Tag: awareness

Shift Your Mindset One Thought at a Time with Author and Mental Health Advocate Shawnee Palmer

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After working in healthcare for many years, Shawnee developed a desire to become more active in helping people overcome the challenges in their lives. This desire soon transformed into a passion, which led Shawnee to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Addiction Counselor. She named her private mental health practice Alpine’s Empowerment Agency, both as a tribute to what she works with her clients toward—self-empowerment and overcoming their challenges—and after her grandmother, who has been a spiritual guide and angel for Shawnee, guiding her life long after she’s passed.  Alpine’s Empowerment Agency provides a private space where individuals and families can receive counseling to uncover and address the root causes of today’s problems. Shawnee has a passion for working with individuals who battle with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, anger, low self-esteem, and those who are grieving a loved one or having difficulties adjusting to a sudden life change. Through her agency, Shawnee strives to serve as her grandmother did, as a guide to those who are struggling in life, bringing them to a statement of acceptance and contentment. Shawnee has a new book out, “Shifting Your Mindset: A Guide to Overcome Depression, Anxiety & Trauma”. The book focuses on identifying ways to change your perspective on life for unmanaged and unresolved anxiety, depression, and trauma. As a mental health therapist, she wrote scenarios based on her own life experiences to give the readers ideas on overcoming life obstacles. She provides the readers with knowledge that helps them reflect on their current mental processes. This book experience helps readers to enhance their critical thinking skills.

“I had a desire to share my story on how I overcame depression, anxiety, and traumatic childhood memories in hopes that it would help others become victorious over their life woes.”

 

Patrice: What makes you a pretty woman who hustles?

Shawnee: My demeanor and how I carry myself with peace, confidence, and security. The love that I have for myself that helps me to stay self-motivated to create and accomplish all of my goals makes me a pretty woman who hustles!

Patrice: I was looking at your book “Shifting Your Mindset” and in the Preface section, it asked the question “If you had a chance to redo your life, what would you change?” I really like that question. So, I want to ask you that question. If you had to redo your life, what would you change and why?

Shawnee: For me, I wouldn’t change anything because those life experiences brought me to where I am today. I wouldn’t have the knowledge, wisdom, or understanding without those experiences. They led me to loving and nurturing myself more than I ever knew that I could!

Patrice: Tell us more about your journey as an author. What was your inspiration behind it?

Shawnee: I’ve been writing poems and short stories since elementary. I won a Young Author’s award in the 4th grade for a book I wrote on dinosaurs. I wrote off and on throughout the years but never shared the work I completed with others. As a therapist, I noticed that the calling on my life required me to reach a larger population of people and I wouldn’t be able to do that just with 1:1 therapy. Expanding my influence through books assisted me in connecting with more people. I’m a big advocate for people healing so I wanted to be part of many people’s healing journeys. This is the first self-published book of many to come in the future.

Patrice: Why did you choose this book you wrote to share with the world?

Shawnee: I had a desire to share my story on how I overcame depression, anxiety, and traumatic childhood memories in hopes that it would help others become victorious over their life woes.

Patrice: What message do you want readers to gain by reading your book?

Shawnee: My goal is for readers to learn more about themselves and ways to address their hidden pain. I want them to explore it from a different perspective so that way, they can get the healing that they need and deserve.

Patrice: In your book, you talk about self-care and I think that topic is so important especially if you are an author, established business owner, or entrepreneur. Why do you think that topic is so valuable and important to learn?

Shawnee: It’s valuable because stress is common but in order to truly address the life stressors we have and not allow them to break us down, we have to find outlets to release stress. Self-care should be practiced daily to keep a healthy balance between ourselves and life experiences that we have no control over.

Patrice: What is the best part about being a clinical social worker?

Shawnee: I have the ability to help others heal themselves. When people give me feedback about how I have helped change their lives, it warms my heart. It gives me the momentum to keep going and thriving to offer more to the people. It also encourages me to keep enhancing myself so that I am always presenting myself to my clients as my best self.

Patrice: Let us talk about your company Love and Serenity Wellness. What is the inspiration behind it? What type of skincare products does your company provide?

Shawnee: I believe in holistic healing for the mind, body, and spirit, Love & Serenity Wellness has the mental health sector by providing books and consultation services that aid in healing, understanding, and gaining wisdom that guides individuals to fulfill their true purpose in life. I enjoy teaching others how to reduce the barriers in their life, gain the knowledge that they need to be successful, and obtain the resources that they need to gain a sense of serenity and love for themselves as they venture out on their financial journey. I offer body and skincare products such as body butter, sugar scrubs, fragrance oils, detox bath salts, pain relief, and eczema cream. All products are therapeutic items that enhance the quality of the skin.

Patrice: Overall, what is the goal for your business?

Shawnee: To educate and empower business owners about mental, emotional wellness so that they are able to overcome any and all adversities that may come their way on their entrepreneurial journey.

Patrice: Do you plan to write any more books soon? If so, will it be on the same concept as the Shifting Your Mindset book?

Shawnee: I have started working on concepts for the next book and it will be a book about overcoming emotional hurt from a parent. It will allow the reader to address unhealed wounds and find ways to forgive their parents so that the issues with them no longer impact intimate relationships with others.

Patrice: Are you currently working on any projects for the remainder of the year?

Shawnee: I have several projects in the works for 2021! First, I am working on some workshops, courses and collaborating with others on panels to educate others about mental and emotional wellness. My biggest launch this month will be my non-profit, “Kindred Youth Foundation.” The mission is to build healthier emotional and mental wellness foundations through education and support for teens in underprivileged areas who have challenges with a parent or caregiver who is recovering from substance abuse.

 

 

Connect with Shawnee:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/LoveAndSerenityWellness

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/LoveSerenityW

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LoveAndSerenityWellness

Website: https://www.loveandserenitywellness.com

YouTube: Shifting Mindsets with Shawnee https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8xUxlR-Bd5sgJuVf7HaEfQ

 

Patrice Rivers is a media mogul with the mind-set to tell “inspiring” stories in the world of journalism. She has also published nine books and is the owner of her brand ‘That Riverz Gurl Brand LLC’ that consists of her freelance writing, journalism skills, writing services, media platform and health platform. Learn more about this boss in the making by visiting her website at http://www.thatriverzgurlbrandllc.com Follow her on IG at http://www.instagram.com/thatriverzgurlbrandllc

Get Whole Again with Health Supplement ‘Wholepreneur Lifestyle’ with TerDawn DeBoe

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TerDawn DeBoe has had an affinity for music, creativity, and Entrepreneurship all of her life. After finding a passion for graphic design and marketing, she became a full-time entrepreneur starting InnovativEdge Marketing (now known as Creative Thought Solutions) which has provided services for AT&T, The Urban League of Greater Cleveland, Caesar’s Casino, and 100’s of other businesses all across the country.  She has grown that business from a one-woman show to a team of six people specializing in finding creative solutions for companies and helping them accelerate their growth. She is considered the go-to expert when it comes to Brand Development, Sales Funnel Development, and Lead Generation using social media advertising. She helps businesses set up automated ways to attract, nurture, and convert their perfect audiences. Turning them from strangers to loyal clients. She and her team focus on one of the biggest struggles of business growth, showing them how to deliver their products and services using processes and systems that allow them to scale and break through their income barriers. In 2020, in the midst of the global pandemic, TerDawn found a way to help Entrepreneurs in an even more meaningful way. She teamed up with a group of Researchers, Developers, and Scientists to formulate an organic supplement line to support the well- being of Entrepreneurs. The company, Wholepreneur Lifestyle, offers supplements with brain support, immune system support, performance enhancement, relaxation support, and total wellness.

TerDawn has been featured in several media outlets as a leader in her industry and has also been able to achieve great partnerships with corporations such as Microsoft and with Organizations such as the Young Entrepreneur Institute. She also serves on the board of trustees Student Navigation and Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation.

 

 

Patrice: As a multi-entrepreneur who has created an outlet for Entrepreneurs to grow their business and income, how did the idea come to mind for Creative Thought Solutions?

TerDawn: Originally, my company was called InnovativEdge Marketing which was not very creative. I tried to fit into this mold of being like the other Digital Marketing Agencies I saw so that people would take me seriously. That turned out to be the worst thing I could do because I wasn’t true to myself as the artist and creative that I am. I actually discovered that the fact that I am so creative was my genius factor. After this discovery, I took some time to really figure out who I am and what I wanted my company to be known for. Creative Thought Solutions was born from that.

Patrice: I think your business speaks volume and is so important with all the services you offer; it is particularly important. For your clients, which services did they utilize the most?

TerDawn: Most people that come to me realize, after our first conversation, that the reason that they are not hitting their revenue goals is because they lack brand positioning. They never took the time to build the foundation that would allow them to actually be trusted by an audience to convert them to customers or clients. The brand development we offer is unlike most agencies because we brand them with marketing in mind. We focus on clarity, their messaging, their story, their creative genius factor ™ , their visual aesthetics, and their signature system.

Patrice: Tell us a little bit more about the Sales Funnel service you offer. What does that mean?

TerDawn: Phase 2 in our services is sales funnel development. A sales funnel is simply just a series of messages that leads people from being interested in a solution to their problem, to considering what the best option is to solve that problem, and then making a decision on the best person or company that will get them to the transformation they desire. With our services, we help businesses determine their irresistible offer, build the sales page that helps their audience understand the value of their offer, and automate the email communication that will help convert the people who are interested into buying customers. With a funnel, you can make money 24/7 without having to physically be present to fulfill the order. This is a great stream of revenue for businesses that don’t want to put all of their eggs in one basket.

Patrice: What are some of the other services your business offers?

TerDawn: Aside from the brand development and funnel development, we also offer social media ad campaigns to drive traffic to the offer because the only way to scale and make real money in your business is to convert a percentage of your traffic to sales.

Patrice: There are a lot of business tips out there for new business owners and seasoned business owners. What are the top three business tips that you think are important in business?

TerDawn: My top 3 business tips would be:

  1. Be Authentic. As I stated previously, I wasn’t authentic when I started my business because I wanted to be taken seriously, but in the end, that caused me to blend in with every other marketer that was doing the same. People want to know who you are before they like you and trust you to invest in you. Be transparent with your story. Share the behind the scenes of how you do things. Show your personality. Those are all ways for people to make the connection with you so that they can become loyal customers.
  2. Know Your Strengths. Hire Your Weaknesses. A lot of business owners get burned out trying to do all of the things that they feel they need to do in order to grow their business. By the time they need to deliver in their genius zone, they are too tired to put 100% of their energy into it. The best thing you can do is hire people who are strong where you are weak so that you can scale your business properly while staying in your zone of genius.
  3. Be Clear On What You Want to Be Known for. In order for people to know, like, and trust your positioning in the marketplace, you have to have a clear message on who you serve, the biggest transformation you provide, and the results you’ve gotten. This will help solidify your brand position in your potential client’s mind.

 

Patrice: How long did it take you to grow your business?

TerDawn: I spent the first 4 years trying to figure out what the heck I was doing and getting clear on my brand positioning and what I want to be known for. Once that was established and I started getting results for the people that worked with me, it became effortless to charge more, get paid what I asked and stay booked with clients.

Patrice: Let’s get into your health line Wholepreneur Lifestyle. Can you tell us a little bit more about your health line and the inspiration behind it?

TerDawn: As an Entrepreneur that is building my business, I found that I created bad habits such as skipping meals, forgetting things, grabbing the wrong things to fuel my body, and not having enough energy throughout the day. I realized that I needed assistance in order to keep my body performing at its best and maximum capacity. I worked with a team of researchers and developers to formulate the things I know Entrepreneurs need to build their health while they build their wealth because they go hand in hand.

Patrice: Why did you think it is important for others to know about Wholepreneur Lifestyle?

TerDawn: I believe that it is important that you can trust the company that you are getting supplements from. This is your body and a lot of companies don’t operate in integrity with the list of ingredients. We make sure that our ingredients are actually certified organic and our products use the top ingredients to ensure that you are only putting quality into your body.

Patrice: How important do you think mental and physical health is for entrepreneurs?

TerDawn: It’s the most important thing you can do for your business because if you don’t take care of yourself, you’re not able to take care of your clients and customers properly. Iyanla Vanzant is famous for saying, “You can’t pour from an empty cup”. I firmly believe that because you have to be healthy to healthily build relationship with yourself, your family, and your customers/clients.

Patrice: You mentioned that Wholepreneur Lifestyle helps with productivity, mental clarity and well-being. How is that different to other health supplements that’s already made for things of that nature?

TerDawn: It’s different because our products have twice the potency of leading brands. We make sure it’s quality and we also make sure that it is truly beneficial for Entrepreneurs which no other product line can say.

Patrice: What can customers expect from Wholepreneur Lifestyle?

TerDawn: Excellent quality, customer service, and results.

Patrice: How important do you think mental health in entrepreneurs is?

TerDawn: Entrepreneurship is not for the weak. It takes a lot of confidence, courage, and consistency. There are so many ups and downs and the downs can really affect you mentally. It can make you think that you aren’t enough, that you aren’t doing enough, and that you will never have enough. I’ve seen Entrepreneurs go through depression because of this. I’m an advocate for therapy, spiritual, and self-care practices to keep things in alignment so that you can have the tools to work through those triggers.

 

Connect with TerDawn:

Instagram, Facebook and, Twitter: @TerDawnDeBoe

Websites: www.TerDawn.com and www.CreativityHelps.com

 

 

 

Patrice Rivers is a media mogul with the mind-set to tell “inspiring” stories in the world of journalism. She has also published nine books and is the owner of her brand ‘That Riverz Gurl Brand LLC’ that consists of her freelance writing, journalism skills, writing services, media platform and health platform. Learn more about this boss in the making by visiting her website at http://www.thatriverzgurlbrandllc.com Follow her on IG at http://www.instagram.com/thatriverzgurlbrandllc

Get ‘GenFit’ with Fitness, Zumba Instructor Beverly Johnson

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Having been a Zumba instructor for years, she knew her influence included more than fitness training when a candid conversation with an exercising client revealed that women in caretaker roles often forget about themselves. She named her new motivational fitness business Genesys Fitness because it signified a rebirth for the often “forgotten” woman: the divorce’, caretaker, and empty-nester.  Genesys Fitness (GenFit) is a community of women who recognize the need to reclaim their lives and are emotionally ready to do the work with Beverly K. Johnson, motivational life coach, fitness trainer and “girlfriend of authority”. At GenFit, self-care takes priority over caring for others because it is in caring for ourselves that we make the best caregivers. We believe that by helping women rediscover who they are after suffering a loss, she will be empowered to become her ideal self – physically, mentally and emotionally. GenFit is a safe space where women can transform their mindset, body and life in a caring and non-judgmental environment. Through candid conversations and fitness training, “forgotten” women are empowered to reclaim their identity and unveil the strength inside by working 1-on-1 with motivational life coach, Beverly K. Johnson.

 

Patrice: What makes Beverly a pretty woman that hustles?

 Beverly: I’m a mixture of faith, determination, and old school rap music. Beverly is a dreamer who’s learned to push back her fears and go after her dreams. I’ve learned to trust my instincts and take more risks.

Patrice: Was fitness something you always enjoyed doing? What sparked your interest?

 Beverly: As an Army veteran, fitness has always been a part of my life. When I was younger, I went to the gym more out of habit. I understood that I needed to exercise for my health. There were times when my friends and I would literally finish a group fitness and then celebrate Taco Tuesday at the Mexican restaurant across the street.   Now that I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned the importance of having a healthy, balanced wellness plan. It’s a plan that recognizes my emotional, mental, and physical needs.

 Patrice: Zumba is a fun exercise to do in classes and fitness training. How long have you been a Zumba instructor?

Beverly: It’s hard to believe that I’ve been an instructor for over ten years! A decade of moving and grooving while encouraging and motivating my students to achieve their goals.

 Patrice: How did you come up with the concept of creating Genesys Fitness? (GenFit) What was the inspiration behind it?

 Beverly: Prior to passing my certification exams, I had a list of ten names that were possible contenders for my business name. Oddly enough, Genesys Fitness was not on the list! It was not the original business name. After going to my list, all the other names were taken. I remember sitting at my desk, wondering what my business name should be. I asked myself, what did I want every client to achieve. I wanted each person to experience a new beginning, a new awareness of who they are. Looking back, I’m glad the other ten names didn’t work out. I genuinely believe that the impact wouldn’t be the same.

 Patrice: Is there a particular message you want women to understand with your business?

 Beverly: One of the prevailing messages that I’ve always shared is that we are worth the love and effort that we freely give to everyone else. Self-care isn’t a selfish act. It means that you recognize that it’s impossible to nurture others when you’re depleted.

 Patrice: Health and fitness are an essential aspect of life. What advice would you give to those who are trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle?

Beverly: I encourage you to start with your “why.” What’s the reason for your lifestyle change? Many of my clients have goals such as “being present for my grandchildren,” “stop taking high blood pressure medications.” Your “why” will push you when the motivation ends. I also encourage everyone to start slowly and find the activities that you enjoy. You’re more likely to stick with it.

Patrice: Any tips on keeping fit?

 Beverly: I tell my client not to overwhelm themselves. Start with gradual changes. For example, if you’re not drinking water, increase your intake. Don’t be afraid to try new foods. Before you clean out your pantry, begin with substitutions. Figure out what you like first. Lastly, rest is always overlooked. Give your mind and body time to rest and reset.

 Patrice: I do like the name Gen Fit. Could you explain what the term means for our readers?

 Beverly: GenFit is the abbreviated version of Genesys Fitness. I was in a meeting one day and mentioned it. From that day, I started using it.

 Patrice: How important is self-care, and how does GenFit demonstrate that?

 Beverly: Self-care is one of the most underutilized tools. In our culture, we tend to glorify those who work 24/7. The result usually leads to injury, mistakes, and exhaustion. And when you’re exhausted, it leads to increased consumption of sweets and junk food to keep going.  Over the years, I had to learn that women often feel guilty for wanting to rest. Part of my coaching includes educating women on the importance of self- care. More than anything, they also see me practice it.

 Patrice: What is the “Forgotten Woman?”

 Beverly: In different seasons, we’ve all been the “forgotten woman.” I often describe her like this: She’s the person who makes sure her family eats, yet often takes the smallest plate. She’s the one people know by name, but she sometimes forgets her own because she’s so tired and overwrought. The Forgotten Woman is a beautiful and selfless spirit who, in everything she does, puts others’ needs ahead of her own. She often goes unappreciated, unloved, abused, and overworked. She often feels alone, tired, sick, depressed, ugly, invisible, and doesn’t know how to express her feelings. In her heart, she desires more but has been accustomed to going without.

 Patrice: This year has been crazy, with the pandemic and small businesses closing down. Has your business been affected at all by it?

 Beverly: This year has challenged me to tap into my creativity and ingenuity. Initially yes. I also work as an independent contractor and teach at several gyms. Earlier this year, several of the fitness centers were shut down for safety precautions. I had to figure out a way to remain connected. As with everyone, I expanded my presence in the virtual world. I now offer complete online training programs. I have the capability to remain connected with the clients and classes. With the new platform, I’ve been able to increase my speaking engagements.

 Patrice: Are there any new projects or events you are working on?

 Beverly: I am in the early stages of writing a book. I have bits and pieces. It’s a matter of pulling it all together and ready for review. I’m also preparing for a health and wellness masterclass in January. I want to provide the tools for building a sustainable weight loss program.

 Patrice:  With GenFit, how is it transforming their mindset, body, and life?

 Beverly: I’ve always believed where the mind goes, the body follows. Often, we start a wellness journey with no clear plan. Many of us know that we need to go to the gym, drink water, and eat better foods. And with no clear strategy, we tend to give up in less than a month. It’s not for lack of wanting a change but more of not sure how to maintain the progress.  I provide my clients with a roadmap, based on their goals and needs, that offer strategies for achieving their goals.

 Patrice: What is next for Beverly Johnson?

 Beverly: On the immediate horizon is take a well- earned break. Usually, around the holiday season, I take some time off to rest. I practice what I preach about self-care. I’m also working on a few projects to expand the services that GenFit offers.

 Patrice: How can readers connect with you?

 Beverly: I invite everyone to join my tribe on Facebook- The Fitness D.E.V.A.S. Like and Follow Genesys Fitness on Facebook and Instagram- @bevkjohnson

 

 

Patrice Rivers is a 9x published author, freelance writer, certified journalist and owner of That Riverz Gurl Brand. She is also expanding her writing skills by writing for several online publications. Learn more by visiting her website at http://www.thatriverzgurlbrandllc.com 

 

Charessa Sawyer, Entrepreneur Creates the ‘Charge Up Campaign’ to Inspire Women with Breast Cancer; Survivors of Breast Cancer

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Charessa is an advocate for cancer survivors and their caregivers and has travelled to various states providing Day of Celebration makeovers with The Charge Up Campaign. She founded the organization after her own experience of being a caregiver for her mother who is a breast cancer survivor. Through the Charge Up Campaign, Charessa and her team are committed to creating a sorority of survivors – providing tools, resources and celebrations for life after cancer. The organization hosts the Pink Champagne Gala which serves as an annual fundraiser and provides recognition for survivors, caregivers and oncology medical professionals. In June 2018, the organization introduced its inaugural SurvivorsCon, a day of panel discussions speaking to topics, such as: financial planning, insurance and estate planning, mental health and nutrition; followed by the signature Pink Pajama Party which provided various spa and beauty treatments for cancer survivors.

 

Patrice: For those who aren’t familiar with Charge up Campaign, what is this campaign and what is the sole mission and purpose?

Charessa: Charge Up Campaign, Inc is a nonprofit geared to uplifting Cancer warriors, survivors and caregivers through programs that support their mental health.

Patrice: In what year did you start the campaign?

Charessa: The organization was founded in 2013.

Patrice: What was your inspiration behind it?

Charessa: My mother is a cancer survivor and she was unhappy during the journey. She was in a lot of pain and it began to impact what she thought about life. This was the first time I heard my mom cry. It was the first time I watched her in pain and I could not control it. I found myself trying to figure out how to support her and to put a smile on her face. Essentially, I was seeking ways to Charge her up. We sent her to Florida after she completed treatments and that’s what she needed. She needed time off – time away and time to recharge.

My mom came back charged up in yellow, no scarf and beaming. She was smiling. I knew at that time that I wanted others to be charged up too. So I started the organization a few years later and we also now recognize the need to include support for caregivers as well. Breast Cancer Awareness is very important to educate yourself on.

Patrice: What type of information should women young and old know as far as their health is concerned?

Charessa: We encourage monthly breast exams to help with early detection and long with proper diet and exercise. Through our Charge Up health initiative we assist with creating clean eating grocery lists and exercise regimens. Additionally, because we focus on mental health we also speak to the importance of having a strong support system, no matter what.

Patrice: Tell us more about the signature events the campaign hosts.

Charessa: Our Signature events include our Annual Pink Champagne Gala, Bi Annual Survivors Conference and Day of Celebrations. All of the events allow us to build with the community and bring smiles to the face of those we serve. Charge Up is here to inspire, empower and educate and our signature events do just that. We will be hosting a virtual edition of our Survivors Conference on October 31.

Patrice: The pandemic affected a lot of businesses this year. Was the campaign affected at all with everything being shut down and cancelled? If so, how did you manage to continue with it?

Charessa: Yes, we were affected both positively and negatively. Because of the pandemic we have not been able to host our signature events or network as much. We have not been able to visit warriors and our fundraising campaigns were halted for a period of time. But, in the time we have spent home, we have had the chance to redevelop programs, improve our database of supporters and learn more about what is needed in the community. We continue to do what we encourage others to do, We Charge Up.

Patrice: What message do you want the community to take away with Charge Up Campaign?

Charessa: We are an organization that prides ourselves on making warriors and caregivers feel good. We take on the mental health aspect of the horrible disease. We give men and women hope by working to charge them up. We support all cancer warriors, fighters, survivors and thrivers; not just breast cancer. In addition, what makes us unique is that we have a specific focus on our silent warriors, also known as Caregivers.

Patrice: What is Day of Celebration and why is it important?

Charessa: Day of Celebration is a day that we spend personal time with warriors. We get to know them and pamper them. The Day of Celebrations provides basic hair, makeup and nails services. The day concludes with a photoshoot and Table Talk brunch. It is important because it creates community and allows us to learn how we may better support them.

Patrice: Are there any new projects you are currently working on?

Charessa: We are working on developing our new CUC Transportation program and Virtual Caregiver’s program. Both will support our warriors and caregivers with reducing stress and obtaining much needed resources.

Patrice: How can readers connect with you and the Charge  Up Campaign?

Charessa: To learn more about Charge Up Campaign or make a donation visit. Chargeupcampaign.org. You can also email me directly at president@chargeupcampaign.com

Connect with Charessa and Charge Up Campaign:

Instagram: @iamcharessa

@chargeupcampaign

 

 

Meet Princess James: A Survivor of Domestic Violence

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Princess James is a native Houstonian and proud mother of four. Like many women, Princess went looking for love in all the wrong places. At the age of 30, she realized that she was a part of the problem. She needed to hit rock bottom so that God could fill all of the voids in her life, that she attempted to fill with men & sex. Since acknowledging the dysfunctional patterns in her life, she has written a book that is scheduled to be published later this year. Writing was a joy for Princess but she had so much more to say, which led to her creating a podcast to empower & inspire women. Ambitious Souls Podcast can be found on Apple Podcasts, Anchor & Spotify Podcasts.

 

Patrice: How long have you been a survivor of Domestic Violence?

Princess: I have been a survivor of Domestic Violence for four years & 10 months.

 

Patrice: How did you overcome your obstacles?

Princess: In some ways, I feel as if I was forced to overcome my obstacles. I was evicted from my apartment in December of 2015. Subsequently, I had to move in with my parents. I eventually started going to counseling & my therapist helped me realize that I was in an unhealthy relationship. With my therapist’s help, I was able to determine that I needed to follow through with my divorce.

 

Patrice: Since being a survivor, are you speaking out and telling your story to others?

Princess: At first, I must be honest; I was embarrassed and did not want to share my story with others. I have since then overcome my fears & I tell everyone my story to help someone else.

Patrice: As an advocate, do you participate in any activities for awareness?

Princess: As an advocate for Domestic Violence, I have attended Domestic Violence groups, but I have not had the opportunity to do any other work.

 

Patrice: You mentioned writing your first book. What will that be about?

Princess: The book is in the publishing stage at this time. Currently, I am waiting to approve the printed version of the book. I am hoping that the book will be available for purchasing no later than November. The book is about the many failed attempts I had at relationships. I learned to take accountability for my actions & I realized that I was a part of the problem.

 

Patrice: For others that are also survivors of Domestic Violence, what would you like to tell them?

Princess: I used to think I was different; I was unique so that he wouldn’t hit me & I would not give him a reason to hit me. I never realized that he was an abusive person & that was a part of who he was as a person. Some people never change. They will tell you that they won’t hit you again and that the men are sorry, but they will only do it again and again. They purposely isolate you from your family and friends so that they can abuse you. Get out while you can; the last time may be the last. You may not live to tell your story.

 

Connect with Princess: 

http://www.anchor.fm/ambitioussoulspodcast

Just Let It Go

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“Let it Go, Let it Gooo, can’t hold it back anymore..”
So that’s the first thing that came to mind! Yes, I’m singing the Frozen song because I love it! But I wanted to use that line from the music in this blog post to say, “LET IT GO!” I’m screaming at the top of the mountains and on the slopes far away! Whatever you have been battling with or been going through in the last few months, try to let it go! I know it may be hard, sis, I know because I’ve experienced some craziness all this year besides this pandemic. I was reading today’s Daily Bread, and the title is called “A Critical Reaction.” It talks about how an author wrote a new book and received five stars plus an award. A book reviewer left an excellent complement of the book, but still was blistering it. So the author sought out to his colleagues if he should respond to the comment, and they said, “let it go.” So what I’m trying to say is that everything doesn’t need a response. And of course, you guys, I’m talking about myself because I can’t admit and say I’ve been struggling with that for years trying not to respond to every comment or person. Our energy and sanity are our friends, and if we continue to respond to every negative comment or criticism, our energy level becomes low. We will find ourselves irritated or upset. So pretty women, the thought for the day and week is to “Let it Go.”

 

 

Patrice Rivers is a 9x published author, certified writer and journalist and creative director of That Riverz Gurl Brand LLC. Learn more by visiting http://www.thatriverzgurlbrandllc.com