquated in my previous views on her social media rise. This is a woman with a dream who has worked for years and is finally getting the recognition she deserves. Her bubbly personality is infectious and I’m so excited to hear her new material. Enjoy this interview!

How would you introduce yourself to people who are unaware of you

Well, I would say hi I am Montana Tucker, ahaha – I am a singer, dancer, an actress, and I am from Boca Raton, Florida. I live in Los Angeles now. Some people may have seen some of my dance videos that I have been doing online. I am super excited to be releasing my own music, I released my single ‘Hola’ a few months ago. Now I have my next single coming out ’Sunday Funday’, coming out on September 18th. So, I am really excited for everyone to hear my music. Yes! I have seen your videos on TikTok…Hahaha yessss!!!

©DAVID AVALOS

How is ‘Sunday Funday’…is it similar to ‘Hola’ with the same upbeats, and same positive energy

Well actually it is kind of a different vibe, definitely it is an energetic song. It is more pop, it doesn’t have the Latin flare, influence as ‘Hola’ did. ‘Sunday Funday’ it’s a pop upbeat song, kind of has a house vibe to it, and it is a feel good dance song.

You are the only female signed to Pitbull’s record label – Mr. 305. That is such an amazing accomplishment! How did you feel when you signed with the label.. your first thoughts

Thank you, honestly it was really incredible. I have been singing for a little while, but dancing, and dance videos kind of took over; so I kind of put music on the back burner. And I actually opened for Pitbull when I was 15 years old, so it is really cool to see everything come full circle. When I met Pitbull and his business partner, Robert Fernandez, they each had the same vision as I did. What music I should be making, image, and everything. So it is awesome to have your team understand your vision, and be a part of it. I really feel it is the right team, I am so excited. The music we are making is awesome, and I will have music coming out with Pitbull definitely in 2021 maybe even before 2021….we shall see. He is just an awesome guy, and business man, so honored to be a part. I am also from Florida, so awesome that I am with him, who is also from Miami, Florida – it is great.

Please describe your single ‘Hola’, why did you choose to launch your single in Spanglish (my definition – English with notes of Spanish mixed in)

I think from being around Pitbull and his team, and he is Mr.305, King of Latin Music. So when I was working with his producers, we worked on a bunch of songs and really thought ‘Hola’ was the best first song for me. It made me really want to get up and dance. For me as a dancer I really wanted the first song that came out to be dance driven; and make folks want to get up and dance. It is cool we released that song, and it became a pretty big song on TikTok. Also, it was a dance challenge on there (TikTok). So, it is awesome for me to create a dance challenge to my own music, instead of doing it to other people’s music…so yeah. I swear if I could dance I would totally try it. You have to try it. Uuuhh no I will leave it to you

I was so impressed when I saw how much philanthropic work you do. Please tell us why you focus on Alzheimer’s, and how you got involved feeding the homeless in Los Angeles

Well, my Grandma, my favorite human in the world has had Alzheimer for over 12 years. So, I am very passionate about it, and finding a cure for it one day. I am doing as much as I can, I have done a bunch of walks. My Mom who is my manager, and the daughter of my Grandma, she is heavily involved as well. We have been speaking with folks from the Alzheimer Association on how to get more involved. I want to have my own charity one day for Alzheimer. But my Grandma is incredible, she has had it for over 12 years, and she is the most happiest person. She has her ups and downs. I actually posted a video of her the other day on my Instagram….Oh! my gosh yes! I saw it. I thought it was the most heartwarming thing. She is so nice. I just kept re-watching it, it was the cutest thing. Aaaaww…thank you, you know Alzheimer’s is just a terrible disease. It is hard, but that is why I am extremely passionate about it. Also, out in L.A, I do #Lunchbag. We get together and we pack the lunches for the homeless down on skid row. We write inspirational notes for them, and sometimes we give them feminine products. And then we actually go downtown to skid row and pass out the lunches. And that for me is the most rewarding incredible part. To interact with them, they are so thankful. I want to do more of that.

What are your morning rituals

I start my day which is probably not necessarily the best way to start it…I immediately check my phone. I feel like the morning is the best, because I am very hands on with my social media. I respond as much as I can to all of my comments. No one else has access to my social media, it is only me. I am on there all day responding to everyone. So I feel like the morning is my time to check Instagram, TikTok, everything, and respond to people as much as I can. I also post at 9:00am L.A. time, so it is my time in the morning to do that. I got a trainer recently, so I have been working out in the morning. So starting off my day being productive. I film pretty much every day, or collaborating with people. So when I am not working I love to hike, and especially out here in California it is the best. I try to hike as much as I can, be outdoors, and at the beach. That is what I like to do.

What drives you. Opening for a plethora of people, all this from a young age, and now you are 27 years old (that is a long time to do your passion) – so what continues to inspire you

I think honestly being in the entertainment industry since I was 8 years old, this is all that I know. All I would ever want to do. I am truly so passionate about, and love entertaining, and performing. I literally found videos of me when I was 5 years old putting on shows, it is in my blood I love it. Now, even more with the power of social media – I have done a few different videos, one anti-bullying, and another body image videos. I get messages from kids all around the world that have watched my videos, they tell me…’I was about to give up today, and because I watched you and watching your videos I didn’t’. So getting messages like that, or kids saying they started dancing. And that kids use to make fun of them saying they were too overweight to dance, and now they are in dance class (because of my videos). This is what drives me, truly. Seeing how these one minute videos can make such an impact, so that is why I love making them, and I am passionate about doing them. Your work just resonates with people, and that is what is really awesome. Yeah, thank you.

What advice would you give to your younger self

I would say…and I know it sounds pretty cliché, but do not listen to others. I think that it is really hard. Social media was not as popular as it is now when I was younger, so now it is harder (for kids in school, or kids growing up) with social media. Not to be so sensitive to what people say, and I know for me I am a very sensitive person. I use to take everything my Mom would say to me to heart. So, if you believe in yourself, and you believe in something, do not listen to what others think. If you believe in yourself and something, you can do anything. You can make it happen, and that is what I would tell my younger self. I would also tell this to others that are younger and follow me, and watch my stuff.

What are your thoughts on the current BLM (Black Lives Matter) movement

Oh wow, well hum….I definitely took part in a lot of the protests here in L.A. I think to me it was incredible to see so many people to come together to be a part of this movement. I think many years ago when something would happen to a particular group, then only that particular group you would see protesting (the ones that it affected). Now it is so amazing to see so many different types of people to come out and support. I went to the one in L.A. that had 30,000 people. It was so amazing to see so many people come together and fight for a good cause. There has been a lot of change that has been made and hopefully will continue to be made. I think it is really powerful that we have come together to support the cause. And hopefully some real change can come about from this. Yes, kind of uniting for a common goal for everyone, regardless of the group.

Are there any upcoming projects you are able to share with us

The one that I am really excited about is my new single, ‘Sunday Funday’ coming out September 18th. I filmed the video for it in Miami just last week. It is my first real big music video. Congrats - thank you!. We didn’t get to film the video for ‘Hola’ because of COVID19. So decided to put all our energies to this one, and the video is really amazing. It will show a different side of me. Everyone sees me just straight up dancing, and this video shows me as an artist. I have a lot of fun cameos in the video. I dress up as different characters and it will show a different side of me. Also music with Pitbull coming, and other great projects.

©DAVID AVALOS

The last and most fun question, what is your favorite way to pamper yourself and get a boost

Well I just got my nails and toes done literally right before this call…. Bahahaha. I am all for that. That I love. I do love, and what is therapeutic for me is going on hikes, and going to the beach. The beach I realized this past year, just how important it is for me to be there. It is something about it, it is how I pamper myself - the sun and the outdoors. Everyone feels pressure to be doing more. I need to work on (not having to always be doing something), I have always worked 24/7. It is important to take time for yourself, and for me to slow down at night. To be able to watch a show, not to be distracted, and feel like I have to be doing something.That is the self-care that I do for me. Have you gone to Jessica’s on Sunset before? No! I have been going there since I was 5 years old, the colors are fun. Yes Jessica’s Nail Clinic. OH I will have to check it out, thank you, I will have to check it out.

I will let you go and let your nails dry, and have a great weekend. Bye!

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Patricia Manterola. One of the most recognizable names in Latin entertainment. The highly talented, creative, and kind Patricia honored Yhorlife by taking a moment out of her busy schedule to do the interview! I was a fan of Patricia’s before but after this interview it solidified why she is wildly successful- she’s humble, joyful, and just radiates positivity!

©PATRICIA MANTEROLA

How would you introduce yourself Patricia to people who are unaware of you

First… hi and thank you for having me at YhorLife. Well, I am a very blessed woman that found her passion when I was a little kid. I have been acting and singing since I was eight years old. I feel blessed that I have been able to build a career based on my passion. Uumm it is a true blessing – it is like I have been able to express who I truly am; also, being able to live from it, it is truly a blessing. I discovered early in my career, at about eighteen or nineteen years old that fame is a powerful tool, that you can impact in a positive way the lives of others.

So, I feel blessed that I found my passion early when I was a kid.

And found the purpose of that passion. I am a blessed woman – I would say that. Also, of course in the personal life; my dream was to have a family and a life partner. I have them both and surrounded by love and health in abundance in all those areas. So yes, I feel really blessed.

What is something that not many people know about you

Oh my gosh, uuhhh I have a sister, and this comes with a remarkably interesting fact. I have a little sister, Michelle, who is an incredibly talented and successful actress; as well she was born the same day that I was born – April 23rd…. but years later. So, she was my birthday present. So that is something a lot of people do not know that I have a real human doll as a birthday present – and I love her very much. Another thing that comes to mind is that I do not drink alcohol. I have tried to change a lot of habits in my life, for the habits that are bringing me closer and closer to my peace inside. And the habits that keep me there. So, I switched to healthier habits in the mind, body, and in the soul.

Please describe your incredibly successful Renta Congelada, and how you prepared for this

Hahaha…. thank you so much. Well you know Renta Congelada is the first time that I ever explored a sitcom, a comedy. I feel that I am the worst comedian in the world. If you put me in front of an audience trying to make them laugh, they will laugh at me but not because of what I say. Because I am so bad as a comedian, I have never felt strong enough to make them laugh; but as an actress, this is the first time that I explored that area. You are using your acting skills, of course sitcom is different because they do not need comedians. They need real actors. I really prepared my character the way that I prepare for other characters. Then I learned the technique of comedy based on great directors and actors that I have on the set. You also learn that comedy has a very special rhythm, so people in the audience can understand the jokes, and the funny situations that you go through as a character.

I really prepare my character as normal, however, but one thing that I truly put into the character is when I read the first draft of the script I instantly saw Delia as ‘The Nanny’. Do you remember ‘The Nanny’? that successful series from a long time ago and I saw Delia with a lot of similarities with that character. So she was my inspiration to give life to Delia.

You animated “La Voz Kids” and “Siempre ninos”, have you always had a passion for animation? Do you incorporate some of the current events in the world into her storylines to help the youth be aware and formulate opinions?

Yes, well I never felt also that I was a host, like to host a show. After I did my singing, acting career, and I became let’s say famous a lot of these Premier lo Nuestro, The Latin Grammy’s, The Billboard’s - all those events invited me as a presenter, as a host. I felt so natural, I always told to these production companies, that I was not a host, but I would love to do it. Only if I could be natural on the way that I present myself as a host, I will be okay. They said ‘yes’ that is what we are looking for, we want naturality, and we love that. Then they invited me to hosting “The Festival Vina del Mar” in Chile, and then other Awards in Spain as well. I do not consider myself a host per say… but I feel amazingly comfortable doing it.

So now the second part of the question…yes, every time I have the opportunity to be a host and to have a microphone in front of me, I always use that to impact in a positive way the lives of others. Especially for the youth, because now that I am a mom, and I have kids; I know how important it is to make them compassionate and make them aware.

They need to know what is going on in the world, with their language, with the information that they can process. For example, I became a vegan, seven to almost eight years ago; I did it first for health, then respect for animals, and my lifestyle changes. My kids were not at the beginning (a vegan). Then little by little when they saw me, and they began asking me information on why I became a vegan, I was then able to explain the reasons. As well I told them that I was going to respect their decisions, and little by little I saw them change.

I think my son, Lucca, was four, or three years old when he told me ‘Mommy I do not want to eat anymore animals, I love animals, I respect them. So if I can be healthy and not eat animals let’s do it’. So, he became a vegan just because he saw me as a role model, because they say you teach by your actions.

Then my husband became a vegetarian and then a vegan; then my other two kids. Then, it was so beautiful one of my twins, Alesso, loves sharks, and we were looking at videos of sharks on the internet. One video popped up about sharks, and the problem that exists how they kill the shark for their fins and sell the fins in the markets; and then throw the sharks back into the ocean. He was devastated, he could not understand how people could be so evil to cut the fins of sharks then throw them back in the ocean to die without fins. He then told me that day…’ not because I do not like meat, but if I eat meat, I am supporting these things, so I am not going to eat animals anymore’.

I feel with your actions, and your words, of course that has an impact, so in my hosting role…every time I have the opportunity I incorporate some of the current events in the world to impact in positive ways. That is how we can help together, and especially with the younger generation. I will do it.

You are incredibly talented. As an actress how did you create/make your character come to life and be relatable?

I try not to act, hahaha…in my life. Of course, we all have a little bit of acting in the way that we interact with other people. But I always try to be true to myself. My audience has seen me growing in this career since I was a kid. They have seen all my ups and downs. I have always tried to show them the way that I am, so when I cry, I cry, and I say it when I am strong. I love to share the tools that help me to become stronger and every time I failed, how I stood up again and became better; and how I learned from that experience. I have been creating that character daily, focusing on being honest and open. I think that is what is making me relatable to others, and people can relate to the things that I go through. I also feel blessed to have the support of so many people that care about me, and about my life. I think they know how much I care about their lives, so it goes both ways.

©PATRICIA MANTEROLA

What drives you

I think it really goes back to self, who we truly are…that drives me. Going back to that peace, that we all are and have, it is inside of us. But how many times because of our mind, our thoughts, that ego mind – we forget. This is what always drives me, the little things that remind me to go back to that peace. And with that practice if I can share, and impact this to the lives of others; this makes me happy. Every time I have the opportunity to talk about this in my world, the entertainment world, which is not that often; I always try to incorporate those little tools like, meditation and yoga (the tools that have helped me). All these things that you can do daily to make you feel better. That drives me a lot.

What advice would you give to a 13-year-old girl that has the same aspirations as you – being an actress & making a career doing what they love?

Well believe in yourself that is the first thing. I had the blessing of a mom that repeated this to me since I was a kid…’You can do it. You can do whatever you want, I am not saying that it is going to be easy, but You can do it. And believe in yourself.’ That was and has been stuck in my head since I was a kid. So, I am blessed, and I thank my mom for that. So, I would say that to them, believe in yourself. Do not worry what people can say about you, and especially in this social media world. Our kids are exposed to so much criticism that can make their self-esteem go super low sometimes. We as parents, or public figures must make sure, and remember to tell them to believe in themselves; and not put much attention what others say about you. Also work hard, that is another thing. Often many people only see the tip of the island in the middle of the ocean, and they do not see everything that was done underneath (that island), the hard work. So, yes believe in you, hard work, and that will make you successful in whatever you decide that is your passion.

What are your thoughts on the current BLM (Black Lives Matter) movement?

Well honestly, I believe we are living in an era that we can not just stay quiet. BLM, women being abused, kids being abused, and animals are being abused. We are abusing each other. It is time to speak up and to change that. The way that we can do that – 1. Create and impact others, teach the younger generations to be more compassionate for others. To really practice no judgment and be compassionate. Embrace our differences, those differences make us powerful and unique. I am so thrilled to be in an era that we can speak up hard and we can get together and do this movement together. On my next song I wrote in this pandemic – it is about how many people just stay quiet – but not anymore, we are here, we will open that door because we are coming through that door. I am totally supportive.

Are there any upcoming projects you are able to share with us

Well, I just shared one…ahahaha, that is one of my new songs. I hope I can collaborate with some of my powerful friends and do something powerful with that song.

The last and most fun question! What is your favorite way to pamper yourself and get a boost?

Ohhh my gosh, I love to sleep. I know it sounds boring. Since I have become a mom, I have not been able to sleep like I like. So, whenever there are no activities for the kids, or interviews, and traveling; I ask my family to let me sleep in. For me that is the most delicious thing I can do for me, to be in a dark room sleeping in, and just those extra hours of rest. Also taking a bath, having massages with my hubby.

Thank you to you, blessings, and stay healthy.

©PATRICIA MANTEROLA

Thank you, Patricia, it was a pleasure.

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Recently I had the pleasure of speaking with Ivan Hong on his perspective of men’s fashion, and recommended brands….

**Where did you first get your start in the sartorial arts, And what inspired you**

I got my first suit when I was 5 years old, yes very early. That suit was a double breasted grey check. Actually, my grandpa was my original suit role model. He is a businessman and I remember he was always dressed in a nice suit. It can be said that the culture of menswear accompanied my growth. So I set a goal to continue studying menswear culture when I graduated from college. For the last four years I have worked in this industry.

What are the hallmarks of Neapolitan tailoring

Compared with English, Neapolitan tailoring is more relaxed, curved, and casual. The Neapolitan jacket’s shoulder has no padding in the shoulder, it only has canvas in that area. The famous ‘Manica Camicia’ is hallmark of Neapolitan tailoring. It is more like shirt sleeves on a jacket.

The Neapolitan jacket has a wider lapel than an English jacket. Three roll two is a normal choice of single breasted Neapolitan jacket. The top button hole can maintain the smooth curve of the lapel. The bottom of the Neapolitan jacket is very significant, because its opening is larger, but it is also curved. The bottom line is a really nice natural curve that follows the curve of the lapel as well. This is what makes jackets look more relaxed and casual.

Why do you think Neapolitan tailoring has become so popular in East Asian countries

Neapolitan style is easier to wear everyday in East Asian countries. Because it looks more relaxed and much more casual. There is less padding in your shoulders, nor structure in the chest and waist. You can choose an unconstructed jacket for a casual look, and it is very light with no pressure on your body.

What are the essential shoes that every man should own

If I only owned two pairs of shoes – I would choose a Black Oxford and a Brown Suede Tassel Loafer. The Black Oxford would go with formal suits, and the Brown Suede Tassel Loafer can go with lots of casual looks. After these shoes in your wardrobe; I would next suggest a Black Penny Loafer, and a Brown Derby shoe.

For most men shoe care is something they forego. What are some shoe maintenance that every man should do

A man’s shoes say a lot about him. However, it is not the value of the shoes that matters but how well they are taken care of. Taking proper care of your shoes can not only extend their life, but allows them to look better over time.

What are some shoe brands that you recommend

I would recommend Baudoin & Lange for ready-to-wear, their loafer is more of a summer specific shoe. They have a lightweight construction, usually soft, unlined upper, and it is rather cooler than a standard loafer.

For made-to -measure, it should be Saint Crispin’s. They produce a beautiful shoe but perhaps more importantly offers a unique combination of handwork and fitting.

What are some style tips that will help set a man apart from others when they wear a plain suit, or clothing

I love color combinations of cream, brown, and white for a casual mood. When you wear a plain navy, or gray suit, you can choose a bright color shirt, or tie. Such as yellow, green, or red. A denim shirt is also a good choice. These mixed combinations can be quite subtle, yet unexpected in their texture, or weight.

Thank you for your perspective Ivan.

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Simply stated … Marriam Mossali and I had the most energetic, uplifting, insightful, and inspiring conversation.…

What would you say is the most effective and intentional way to inspire the next generation of young women

Authenticity. Now in our world of endorsements, and sponsored content; I feel to really inspire the next generation is to be authentic. Younger people can see through the b.s.; I mean folks come from various walks of life, their journey, their struggle to get there – is what inspires. I know for the people that inspire me – it is their struggles and journey.

©SAWSAN AL BAHITI BY LINA QUMMOSANI (Copy) (Copy)
©ASEEL AL HAMAD BY ABDULLAH ALSHEHRI (Copy) (Copy) We talked about Marriam’s main goals and intentions when she wrote ‘Under the Abaya’, and her decision to launch the second edition. She said it was organic, and it snowballed. Marriam was asked to speak at the Creative Institute to twelve Saudi female designers. So she wrote about how fashion could be used to tell people that we are diverse, and ambitious. In 2016 I wrote a street style book, ‘Under the Abaya’. It shows us as women, as who we are, we are now stepping into the spotlight. We are showing who we are, and owning it.

So with the release of the second edition of ‘Under the Abaya’ in February 2018; the book showed the change, there was a shift. I now had questions like ‘ why isn’t my whole Instagram showing up”? you could literally see the whole country opening up from top to bottom. Yes, Saudi is opening up in a positive way.

The first edition was literally done in 2 weeks. So for the second edition, we had a pre-order on March 8th; we wanted to create a buzz for the second edition. Our plan was to release on June 24, 2018, which is the anniversary that Saudi lifted the ban allowing women to drive. The book is 100% non-profit, because the goal is to put girls in school. With this purpose we did not want to delay the release, we decided to grab that moment. There was also a digital book launch, there were ten women speakers, and approximately 200 women participated.

The next step is to take the ‘Under the Abaya’ concept, ideology, and build a foundation. What greater gift than to provide the monies for young women’s education.

We discussed whether Marriam felt fostering a woman’s individuality was an important characteristic. In that pure, authentic Marriam way she answered, Definitely. I am a self-hating person on social media; because we all want to look and sound the same. Individuality makes us important, and unique. In Saudi individuality is key.

An example, how feminism is defined in Western Culture I do not relate to. Because I see it as a desire for women to be more masculine; more like men in their playing field (a man’s playing field).

In Saudi our world’s (roles) are very defined, and it makes us more defined in our place. So I questioned and injected – with these defined roles in their culture could it make women be perceived as more meek and docile ? Marriam’s response was a certain and emphatic no, it is interesting to see it; because we retain our femininity in our workplace. It is like feminism is a byproduct of the clear and distinct roles. In ‘Under the Abaya’ it is showing people that our feminism is different; more important we are saying we will define us in our own time. Do not define us according to Western Culture.

I could relate to Marriam’s perspective, being half Venezuelan. We agreed that the judgment depends on what culture you are speaking from when you analyze a culture’s feminism; because we come from different cultures.

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©FATIMA BANAWI BY PANOSTUDIO (Copy) (Copy) View fullsize
©DALMA MALHAS BY UNKNOWN (Copy) (Copy) How do you envision the impact of COVID19 on the fashion industry (months of quarantine)?

Interesting….I see it reverting back to normal business, the supply chain might possibly be different. However, I do see a more cautious consumer. Black Lives Matter has made an impact. People will hopefully have meaningful conversations because of it. As a result of COVID19, I do not see the big houses like DIOR and Prada changing. Prada had their show and there was 300 folks watching the show. Yet there has been and will be an impact; right now we are super saturated with digital content. The houses will have to look at how are they positioning themselves; because there needs to be a physical presence, or we will get lost in the digital content. As well, I see an over saturation with branding, and hopefully there will be a moving away from the egocentric branding.

Please explain what is Niche Arabia

Oh yes, it is a company I established about ten years ago. It is a talent development, consulting, and fashion houses bridge into Saudi. We have expanded and have offices across the country. It is always evolving, and we select our clients. We did the first female sports day in Saudi (physical education). We had about 10,000 women participating, I and three other women put on the event. It was one example that Saudi women are progressive.

That lead me to ask Marriam what did she think were the key components that made her a successful entrepreneur. She stated that she knows her value. It is not being arrogant, it is confidence. I have over fifteen years of experience in my field. In Niche Arabia you see it. Yet I make a point to be helpful, I connect people. It is not about compensation so much, it is about knowing your value.

What did that moment mean to you when you were recognized and invited to the Former First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama’s Celebration in Design Gala in 2015 ?

Oh…it was great. I was one of the few Arabs, and the only Saudi recommended to be at the Gala. It really validated I was on the right path, that I was in the right place to be recommended.

So with Marriam’s fast pace life, as well being the queen of multitasking; I wanted to know what did she do for relaxation and fun. Marriam said everything is fun. To relax….hmmm…I am a workaholic. My son controls my life, he is under two years old and controls my life. But, Niche Arabia also relaxes me. Hmmm… oh okay…. I simply love a Hammam, it is a Moroccan Bath. Oh my gosh it is very relaxing.

Thank you, Marriam!

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Señora Acero, es una de mis telenovelas favoritas. Con la vieja historia de la redención y reconstrucción de una vida mezclada con problemas modernos e impecable actuación. Mi personaje favorito Vicente interpretado por Carolina Miranda. ¡Estaba tan feliz de entrevistar a una de mis actrices favoritas y podcasters! Disfruta la entrevista de la increíblemente guay y talentosa Carolina Miranda.

Señora Acero, is one of my favorite telenovelas! With the age-old story of redemption and rebuilding a life mixed with modern issues and impeccable acting. My favorite character Vicenta played by, Carolina Miranda. I was so happy to interview one of my favorite actresses & podcasters! Enjoy the interview from the incredibly cool and talented Carolina Miranda!

**¿Cómo te presentarías a las personas que no son conscientes de ti?**Hola soy Carolina Miranda muchos me conocen como actriz ó como la que interpreto a Señora Acero La Coyote, pero más que actriz soy una mujer que a luchado por sus sueños,guerrera,apasionada,protectora de su familia, un ser humano que aún tiene fe en la humanidad,una mujer que cree en el amor por sobre todas las cosas, conductora, locutora, empresaria, escritora y apasionada con el arte.

How would you introduce yourself to people who are not aware of you?

Hello, I am Carolina Miranda, many know me as an actress or as the one who played Señora Acero La Coyote, but more than an actress, I am a woman who has fought for her dreams, warrior, passionate, protector of her family, a human being who still has faith. in humanity, a woman who believes in love above all things, host, announcer, businesswoman, writer and passionate about art.

¿Qué es algo que no mucha gente sabe de ti?Extrañamente y para mi carrera que tengo pánico escénico,esa fobia en dónde tienes una audiencia y tienes que dar una presentación ó hablar en público,lo tengo bien trabajando con mis maestros y asesores casi no se nota mi pánico,pero créanme cuando tengo a más de dos personas en frente me sudan las manos,el corazón siento como si fuera a explotar,tiemblo un poco y la voz se me descompone Jajajaja y aún así en esta carrera he tenido que enfrentarlo muchas veces y salir adelante.

What is something that not many people know about you? Strangely and for my career I have stage fright, that phobia where you have an audience and you have to give a presentation or speak in public. I have a good time working with my teachers and advisers, my panic is hardly noticeable, but believe me when I have more My hands sweat from two people in front, my heart feels like it's going to explode, I tremble a little and my voice breaks down hahahaha and even so in this race I have had to face it many times and get ahead.

¡Eres increíble en la Señora Ascero! ¿Cómo te preparaste para este papel? Muchas gracias!!! Saben que Señora Acero fue un parte aguas en mi carrera y voy a estar eternamente agradecida con todos los que formaron parte para que yo llegara a ese lugar, fue un personaje con mucho desgaste emocional y físico,tuve que tomar clases con stunts de combate escénico,peleas, uso de armamento, equitación, uso de caballo y armas, fue un proyecto realmente enriquecedor por todo lo que me dio de herramientas como actriz,también tuve que poner a prueba mi capacidad mental incluso más que la física,ya saben que al personaje de Vicenta siempre le pasaban cosas dramáticas dentro de la serie y eso a nivel emocional como actriz te va desgastando,filmábamos de 5 de la mañana a 11 de la noche de lunes a sábado y los domingos volaba a USA a dar entrevistas en distintos estados,todo esto durante 3 años me hizo descubrir el el humano es fuerte y tenemos capacidad de sobra para enfrentar los retos.

You are amazing in Señora Ascero! How did you prepare for this role?

Thank you so much!!! They know that Señora Acero was a watershed in my career and I will be eternally grateful to all who participated in my arrival there, she was a character with a lot of emotional and physical wear, I had to take classes with stage combat stunts, fights, use of weapons, horsemanship, use of horse and weapons, it was a really enriching project for everything that gave me tools as an actress. I also had to test my mental capacity even more than the physical one. You know that by Vicenta's character always had dramatic things happen to her in the series, and that emotionally as an actress is wearing you down, we filmed from 5 in the morning to 11 at night from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays I flew to the USA to give interviews in different states, all this for 3 years made me discover the human is strong and we have plenty of capacity to face the challenges.

¿Qué te impulsa? La esperanza,el amor y mi familia, son mis tres pilares,despertarme sabiendo que solo tenemos una vida y sacarle el mayor provecho a cada día,siempre tenemos una oportunidad para empezar de nuevo y hacer que tu vida en lo que sea a lo que te dediques que valga la pena,ser feliz,amada y necesitada por la gente que quiero,servir como ser humano a alguien con un consejo,una platica ó con amor incondicional creo que eso es lo que más me alimenta en la vida y saber que siempre la vida te sorprende.

What drives you?

Hope, love and my family are my three pillars, waking up knowing that we only have one life and making the most of each day, we always have an opportunity to start again and make your life what it is you dedicate yourself to be worth it, be happy, loved and needed by the people I love, serve someone as a human being with advice, a talk or with unconditional love I think that is what most nourishes me in life and know that life always surprises you.

¿Cómo te sientes cuando la gente disminuye tus logros porque te perciben como una cara bonita? ¿Desafía esta percepción, si es así, cómo? Creo que siempre va a determinar de que lado ves la moneda, nunca me a marcado el trabajo por ser una cara bonita,es verdad que existen muchos patrones en la sociedad en donde las protagonistas son lindas y espero rompan no el patrón si no el estereotipo de a lo que ser linda se refiera, en la industria considero que existen mujeres mucho más hermosas que yo y sin embargo tienes que trabajar el interior,el talento y la percepción que tengas sobre ti para que eso se refleje en una cara bonita, yo no peleo con mi físico porque ahí está, ya existe, pero si peleo con las historias que queremos contar y romper con estereotipos de estar siempre arregladas ó impecables si el personaje no lo amerita.

How do you feel when people diminish your achievements because they perceive you as a pretty face? Does this perception challenge you, if so, how?

I think it will always determine on which side you see the coin, I have never been marked by the work for being a pretty face, it is true that there are many patterns in society where the protagonists are beautiful and I hope they will break the pattern but not the stereotype of what being pretty refers to, in the industry I consider that there are much more beautiful women than me and yet you have to work inside, the talent and the perception that you have about yourself so that this is reflected in a pretty face, I I do not fight with my physique because it is there, it already exists, but I do fight with the stories we want to tell and break with stereotypes of always being groomed, or impeccable if the character does not deserve it.

¿Qué consejo le darías a una chica de 13 años que tiene las mismas aspiraciones que tú: ser actriz y hacer lo que amas?Siempre sea a lo que sea que te dediques tienes que tener algo claro en la mente:

La pasión por lo qué haces determina los retos y las metas que logres en tu vida.

La humildad es la herramienta más importante para mantenerte en la cima,porque llegar a la cima cualquiera lo hace pero mantenerse ahí muy pocos lo logran.

La constancia es lo que le gana al talento,tienes que trabajar duro por tus objetivos sin cansarte ,sin rendirte y así pasarás al que nació con talento.

El efecto esponja es el mejor maestro,recuerda que siempre habrán personas que lo hagan mejor que tu,así tengas los años que tengas, no las envidies ó las celes,apréndeles y absorbe lo más que puedas para que sigas creciendo en lo que te quieras desarrollar.

What advice would you give to a 13-year-old girl who has the same aspirations as you: to be an actress and do what you love?

Whatever you do, you have to have something clear in mind: The passion for what you do determines the challenges and goals you achieve in your life. Humility is the most important tool to stay on top, because anyone can reach the top, but very few can do it. Consistency is what wins talent, you have to work hard for your goals without getting tired, without giving up and so you will go to the one born with talent The sponge effect is the best teacher, remember that there will always be people who do it better than you, no matter how old you are, do not envy them or heavenly people, learn and absorb as much as you can so that you continue growing in what you want develop.

**¿Cuáles son sus pensamientos sobre el actual movimiento BLM (las vidas negras importan) y pandemia COVID?**Estamos enfrentando una pandemia,estamos luchando cada quien desde nuestras casas por sobrevivir, estamos en pleno siglo XXI me parece inconcebible la idea que aún tengamos que hacer manifestaciones para evitar discriminaciones,pero en fin, queda mucho camino que hacer y daño que resarcir por tanta historia.

La vida importa !!! No importa si es negra,blanca,amarilla,rosa,azul,humanitaria,vegetal,de preferencias sexuales,religiosas,políticas ó de género LA VIDA IMPORTA y eso es en lo que deberíamos de trabajar.

Basta de pensamientos retrogradas que nos hacen voltear a ver al de la derecha con desprecio,el mundo está cambiando y creo que somos los únicos que no nos damos cuenta que tenemos que evolucionar junto con el.

What are your thoughts on the current BLM movement (black lives matter) & pandemic?

We are facing a pandemic, we are each fighting from our homes to survive, we are in the XXI century seems to me inconceivable the idea that we still have to make demonstrations to avoid discrimination, but in short, there is still a long way to go and damage to compensate for so much history.

¡La última y más divertida pregunta! ¿Cuál es su forma favorita de mimarse y obtener un impulso?Ahí les va !!! En exclusiva para ustedes Jajajaja soy una persona que padece ansiedad desde hace muchos años, yo como muchas personas que lo padecen sabemos que es espantoso liderar con ella porque al final se resume en que la ansiedad es “Exceso de futuro” debido a esto tuve que aprender a quererme,cuidarme,mimarme y apapacharme más de lo normal,así es que ahora lo que hago y mi secreto cuando me quiero consentir es poner música de Norah Jones bajar la iluminación,comprarme unas flores lindas y prepararme un té chai bien calientito con un poco de leche de almendra,prender unas cuantas velas y ponerme a escribir,eso me puede volver loca Jajajaja recomendado para bajar los niveles de estrés y ansiedad.

The last and most fun question! What is your favorite way to pamper yourself and get a boost?

There it goes!!! Exclusively for you, Hahahaha! I am a person who suffers from anxiety for many years, I like many people who suffer from it we know that it is terrible to lead with it because in the end it is summarized that anxiety is "excess of the future" because of this I had to learn to love myself, take care of myself, pamper myself and cuddle up more than usual, so now what I do and my secret when I want to pamper myself is to play Norah Jones music, turn down the lighting, buy me some nice flowers and prepare a very warm chai tea with a little almond milk, light a few candles and start writing, that can drive me crazy Hahahaha recommended to lower stress and anxiety levels.

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©ANDREWCHO

Andrew Cho is shop manager, menswear buyer and blogger that hails from Seoul Korea. His extensive knowledge of classic menswear, tailoring, fit and history makes him a force to be reckoned with in the world of the sartorial arts. In this interview we discussed his background, entry into menswear, and his likes and dislikes when it comes to style and trends. In the world of menswear there are many more options than ever before, and Andrew Cho gives us his views of classic and timeless menswear that never goes out of style.

**Where did you admiration and passion for sartorial fashion begin? Was there something, or someone who inspired you**

B&Tailor which is one of the famous bespoke shops in Korea. And its founder ( Instagram @chad_park) made me start work in the industry five (5) years ago. I was 22 years old when I got to know that shop. The look that they make is an authentic classic style to me; not like a contemporary suit, or designer brands’ suit. They show and make the one-of-a-kind classic style and suit to this day.

What should every man invest in when first starting their journey into the sartorial arts.

I’d like to recommend all men who are at the beginning of their sartorial journey to order , or get three kinds of essential attires. One is a navy blue three (3) piece suit, a charcoal gray three (3) piece suit, and the other one is a navy blazer with gold metallic buttons. Most men think three (3) piece suit is unnecessary and not useful; then often they say they will never wear the vest. But I do not think so; because with a three (3) you are killing two birds with one stone. You can choose two pieces, or three pieces depending on your mood of the day.

Then, with regard to my recommendation about the navy blazer with gold buttons; it has been regarded as men’s wardrobe essentials. Because it is the very definition of classic or casual, and also considered indispensable items for Ivy Style. As well it pairs incredibly well with khaki or olive colored chinos; oxford shirts; any type of shoes; washed jeans; rigid jeans; and any other mix of dressy, or casual wear in your wardrobe.

What suit trends in high fashion do you like, and trends you do not like

‘Tom Ford’ is the best ever menswear brand. They show what is the real men’s suit, and what men should wear. The silhouette in his line is masculine and very straight. No to mention the quality of his line. Tom Ford produces utterly exquisite tailoring. All of the line garments are finished superbly, with a wealth of delicate hand finished techniques and handmade construction.

In contrast I do not like the ‘Tom Brown’ suit style. I love their style and unrivaled design sensibility. But to talk about their suits in terms of sartorial elegance – their jacket sleeves and trousers are awfully short, and the fit is badly tight. The garments fits the man like he got it when he was a child…it is not classic.

**How do you describe your personal style…**

I could not define one form yet. Well….I want to say ‘ Easy-to-follow’ style. I think I am not really a ‘fashion person’ who attracts attention in public, or who coordinates in a way that is not easy to follow. I mean I usually wear not too much fancy, or highly utilized items which everyone could use, or style easily in everyday life. Example, I do not wear overly colorful clothing such as orange, red, pink, nor too showy patterns like flowers-Hawaiian, or leopard print. I prefer to dress traditional with basic colors, and pattern clothing. Furthermore, I choose to wear suits, or jackets made of fabrics conservative business men can wear – high twisted wool rather than linen from summer, tweed rather than cashmere, matt heavyweight plain weave wool rather than shiny lightweight twill wool.

What is your most cherished garment? What are the reasons for why it is so cherished and sentimental?

My Solaro suit made by Orazio Luciano. Anyone who loves menswear know how Solaro has attractive fabrics. I had looked forward to getting this well fitted suit for years, and I finally ordered it from Orazio Luciano which is a stalwart of Neapolitan tailoring and then they made the suit so incredibly tailored for me.

What is the most overrated accessory or garment in menswear? What do you think is the most underrated?

There are a lot of men that wear single breasted suits with notched lapels. It is very traditional and universal, but it’s hard to make a strong impression. Many guys think peaked lapel suits, or double breasted suit is too fancy attire; and they are not able to style. Both of these styles would be helpful if you would like to have a dressier mood, or formal look.

What was your first job in clothing and menswear? What were things that you learned from it that you still use today

I started to work in this industry as staff in a small tailor shop located in mid Seoul, Korea. At that time there were young cutters, and shop managers. They taught me from A to Z about menswear and tailoring; although I did not understand a lot because I did not have an eye for that. Anyway, thanks to him I learned how to measure the body for shirts and suits, how to tie a tie; as well what to check for in fitting for a suit, etc. All of these experiences taught me so much.

What are colors, patterns and combination that all men can pull off?

Charcoal gray, Glen Check, Navy jacket and gray trousers. Charcoal gray looks good on all men regardless of skin color. Glen Check is very useful pattern than any other combinations. To coordinate Navy jacket with grey trousers is standard rule of separated suit style.

In the world of skinny suits and skinny ties, what is you opinion and rules for how a suit should fit

There is no right or wrong answer about how a suit should fit. Skinny suits are more trendy and it makes a man look younger and more energetic. Contrasting, a relaxed fit is more classic and looks more formal and gentle. It is a matter of style. There are various ways of how to wear a suit in the world, someone wears a slim and short suit, somebody wears an oversize jacket and long trousers. Each interprets the suit differently, and dress the way that they desire. Anyway, if I have to choose between skinny and relaxed, personally I would opt for the latter. My personal view is that the suit is the most formal attire a man can easily wear at the present. People do not wear evening coats, morning coats, etc. So I hope all men not wear their suits too tight when they dress up formally for a momentous occasion. A relaxed suit will give you a comfort of wearing which is not comparable to a ‘skinny suit’.

When you are not wearing suits, what do you usually wear? What are your favorite casual garments

I tend to wear white T-Shirts dressed down with denim jeans and converse shoes like 1950’s James Dean who was the most notable American Rebel. Personally I really like Levi’s and Converse shoes. Especially I love 501 series of Levi’s and the high top Converse ‘Chucks’. Both are historic brand and still loved by millions to this day. Particularly 501 jeans and Chuck high top are monumental model of them, and it is why I love these two styles.

What are some last words of wisdom for men who are trying to elevate their style? What are some take away you can give to our readers that you wish someone told you

I am not an authentic fashion leader either, or someone that wants to be a brilliant dresser. I am still learning about fashion. It is extremely difficult to learn theoretically. I think this is closer to personal skill, and experimental. So I would like to advise people who want to dress well to look at images of fashion people, brands, or look book as much as possible, then try to copy their looks. Do not neglect your studies about both menswear history and the history of representative menswear brands. Lastly, lay the groundwork! The first thing to do is to equip yourself with basic suit of armor – navy suit, gray suit, and navy blazer.

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Arie Rose. She’s a multi-hyphenated Latina phenom! I had the absolute pleasure to talk and connect with Arie about her success and career. Her naturally positive and uplifting energy was infectious and I ended our conversation invigorated, inspired, and just amazed that a cool chick like Arie is inspiring so many women. Enjoy our conversation!

We started our conversation by me asking Arie to describe herself to someone who doesn’t know her.

The first word I would say that best describes me is perseverance. I have come from many lows and trials – I am a person that turned my mess into a message.

At the end of Arie’s answer…there was a reflective silence from her. And at that moment I knew that we were going to have a connected real conversation.

Arie has written two books, the first one “Fight the Funk” and it was #1 on Amazon in 2017. She then released another successful book called “Rising From Within.” I was intrigued by the titles of Arie’s books, so I asked Arie where did the inspiration come from. Arie quickly reflected…”I completely reinvented myself. I was a single mother – I have a daughter, she is now 17 years old. I was simply trying to survive. Initially, I owned two successful hair salons. Then went into being a TV host, a producer. Then one day I went into work, and I was told that my employer was filing bankruptcy. At that moment I felt as though I was dropped down head first. At this moment I asked ‘how do I pull myself out of this moment’ – I was in a funk. At this time I felt alone during this funk. I decided to write how I felt, I intended to write 8 pages PDF and that turned into 160 pages. And this was the birth of ‘Fight the Funk’. The words flowed, I allowed the Spirit within me to drop the words. I was honest and real – I became raw and real. Also, I felt if I was having these feelings others must be feeling this too. So, if I can help one person through this I’ve done my job.”

We talked about how I thought her choice of word ‘funk’ was better than labeling that state as being depressed. Arie explained, “yes, it’s just a moment… it’s about being intentional to change things. We all have funks, and it will come again, life is about lessons.”

From the funk you found yourself in, in 2017 – What did it teach you about joy, dreams, and gratitude?

Joy is permanent within me. Through that I realized I had temporary happiness. My happiness depended on a circumstance, event, a fun time, etc. So, being dropped head first shifted my existence. I learned, joy is within you – you find inner joy… it’s a work in progress. It’s constant growth. A question – Are you in joy at home by yourself alone in bed?

Do you think that there’s power in paper and pen? If so, why?

Absolutely – I’m the queen of journaling, and writing everything down. Everything is with paper and pen, I have notebooks everywhere. It’s a connection, you are connected to your senses. For me 100%, a testimony; there is life in paper and pen. Yes, I am the book girl not the Kindle girl.

How did you come up with ‘Sip and Slay’, as well ‘DestinationHER’? Do you believe having a strong like-minded female nucleus is crucial for success?

I had been laid off, down to dollars in my account, a single mom, and I was having a pity party. I had written ‘Fight the Funk’, I was interviewed by NBC, and someone asked me about a book tour. So, from there I financed my book tour; from the book sales I bought the plane ticket. And places to connect with women who need it; sharing stories with women, their different stories. The academy ‘DestinationHER’… we all have a Her we want to become, to get there is a journey, a destination which is Her. And that’s how it came, Sip & Slay – we sold out in 10 cities.

How would you define “thinking outside the box?”

To me “thinking outside the box” means spending time with self, being quiet, connecting with Spirit in me. Being comfortable with what’s in my Spirit, then go with that intuition. Then when you go forward from there, folks think that you’re thinking outside the box – you are moving from your intuition.

In recognizing all of Arie’s accomplishments, I had to know what made her most proud.

Arie’s response without pause, “My daughter. She just got accepted to UC Irvine. That’s the highlight of my life, we did this – my biggest accomplishment. I led her by example.”

How do you define The Power of Conversation?

It’s very powerful. I have an Instagram Live that’s called ‘The Power of Conversation’ with my dear friend @trellworld, the creator of Black Excellence Brunch. This is another version of Sip and Slay. Every time we have coffee together we have an ‘Aha Moment.’ Especially with folks that vibrate on your level. It’s a conversation between a close spiritual friend of mine.

What would you say is the key component in empowering women?

Being humble, genuine – I guess the main thing is being humble and kind. Just a normal human being. Folks have made great accomplishments and we don’t know how to reach back and help. We are all human, be kind to one another – and help each other.

How would you describe your podcast?

Well, it’s no interviews on the podcast. It’s me talking, me on rants. Saying things out loud that we need to hear. It’s often 8-10 minutes of motivation.

The most fun question Arie – how do you pamper yourself?

I am the queen of self-care. I wake-up early, get my coffee, burn my incense, light my candles, and sage my house. I put my phone on do not disturb. And I focus on my energy, I get myself right. If not, I can’t be there for anyone, and no good for others.

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When I found out I had the opportunity to interview Vaughn Hebron (Barry, from Tyler Perry’s “The Oval”) I was enthralled and quite nervous. Enthralled at Vaughn going from Corporate America to the next rising star. Nervous because his background as a Div 1 college football player for Lafayette College & being a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity had me ignorantly assuming he’d be quite pretentious. Very pleased to say I was wrong! Vaughn was humble, kind, and overall the guy you want to succeed because his attitude and work ethic make him infectious. Hope you enjoy this interview as well!

**How would you introduce yourself for people that are not familiar with you?**

I am an actor. Currently, I am on the TV series, ‘The Oval’, I play the character, Barry. I will also be in the movie, King Richard, with Will Smith. I am based in Los Angeles now, but I am originally from Baltimore. I come from a big family, there’s ten kids. I grew up playing football and played DIV 1 football in college. Once I graduated from college, I went into Corporate America with a job in the pharmaceutical sales industry.

Your first profession was pharmaceutical sales, how did you segway into the world of acting?

Well, the company that I worked for had a massive layoff. Acting has always been my passion; I was already taking acting classes for four to five months. So, I took that opportunity (of being laid off) to take a chance at something that I did not know how it was going to turn out. As opposed to something that I knew how it would end. So, when I was offered another position by the company (that I was laid off from); I chose my passion. Being laid off created an opportunity for me to follow my passion.

What was your first acting opportunity?

My first opportunity was a Lexus commercial. Then my second opportunity was a Comedy Improv Show (2018), that was on the Zeus Network.

Does your talent come naturally? Or was it a passion that you had to study and fine tune?

Yes, the storytelling aspect of it. And that comes from my love of watching a lot of TV and movies. As well, reading a lot of books. This inspires my imagination of how things would look, and I think that is inherent from watching a lot of TV, as well a lot of training in my craft. I have been training for the last four years, it has been an extreme amount of training. With more practice, you can bring more to your character. I still go on auditions. So, I can still put to the test all my training; and it is a way to get feedback on a performance.

Can you describe the emotions that you felt when you were cast for Tyler Perry’s ‘The Oval’?

Oh my gosh…it was surreal. When I got a call from Tyler – that was hard for me to grasp. I could not believe that it was happening. But once I was casted, it was another level – I had to pinch myself. To see what he had accomplished, it was extreme gratefulness. I wanted to try to stay in the moment. It was really a lot of emotions.

What do you enjoy most about acting?

Acting awakens the athlete in me. In the movie King Richard (2021), when I was onscreen with Will Smith…you see him bringing all these emotions. So, I was like snap, I have something to set as a goal, something to step up to. I played sports all my life. My position was a running back and a safety. In these positions there is adrenaline that comes from this because it is being in the spotlight. So, acting brings that same feeling, it is exhilarating from the moment of performance. Acting awakens the athlete in me. Like to bring my best to this moment – this spotlight.

How much of your own personality do you put into your character, Barry? And is there any part of Barry’s personality you would like to adopt? If so, why?

Well, I try to bring as much of my personality. My character on the ‘The Oval’ is trying to find his daughter. So not really, some parts of his personality I do not have. However, I do try to bring as much of me to characters. This helps to ground me, and that way I can bring as much to the characters as possible.

How did you prepare for the audition of King Richard? And when you got the role how did you celebrate that accomplishment?

I watched a lot of old movies – John Singleton’s movies, L.A. hood movies, because this was a different time. So, I wanted to bring as much as I could. I celebrated the achievement first by thanking God a lot. Then I called my family and friends. Next, me and my manager celebrated with dinner. My acting coach was also ecstatic.

Are there any upcoming projects that you could share?

Well, we are going to start shooting the second season of ‘The Oval’. I have some things lined up, but I can not speak on them yet – but fingers crossed.

The last and easiest question! What do you do for fun?

Well, I picked up horseback riding recently. I am typically in the gym seven to eight times in a week. I do kickboxing, martial arts, and play video games. I go to the beach with friends…and oh yes hookah.

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I had the pleasure to talk with Kiyah amid her busy schedule. She is an accomplished woman, with a vision and defined path to reach her goals. Don’t forget to checkout Muze Hair for amazing wigs and extensions as well as checking out her new beauty supply store: wigshairandbeautystuff.shop because who does'n’t want to know what the pros use!?

Please introduce yourself.

I am a hair stylist. I am a 2X Emmy Winner. I have also worked with Tyra Banks for about 12 years. I am really an image maker; I make them over. I truly believe, you change their hair, and you change their life.

What do you feel an amazing hair style/cut/and look has on any woman?

OMG – it just happened with a young lady I met 3 days ago. When I finished her hair – she said I feel different, feel confident, and I just added a few pieces.

You have created Muze Hair, can you tell us what was the driving force behind Muze Hair?

Well Muze was first an agency to represent talent…well that was too much in conjunction with what I do. My talents are photography, on camera (work), a colorist, a cutter, and a stylist. I now have products, because I want to give to each woman - that could be with extensions, ability to maintain their look, and to be in all women’s homes with Muze products.

What would you say is Muze’s ‘signature hair design’?

We do a lot of color… it’s my thing. When choosing color, think of skin tone, those undertones of your skin. Create colors, more translucent. I understand the science of color, then that color works from lighting to outdoors. Also, when you are selecting extensions… look for colors like neutral brown, like ash brown.

Do you think change to a client’s hair color has the same effect in making the woman feel beautiful – inside and outside?

Well of course – color is just that. Color is make-up for your hair. An older woman should go with lighter color, the browns. When you have gray hair… go with the color that will soften, like a #4, or #6 of brown.

What inspires you and drives your creativity?

Timing inspires me: Now for me, this is an interesting time in my life. My inspiration has changed the last 3 to 4 months. Now I am truly grateful to wake-up every day and being healthy. To get connected to God, and to remember that I am a salon stylist first… I am inspired by the small things.

Do any of the current issues, like Black Lives Matter movement, effect your creativity? If so, how? And how does it change your creativity?

Ummm…I’ve always wanted for Black people to join together and be stronger. I want to give the world hope, inspiration, and to stay focused on your craft. To join forces, to plug other businesses, and to give back in every way.

Do you have any new projects that you would like to share with us?

I have started an online beauty supply – where you can find wigs, hair extensions, and all beauty stuff. You will find all my products. I have noticed that newly graduated stylists do not know where to find their essential beauty tools. This is a place where young stylists, that have just graduated from cosmetology school, can get the combs, blow dryers, etc. to use. So, this is the destination to get that, and to be able to find and learn what you need. A place where you can find Muze products. My online beauty supply store, it is a soft launch this weekend. The site is www.wigshairandbeautystuff.shop.

**What is the one thing that you would not start your day without doing?**

My bike…it’s sacred to me, I exercise on it daily. Oh, oh, I cannot start my day without my phone, I have to surrender to my phone.

In closing, we were drawn to discuss the current situation. Kiyah’s words are so true, heartfelt, and clear, “These are uncertain times, you are forced to go to God, we have to allow for us all to evolve, and not be so quick to cancel and judge others. We must be accountable. We need to make us proud and have our dollars back that. We must keep our family’s strong, and really re-adjust our priorities.”

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Elgin Charles! The name evokes: talent, artistry, and legendary. I had the sincere pleasure in reconnecting with Elgin to celebrate his historical opening in the Rodeo Collection on Rodeo Drive. As well as fan girl over his new memoir- By The Way: A Memoir where he shares alllllllllll the details & what made him the legend himself. If you’re like me, I LOVE buying things with a personal touch and Elgin delivers! Ordering from www.elgincharles.com when you checkout in the “notes” section write whatever message you’d like Elgin to sign for you! While you’re waiting for your book to be delivered dive into our conversation in the meantime......

©Elgin Charles

YL - For those who do not know you, how would you introduce yourself?

EC - Aahh, as a person I am kind, humble, and a man of faith – I am humbled by the titles, and labels. In the industry, I am the best and paved the way for others. I take it seriously (my profession), and I am a stickler for routine – professionally I am confident in my accomplishments, because I have studied.

YL – When did you know that you were the Emperor of Hair, and the King of Beverly Hills?

EC – Ohh…the Emperor of Hair came about when I did my VH1 show, Beverly Hills Fabulous. And…the King of Beverly Hills…I love and appreciate that, although I am still digesting it, I embrace it and it is an honor.

As I was getting ready to go into my next question, Elgin wanted to reiterate how he humbly accepts the title and is still digesting the honor.

We then discussed if becoming a hair stylist was always his dream.

EC – ‘No, not always my dream, but always my passion. I wanted to be a doctor, or a dentist – at my core I always wanted to make my Dad proud. I was in the corporate world initially. I was at Smith Barney, and I quickly realized that there was a glass ceiling. It was my mother that suggested I do hair, remembering my innate talent, and my true passion for hair’.

Elgin and I quickly went down memory lane. How he started in Beverly Hills on Wilshire and Stanley in an office building on the 6th floor, and that was about 30 years ago. He then moved to Beverly Hills on South Santa Monica Blvd., to now in the Rodeo Collection in Beverly Hills. And yes, I met Elgin when I was a baby when my family went to Elgin. His response to this trip (down memory lane)…was that “it’s overwhelming, it came suddenly. It’s never been done before, yet I wear the hat proudly. I am excited. I wanted to get in, maintain, and sustain. To much is given, much is expected – and I am willing to maintain…and break more barriers.”

**YL-** I asked Elgin what is the skill, regimen, that he did to get to this place in his life.

EC – When I started cosmetology school, I took it seriously. My dad is a biochemist, I was raised with structure and discipline. So I was focused. I worked with Elasta in product development, and I soaked that experience and education up. I got experience in the chemistry behind developing products. I learned a lot, and I simply kept my focus, kept putting one step in front of the other – and in 30 years I am still in, and still love it.

Elgin and I organically discussed how important his Faith, praying, as well putting action behind it – and most importantly knowing how God works is to him. He reflected how he arrived on the 6th floor (suite) of the office building on Wilshire Blvd. He was driving to do Natalie Cole’s hair, and acknowledging that Spirit spoke to him and guided him to that spot. He kept his focus on his craft, acknowledging the importance of solitude to develop and perfect your talent and skills.

I wanted to talk about that during his journey, rise in his profession, was during a time when many Black owned businesses were not there for him to pattern himself after. So, I asked Elgin how that affected him, and how did that shape his focus on his goals –

EC- Again I am a man of Faith, I knew if they could do it I could. Also, I stayed to myself, developed my own craft, and grew me. I stayed in my lane. Today I am known as the ‘problem solver for curly hair’, and Vidal Sassoon was my mentor. My saying is – ‘You’re going to be Elginized. It may cost you a little bit of money, but it’s going to be worth it – doors will open up for you, you will make more’.

I so agree, because when you feel good about yourself, how you look, that energy radiates from you.

Elgin and I talked about the importance of other salons to get together, because you can learn from everyone…it is important to come together. He also acknowledges the importance to isolate oneself, to be still, and listen to God, and to be led by God to when to engage.

YL- In recognizing Elgin’s wisdom, I asked if he could foresee the Black Lives Matter movement from past events, and incidents.

EC- Oh yes, as a Black man I have dealt with that (racism) as recent as this morning. I understand where these thoughts are coming from.

Elgin discussed the early lessons from his dad – that he first is a Black person, and he will be treated differently. To learn the English language; look everyone directly in their eyes; respect authority; know when to stay quiet; and most important be calm… and know you are protected by Angels.

He recognizes things are changing in our society, and he expressed gratitude to being here and witnessing how things are changing for the good.

YL- I wanted to know what still motivates Elgin, and with true Elgin honesty….

EC- Money still motivates me a lot, the love of my craft, and more importantly - making women beautiful, bringing them to another level. My creativity comes from my mother; when I was young, I use to play on my mother’s sewing machine. From her nurturing that skill, it now allows me to be able to sew my wigs, etc. I can do it all with hair…weaves, non-surgical hair replacement, and wigs.

YL- So now I needed Elgin to tell me about his new creative space in the Rodeo Collection on Rodeo Dr in Beverly Hills…

EC- It is a brand new five-star Salon in the Rodeo Collection on Rodeo Dr. It is fresh and clean, with good vibes. We have our VIP room. There is also a privacy entrance for anyone not wanting to be seen. As well, we are following all safety and sanitary guidelines. A sanitizer at the front door, plexiglass partition at stylists’ station. We are set to create beauty. I am so Blessed; my needs are met.

YL- What is the one thingthat Elgin would not start his day without doing….

EC- My coffee, prayer, and meditation. I then read for 20 to 45 minutes…then I am off.

YL- What would make you the happiest…

EC- World peace, to love one another. That the Black Lives Matter movement is not saying that all lives do not matter. Human behavior …I hope, and pray we evolve and get to that place of peace. It’s wonderful that things that have not been talked about, are now being talked about – I feel it. It is all so good.

I could not get enough of Elgin’s joy, insight, and wisdom. Don’t forget! grab his Memoir: By The Way from Target, Barnes and Noble, Amazon, Wal-Mart, and elgincharles.com if you want your own personalized copy!

Thank you, it was such a pleasurable morning with Elgin Charles.

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Rodrigo Massa. His name rolls off your tongue and you can’t help but smile. Speaking with Rodrigo was pure joy!! His passion and infectious personality makes you feel like you’ve known him for ages. Not only did I think he was my spirit animal after our convo, I wanted to learn how to properly dance to his song “Tira o Pé do Chão” & I thought ‘finally a talented gem that the world is able to see shine.’

I had the pleasure of talking with Rodrigo Massa on Wednesday afternoon. It was a wonderful and compassionate conversation…

YL – How would you describe yourself?

RM – Oh gosh starting with a hard one… I am a dreamer, deeply passionate and emotional. If you know me, follow me, and follow my music – you would see I let my emotions and passion flow.

YL – You are trained in acting, singing, and dancing – which brings you the most joy?

RM – Acting was first. I started doing commercials, then doing that (commercials), I fell into acting. However, music was my focus at first.

YL – Where do you get most of your creative inspiration?

RM – My dad was a musician and he was my main inspiration. He played the guitar during the night at our country home. I also watched a lot of TV growing up… when I was about 10 years old, I was obsessed with ‘Friends’, and I still watch ‘Friends’ – lol. Mainly because I do want to do comedy.

YL – How has the current situation of the Black Lives Matter movement affected you, your creativity? If so, how?

RM – Oh yes, it affects me 100%. I have so many feelings accumulating… as an artist, and a songwriter. A lot of major frustration, sadness, loneliness, missing the life I/we had. I have been watching many documentaries. Many of my friends are involved in the movement. For me I believe the best way for me to support is through my music. I write songs based on that.

YL – Do you have any upcoming projects that you would like to share?

RM – Well, I have singles released from my new album. I always have videos with my singles and they always come with a surprise. Something that my fans never expect. Next year planning a tour in the U.S., Mexico, Central & South America. Also, I am in a musical in Vancouver, the first Latin Musical, “Lady Canada”, and that is coming up.

Rodrigo and I talked more about how he wants to help people during the current times. That’s why Rodrigo grappled with the original release date of March 26th, because this was in the middle of Covid-19. Then he says he thought we/people are going to be home going crazy. So, I decided to release it because artists are important to bringing in happiness and joy.

YL – How do you relax and reward yourself?

RM – Well, before the current world situation… after several months of filming a big project; I would then go to Europe for several months alone or with my family. Now I will start back watching reality TV, ordering food… oh yes, I am now obsessed with Shark Tank.

We also talked about his character on Netfkix”s El Dragon: Return of a Warrior (S1 and S2). Rodrigo was drawn to El Dragon: Return of a Warrior because of the amazing script. He shared how he was drawn to do two of his own stunts. The stunt where he’s on the helicopter garnered even more respect for Rodrigo – because he shared with me his helicopter stunt scene made him quite nervous due to his real fear of helicopters.

Lastly, we talked about how everything comes full circle… when he was a young child, he had a thirst for knowledge, and learning languages. He begged his parents to enroll him in the program to learn English. After that was mastered, he learned Spanish, Italian, and French; along with his native Portuguese he’s fluent in 5 languages and now he’s learning Polish. This has opened the door to more opportunities, and language is the connector. Rodrigo’s message is for you to have the freedom to be who you are… to celebrate the individuality of us all.

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Yhorlife Conversates with Lola Sanchez on creating Oliver Gal, balance and community

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credit: Damone Roberts/ Seamus Lyte Management LLC

I had the pleausre to interview the Eyebrow King himself! He has worked with EVERYONE - Oprah, Diana Ross, Beyonce, Rihanna just to name a few. Even though his client list features the epitome of Hollywood, Damone explains how he thrives to bring out the Queens in every client that will grace his new salon.

Damone is about to reopen his (currently shuttered) salon at a new location - 8383 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 50, Salon 206, Beverly Hills, (310) 271-2100, and his brow pencils, powders, gels and tools are available online - damoneroberts.com

How would you explain The Damone Roberts Brow artistry?

Damone Roberts Brow Artistry is accentuating the single most important, underestimated feature on the face for you individually, based on your facial features. We don’t do stencils!

What is the intention you set with each brow transformation you do?

My intention is always to bring out the best version of you. Our Company slogan is “because every face deserves the perfect frame” & my brand has always focused on delivering your personal perfect frame.

What is the best advice that you have been given in your career?

Don’t let life define you, you define your life.

Is there a method to assess the individuality of your guests?

I have my guest lay down in a reclining chair, and I’m seated behind them, so I end up having a birds eye view of their face to determine the best shape. Round faces require higher arches, square faces require rounder arches, long faces require straight brows. There really is a method to my madness.

What was your dream/ intention when you embarked on your journey in the beauty industry?

Truthfully I never dreamed about a life in beauty. I’ve always been a natural artist & ended up studying visual arts in College. Once the makeup artist didn’t show up for the school play and they asked if I could help, and I realized that painting a face is the exact same as painting a canvas, and you always start with the brows. The journey has been incredible. Who would think one can become a question in the board game Trivial Pursuit, or the game show Jeopardy by doing eyebrows? I truly marvel at the blessings my natural gifts have bestowed upon me.

Do you think in creating your guests individuality, their beauty, from their brows is how you create The Princessss in your guest?

I always say the real secret to my success is being like a therapist. I really like to encourage people, and i actually listen. Listening is a lost art. Most people just want to be heard. I coined the phrase “Beauty Therapist” because ultimately my goal is not just to make them look incredible, but also to make them see it, live it and most importantly believe it.

Can you explain what part “a sense of wellness” plays in your guests feeling like Princesses?

Faith in a higher power. We are spiritual beings, living a human experience. Some will try to break you, but if you are grounded in your spirit... no weapon formed against you shall prosper

From personal experience (my first appointment was at 17) you are a true mixologist! How do you create and perfect the perfect shade?

Thank you. That’s the secret sauce right there. You have to be a mixologist. You can’t give everyone the exact same thing. You “listen” and go from there. Its not a one size fits all. Sometimes you need to adjust the controls to get the balance right. I created my own line of brow accoutrements because everyone had the exact same shade for all black women, all blonde women, etc. My line addresses all issues with all women.

Tell us about The Damone Roberts Beauty Therapy Lounge?

After running Damone Roberts Beverly Hills for almost 20 years, and 10 years simultaneously in New York. I made the decision to downsize and open “Damone Roberts... Beauty Therapy Lounge” to give my clients a more intimate experience, while also allowing me the freedom to expand my product line, and pursue other interest like possibly doing another TV Series (spent three seasons on TLC’s 10 Years Younger). The industry has changed tremendously in the last 20 years. People want a more intimate experience and I believe in giving my clients what they want.

What is meant by a “Customer Oriented Salon”?

Customer Oriented Salon means it’s about the customer and no one else during their appointment. Your not gonna be surrounded by signatures of celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Rihanna and Beyonce like my old salons, or TV press clips playing on the walls. This experience will be all about you.

How do you intend for your customer’s to leave the Beauty Therapy Lounge Feeling?

I want my clients to leave my new establishment with their chins up and shoulders back, not only because you look fantastic, but also because you feel recharged. You laid down to relax as you got “damonified”, listened to some good music, enjoyed the scented candles, and maybe even had a sip, or two of Champagne.

What does a morning with Damone Roberts look like (before arriving at The Damone Roberts Beauty Therapy Lounge)?

I try to commit to 5 days weekly to work out, and if it does not happen before work, it’s not gonna happen. I check my emails and social as that cup of coffee slowly, but surely goes through my system and I make time to be still in meditation and prayer before I leave my home.

Working with such iconic Celebrities, how do you approach working with them? And how are they Damonified?

Celebrities have definitely helped build up my name in the industry as their presence has created press. I truly treat them the same as anyone else that sits in my chair. They all are paying the same price and I tell my staff that everyone that walks through our door is a Star and deserves to be treated as one. I’ve literally worked on everyone and that’s not an exaggeration. The only two times I’ve ever gotten nervous in my career is the first time I did Madonna, and meeting Diana Ross backstage in her dressing room at Radio City Music Hall and seeing my Damone Roberts products sitting on her Vanity.

credit: Damone Roberts/ Seamus Lyte Management LLC

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credit: Chie Dambara

I had the pleasure to Interview Chie Dambara- Founder of Yoko Matcha. With her entreprenurial spirit, winner menatality, and overall cool girl. Plus Chie creates amazing pastries that are actually good for you! The ultimate dream.

Thank you so much for taking the time, please introduce yourself.

My name is Chié Dambara, I am 28 years old and I am the founder of Yōko Matcha. I am from both Spain and Japan. I graduated from Boston University in 2013.

How did you create Yoko Matcha?

In 2016, I moved to Miami and realized matcha was missing in this market and decided to create Yōko Matcha. I’ve always loved matcha and my grandmother who raised me was a tea ceremony master so it felt right to name the company after my grandmother. Since I am both Spanish and Japanese, I wanted to create a brand that represents both cultures. That’s why our menu is in Spanish and we have incorporated latin flavors.

Did you always have an entrepreneurial spirit or was it acquired?

I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit, I made my first corporate bank account with my neighbor in the 4th grade! We would come up with plays and charge our parents to watch our play. Haha

What does a typical day look like?

There is no typical day when you are an entrepreneur! Everyday is exciting with new experiences and learnings.

What is one thing you’ve had to overcome and how did you do it?

I had to overcome a medical condition. I was diagnosed with BRCA 1 positive when I was 24 years old and had to get a prophylactic double mastectomy followed by 7 more surgeries. I was able to overcome this hardship by channeling all of my energy to create Yōko Matcha. Developing my brand gave me the motivation to keep going on in strength and bravery. No matter how much pain or fear I had, matcha always had my back!

We’ve known each other professionally for years and you’re just kind. How have you managed to find success and still stay true to yourself?

This sounds cliche but I was raised to treat others the way I want to be treated so I just try to be as kind as I can possibly be!

How would you describe your style?

I would say, that I don’t follow any particular style, I just do everything with how I feel is right.

What has the current Black Lives Matter meant to you?

As an asian/white person, I understand that I will never be able to relate to what it’s like to be an African American in the US but I am saddened to see so many close friends struggle and I really do hope that change will come. I am ready to contribute to this change in any way that I can.

Why did you start Yoko Matcha?

I started Yōko Matcha because I wanted the people of Miami to taste and learn about this magical green powder. I am proud to say that we have successfully achieved in educating this community and converting them into matcha drinkers!

Customers can now order matcha online at yokomatcha.com, for people who have never tried matcha or unsure of how to incorporate matcha into their routine what would be your recommendation?

I recommend to try it as a latte with a non dairy milk. My favorite is with oat milk! You can blend a tea spoon of matcha with 8 oz of milk in a blender and have it iced or heat it up in the microwave. You can also add some agave to sweeten it a little bit :)

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It seems that everyday the world gets heavier and heavier; with the principals of inclusivity and the dream of a better life for anyone willing to come to America dwindling with each tweet. This lead me to sit down and converse with family friend and premier immigration attorney Barbara J. Darnell.

Barbara is formidable not because she treats every client like family regardless if you’re royalty, or a sports star client. She allows her intellect and gusto to speak for her. Which is the reason why I couldn’t beg her to show her pretty face…ahaha but enjoy our conversation.

Our conversation immediately started with the latest tweets from the US President and the effects that they have on the citizens of the US and her practice as an immigration attorney. Barbara said that part of her immigration services are taken away as a result of the ever changing immigration laws.

When talking with someone that you feel comfortable and safe with there is no way that the conversation doesn’t shift to the current state of America – the ever shifting immigration laws, as well the Black Lives Matter movement.

Barbara - “it is so sad that after all this time we are still having race issues as a discussion.” As well her belief is that when you have a platform you should use it, for the better of us all. Which led Barbara to reflect on her childhood in England, and the racism she experienced. Barbara stated that racism in England is quiet and dignified in public, but done behind closed doors. However, its still racism and the effects are prevalent.

Our conversation then shifted to a positive in the current situation – when Barbara shared how her close friend of over 20 years, who happens to be White, called her to make sure that she was okay during the current time.

When asked if she knew what she knows today, 28 years ago would she have chosen the path that she did.

BJD: Yes, I think so. When I went to school I knew I wanted to help people. I wanted to be a lawyer that made a difference. Not one that your client is afraid to ask you a question.

I then wanted to know if there was one thing about the law that still intrigued her to this day. Barbara took a moment – “what intrigues me the most is that I can still challenge the Government and win. I pay attention…I have a lot of experience, and a lot of wisdom.”

One of the many things that intrigues me the most about Barbara, is that she defies what most think of attorneys and the legal profession. She does not advertise her firm, nor does she self-promote. I had to ask her why…”because I have been so blessed. All of my clients come back for me to represent them. They refer me to their friends and family members. I have grown and flourished by good word of mouth. Most know me by my work.”

From Barbara’s first profession as an Educator, I asked how was she led to the specialty of Immigration Law. After a pause that was filled with her signature laughter she said “it’s not something I planned in 1996. I was fresh out of law school and saw an advertisement for the sale of an Immigration Law practice for $200,000. Well in my signature, young, gutsy, and fearless self I had worked out a structured way to buy his practice. The retiring attorney was so impressed with me, he offered me one of the best advice of my legal career. He counseled me how to begin my own immigration practice without purchasing his practice for $200,000. I took his advice and never looked back. Next, on my agenda, I noticed that there were no independent lawyers on the Board of Immigration Appeals. So in 1998 I petitioned the Board to be on the list of Free Legal Providers for California, and they approved.”

As our conversation was winding to a close we came back to discussing whether she could have envisioned the present day culmination of BLM. With a slight mood shift; Barbara felt it should have happened sooner. America ignored essential issues, the Rights of Blacks have been ignored. The US has not been honest with themselves, there is discrimination in every aspect – Education, Family Life, and Jobs.

With that, Barbara shared more Pearls of Wisdom from her father that have helped to shape her – “Nobody is better, or smarter than you. Always be honest. Always stand for something. What is in your head is what will make a difference in your life.”

So I had to ask Barbara what has been the proudest moment in her legal career – she recalled with a sense of joy…”the first was a family of eleven immigrants, and I got nine members of the family green cards over a period of fifteen years. This was over four generations. Another case, I recently obtained citizenship for a client from an application dated in 1964.”

As we were ending our conversation – I remembered that I did not have my picture of Barbara, something that I request from everyone we talk with. Well, that reminder to Barbara was met with a lot of laughter, then there was a silence – and she said:

“Anonymity is so important to me and it is who I am. No one needs to recognize me.”

In parting, Barbara shared more wisdom for her father –

“When you do your life, you run like it’s a race. When you look to the left or right you emulate that person.”

What a pleasure it was to spend a couple of hours talking with Barbara – it was refreshing, informative, uplifting, and positive.

Barbara J. Darnell, Esq

Los Angeles, Ca

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Amsale is synonyms with timeless elegance. Amsale has been lauded by Oprah and Vogue. Sadly, Amsale Aberra is no longer with us but her legacy and creativity lives on with her team. I had the absolute honor and pleasure to interview my friend Terry Hall and discuss all thing Amsale.

Please tell our readers a little bit about yourself.

I absolutely love what I do! I always say that people who are attracted to working in the bridal industry really understand and appreciate that they play a role in create and molding lifetime memories. I have worked with thousands of brides and I have never met two brides with the same set of expectations and same vision and helping them manifest their vision is what drives me.

You are so funny and kind and make clients feel like lifelong friends. What steps do you have to initiating and curating bonds?

Searching for your wedding dress is an emotional experience and every bride wants and needs an emotional experience unique to her. Chatting with a bride and learning about her and what makes her happy is always exciting…once they see that you “get them”, the rest is history!

Amsale’s focus/ intention is to evoke lifelong enduring style— can you explain to us how that’s done? Amsale is really a lifestyle…it’s about finding the look that makes the bride feel her most beautiful while simultaneously making her feel like her. It’s not about selling a bride a dress, it’s about finding the dress that lets the bride’s natural beauty shine and bringing out the personality that her family and friends recognize. It’s not about wearing something that doesn’t feel like you…if there’s ever a day that a person should express who they are through their sense of fashion it’s their wedding day…if you wear something that feels like you, you will be you, and that is who everyone is expecting to show up.

Terry, what would you say is the single most important element of Amsale brand’s philosophy that resonates and drives you everyday?

You must be you! Our collections are designed to really be what frames who you already are…our dresses are designed to highlight you as an individual, not to draw attention to the dress.

Credit: Terry Hall

What do you perceive has, and is the biggest change about the bridal industry?

Every bride wants to feel like they have a unique look on their wedding day and I completely agree with them regardless of their dress budget. Designers have listened to them and are making accommodations for “changes” to dresses regardless of the price of the dress. Years ago, you could only make significant changes to expensive dresses…that has changed!

There is now Amsale virtual- an inclusive Atelier - can you explain how and why the virtual concept was created? And how has that transition been?

The virtual appointments have been key during the current pandemic. Brides wanted to keep talking about their weddings and getting advice more than ever as many were sequestered home when the rest of the world came to a screeching halt. Having the virtual appointments allowed brides to continue shopping and planning while receiving expert advice. I have personally enjoyed it because I could instantly see the excitement in their eyes during an otherwise bleak time. I always say that the journey up to the actual wedding is just as fun and important as the wedding itself and that the show must go on!

Amsale was once again on the cutting edge of fashion and did a virtual fashion show for the most recent collection. Was there less stress with the virtual fashion show? Which silhouette is your favorite from the collection?

The virtual fashion show was exciting and new because we could instantly send it out to retailers all over the world at the same time and get immediate responses since we were all in the same boat. It was exciting for them to receive it at their fingertips so quickly despite the logistical challeges we were living through. Though I love our aesthetic in general, I really loved Tiernan and Rainey…they are both quintessential Amsale…timeless and modern, all at the same time!

Amsale is for every occasion, not just bridal. What would you say is the most timeless design that fits every silhouette in Amsale Evening?

I really think a modified A line is the most perfect silhouette…it works for almost every shape and every occasion. It’s not too much nor too little and has just the right amount of drama. Also, any silhouette that is clean with one standout detail or point of interest is always a great choice.

How would you describe “minimalist aesthetic” ?

Minimalistic is clean, architectural and perfect! Alterations are everything with any garment but that is especially true for a clean garment…every seam is visible and the fit must be superb!

For Brides on a budget but want the Amsale magic, what would be your recommendation?

We have two bridal lines, Nouvelle Amsale and Amsale. Nouvelle has a modest opening price point that we deliberately created for brides who want the Amsale look, feel and fit at a very attainable price. That said, all of our collections are designed by our Design Director, Margo LaFontaine, and will all have the same aesthetic and fit regardless of the price.

Terry what is the best advice that you can give to any bride?

Be true to herself and her personal style and image. Though it’s important to ask other’s opinions, don’t forget it’s your day and just be you!

Thank youuuu ❤️

credit: Terry Hall

CONVERSATING WITH YHORLIFE: Recent Episodes

Yhorlife Co