27 A REAL STRONG WOMAN
Vo l . I , N o . I • M a y 2 0 1 0
F E A T U R E S
04 FOREWORD:
SEE IT, SAY IT, SOW IT!
By Dr. Stacia Pierce
08 BRANDING ADVICE
From Karen Taylor Bass
09 GIVE TO GET!
By Melinda T. Emerson
10 MAKE GOD FIRST PRIORITY
By Dr. Bellandra B. Foster, P.E.
05 A WORD FROM THE EDITOR & PUBLISHER
B y P a m P e r r y
18 LIVING MY PERSONAL BEST
By Ed Gray
19 DESPITE THE ODDS
By Jacquie Lewis Kemp
20 ON BRANDING…
By Jewell R. Powell
21 TIPS FOR LIVING WELL27 A REAL STRONG WOMAN
By Rhonda J. Smith
28 CONTINUE TO BE YOU
By Rosalind Y. Tompkins
29 LIVE YOUR BRAND
By Sandra Steen
30 BECOME INTENTIONAL
ABOUT YOUR LIFE
By Simon T. Bailey
31 SEEK GOD’S BEST
By Dr. Teresa Hairston
32 PERSONAL BRANDING TIPS
From Dr. Ty Adams
33 BELIEF, HOPE, CHANGE
By Valder Beebe
34 PEARLS OF WISDOM ON BRANDING
By Venus Mason Theus
11 WORDS OF WISDOM
From Bishop-elect Lyle Dukes and
Pastor Deborah Dukes
12 KEEP GETTING UP
By Bonnie St. John
13 BRANDING THE BEST DESIGN
By Deana Murphy
14 REFUSE TO CONFORM
By Deborah Smith Pegues
15 HOW I BRAND MYSELF
By Deborah Smith Pollard, Ph.D.
16 THE 3P’S OF WRITING
FOR ASPIRING AUTHORS
By DeMonica D. Gladney, Esq.
17 GIVE HONOR WHERE IT IS DUE
By Dr. Gail Hayes
21 TIPS FOR LIVING WELL
By Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook
(Dr. Sujay)
22 BE CONSISTENT
By Kim Brooks
23 WISE WORDS
From Minister Mary D. Edwards
24 THREE WAYS TO LIVE
YOUR BEST LIFE
By Michelle McKinney Hammond
25 A LIFE LESSON
From Nicole Cleveland
26 PRINCESSES DO
BECOME QUEENS
By Rev. Deborah D. Jenkins
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 2-
Editor and PublisherPam Perry
Ministry Marketing Solutions
Associate Editors
P Magazine is a publication of
Ministry Marketing Solutions, Inc.
33011 Tall Oaks, Farmington, MI 48336Phone: (248) 426-2300 ♦ E-mail: [email protected]
Associate EditorsGenikwa R. Williams
Jordan Media Group
Leah Hubbard
Ministry Marketing Solutions
Creative Layout and Design
Jordan Media Group
www.JordanMediaGroup.org
First, Pam, I am overjoyed to celebrate this milestone with you. It comes at one of my favorite times of the year! As we embark on another year of the Women’s Success Conference, it means a lot to me that you are here with us. You have been a wonderful, mentee and supporter of the Conference for many years now. Congratulations on turning 50 and beginning a new chapter in life. I am confident that you will reach new pinnacles of success; and as your life coach, I will be right here cheering you along the way!
I love that your theme is How to Brand Your Best Life, because it rings so true.
While working on my new branding kit, Reinvent Your Brand in 30 Days, I did extensive research on how a highly regarded brand begins and it’s pretty simple: Your best life and your brand begins with YOU. Your image, your attitude and your aptitude all play an essential part in your life-long success. As I’ve coached celebrities, CEO’s of fortune 500 companies, the wives of professional athletes
See It, Say It, Sow It!By Dr. Stacia Pierce
Dr. Stacia Pierce is America’s #1
Women’s Success and Lifestyle Coach.
She’s an award-winning speaker,
television personality and author of over CEO’s of fortune 500 companies, the wives of professional athletes and individuals that just desire personal success, I see the following secrets work time and time again:
See It. What is your best life? You must be able to visualize your goals and dreams if you want to achieve them. Build your brand on the canvas of your imagination. Then bring the vision before you for daily motivation. Often, I glance through my Purpose Portfolio and view my Storyboards where my goals are outlined with pictures and words. The person you see is the person others will promote!
Say It! Positive self-talk is the prelude to all personal success. Say the right things about your life, company and your brand! Vocalize your victory and be confident in your conversations. Word of mouth marketing begins with you.
Sow It! While building your best life and creating a brand worthy of recognition, you must invest in the tools, resources, organizations and people that will lead to your perpetual success. Invest in good books and mind expanding experiences. Be generous and create a cycle of success and strong foundation for your life and your brand.
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 4-
television personality and author of over
20 books, including the best-sellers
Inspired to Succeed and her signature
four-book series 25 Ways Women Can
Motivate Themselves.
Dr. Pierce is now focusing her
considerable talent and energy on
educating corporate America on
executive development, coaching and life
strategist aimed at moving companies
forward.
Websites & Social Media:www.LifeCoach2Women.com
www.Twitter.com/LifeCoach2Women
www.Facebook.com/staciapierce
www.Facebook.com/LifeCoach2Women
Again Pam congratulations. I have seen you See It! Say It! And Sow It! for many years now. It’s no wonder that you are becoming such an incredible success story. As you continue to help others build their dreams may you realize every dream of your own! Continue to build your life and your brand to be a light to others. I am proud of you!Happy Birthday!
Many Blessings and Continued Success,Dr. Stacia Pierce
A Word from the
Editor & Publisher
Pam Perry
Welcome toWelcome toWelcome toWelcome to PPPPMagazineMagazineMagazineMagazine!!!!
As I celebrate a half century in my life – this is
What I know for sure:
Pursue Peace – that you may discover your Purpose.
Allow your Purpose to become your PassionAllow your Purpose to become your Passion
And your Passion will give you Power,
that will Propel you to your Place in destiny
And Prosperity will meet you there.
Pam Perry, publisher of P Magazine
“The 10 Ps to Destiny”
www.brandyourbestlife.com
P.S. Enjoy the words of wisdom from some of my favorite author
friends…….they will tell you how they “brand their best life.”
I’d appreciation YOUR comments. Go to
http://www.facebook.com/pamperryfanpage and add comments,
videos or photos of YOUR best brand!
“The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely
as haste leads to poverty.”—Proverbs 21:5
HOW DO YOU BRAND YOUR BEST LIFE EVER? That’s a question that numerous professionals have
pondered—at least, in some form—while plotting and planning strategies to improve how they reach their
various customers. So P Magazine decided to ask our friends and colleagues for a little help. These branding
superstars—authors, speakers, pastors, ministry leaders, corporate executives, moms, dads, around-the-way
sistas and brothas—have provided their branding secrets to help you enhance your life, ministry, and career.
Everything they’ve learned or experienced over the years that can help you avoid personal and professional
pitfalls and take your life to the next level is included here. So grab a notebook and a pencil and glean from
these words of wisdom. Enjoy!
B I O G R A P H Y
Considered one of the premier
authorities in the public relations
industry, Karen Taylor Bass, has set the
standard in providing strategic branding,
marketing and public relations coaching
to entrepreneurs, mompreneurs, small
business owners and corporations.
Here are a few tips for how I live my personal brand:
1) I pray each morning and night for ordained opportunities and
the ability to live God's vision for me.
2) Work out. To be the best and give to others -- I strive for
preservation of life.
3) I love you. The words are powerful and each day I look into the
mirror and affirm my love for self. I am a work in progress like
each and everyone.
Karen Taylor Bass, The PR Expert®
Coach. Author. Motivational Speaker. Radio Host. Blogger.
Branding AdviceFrom Karen Taylor-Bass
business owners and corporations.
Her message of public relations as an
empowerment tool has appeared in such
publications: Entrepreneur magazine,
NY Daily News, Marie Claire,
Billboard, Heart & Soul, Essence, The
Network Journal, Black Enterprise and
the Philadelphia Daily News. Taylor
Bass has spoken extensively on how to
secure A-List Public Relations on a
shoestring budget.
Recently, Taylor Bass joined the team at
BlackEnterprise.com as a resident
Blogger, commenting on issues related
to entrepreneurship, social media,
women and mommy-hood.
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 8-
For additional information visit www.taylormademediapr.com
and www.karentaylorbass.com.
B I O G R A P H Y
Melinda Emerson “SmallBizLady” is an
author, speaker and small business
coach whose areas of expertise include
small business start-up, business
development and social media
marketing. Melinda‘s mission is to End
Small Business Failure.
I live by the motto give to get. I try to approach all relationships
looking for what I can give. My mission as an author and small
business coach is to End Small Business Failure. I achieve this by
helping would-be and emerging entrepreneurs understand the
things about business that they may not recognize that they do not
know. I believe that you need a life plan, a financial plan, a niche
customer, a business plan and a personal theme song to survive life
as an entrepreneur.
I live my personal best by trying to always be an example of God’s
light and love. I am grateful that I have the opportunity to live my
passion helping small business owners. Although I am serious
about business, I openly acknowledge who I am and who’s I am
and the role that my faith has played in my success.
Melinda F. Emerson “Smallbizlady”
Author, Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months
Give to Get!By Melinda F. Emerson
She publishes a bi-weekly resource
blog, www.succeedasyourownboss.com,
and hosts a weekly talk show on Twitter
called #Smallbizchat for emerging
entrepreneurs. As one on the nation’s
leading small business experts, Melinda
has been featured on NBC Nightly
News and in the Wall Street Journal,
U.S. News and World Report and Black
Enterprise Magazine. Her first book
Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months: A
Month-by-Month Guide to a Business
That Works, was released in March
2010.
For information, visit
www.becomeyourownbossbook.com.
Author, Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months
www.becomeyourownbossbook.com
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 9-
Websites & Social Media:
www.melindaemerson.com
www.succeedasyourownboss.com (Blog)
www.twitter.com/smallbizlady
www.linkedin.com/in/melindaemerson
www.facebook.com/smallbizlady
B I O G R A P H Y
Bellandra Benefield Foster is the Founder
and President of BBF Engineering
Services, PC, an engineering consulting
firm. Married for over 25 years and the
mother of two sons, she has created a
formula for combining a successful
professional life with a peaceful,
nurturing household. Dr. Foster earned
I desire to enhance my relationship with God on a daily basis. I
strive to make God first priority to help me to maintain a life of
peace and sanity and to lead me in the right direction to a victorious
life.
I incorporate “life” principles to maintain my physical, mental,
spiritual and emotional health. If we do not take care of our own
health, we eventually will not be here to fulfill our purpose on the
earth.
Make Room for “Cuddle Time!" Make time for those who are
important in your life. My spouse and children are a priority in my
life. It is important for me to spend valuable family time with my
spouse and children and to be available for them.
I always strive to create a home environment of peace and sanctity
so when we walk through the doors into our home, it does not
reflect the chaos going on in the world.
Make God First PriorityBy Dr. Bellandra B. Foster, P.E.
nurturing household. Dr. Foster earned
her Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from
Michigan State University, worked in
industry—then founded her own
companies. She is a popular speaker on
“building bridges” to achieve success in
marriage, family, career and
entrepreneurship. Dr. Foster has been
nationally recognized in Jet, Black
Enterprise, Essence and Hope Today
magazines.
Dr. Foster is the author of For Love and
Money: Seven Guidelines for Achieving
Success in Your Home and Business, she
explains in seven principals how readers
can prioritize God, marriage, family and
career/entrepreneurship while
maintaining order, success and peace in
their lives. She outlines how many of us
no longer have the job that we trusted
would be there until retirement. We
realize that our current position with any
company is no longer safe and stable, but
we are sometimes apprehensive of
moving into entrepreneurship. However,
she explains that entrepreneurship can be
successful with the implementation of the
right principles and priority.
reflect the chaos going on in the world.
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 10-
Websites & Social Media:
www.DRBBF.com
www.BizCoach1.com
wwwHandleYourBusinessNow.com
www.twitter.com/drbbf
www.facebook.com/BellandraFoster
www.linkedin.com/in/bbfoster
www.drbellandrabfoster.wordpress.com
B I O G R A P H Y
Bishop-Elect Lyle Dukes and Pastor
Deborah Dukes are the founders and pastors
of Harvest Life Changers Church, an
innovative and progressive ministry of over
6,000 members, located in Woodbridge,
Virginia. They have served in this position
since the inception of the church in 1995.
Bishop-Elect Dukes and Pastor Deborah
If you want something different, you've got to do something
different. If you want a change, you've got to make a change. It all
comes down to love.
Words of WisdomFrom Bishop-elect Lyle Dukes
and Pastor Deborah Dukes
Websites & Social Media:
Harvest-Live.com
www.facebook.com/lyleanddebdukes
www.twitter.com/lyleanddebdukes
www.lyleanddeborahdukes.com/blog/blogs/blog1.php
www.youtube.com/LyleandDeborahDukes
Bishop-Elect Dukes and Pastor Deborah
were both saved at an early age and have
over 30 years of sacrificial service.
“Impacting and life-changing” describes the
ministry of Bishop-Elect Dukes and Pastor
Deborah, which includes the powerful
“Changing Lives Together” initiative. This
initiative endeavors to minister to souls on a
global scale through conferences and other
events, special programs, training and
global ventures such as disaster relief (e.g.,
Haiti Earthquake) and building
construction. They recently dedicated the
Harvest Conference Center in Nakuru,
Kenya. Other vibrant ministry entities
include their international “Heart to Heart”
television program, a chain of Christian
bookstores, a record label (The Sound of
Harvest), and a publishing company
(Harvest Word Publishing).
Bishop-Elect Dukes and Pastor Deborah
have dedicated their lives to the service of
the Lord and the advancement of His
Kingdom. Their heartfelt desire is that their
lives and ministry would continually bring
glory, honor and praise to Jesus Christ.P Magazine • May 2010
-Page 11-
B I O G R A P H Y
Despite having her right leg amputated at
age five; Bonnie became the first African-
American to win Olympic medals in ski
racing at the 1984 Paralympics. She has
been honored for this achievement at Nike
Headquarters, at the Essence Awards, at the
When I fell down while racing as a skier in the
Paralympics—fell when I was in first place mind you—I got back
up again and still managed to finish third.
By winning that Bronze, I became the first African-American to
win an Olympic or Paralympic medal in ski racing. But more
importantly, I learned the value of getting up faster after you fall
down. The gold medalist had also fallen, but she got up faster and
won!
We all fall down, but getting good at getting up is what matters in
life.
Keep Getting UpBy Bonnie St. John
Websites & Social Media:Headquarters, at the Essence Awards, at the
White House Black History Month
celebration, and with a featured quote on
millions of Starbucks Cups.
After the Olympics, Bonnie went on to
graduate with honors from Harvard, win a
Rhodes scholarship, and earn her Masters in
economics from Oxford. In 1992, she
worked in the White House as a director of
the National Economic Council.
As a highly sought after international
keynote speaker, Bonnie St. John has
inspired and entertained executives at Pepsi,
Pfizer, AT&T, American Express, IBM, the
Wits Business School in South Africa, and
over 500 more companies and associations.
Bonnie has been featured on The Today
Show, CNN, Good Morning America,
People, Essence, Ebony, The New York
Times, and many other national media
outlets.
A best-selling author, Bonnie’s fifth and
most recent book, Live Your Joy, features a
series of inspirational parables designed to
guide you through tips and tools for finding
and maintaining joy in a hectic, 21st Century
world.
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 12-
Websites & Social Media:
www.bonniestjohn.com
www.linkedin.com/pub/bonnie-st-john/0/42b/411
www.facebook.com/bonniestjohn
www.twitter.com/bonniestjohn
B I O G R A P H Y
You may know her as a design expert on
HGTV, Fine Living, in O at Home
Magazine, or as a finest designer of Greater
Philadelphia, or maybe you've heard of her
inclusion in New York Metropolitan’s
Who’s Who or recognized as one the seven
influential black Christian authors, or have
seen her work in several signature
magazines, or know she co-author
Victorious Living for Women and is
magna cum laude honoree in Interior
Trailblazing the faith-based Kingdom-minded interior design
system penned in my Designing for the King: From Chaos to Order
by Designing Within, I developed a personal brand approach for
worldwide recognition by doing primary these three things:
1.Establish a Viral Footprint
Wherever there’s an online opportunity to be heard or seen, I used
these openings to market my brand. I pre-launched Designing for the
King by participating in blogs, teleconferences, on-line interviews, e-
news letters, adding coming soon signatures and social media sites.
Four months prior to its official release date (which in terms of
marketing is extremely late) the buzz did capture over 100 pre-orders.
My name brand now ranks #1 on Google.
2. Become an Expert
In addition to my e-news letters, I write articles for both print and
virtual magazines and generally mention the book in the article and
Branding the Best DesignBy Deana Murphy
Websites & Social Media:
www.DeanaMurphy.com
www.DesigningfortheKing.com
www.LivingDesignsUnlimited.com
www.blogtalkradio.com/designingfortheking
www.twitter.com/faithladydeana
www.linkedin.com/in/deanamurphy
www.facebook.com/deana.murphy1
www.facebook.com/designingfortheking
www.youtube.com/DeanaMurphy1
magna cum laude honoree in Interior
Architecture and Design, or know she’s
earning a doctorate in Theology.
What you may not know about Deana
Murphy, however, several years ago God
gave her a creative comparison of designing
the places where we live to designing the
places of our heart. She traced design back
to the Bible and discovered the answers she
was seeking.
Today, Deana has combined her passions of
designing, writing and the Bible.
As a result, Designing for the King is now
a reality. It was voted the 2010 best book of
the year by Empowering Everyday Women
Magazine’s team, the #1 on-line urban
niche magazine.
In step with her mission to educate, elevate,
and encourage, in 2009 she founded the
Designing for Success Institute helping
people design their lives from the inside out.
An inspirational speaker and lifestyle coach,
her knowledge of her subject is thorough
and her expression is passionate.
virtual magazines and generally mention the book in the article and
always mention it in the by-line with a head shot. As an expert, I
intentionally promoted Designing for the King in local and national
home design magazines over two years before the manuscript was
complete by simply stating an approximate release date. This created
the power of viral word of mouth.
3. Ask and Initiate
My marketing budget was zero, zilch, zip! I asked people to help me,
but with an sincerity of heart, not with a beggarly attitude. You have
not because you ask not.
I asked celebrated people to render a review, read a chapter or two and
some the entire manuscript which lead to a channel of endorsements
and created lots of buzz about my brand. I initiate conversations with
people and ask them about what they do in order to set off the
opportunity to share my elevator speech.
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 13-
B I O G R A P H Y
Deborah Smith Pegues is an international
speaker who captivates and motivates secular
and religious audiences with her hard-hitting
directness and humor on a variety of topics
ranging from confronting interpersonal
conflicts to managing personal finances. She
is a best selling author with the unique ability
to address readers across all social, racial,
and economic strata. The most popular of her
twelve books, "30 Days to Taming the
Tongue" has sold over half-million copies
I envision my life as a stool with four legs that must stay in
balance. The base of the stool represents my spiritual foundation
and beliefs; the legs represent the four major aspects of my daily
life, i.e., the relational, financial, emotional and physical. Each of
these aspects must be firmly connected to and conducted out of
these beliefs if I am to stand and excel.
I live my best life when I refuse to allow societal or cultural norms
to dictate my behavior in these areas. Excellence is my brand.
Relationally, I strive to be an excellent wife, daughter, sister, aunt,
friend and colleague with healthy boundaries and a generous spirit.
Financially, I stay out of debt, live beneath my means, and
maintain good cash reserves—realizing that God is my source.
Emotionally, I refuse to succumb to insecurities and unforgiveness,
choosing rather to walk in Supreme Confidence in the all-powerful,
Refuse to ConformBy Deborah Smith Pegues
Tongue" has sold over half-million copies
and has revolutionized conversations across
America.
A Certified Public Accountant to high profile
celebrities and mega-churches, Deborah
holds a Bachelor's degree in Accounting from
the University of North Texas and an MBA
degree in Finance from the University of
Southern California. She is also a Certified
Behavioral Consultant specializing in helping
people to understand, accept and appreciate
personality differences. She is a frequent
guest on numerous radio and television talk
shows to discuss the life-changing principles
set forth in her works.
Her community involvement includes serving
on the Board of World Vision USA, the
billion-dollar Christian humanitarian
organization. Respected leaders have praised
her excellence, forthrightness and integrity.
Deborah and her husband, Darnell Pegues,
have been happily married for over 31 years.
Together, they conduct marriage enrichment
seminars.
Website: www.confrontingissues.com
Social Media: www.twitter.com/deborahpegues
choosing rather to walk in Supreme Confidence in the all-powerful,
all-knowing, and always-present God of the Universe.
Physically, I simply desire to be a good steward over the only body
that I’ll ever get to do God’s will on the earth.
Consequently, I am not ashamed to declare in my writings or my
professional and secular interactions that the Bible shapes and
dictates my world views.
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 14-
B I O G R A P H Y
Dr. Deborah Smith Pollard is the award-
winning author of When the Church
Becomes Your Party: Contemporary
Gospel Music (Wayne State University
Press), a “2009 Michigan Notable Book.”
Its chapters cover praise and worship
music, the changing dress code in the
Black Church, Christian rap, women
I never thought of what I do as “branding” myself until I
starting following Pam’s advice. Here are the things I do to keep
my name, that is, my brand, reputable:
I try to always under promise but over deliver. In other words, I
want someone who has booked or hired me to be delighted and not
disappointed by my work!
I keep my word. If I say I’m coming, I show up. I don’t break my
promise to one group just because a more impressive group makes
an offer.
I strive for excellence. My prayer is always, “God, allow what I am
about to do to honor You and bless your people!”
How I Brand MyselfBy Deborah Smith Pollard, Ph.D.
Websites & Social Media:Black Church, Christian rap, women
gospel announcers, and gospel musical
plays. Because of her expertise in these
areas, Dr. Pollard has delivered lectures
around the world.
Since October, 1994, Dr. Pollard has been
the host and producer of Strong
Inspirations on FM 98 WJLB-Detroit,
heard Sundays, 6-10 AM. In 2005, she
was named Gospel Announcer of the
Year Award during the Stellar Awards.
Previously, she produced the Emmy-
award winning television show
“GodSounds” on Detroit’s WDIV-TV for
8 years as well as the McDonald’s
GospelFest and the Motor City Praisefest
for 22 years.
An Associate Professor of English
Literature at the University of Michigan-
Dearborn since 1995, Pollard served as
director of the African and African
American Studies program from 2002-
2006. In 2010, she was named the
recipient of two prestigious campus-wide
honors, The “Susan B. Anthony Award”
and the “Distinguished Service Award.” P Magazine • May 2010
-Page 15-
www.deborahsmithpollard.com
www.facebook.com/debsmithpollard
www.facebook.com/drdebfanpage
www.Twitter.com/debsmithpollard
Blog: www.deborahsmithpollard.blogspot.com
B I O G R A P H Y
DeMonica D. Gladney, Esq., received her
Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal
Justice, cum laude, from Lamar
University and her Doctor of
Jurisprudence degree, cum laude, from
the University of Houston Law Center.
She is Counsel for Exxon Mobil
Corporation and previously served as
Briefing Attorney for the Texas 14th
Court of Appeals.
Ms. Gladney is the Vice-Chair of the
As an attorney and best-selling author, I have been able to
live my best literary life by following these 3 “P’s” of Writing,
which I encourage all aspiring authors to understand and embrace
before they even pick up the pen to start their book project:
1) Passion is essential to pursuing your writing goals. You must
have passion for whatever you do because it is the force that will
drive you to pursue your dreams. If you desire to become a
published author, you must be passionate about writing and willing
to go the extra mile. Your passion will keep you motivated,
energized and productive and help you to pursue your writing
goals.
2) Purpose is essential to understanding your writing goals. –
You must write with a sense of purpose. It’s important to know
why you’re writing – “What is your goal or purpose for writing?”
The long-term purpose of writing is to communicate with a certain
The 3P’s of Writing for Aspiring Authors
By DeMonica D. Gladney, Esq.
Ms. Gladney is the Vice-Chair of the
Women Lawyers Division, Corporate
Liaison of the Commercial Law Section,
and Chaplain of the National Bar
Association. She is the past President of
the Houston Lawyers Association and
past Chair of the African-American
Lawyers Section of the State Bar of
Texas.
Ms. Gladney is also an accomplished
poet, author and speaker. She is the
bestselling author of Willing to Wait:
From Revelation to Manifestation,
Reflections from God and Identity Theft:
Discovering the Real You. Her book,
Willing to Wait, was ranked #7 on the
BCBD National Independent Publishers’
Top 50 Bestseller’s List.
Ms. Gladney has been featured in various
media, including the Houston Daystar TV
Network, the Pearland Journal, Ladies
First Magazine, and the Black Christian
News and included in the 2010 editions of
Who’s Who Among Executives &
Professionals and Who’s Who in Black
Houston.
The long-term purpose of writing is to communicate with a certain
audience. To successfully do so, knowing your purpose for writing
will help to make you a better writer.
3) Process is essential to achieving your writing goals. – You
must understand that writing and publishing a book is a process.
There are many steps (from conception to completion) required
throughout the process. Becoming a published author is not going
to happen over night, so get ready for the long haul. The first step
in the process is to get started and commit to putting in the time
necessary to achieve your writing goals.
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 16-
Websites & Social Media:
www.authordemonicadgladney.com
www.facebook.com/dgladney
www.twitter.com/dgladney
www.willingtowait.wordpress.com
B I O G R A P H Y
Dr. Gail M. Hayes is a much sought-
after conference speaker who speaks the
message of identity, purpose and destiny
to others.
She has appeared on QVC, Christian
Television Network, Total Christian
Honor is something that always comes back. Remember,
that there is always someone watching you and your conduct.
Honoring others is not easy and sometimes the best way to honor
others is to avoid them.
Honor yourself. I am still learning this one. Learning to love and
honor yourself is one of the best gifts you can give to that person
called you. Take time for meditation, rest, and a good pedicure!
This works for me because I have to sit still and allow someone
else to pamper me. It is okay to take care of yourself!
Become selfless instead of selfish. The perfect example is air
travel. When the flight attendants discuss the oxygen masks, they
tell you that if something happens, to first put on your mask. You
are then in position to help others. Many of us neglect ourselves
and become angry or resentful if others do the same. It’s time to
don our masks and take care of ourselves first Once we do, we can
Give Honor Where It Is DueBy Dr. Gail Hayes
Television Network, Total Christian
Television and the Sky Angel Network.
She has a BS in criminal justice, MA in
public relations, and a Ph.D. in
counseling. Shone lives in Durham, NC
with her husband and two children.
don our masks and take care of ourselves first Once we do, we can
then begin to live our best lives. We can then enjoy the view from
our mountain top and give to others one of the most powerful gifts
on earth…ourselves!
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 17-
Websites & Social Media:
www.handleyourbusinessgirl.com www.drgailhayes.com
www.daughtersoftheking.org
www.facebook.com/DrGailMcClainHayes
www.twitter.com/drgailhayes
B I O G R A P H Y
Ed Gray has risen to national
prominence by powerfully impacting
the lives of others. From college
campuses to state prisons to major
corporations, people want to hear Ed
Gray speak.
The Detroit News described him as "a
How do I live my personal best? In whatever, I do—
especially my calling as a minister who speaks and writes—I do it
as if it is being done unto God. I do not do what I do just for Gods
people but unto God. His people are just the benefactors of my
work.
How do I brand my best life? By putting my life and work through
an eight-step litmus test found in Phil. 4:8. Is it true? Is worthy of
honor? Is it right? Is it pure? (In other words, not “watered down”)
Does it pay allegiance to my Acronym A.R.T. (Abundantly Rich
Thoughts)? Does it live up to my name? Is it Excellent? Is it praise
worthy?
Living My Personal BestBy Ed Gray
Biography continued…
Website:
www.edgrayspeaks.com.
Phone:
770-384-1084The Detroit News described him as "a
master at showing people how to get the
most out of themselves." In another
article, News columnist Betty DeRamus
said, "He’s poised, polished and people
take notes when Ed Gray speaks.” The
Michigan Chronicle wrote, "He thrills
listeners with a wake-you-up delivery
and a you will believe message."
Once pegged a slow learner, he believed
the label to be true and failed first
grade. Through the loving interaction of
his stepmother and a third grade teacher,
the shy boy who once did not believe in
himself began to turn his life around. At
age 12 he developed a passion for
reading self help books and applying
what he learned to his own life.
Ed won numerous oratorical and writing
contests. He also won a four-year
theatre scholarship to Wayne State
University.
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 18-
Biography continued…
Since July 1991, Ed has hosted and
written the nationally syndicated radio
feature Power Minute. The show is
syndicated by Anderson
Communications in Atlanta and is heard
on more than 80 radio stations across
the United States.
His work has caught the attention of
many. The mayor of Shreveport, La.,
proclaimed Friday, May 12, 1995, as
"Ed Gray Day" in the city and honored
him with a key. On June 22, 1994, the
mayor and city council of Huntsville,
Ala., upheld him with honorary citizen
status. Ed was selected for the 1992
edition of Outstanding Young Men in
America. He was also selected for the
1999 edition of International Who’s
Who.
Ed is the author of the best-selling book,
40 Days to a Life of G.O.L.D. (God
Ordained Life Development). He is an
ordained Apostle and gifted Prophet.
B I O G R A P H Y
Jacqueline Lewis-Kemp was diagnosed
with juvenile diabetes at the age of 7 and
was insulin dependent for 33 years. While
living with diabetes, Jacquie began her
career at Lewis Metal Stamping the
Monday following her graduation from
college—since her new boss would be her
My adult life has changed dramatically over the past 10
years. I went from a busy wife, mother and CEO of a small
automotive stamping company to that same woman, except with
the complication of kidney failure and secretly doing peritoneal
dialysis. After a kidney transplant, a pancreas transplant and a bout
with the West Nile Virus—all in 3 years, I closed the business and
with some rehab, became a stay at home mom.
What I began to realize was how incredibly blessed I had been, and
how terribly bored I had become. I am used to multitasking—doing
several things at once. More importantly as I recalled my life
threatening episodes and the timing of those events, I knew that
they couldn’t be a mere coincidence. Combining new found energy
with a need to tell my testimony yielded my book Blessed
Assurance: Success Despite the Odds.
If I thought writing was a joy, sharing my testimony with others by
Despite the OddsBy Jacquie Lewis Kemp
Biography continued…
perfectly events were timed, she realized that it
was not work that she could have ever done
herself. Only God could have had this plan for
her life and presented a path to ensure her
success.
Jacquie now volunteers and speaks for Gift of
Life, the National Kidney Foundation of
Michigan, diabetes support groups and diabetes
seminars in Muskegon, Mt. Clemens Regional
Medical Center and St. Joseph Mercy Oakland
hospitals; is chair of the "Choose to Live"
program at the American Diabetes Association;
and does fundraising for the University of
Michigan Transplant Center.
college—since her new boss would be her
father. After working with him for eight
years, her father died suddenly and
Jacquie stepped into very big shoes to fill,
not to mention working through grief.
In time, she grew the company and
doubled sales. She joined the National
Association of Black Automotive
Suppliers and was selected to
join Oakland University Business
School’s Board of Visitors. Jacquie was
also awarded Black Enterprise
magazine’s “Rising Star” award in 1996.
Kidney failure, transplants and concern
about the worsening economy forced
Jacquie to evaluate the viability of the
business and whether to continue her
father’s legacy, or secure her son’s future.
What she came to recognize was that her
father was much more than brick and
mortar, she closed the business. Or so she
thought this was her decision. As Jacquie
reviewed her life and the seemingly
amazing medical procedures and the
coincidence of how
If I thought writing was a joy, sharing my testimony with others by
promoting this book has given me purpose. Financial gain is good,
however watching the reaction on audiences faces as I discuss the
book, and receiving hugs from people touched by diabetes or
kidney disease is satisfying. But, when people follow along and see
the power of Christ and how He has worked in my life, they go
beyond the specifics of glucose control and dialysis in my car, and
understand His blessed assurance for our lives.
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 19-
Website:
www.jlewiskemp.com
www.facebook.com/jacquielewiskemp
www.Twitter.com/jlewiskemp
B I O G R A P H Y
Jewell R. Powell affectionately known as
the “Marriage Coach” is an author,
entrepreneur, and inspirational teacher
with a heart and passion for helping
couples have great marriages and helping
women live purposeful lives. She is the
author of the Award Winner Best
Christian Inspiration book Marriage 101:
As a #1 bestselling and award winning author of Marriage
101: Building a Life Together by Faith, I strategically developed a
brand by making my products and services, especially my website,
as a resource for African-American couples to refer to regarding
marriage and family. I was able to brand Marriage 101 because of
this one simple phrase “Plan Your Work, Work Your Plan.”
I have a strategic plan, marketing & promotion plan, and a
branding plan that I actually update yearly. I know each month
what is a priority, what products I want to develop at that time or
what area I want to focus on (i.e. marketing, sales, etc). My goal
was always to work with a major publishing company for my 1st
book, which was published by Revell/Baker Publishing in 2009, to
get distribution and to be known as a ‘published’ writer. In
planning, you not only have to conduct research, but you have to
incorporate what you learn. And because I am not an expert in
marketing, sales, web development, etc., I used professionals in
On Branding…By Jewell R. Powell
Christian Inspiration book Marriage 101:
Building a Life Together by Faith
published by Revell/Baker.
An avid student who loves to learn,
Jewell graduated from VCMI Ministerial
Training School. She also has a
bachelor’s degree in business from the
University of Maryland and a master’s
degree in contracts management from the
Florida Institute of Technology. She has
started a second master’s degree program
at Regent University, School of Divinity.
Jewell has spent the last ten years
working with her husband, building a
successful management consulting
company, Antiok Holdings, Inc. She has
also started her own company, Grace
Publishing, which publishes books for
new authors and will be an avenue for
personally mentoring them to be
successful and profitable authors. In her
spare time, she devours books and loves
to shop. Jewell lives with her husband and
two beautiful daughters in southern
Maryland. You can visit
www.marriage101.us for more
information.
marketing, sales, web development, etc., I used professionals in
their area of expertise.
A professional website, well-written books, and impressive
marketing materials are essential to professional people and/or
organizations wanting to be a part of what you do. I have also made
a personal decision not to look at what other authors are doing, in
the sense of competing them, because I am running a marathon and
not a sprint. Therefore, I am pacing myself for longevity and
greatness.
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 20-
Websites & Social Media:
www.marriage101.ning.com
www.twitter.com/jewellrpowell
www.facebook.com/Marriage101
www.youtube.com/jewellrpowell1
www.marriagecoach.wordpress.com
www.marriage101.mypodcast.com
B I O G R A P H Y
Suzan Johnson Cook—b.k.a. Dr. Sujay—is
the President of MOVING UP
PRODUCTIONS, INC. a sales, technology,
relationships and management consultant
firm.
She was a television producer with NBC and
ABC and also served with CBS. She has had
a distinguished career in public service,
having served as a Presidential Advisor, a
Here are a few tried-and-true tips for living well:
l) LIVE your best life. LIVE every day well. Enjoy it. If you are
able-bodied, WORK. Work hard. Play hard. And then find time for
rest and renewal. Recreation means Re-Creation. And it's in that
time that God reveals to you your heart—your heart for HIM—and
your passion—what He has given you to do that no one else can do
like you, but you.
Passion and prayer go hand in hand. Prayers connect when you
make time for God (the Creator) and yourself (the Creature).
2) Know that you are DESTINED FOR Greatness. Read my new
book On Becoming a Woman of Destiny ( Penguin Press:20l0) and
Jeremiah 29:ll—God has plans for you…plans for a FABULOUS
future.
3) Fight for your family. At the end of the day, they are the ones
still there for you.
Contact: www.DrSujay.com or e-mail at
Tips for Living WellBy Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook (Dr. Sujay)
having served as a Presidential Advisor, a
White House Fellow on The Domestic Policy
Council and directly worked with a Cabinet
Secretary. She is a member of the
distinguished Renaissance Weekend.
After attending Riverdale Country School,
she received a Bachelors in Speech, cum
laude, from Boston's Emerson College and
holds two Master's Degrees, one of which is
in Technology from Columbia University.
She also has an earned Doctorate. An
Alumna of Harvard University, she served as
a faculty member, teaching Speech and
Communications to some of today's most
distinguished leaders. She is a graduate of the
Minority Business Executive Program at
Dartmouth College's Amos Tuck Business
School.
Dr. Sujay is the author of nine successful
books, which include: her latest release
Moving Up (Doubleday: 2008), Too Blessed
to Be Stressed (Nelson: 1998), A New Dating
Attitude – Getting Ready For The Mate God
Has For You (Zondervan: 2000) and The
Sister's Rules for Ministry (Word: 2003). Her
latest, Live Like You're Blessed (Doubleday:
2006), was featured on Good Morning
America, the Tavis Smiley show and is
becoming a Bestseller.
Contact: www.DrSujay.com or e-mail at
Join us for A Sister's Soul Journey Conference and Retreat for
women of Faith: a conference for female Christian leaders from all
over the world—www.ersvponline.com/drsujay—October 9-12,
2010 in Ft. Lauderdale , Fla. , Marriott Harbor Beach Hotel
Phenomenal—Real Sisterhood—Real Rest for your weary soul
MAP: Mentoring, Advocacy and Preparation & Presentation for
Public Life
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 21-
B I O G R A P H Y
Award-winning author, licensed
minister, national speaker and
songwriter, Kim Brooks, of Detroit, MI
is the Black Expressions Bestselling
Author of, He’s Fine…But is He Saved?
its highly acclaimed sequel, He’s
Saved…But is He For Real?, nonfiction
Be diligent, remain consistent in your message, stick to your
platform, be creative, keep an online presence, respond to the needs
of your audience, build your list of contacts and remain in constant
communication with them...be a blessing and you'll be blessed!
I brand my best life by remaining consistent with my online
presence and platform of abstinence until marriage ...though the
method of delivery may change (i.e. ,fiction or nonfiction book,
blog, speech or song) the message of Christ's redeeming love, and
how to live victoriously as a single believer remains the same.
I also brand my best life by remaining relevant, remaining true to
myself, and remaining true to the God I serve.
Be ConsistentBy Kim Brooks
Websites & Social Media:Saved…But is He For Real?, nonfiction
debut, The Little Black Survival Book
for Single Saints, and her newest advice
book for singles, How To Date And Stay
Saved.
She is a dean's list graduate of Word of
Faith Bible Training Center, and an
English graduate of Michigan State
University.
An abstinence until marriage advocate,
which is not only her speaking platform
but also her testimony as she is a virgin
in her early thirties, Kim has been
featured in Gospel Today, JET and has
appeared as a guest on The Word
Network and a regular on Totally
Christian Television.
Sign up for her free e-newsletter and
online daily devotional for Christian
singles entitled, The Single Heart, at
www.KimOnTheWeb.com
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 22-
Websites & Social Media:
www.Facebook.com/Kimontheweb
www.Twitter.com/Kimontheweb
www.YouTube.com/Kimontheweb
www.Kimontheweb.com (official blog)
www.DateAndStaySaved.com (Read free excerpts from new book)
B I O G R A P H Y
Mary Darlene Edwards was featured in
Who's Who in Black Detroit (2007 &
2009). Voted "One of the Most
My life's mission is to impact my generation in such a way
that my positive presence will still be felt after I depart from this
life and that the very mention of the name “M.D. EDWARDS” will
bring healing to ones spirit, soul, and body.
Wise WordsFrom Minister Mary D. Edwards
Websites:
www.leavesofgoldconsulting.com
www.borngrown.com
www.widowswithwisdom.org
www.leavesofgoldconsulting.com
www.thecalledandreadywriters.org
2009). Voted "One of the Most
Influential African American Women in
Metropolitan Detroit,” she is co-founder
of Joy of Jesus Ministries, founder of
The Called and Ready Writers, CEO of
Leaves of Gold Consulting, LLC
(Editing, Self-Publishing, Coaching),
and founder of His Lovely Wife
Ministries/Widows With Wisdom.
Minister Mary Edwards
Author/Book Coach/Editor
Speaker/Consultant
(313) 330-4490
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 23-
B I O G R A P H Y
As a bestselling author, speaker, singer and
television co-host, Michelle has authored
over 30 books (selling over one million
copies worldwide), including best-selling
titles The Diva Principle, Sassy, Single and
Satisfied, 101 Ways to Get and Keep His
Attention, and Secrets of an Irresistible
Woman. A gifted vocalist, Michelle has
recorded two CD’s, It’s Amazing and Let’s
Go In and co-hosted the Emmy Award-
winning television talk show Aspiring
I stay true to God and my calling.
Every decision I make is made in the light of asking myself three very
simple questions: Would what I’m about to do make God smile? Does this
decision feed into my life definition and calling?
Does my choice line up with how I was created, the purpose I was created
for, and God’s ultimate design for my life?
I’ve learned that if my choice is simply to gain selfish pleasure or chase
after the material it is neither fulfilling or profitable. Though it might
afford me a moment of instant gratification it is not sustainable in joy or in
effect.
I stay true to my personal mission statement. I believe that just as cars
move down the street people ought to stay in their lane. You know what
happens when you cross over to the wrong lane—someone gets hurt.
Whether you get hurt by rejection because you moved out of your “sweet
spot” or area of expertise, or someone got hurt because you were not
qualified to do what you had promised. When you stay true to your
personal gifting, and what you were created and called to do, it will give
you joy. Joy mingled with knowledge and gifting is the fuel behind
excellence. Excellence is a powerful force that benefits everyone. It
Three Ways to Live Your Best LifeBy Michelle McKinney Hammond
winning television talk show Aspiring
Women.
She has appeared on countless television
shows including Bill Maher’s Politically
Incorrect, E Channel’s “Soap Talk,” NBC’s
The Other Half, The 700 Club, and BET’s
Oh Drama! as well as a regular relationship
segment on WGN Morning News. She has
graced the cover of magazines such as
Today’s Christian Woman Precious Times,
The Plain Truth and Gospel Today. She has
been a contributing writer for Spirit Led
Woman, Discipleship Journal and has been
featured in articles in Shine, Essence,
Ebony, Jet, Black Enterprise Magazine, The
Chicago Tribune, The Associated Press and
The New York Times.
Michelle’s underlying message is “get
yourself in spiritual order and your natural
life will come together.” Her passion is to
give relevant and workable solutions to
people’s questions based in timeless
spiritual truths. Sharing solid, effective
principles that will help her audience to
navigate through the journey of life and
reach the ultimate destination of living and
loving to their fullest potential.
excellence. Excellence is a powerful force that benefits everyone. It
blesses others and opens even greater doors for you. Though it is easy to
get distracted by a lot of good ideas I try to make sure they are God ideas
before I sign up for them. This ensures that I stay in my lane and reach my
desired destination.
I stay true to myself and the needs of others. My greatest joy is serving.
Learning to be discerning about where to focus and what to give is how I
remain true to myself so that I always have a surplus to pour out. This
means learning how to say a very difficult word at times, “No.” I have to
remind myself that it is being said in the interest of the greater good. I also
know that as long as my motivation is that of service I know I can never
go wrong. Therefore I take the time to find out what people need and
make sure I give them what they need as opposed to what I think they
may want. When I get feedback that lets me know I’ve served well and
someone’s needs have been met it’s like eating a big, fat steak. It fills and
fulfills me. Like Jesus said, “My food is doing the will of my Father who
sent me and completing the task He sent me to.” Sometimes people don’t
understand why I do what I do for others but at the end of the day I know
that God is well pleased and that gives me great peace and joy.
Website: www.michellehammond.com
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 24-
B I O G R A P H Y
Motivational Speaker, Workshop Leader,
Radio Host, and Author, Nicole Cleveland
lives her life on purpose.
Our mission is accomplished when we offer hope and a
moment of encouragement, even if it's to just one woman.
A Life LessonFrom Nicole Cleveland
Websites & Social Media:
www.facebook.com/nicoleconline
www.facebook.com/sohecheatednowwhat
www.twitter.com/nicoleconline
www.youtube.com/breatheagainmag
www.breatheagainmagazine.org
www.facebook.com/breatheagainmag
www.twitter.com/breatheagain
lives her life on purpose.
Her mission is to ensure that women are
not suffering in silence, as she once was.
In 2006 Nicole founded Breathe Again
Magazine
An online monthly magazine designed to
uplift hurting women.
In 2010 Nicole released, So He Cheated,
Now What? Her personal testimony of
overcoming an affair in her marriage. An
affair that produced a child. Visit her
online at www.nicoleconline.com.
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 25-
B I O G R A P H Y
Pastor Deborah D. Jenkins,
affectionately called, “Pastor Deb,”
serves as Pastor and co-founder of Faith
@ Work Christian Church with her
husband Co-Pastor Frank J. Jenkins, in
Bronx, NY. Pastor Deb has been in
ministry for 13 years and in full-time
ministry for 5 years. She holds a B.A. in
Psychology, M.A. in Public
Administration and Policy ,and a Master
As a Success and Character Marketing Coach and author of
Preparing the Princess to be Queen: With 31 Successpirations for
the Princess, I have developed a Character Attraction branding
strategy to move every Princess towards her destiny as Queen and
to propel every Queen to godly-Success. Here are my Top 3 brand
building techniques:
Coin a Catchy Branding Slogan: We often fall well-short of
divine purpose because we’ve allowed everyone and every
circumstance to define us. My branding slogan is “Have you Met
the Princess?™ This is an instant conversation generator and I am
subsequently invited to numerous events for presentations!
Teach! Maximizing every opportunity also provides space for
teaching principles of the book. Those taught are empowered by the
free-experience and are willing to purchase services.
Princesses Do Become QueensBy Rev. Deborah D. Jenkins
Administration and Policy ,and a Master
of Divinity (M.Div.) from New York
Theological Seminary, where she is an
Adjunct Professor in both the M.Div.
and Certificate Programs.
Pastor Deb founded the No More
Drama Women’s Conference in 2002
and has been a mentor/coach to
hundreds of women. She speaks
nationally and is the author of two
dynamic leadership books, Leading
through Adversity: Lessons from the
Prophets (2004) and the latest dedicated
to women, Preparing the Princess to be
Queen: With 31 Successpirations for the
Princess (2010).
She owns three businesses—all of
which compliment her godly destiny as
a Queen.
Connect with her on:
Twitter:
www.twitter.com/dvineexpression
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/deborahdjenkins or
www.facebook.com/revdeborahdjenkins
Wearing a Crown Brooch: I have several different crown-shaped
brooches that I wear on everything from cotton-tees to silk blouses.
I am automatically associated with royalty—when asked about it I
am able to ask my branded question, “Have you Met the
Princess?™
For further information about Pastor Deb visit her website
www.DeborahDJenkins.com
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 26-
B I O G R A P H Y
Rhonda J. Smith is a wife, mother, minister,
teacher, writer, speaker and friend who is
dedicated to marriage, ministry and
motherhood. She is overjoyed to see people
walking in what they were born to do. One
of her chief aims is to see women walk in
the freedom of Christ and make no
apologies for doing so. To that end, Rhonda
blogs three times a week at
When I look at my life, I realize that I have always been
known as a strong person who writes. When I asked myself what I
wanted to be known for, I realized my heart’s desire was to be a
strong biblical woman who taught others this through my lifestyle
and lecturing.
I have structured my life to accomplish this by: 1) Delving daily
into God’s word and 2) Discipling women through scheduled one-
on-one bible-centered meetings and phone calls and blogging to
debunk the myths of worldly strength by exposing wrong notions
and reworking and aligning them with biblical thought. I have set
up my blog to automatically post to Facebook and Yahoo Updates.
Because of this, my readership has increased, even internationally.
A Real Strong WomanBy Rhonda J. Smith
Some of my blog messages will be in my upcoming book with the blogs three times a week at
www.musingsofastrongblackwoman.wordpress.com
to challenge Christian women, particularly
African-American women, to refuse to walk
in their strength and rely on the power of
God.
A past full-time speech instructor and
communications coordinator at Detroit’s
Wayne County Community College
District, Rhonda is a full-time homemaker
and journalist. She has written for a number
of publications, including The Detroit News,
Newsday (New York), Chicago Tribune,
Daily Tribune (Royal Oak, MI) and
Charisma Magazine. She has a bachelor’s
degree in journalism and a master’s degree
in communication, both from Wayne State
University, Detroit. She has applied her
professional communications background to
teach teen girls and women at church; speak
at various ministry functions; write and edit
newsletters for Christian ministries; and
teach public speaking workshops. She and
her family attend Evangel Ministries in
Detroit, where they live.
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 27-
Some of my blog messages will be in my upcoming book with the
working title of either Destroying the Myth of the Strong Black Woman
or The Strong Black Woman: Re-imagined and Reengineered. You can
now read excerpts at
www.musingsofastrongblackwoman.wordpress.com.
Also visit my new site, scheduled to launch June 2010, at
www.musingsofastrongblackwoman.com.
I can be reached on Facebook at www.facebook.com/people/Rhonda-J-
Smith/1474362545.
B I O G R A P H Y
Rosalind Y. Tompkins has been said to be
an icon in Tallahassee, Florida because of
her work with families in crisis. The over
twenty-years in recovery former addict
founded Mothers In Crisis, Inc. (MIC), a
non-profit, 501 (c) (3) community-based
organization in 1991. MIC has impacted the
lives of thousands of families. She also
founded Turning Point International Church
in 1998 where she serves as the senior
pastor.
This season of my life is truly proving to be both new and
exciting thanks to my connection with Pam Perry. Before I
connected with Pam, I believe that I was branding my life by being
my authentic self; however, I had no clue as to how to be strategic
and obtain specific goals that I desired to accomplish.
Now I am branding my best life by continuing to be ME, my
authentic self, I am just doing it with finesse and power thanks to
the coaching of Pam Perry.
I live my personal best by remaining true to my call, purpose, and
destiny. I am tapping into my God given streams of power and
allowing them to flow like never before. As the author of three non-
fiction inspirational books, As Long As There Is Breath In Your
Body, There Is Hope, Rare Anointing, and You Are Beautiful.
I understand the necessity of following tried and true principles of
wisdom in order to obtain success in life. \With that in mind, I am
Continue to be YouBy Rosalind Y. Tompkins
pastor.
Rosalind Y. Tompkins is the published
author of the books, “As Long As There Is
Breath In Your Body, There Is Hope."
“Rare Anointing." and the newly released,
“You Are Beautiful." She is a prophetic poet
who writes and recites poetry and spoken
word and has been compared to the likes of
Maya Angelou. She has two CD’s of
poetry, “Poems of Life Volumes One and
Two.”
The Florida State University graduate has
literally branded the Tallahassee and
surrounding areas with the now famous
trademark, “As Long As There Is Breath In
Your Body, There Is Hope®!"
With a ready smile, piercing eyes and a
warm heart she teaches and preaches
throughout the nation and around the world.
Rosalind Y. Tompkins is also a Life Coach
who helps others fulfill their God given
dreams and destinies. Her passion is to see
lives transformed and activate positive
change in others. She has been anointed by
God to co-create and release purpose and
power!
wisdom in order to obtain success in life. \With that in mind, I am
following those who God has ordained to lead me to higher heights
and deeper depths as I live my personal best and brand my best
life!
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 28-
Websites & Social Media:
www.rosalindytompkins.com.
www.facebook.com/authorrosalindytompkins
www.twitter.com/Rosalindyt
www.unlockingbeautyfromwithin.blogspot.com
B I O G R A P H Y
Sandra Steen is the CEO of Sandra Steen &
Associates, Inc. (SSA Inc.), an International
training, consulting and speaking firm
founded in 1993, Ms Steen’s Oats to Joy,
Inc., a gourmet oatmeal cookie company
founded in 2004 and Joy Incorporated, a
holding company for her previously formed
companies as well as future ventures.
She is a graduate of Southern Methodist
Brand Identification. I began by first answering the
question: What is my major business? I remembered when
Southwest Airlines answered this same question they determined
they were in the “transportation” business rather than the “airline”
business. When I wrote the book Who Stole My JOY? I realized that
I was not just in the training, speaking or consulting business; I was
in the JOY business. From a business perspective JOY makes total
sense, since it is in unlimited supply and endless demand. JOY has
also become a very popular word choice for National Advertisers,
promoting everything from cereal to cars!
Creating JOY Related Products. Once I understood I was in the
JOY business I could create products that were related to the JOY
message in my book. The JOY Institute was created to be an
umbrella organization for the various seminars and teachings that
were offered to the public. Ms Steen’s Oats to JOY was a product
that was created to tie in the JOY message to a food product.
Live Your BrandBy Sandra Steen
She is a graduate of Southern Methodist
University with over 20 years of corporate
experience, and considered a
communications expert within the corporate
world. As a noted author and world-
renowned inspirational and motivational
speaker, Sandra Steen travels the world
assisting companies and organizations in
increasing communication effectiveness,
building strong teams and increasing and
promoting company morale. In June 2010
Sandra will announce the launching of
Sandra Steen Ministries which will offer
training, speaking and ministry designed
specifically for Churches and Non-Profit
organizations.
Ms Steen has traveled internationally with a
Fortune 500 corporate audience that has
ranged from Sony, Disney, Wal-Mart,
AT&T, JC Penney, Sea World of Texas,
Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, the San
Antonio Spurs, Procter & Gamble, Atlanta
Journal Constitution, and many others.
With a growing list of attendees, Ms. Steen
has spoken to over 500,000 people
declaring a message of defined purpose,
higher living, business excellence and
endless JOY!
that was created to tie in the JOY message to a food product.
Operation JOY™ was a message designed to send our oatmeal
cookies to the Military. JoyWear™ is a trademark clothing line of
inspirational clothing. I also began branding the question, “Who
wouldn’t want more Joy?” That question kept the JOY
opportunities endless.
Consistent JOY Message. I worked consistently to create an
authentic JOY message. This message could be read on signature
blocks for letters and emails as I signed off “Much JOY” to
everyone. Message reinforcement was designed in a spoken word
devotional CD designed to get your day started in JOY! In
numerous radio interviews or during a keynote address I would
always find the opportunity to stress the importance of living with
JOY. It is not uncommon now for people to associate me as some
brand of JOY Mastery. It has become quite refreshing to have
people greet me and others with a common phrase I use a lot:
“Have a Joyous day!”
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 29-
You can follow Sandra Steen on
Facebook and find out more information
by going to www.sandrasteen .com.
B I O G R A P H Y
Simon T. Bailey is author of the
bestseller Release Your Brilliance
published by HarperCollins and ranked
#17 of the Top 100 books being read by
Corporate America according to 800-
CEORead. He was selected as one of
When you become intentional about your life, you become
unstoppable in creating your future. Is that your mantra for your
life? If not, you may want to consider it.
Here is how you can live your personal best right now:
Surround yourself with 360 degree thinkers. When you do you will
begin to think and see like them. When you surround yourself with
45 degree thinkers you will only think and see to a certain degree!
Sell out to your dream, destiny, and desire to be. No more
meandering around waiting to be discovered. Discover yourself. Be
your own American Idol, hold your arms up and dance with the star
called you.
When you develop an appetite for the spectacular you no longer
settle for the crumbs of the ordinary.
Resist the gravitational pull to be average. If Steve Jobs would have
Become Intentional about Your LifeBy Simon T. Bailey
CEORead. He was selected as one of
the top 25 “hot” Speakers shaping the
speaking profession by Speaker
Magazine.
He is a repeat Thought Leader at Dell,
Microsoft, Society of Human Resource
Management, IBM and Executive
Women International just to name a few.
He has also shared the stage with Jim
Collins, Dr. Stephen Covey, Cokie
Roberts, Ken Blanchard and Judge
Glenda Hatchett. Most recently he was
nominated for the National Speaker
Association CPAE – 2010 Speaker Hall
of Fame distinction. Previously, he was
sales director for Disney Institute based
at the Walt Disney World Resort and has
twenty years of experience in the
tourism industry.
Websites:
www.simontbailey.com
www.youtube.com/brilliance777
Resist the gravitational pull to be average. If Steve Jobs would have
listened to the pundits then the iPod, iPhone, and iTunes would
remain a figment of his imagination. But no, he pushed aside those
who were spamming him with negativity and walked in the
opposite direction. The reality is that some people are more
negative than an undeveloped piece of film. Don’t let it be you.
Oh Brilliant One, becoming your personal best is a daily intention.
Go for it!
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 30-
B I O G R A P H Y
Dr. Teresa Hairston has worked diligently
over the last 21 years to build her company
from the ground up. The founder and
publisher of Gospel Today is now enjoying
the fruits of her labor and her publication is
a valued resource in the faith community.
“I started the company from a four-page
newsletter as a way to reach the urban
Christian community and it has become one
of the world's largest publications of its
I am "driven" by my understanding of the opportunity and
responsibility I have to leave a legacy during my lifetime. It is MY
responsibility to expand my capacity to accomplish the assignment
God has given me. I do that through relationships—with God,
myself and others; formal and informal education (study); and
experiences—both spiritual, physical and emotional.
We are all assigned to "worship" God. Worship is a lifestyle, not a
musical style. When we worship God—in spirit and in truth—we
come into communion with God, and it is then that the Holy Spirit
reveals specific assignments and unique direction to our spirits; and
also reveals truth to our minds.
It isn’t always easy or convenient to discern or obey the “leading”
of the Holy Spirit, but when we do, and we go where He leads, we
always find that we exceed our own grasp and we experience
“overflow.”
Seek God’s BestBy Dr. Teresa Hairston
of the world's largest publications of its
type. This is a vision that God gave me, it's
certainly not something I signed up for — it
is obedience from start to finish. It has been
a journey of faith,” she says.
Building an empire wasn't easy for the
divorced mother of three, but she found the
strength to conquer the obstacles.
“I didn't have the money, the education, the
background, friends or anything else to
support what I was doing," Hairston says. “I
just had faith and belief that if God called
me to do it, then he would take me through
it.”
The success Hairston has obtained through
her television show Gospel Today, and the
publication of the same name, has opened
the door for her to share more of her
knowledge with others through her new
book, How to Pursue Your Purpose.
To purchase: see www.gospeltoday.com
www.facebook.com/teresa.hairston
Email: [email protected]
www.twitter.com/thairston2009
www.gospeltoday.ning.com
“overflow.”
My goal in the future is to achieve “best” in every area of my life. I
will do this by not actualizing MY best, but seeking God’s best. I
have learned that the more I yield my mind, body and spirit to Him,
the better His best is “in” and “through” me—and the more I lose
control to Him, the better the journey is “in” Him!
Teresa Hairston
Founder/President, Gospel Today Magazine
Founder/President, Gospel Heritage Foundation
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 31-
B I O G R A P H Y
Ty Adams, CEO and Founder of Heaven
Enterprises and Girls Gone God.com, is a
sex and relationship expert, best-selling
author and life coach. She is the voice of
counsel to thousands around the world
through her celebrated web-based column,
Ask Dr. Ty. After being nominated and
receiving more than 100,000 hits per
month on her daily radio program within
one month of its release, Ty began
preparing for the launch of her syndicated
How do I brand my best life?
1. Always remember and Teach that my Success camouflages
itself as failure in its infant stage.
2. Living by example is the best sermon I can ever preach!
3. Being relevant, transparent, living with integrity, in purity &
making God #1 is the fabric of my life and brand!
Personal Branding TipsFrom Dr. Ty Adams
Websites & Social Media:
www.TyAdams.org
www.facebook.com/tyadamsonline
www.twitter.com/tyadamsonline
www.youtube.com/tyadamstv preparing for the launch of her syndicated
television broadcast, Ty Live; slated to
launch in 2010! Along with two new
books, Married & Not Having Sex and
How Do I Get Married?
Ty is highly recognized as the creative pen
behind the best-selling book, Single Saved
and Having Sex, reaching best-seller status
in its inception. This literary work has
landed her on numerous television and
radio programs, including TBN’s Praise
the Lord, The 700 Club and earmarked as
an Essence Magazine bestseller and
Amazon.com’s Top 100.
Affectionately known as “Dr. Ty,” she
skillfully navigates through multimedia,
books, television and theater to help
design and fashion healthy lifestyles.
Whether speaking or writing, “Helping
Life Live” is the motto and the mission of
this dynamic orator.
Dr. Ty’s bold, rams horn approach to
lifestyle, sex and relationships makes her
one of the most sought after speakers in
the country, distinguishing her as a leading
advisor and “SEXpert” in America.
www.tyadams.org
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 32-
www.youtube.com/tyadamstv
www.GirlsGoneGod.com
B I O G R A P H Y
Valder Beebe hosts The Valder Beebe
The Valder Beebe Show (valderbeebeshow.com) is one of the
unique 21st century shows that offer authentic belief, hope and change in
each broadcast for our female audience. We approach topics such as
spirituality, money, health and relationships. We want to create a niche, a
place where women can go to feel better and aspire to live the life they
dream of in their souls." As my teams and I dive deeper into the lifestyle,
self-help, entertainment and spiritual themes, we use as vehicles my
weekly show, which has been a syndicated talk show for 5 years, and my
successful monthly newspaper-magazine pages, Beebe’s Smart Living.
These brands are designed to inspire, ignite and massage Belief, Hope,
and Change as they are founded on the strongest principles, love and faith.
In 2008, I was offered an opportunity to syndicate my lifestyle pages,
BeeBe’s Smart Living, to the Power Pages News published by Hattie
Kelly. The idea for providing media content had been in my soul for
years as I had labored writing book reviews for local papers, then creating
my first content page in Dallas’ The Black Economic Times Newspaper
(now defunct). I had a belief in my heart that I could bring to the
audience relevant, informative and entertaining topics that would always
Belief, Hope, ChangeBy Valder Beebe
Valder Beebe hosts The Valder Beebe
Show, a spiritual talk show “for women
by women” broadcast on KKVI Radio
FM 89.9/95.9 (kkviradio.com).
audience relevant, informative and entertaining topics that would always
inspire belief, hope and change in their lives. So I began my journey of
belief in the BeeBe Brand. Today the BeeBe Brand is a media content
provider. From a strong belief, we now broadcast the Valder Beebe Show
on FM Radio, Internet Radio, Pod Cast and our own Internet Television
Network. The Show is also delivered as content to
ValderBeebeShow.com and affiliate web sites; printed as BeeBe’s Smart
Living lifestyle pages in the Power Pages News; broadcast daily on the
Internet’s KKVIRadio.com, Bridge89FM.com and RhythmFlowRadio.net
as Valder Beebe Show’s THAT CELEBRITY INTERVIEW and soon to
launch Valder Beebe Show’s SMART LIVING GREEN (environmental
interviews and infomercials). We believe in the power of words, so we
have book clubs in Dallas, New Orleans and Mississippi.
Belief, Hope, Change is about knowing that all the resources you will ever
need or want are at your fingertips. All you have to do is identify what
you want to do with them and then practice the feeling-place of what it
will feel like when that happens. If you can believe and hope that you can
be, do or have anything you desire, you are a blessed human who has
come forth to create an EXTRAORDINARY life. There is nothing
holding you back, other than your own contradictory thought of “I can’t.”
Now all you must do is to change your belief. You must affirm to
yourself that you must savor life more, laugh more, and anticipate
positively more. I frequently open my show with “change the way you
look at things, and the things you look at will change.” And I have heard
from many listeners, viewers and readers of the Valder Beebe Show, who
have stated they too have embraced this mantra, so just try it. What
beliefs lie unrequited in your heart? What hope do you want to bring to
the world? What change can you make to better Planet Earth?P Magazine • May 2010-Page 33-
Websites & Social Media:
www.RhythFlowRadio.net and Pod Cast on
www.valderbeebeshow.com.
Contact Valder Beebe via
www.twitter.com/valderbeebeshow.com or e-
mail [email protected]
B I O G R A P H Y
Venus is dedicated to helping married
women find joy in all situations. She
also teaches brides-to-be and someday
brides how to choose and prepare for
marriage wisely.
She is passionate about cultivating a
community of what she refers to as 21st
Century “P31s” – empowered, yet
As a wife coach and the author of Pearls of Wisdom for
Wives: How to Have a Joyfully-Ever-After Marriage, I developed a
personal brand strategy to make my services/book a household
word. Here are my top three brand building techniques:
Start early.
Even before I completed the first chapter of my book, I had my
graphics designer include a “coming soon” banner on the image of
my book cover to place on my website, blogs, social networking
sites and email signatures. People began to recognize my book a
year before the manuscript was complete.
Host events that are centered on your brand.
I created wisdom4wives, (w4w) an online social network
exclusively for my target market which is married women and
brides-to-be. In conjunction with my online presence, I host Jeans
and Pearls, quarterly offline events for members and their friends.
Pearls of Wisdom on BrandingBy Venus Mason Theus
Century “P31s” – empowered, yet
nurturing women who know their value
and operate within the purpose for
which they were created. She is the
author of Brown Paper Bag, a novel and
her first non-fiction work, an eBook
entitled Pearls of Wisdom for Wives:
How to Have a Joyfully Ever After
Marriage which was released this year
on Valentine’s day.
She and her husband Rick recently
celebrated their 25th wedding
anniversary. Their blended four
generation family is comprised of four
adult offspring and 15 grandchildren.
Venus and Rick serve together as the co-
directors of the Uplift Family Ministry
at Greater Grace Temple in Detroit,
Michigan. Her platform of Joyfully-
Ever-After Marriage offers hope,
healing and assurance that contrary to
popular belief, monogamous, joyful
marriage is indeed alive and well!
and Pearls, quarterly offline events for members and their friends.
Be a billboard. People associate me with “pearls.” Whether I’m
wearing a pair of jeans, a business suit or my Sunday best, my
ensemble is incomplete if it doesn’t include a pearl necklace, a
bracelet or a pair of pearl earrings. I also have an enormous faux-
pearl ring that I wear for the sole purpose of soliciting conversation.
When someone comments about my ring, it presents an opportunity
for my 30-second elevator pitch.
P Magazine • May 2010-Page 34-
For further information about Venus visit her website,
www.venusmasontheus.com.