Yvette Bodden's Blog, page 15

Empowerment Series: On-Air Beauty Expert for E!, Access Hollywood, QVC, Aesthetician, and Founder of Beauty Magnet, Liz Kennedy Shares her Glow with AW

Liz Kennedy is a well-known beauty expert. She was the face of Cindy Crawford’s “Meaningful Beauty” skincare line for QVC, as well as, Host, and Producer of a makeover segment of The Steve Harvey Show. The stunner has been seen on New York Live, Nick Cannon Show, CBS New York, Amazon, and countless other platforms. The knowledgeable entrepreneur also sits on CTZN Cosmetics’ Advisory Board.

Social media has a way of pulling the wool over our eyes. Sometimes, it’s hard to tell what is real and what’s not. I had been watching Liz’s Instagram reels and TikTok for some time. I quickly became a fan of the beauty expert’s advice. Her gorgeous glow hijacked my attention and sparked curiosity. What girl doesn’t want the secret to glowing skin? I decided to go straight to the source and find out how she achieves that great look. Our Zoom meeting surpassed my expectations in every way, as she patiently, offered her best skincare tips with AW.

Congratulations! Your Beauty Magnet made it to Cosmopolitan’s List of Best Dermarollers! Can you share a little about your product and how it came to be? When I was in aesthetician school, I constantly complained about not being able to find my beauty tools. Like every other woman, I was always looking for tweezers or rollers that were all spread out in my drawers. So, I invented the Beauty Magnet. My five favorite skincare tools, as an aesthetician, magnetized. A high-quality skincare tool that includes a dermaroller, extractor, eye serum roller, tweezer, and rose quartz roller. The 5-tools-in-1 is your skin’s best friend!

The Eye serum roller helps cool the eye to reduce inflammation and helps push eye products deep into the skin. The comedone extractor is a loop to help extract blackheads and whiteheads easier. A dermaroller has tiny needles that are painless and offer a prickly massage for the face. This tool is great for acne scars, skin texture, only to be used at night. Also, tweezers and rose quartz roller are useful gadgets. Worthy mention: It is essential to remember to clean all your beauty products with isopropyl.

I read, among women’s biggest concerns are dark under-eye circles or bags, dry/dull skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. Personally, the dark circles and dull skin are problem areas for me. Stress manifests in different ways, it can significantly wear down the skin. One of the first things, I noticed about your skin was its beautiful glow! Your skin looks healthy, hydrated, and youthful. Women want glowing skin.  What is your secret? Do you have a nightly routine that you follow? Absolutely,  I have a nightly routine. I do a 5-step, double cleanse at night. Using a toner, serum, and moisturizer is a good idea. You can also use a drop of facial oil or vaseline. I don’t wash my face in the morning. I believe it strips the face of natural oils. I don’t recommend washing your face in the morning unless your skin is acne-prone.

I am a big fan of facial oils, two drops suffice but not too much. For example,  jojoba and macadamia oils can help a get a healthy glow. Of course, in combination with a good skincare routine, there should be healthy eating for optimal results.

In your opinion, what are the (3) biggest mistakes women make with their skin? First, I think using products that an influencer or your friend tells you to use is not ideal. You should keep in mind that everyone has different skin. Second, we forget to clean our tools. It is essential to highlight the importance of cleaning skin tools properly, whether it is your dermaroller or gua sha. Lastly, make sure to always use an SPF, daily.

Outside of the proper products, can you name best practices we can incorporate into our daily lives, e.g. exercise, diet, etc that have helped you maintain your glowing skin? “Your outsides are a reflection of your insides.” I take supplements, drink green juice, carrot juice, use IV drips once per month to make sure, I am getting all the vitamins needed. Green powder superfoods which you just add to water to are a great way to incorporate skincare ingredients. We should not forget that sleep is essential for the body to regenerate. Listen to the experts. Watch your intake,  food, sleep, and hydration are all part of proper skincare. The inner-outer approach is best.

Name the must-have products women should have in their tool kit?  An SPF, skincare tools that help circulation and get rid of debris, and oil cleanser. Consider, oil-based cleansers that are gentle enough to break down the makeup aggressively but won’t strip the skin.

What is next for Beauty Magnet? I would like people to understand that Beauty Magnet is not just going to be about toolset, other products are coming. I want it to be a lifestyle brand. We plan to incorporate everything behind the mindset of being a beauty magnet. Magnetizing all things beautiful to your life and you.

We like to end AW interviews with a positive message, quote, or advice that will inspire, empower or encourage. Please offer some helpful advice for women that are not feeling beautiful today? The second I feel this way (not beautiful), I do something for myself. It can be pilates, yoga, taking a walk, relaxing bath, listening to classical music, or doing a 5-minute meditation. Seek an activity that you enjoy alone. All these things can help uplift you when are not feeling attractive. Giving yourself the grace to allow for self-care is a requirement.

Fortune Business Insights reported that the skincare industry will hit over $145 billion in revenue by 2028. The numbers demonstrate that we care about our skin.  When you come in contact with others, the first thing people will see is your complexion. Whoever, you welcome into your space will likely, take notice of the health of your face. The outside reflects the inside and beautiful skin begins with you. The responsibility to eat right, exercise, combat stress in a healthy manner, regularly cleanse, and nurture the skin is yours. You can use the most expensive products in the world but remember, beauty begins within, and tapping into that magic helps create the inner glow.

AW is incredibly thankful to Liz for sharing her beauty secrets with our community. These tips will be invaluable to women who may not have time to research or funds to find the ideal tools by trial and error. You deserve to live in your best skin. Don’t wait one more day, start your beauty routine tonight!

You can find the full interview on the AW Confidential Podcast which can be found on Spotify, Apple, Anchor and anywhere you get your podcasts.

Protected content. 2022 awakened-woman.com

 

Empowerment Series: On-Air Beauty Expert for E!, Access Hollywood, QVC, Aesthetician, and Founder of Beauty Magnet Shares her Glow with AW

Liz Kennedy is a well-known beauty expert. She was the face of Cindy Crawford’s “Meaningful Beauty” skincare line for QVC, as well as, Host, and Producer of a makeover segment of The Steve Harvey Show. The stunner has been seen on New York Live, Nick Cannon Show, CBS New York, Amazon, and countless other platforms. The knowledgeable entrepreneur also sits on CTZN Cosmetics’ Advisory Board.

Social media has a way of pulling the wool over our eyes. Sometimes, it’s hard to tell what is real and what’s not. I had been watching Liz’s Instagram reels and TikTok for some time. I quickly became a fan of the beauty expert’s advice. Her gorgeous glow hijacked my attention and sparked curiosity. What girl doesn’t want the secret to glowing skin? I decided to go straight to the source and find out how she achieves that great look. Our Zoom meeting surpassed my expectations in every way, as she patiently, offered her best skincare tips with AW.

Congratulations! Your Beauty Magnet made it to Cosmopolitan’s List of Best Dermarollers! Can you share a little about your product and how it came to be? When I was in aesthetician school, I constantly complained about not being able to find my beauty tools. Like every other woman, I was always looking for tweezers or rollers that were all spread out in my drawers. So, I invented the Beauty Magnet. My five favorite skincare tools, as an aesthetician, magnetized. A high-quality skincare tool that includes a dermaroller, extractor, eye serum roller, tweezer, and rose quartz roller. The 5-tools-in-1 is your skin’s best friend!

The Eye serum roller helps cool the eye to reduce inflammation and helps push eye products deep into the skin. The comedone extractor is a loop to help extract blackheads and whiteheads easier. A dermaroller has tiny needles that are painless and offer a prickly massage for the face. This tool is great for acne scars, skin texture, only to be used at night. Also, tweezers and rose quartz roller are useful gadgets. Worthy mention: It is essential to remember to clean all your beauty products with isopropyl.

I read, among women’s biggest concerns are dark under-eye circles or bags, dry/dull skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. Personally, the dark circles and dull skin are problem areas for me. Stress manifests in different ways, it can significantly wear down the skin. One of the first things, I noticed about your skin was its beautiful glow! Your skin looks healthy, hydrated, and youthful. Women want glowing skin.  What is your secret? Do you have a nightly routine that you follow? Absolutely,  I have a nightly routine. I do a 5-step, double cleanse at night. Using a toner, serum, and moisturizer is a good idea. You can also use a drop of facial oil or vaseline. I don’t wash my face in the morning. I believe it strips the face of natural oils. I don’t recommend washing your face in the morning unless your skin is acne-prone.

I am a big fan of facial oils, two drops suffice but not too much. For example,  jojoba and macadamia oils can help a get a healthy glow. Of course, in combination with a good skincare routine, there should be healthy eating for optimal results.

In your opinion, what are the (3) biggest mistakes women make with their skin? First, I think using products that an influencer or your friend tells you to use is not ideal. You should keep in mind that everyone has different skin. Second, we forget to clean our tools. It is essential to highlight the importance of cleaning skin tools properly, whether it is your dermaroller or gua sha. Lastly, make sure to always use an SPF, daily.

Outside of the proper products, can you name best practices we can incorporate into our daily lives, e.g. exercise, diet, etc that have helped you maintain your glowing skin? “Your outsides are a reflection of your insides.” I take supplements, drink green juice, carrot juice, use IV drips once per month to make sure, I am getting all the vitamins needed. Green powder superfoods which you just add to water to are a great way to incorporate skincare ingredients. We should not forget that sleep is essential for the body to regenerate. Listen to the experts. Watch your intake,  food, sleep, and hydration are all part of proper skincare. The inner-outer approach is best.

Name the must-have products women should have in their tool kit?  An SPF, skincare tools that help circulation and get rid of debris, and oil cleanser. Consider, oil-based cleansers that are gentle enough to break down the makeup aggressively but won’t strip the skin.

What is next for Beauty Magnet? I would like people to understand that Beauty Magnet is not just going to be about toolset, other products are coming. I want it to be a lifestyle brand. We plan to incorporate everything behind the mindset of being a beauty magnet. Magnetizing all things beautiful to your life and you.

We like to end AW interviews with a positive message, quote, or advice that will inspire, empower or encourage. Please offer some helpful advice for women that are not feeling beautiful today? The second I feel this way (not beautiful), I do something for myself. It can be pilates, yoga, taking a walk, relaxing bath, listening to classical music, or doing a 5-minute meditation. Seek an activity that you enjoy alone. All these things can help uplift you when are not feeling attractive. Giving yourself the grace to allow for self-care is a requirement.

Fortune Business Insights reported that the skincare industry will hit over $145 billion in revenue by 2028. The numbers demonstrate that we care about our skin.  When you come in contact with others, the first thing people will see is your complexion. Whoever, you welcome into your space will likely, take notice of the health of your face. The outside reflects the inside and beautiful skin begins with you. The responsibility to eat right, exercise, combat stress in a healthy manner, regularly cleanse, and nurture the skin is yours. You can use the most expensive products in the world but remember, beauty begins within, and tapping into that magic helps create the inner glow.

AW is incredibly thankful to Liz for sharing her beauty secrets with our community. These tips will be invaluable to women who may not have time to research or funds to find the ideal tools by trial and error. You deserve to live in your best skin. Don’t wait one more day, start your beauty routine tonight!

You can find the full interview on the AW Confidential Podcast which can be found on Spotify, Apple, Anchor and anywhere you get your podcasts.

Protected content. 2022 awakened-woman.com

 

The AW Confidential Podcast: Available on Spotify, Apple and Other Platforms

The AW Confidential Podcast was created for people who want to be informed, as well as, entertained. Episodes will cover a variety of topics for men and women. Particularly, men who want to learn and educate themselves about matters that affect the women in their lives. The host, Yvette Bodden, and guests will discuss topics like love, dating, authenticity, relationships, motherhood, career, trauma, intimacy, empowerment, beauty, cheating, and others.

The podcast spotlights male and female guests from all walks of life, including public figures from the world of comedy, entertainment, journalism, television, beauty, and business. Pop-up visitors help AW explore different perspectives on all things women. The takeaway will always be something to inspire those on the journey to becoming their best self.

These episodes are sure to be anything but confidential, instead, educational and thought-provoking. Listen, as we put everything on the table, engaging in honest and open adult conversations.

The podcast is now available on Spotify, Apple, Anchor, and other platforms. Some of the episodes can also be found on the AW Confidential YouTube Channel.

Protected content. 2022 awakened-woman.com

How to Step into Your Power at Any Stage of Life

For centuries, the expectation has been for us to fall back, stay in our lane or sit pretty. The curse of inequality continues to loom in a variety of ways, hindering greater progress for women in society. We have been conditioned to play small, a frame of mind that has been ingrained in the fabric of a handful of cultures including ours. Wives, mothers, girlfriends, and professional women face distress from the pressure of trying to fit in a box. The unrealistic expectations have led some to believe they don’t have power.

One of the most difficult things a woman will do in her lifetime is make the choice to step into her power. Part of the reason for the difficulty is the courage it takes to own your truth, set boundaries, and allow yourself to be seen. Old-world influences affect how women are perceived. The belief that her value is diminished by imperfections is still very much alive. In certain parts of the world, it is assumed a woman’s mistakes, and so-called failures lessen her worth. It isn’t uncommon for guilt to back us into a corner. Feelings of shame can silence us but quietness is one of the biggest ways we give power away.

Stepping into your potential can happen at any time if you’re willing to confront the challenges that come with going against the grain.  There will be moments you question if it’s worth the effort. The work demands that you gain a stronghold on your identity, otherwise, you can fall right back into a comfort zone. You must be ready to give up mainstream standards, in order to free yourself from the limitations set by others. You need to trust that you know what is best for you. Owning your power also requires a large amount of confidence.  In many instances, a woman will need to ignore conditioned beliefs, instead align herself with personal truths, a process that is oftentimes, quite painful.

Understanding that individual power is the key to authenticity, stronger self-esteem, and absolute happiness is life-changing. Living on your own terms means being unapologetic about who you are. Liberating, isn’t it? But as priceless as it is to show up as yourself, it presents countless hurdles. We use lots of filters to hide our fears, insecurities, and all the things we think people may not like about us. Many women spend a lifetime covering up the cracks without grasping the true beauty there in their uniqueness. There’s only one you, so accept your experiences, including blunders because these are the lessons that brought you to where you are today. Hopefully, you have arrived at a place, where you’re ready to become the woman you’re meant to be.

For years, the role of chameleon came easy to me. I spent years trying to meet assumptions that would make others happy. The exercise left me without a clue, of who I was. For years, I didn’t feel like I was good enough, fearful of my reflection in the mirror. The journey has been ongoing but finally, I found a place that holds space for the real me. There is tremendous freedom that comes from standing in our truth. 

If you have not yet, arrived at your moment, this is your call to step out into the light. Take hold of the power that comes with owning who you are or reclaim it if you temporarily lose yourself. Hopefully, the following tips can help you get started!

Take Ownership: Own who you are. Embrace your truths and everything you are feeling. There is nothing better than being honest and open. Let your true colors show every day. Your authenticity will draw you to the right tribe. Be clear on your intentions and boundaries. Decide for yourself what you want and deserve without fear of using your voice to let others know your worth. Taking this major step will help you choose the best partner, job, and people to surround yourself with long term. Once you do the heavy lifting, work to live in alignment with your values and beliefs to encourage balance in your world.

Don’t Be Afraid to Use Your Gifts: Build self-awareness to help nurture the best parts of yourself. Figure out what your needs are and move toward giving yourself those things. These will not necessarily be tangible items, it can mean emotional, spiritual, or physical fulfillment. Secondly, use your intuition, the inner voice can be a compass in your decision-making process. Incorporate the voice of reason to empower you on the path to becoming your best self. Your gut does not steer you wrong.

Allow Space for Reflection, Regrouping, and Grace: Always make room to contemplate life. Are you where you want to be? Are you happy with the person you have become? What areas of life can you improve on? Spend time considering the world around you and how the pieces in your life work in harmony.

Don’t be afraid to create the life you envision. Your needs can change during any station of life, therefore, re-evaluate from time to time, I highly recommended it. Everyone needs time to reshuffle. Life changes and people do, too. 

Lastly, practice kindness with yourself. Sometimes, we forget to give ourselves grace. Perfection is nonexistent, so when the media tries to tell you the opposite, remember that everyone has a history. Learn to forgive yourself. No one gets it right on the first try.

Lastly, age is nothing but a number, especially when it comes to stepping into our power. Whether you are 25 or 65, you have the ability to design a new blueprint for your life. If the foundation is solid, we can always rebuild the structure. The human spirit is relentless with an impetuous will. You have all the power. Do not fool yourself into believing that you don’t have any. Walk into your potential and show the world what you’re made of!

Photography credit: Unsplash

Protected content. 2022 awakened-woman.com

Empowerment Series: Speaker, Author, Chief Operating Officer of NAIC, Carmen Ortiz-McGhee Shares Financial Empowerment of Latinas and Women of Color with AW

Carmen Ortiz-McGhee’s resume speaks for itself. Graduating from the University of Virginia, as a Psychology major was only the beginning of a highly successful career. Her impressive background in the corporate world includes being named one of Business Insurance Magazine’s, Top 25 Women to Watch. She was Senior Vice President and member of the Diversity & Inclusion Committee at Aon plc., and Vice President of Investor Relations for a real estate private equity firm with $1 billion in assets under management.

One of the many highlights of her career was assuming the responsibility of President for The Marathon Club (), an organization, established to bring forth elite business people in the US to help increase wealth and deal flux for ethnically diverse professionals.

Today, Carmen holds the position of Chief Operating Officer of The National Association of Investment Companies (NAIC). The NAIC is the largest group of diverse-owned private equity firms and hedge funds. Its membership is made up of more than 130 members that oversee more than $250 billion in institutional capital. As COO, she has key supervision of the programs and initiatives that lead the organization’s main alliances and corporate partnerships.

This is a magnificent list of accomplishments but the powerful Puerto Rican is much more than a resume. Carmen has continued to build her empire and pay it forward by inviting others to think bigger. Advocating for minority and women business owners has become her life’s mission. She is passionate about designing new ways to open the gateway for access and opportunity for communities that do not have the resources required to gain economic empowerment.

Interest to interview the human dynamo was born out of a desire to educate the AW community.  She is a Latina who comes with a success story in the financial industry, an environment that for decades was known as, a boys’ club. Carmen’s strong desire to influence change, along with a determination to teach others, has been an asset for anyone sitting at her table.

I was honored to have the opportunity to sit with her for a lengthy conversation. Our Zoom meeting proved to be extremely valuable. She inspired me while sharing her experiences and wisdom. Our interview is sure to plant a seed of empowerment in all our readers.

Your mother built a successful career, as an Intelligence Analyst for the United States Army. She provided a strong foundation that contributed to your determination for success. You are an extremely accomplished Latina who understands the power of self, education, access, and community. It took me years to embrace my power, honestly, I didn’t realize, I had any power until some years ago. When did you wake up to your power? When I first woke up to my impact was in the early 30s. The type of impact that is life-changing, affecting diverse communities – my people. I joined an organization of American Latinos, founded by Henry Cisneros and Raul Ysaguirre. They built this organization for our community. They were powerful, wealthy Latinos that could drive change from the top-down, rather than from the bottom up. I worked there as Director of Marketing. I was seeing the most accomplished Latinos in our community. The immense amount of change that took place because this small group was able to use their intellect, influence, access and strategic thinking was mind-boggling. I thought, “If they can do it, why can’t I!” When you surround yourself with people who just do it, you start to believe, it’s possible. It was the moment, I realized that I was going to be the change, I wanted to see.

I found my voice while at the Marathon Club. I asked for the title of Vice President with salary, and everything I wanted, doing so, with courage. The person in this role made the decision to leave sooner than expected!  I was this young Latina with a degree from a very good school but a state school, never having spent a day in financial services. Now, I was leading an organization of private equity investors, middle-market entrepreneurs, and senior-level corporate executives. It was an incredible journey! Thank God for amazing mentors who helped me find my voice and instincts. Those two moments in time were formative for me as a leader.

I was raised by Dominican parents, they arrived in the US in their 20’s and did the best they could with what they had. I have made it a point to learn about debt, credit, retirement funds, and investing to encourage my daughter to do the same. What would you say are the two biggest actions we can take to gain financial empowerment in our own lives? Funny you say that. I repeatedly, tell my daughter “You always want to be able to support yourself.” Regardless of what happens, you have to own your future, it’s in your hands. The first thing, I’d suggest is to learn. Take an active role in learning about how to manage your money. Beatriz Acevedo built Suma Wealth, a fintech company. She provides culturally relevant financial literacy to Latinos. I like to bring this up because it is incredibly important. In our community, we do not talk about wealth or money. There is almost a shameful culture around wealth. Without sugarcoating, get smart about managing and growing your money. The other thing I would say, be fearless in the pursuit of your dreams. It’s easy to stay in the roles that are comfortable, the ones you can handle. There is no growth in that, and you are not truly living. Get smart and read everything. Take advantage of fintech platforms. If you have financial advisor friends, talk to them. Michelle Gordon, a Dominican, just launched her personal wealth management firm. Women are doing great things. You want to speak to people in the business, pick their brains and follow a working model. We all deserve to live extraordinary lives. We should be fearless in the pursuit of that.

The pandemic brought on many challenges. People lost their jobs and women have left the workforce; many had to pivot in different ways, unexpectedly. Can you offer any suggestions to help keep female professionals motivated and confident, as they continue to pursue their goals?  During moments of dark or challenging times in my career, I have made the mistake of not reaching out to my tribe. I’ve isolated myself, not wanting to be a burden or show weakness. The problem is, when you do that, you lose the engine of positivity and encouragement. You go without great advice,  insight, and opportunity. Reach out and take advantage of your tribe, let people know you are looking. If they don’t know, they can’t help you. Communicate with your closest tribe for that encouragement. Make sure your mentors know the aspirations and goals, you are trying to accomplish. Also, we need more women doing amazing things. Women are force multipliers. When you empower a woman, who empowers another woman, who then empowers another, the impact is exponentially greater than that one person. You have to own your space and bring your full value to bear, everyone else will embrace it. I surround myself with incredibly accomplished, intelligent, and really good human beings. We celebrate one another and hold each other up through challenging times. Empowered, uplifted women are an incredibly, powerful force.

As Chief Operating Officer of the National Association of Investment Companies (NAIC). How does the large network of diverse-owned private equity firms and hedge funds assist diverse women? Great and easy question, that is what we do. The NAIC has been around for 50 years. For the full balance of that time, we have advocated on behalf of diverse investors. Currently, there are approximately 140 members, all asset management firms owned by women or people of color, or both. They manage an aggregate of close to $260 billion in institutional capital. The percentage of capital in this industry that is managed by women and people of color is 1.3% of $70 trillion dollars. When you combine women and people of color, the number is substantially more than half the population, yet, less than 2% of all this capital (a lot of which is paid in by people of color) is managed by women and people of color, it is a travesty!

We do 3 big buckets of work to help make change happen:

Increase access to capital for these diverse firms. We have a list of programs and initiatives that open doors for our diverse managers, helping them gain access to those relationships.Deliver market education. Research and training for institutional investors interested in investing with our managers are provided. Analysis that focuses on the performance of our diverse firms is key.We address industry challenges, focusing on how to get more women and people of color into the business. There are a series of programs and initiatives, such as Women in Alternatives Initiatives (In, Up, and Beyond). It looks to increase the number of women in the business, those moving up through the leadership ranks at firms they are already in, and others launching their own firms, eventually.

Those interested in reviewing mentoring programs, visit the NAIC website for internship programs and mid-career fellowships.

The finance industry is predominantly male. How do you see a career in finance, as a pathway to power for a woman? Wealth, “money is the thing” but not in a crass way. If you think about money, and how it creates access to better education, neighborhood schools, healthcare, food options – a better everything. Money can also take away certain worries. When you don’t have to worry about the basics, you can really discover yourself and lean into growing who you are. It opens up a path to pursue dreams with less fear of the risks. By no means, do I think money is everything but it is a big thing and it offers access to opportunities and freedom.

I like to end interviews with a positive message, advice, or quote to inspire women. Can you share the best advice you have been given during the journey to becoming the best self? Take risks. Women tend to check every box before pursuing any opportunity. Men might have 30% of the boxes checked and go in, fully believing they are capable of doing the job then getting a promotion in the first year. It is so amazing, the confidence men have! Step outside of your comfort zone, do it, knowing your value and capabilities. You have to take an accounting of the way you go to a place, how you give yourself. Leverage your intellect and energy to make things better than when you first arrived, that is your value. It is your power.

Always use your voice. Never stay silent in a room. I had a mentor, say to me, “If you are in a room, people are talking and you never say anything then what do they need you for.”  Be careful what you ask for, this took place during a period of time when I would sit in a boardroom and never say anything because I thought everyone else in the room was smarter than me. Finally, he said, “We chose you. We chose you to lead us. If you don’t lead, what do we need you for? If you don’t contribute your energy, insights, and vision – why are you here.”

Have you ever been silenced by a fear of inferiority, felt insecure or intimidated by the accomplishments of others in a room? Years ago, I attended an industry dinner at The Waldorf Astoria in New York City, on my own. The event was filled with people from the financial world, mostly men. The guest speaker was Timothy Geithner, Former United States Secretary of the Treasury. Everyone in attendance was holding on to every word during his speech. I remember, looking around the room, glancing over at the attendees, and people at my table. For a moment, I felt afraid of what others would think of me. Was I smart, successful, or elite enough to have a seat at their table? As the night went on, I engaged in dialogue with an opportunity to demonstrate, not only did I deserve to be at that table. I earned my seat and held my own in a room filled with financial professionals.

If we believe, we are capable of greatness and do the work, there is a limitless amount of potential to achieve whatever we set out to do. Carmen is a woman of color, a Latina who can stand in any room in the world because she understands and embraces her power. The magic can only be unleashed when we believe, we can. Take a risk on yourself, begin to build the foundation that sets you on a path to design the kingdom of your choice.

AW is incredibly grateful to Carmen Ortiz-McGhee for taking the time to share a piece of her journey with our readers. This story filled me with inspiration. I hope it encourages you to blaze your own trail of achievements!

This interview is available in its entirety on AW Confidential’s YouTube channel. The best source to watch great interviews, offering insight to help you on the journey to becoming the best version of yourself.

This interview has been condensed for clarity.*

Protected content. 2021 awakened-woman.com 

Empowerment Series: NBC Peacock’s “Saved by the Bell,” Alycia Pascual-Pena and Director, Maureen Bharoocha Share thoughts on Cultural Identity with AW

There are countless difficult topics that we choose to set aside. We cringe, roll our eyes, and avoid conversations about religion, politics, money, and race. People can be passionate about their beliefs. This usually leaves little room to embrace an opinion that contradicts their own. Individual thoughts on some of these issues are quite personal, and affect emotions, more often than not. Colorism hits a high note on the list of sensitive subjects for communities of color.  It is the practice of discrimination against a person of a darker skin tone. Generally, it occurs among people of the same ethnic or racial group.

Unfortunately, the Latino community grapples with an array of challenges that goes beyond prejudice. We are far from a homogenous group, finding our place in a world of mixed complexions, hair textures, dialects, and physical characteristics is not easy. But our struggles do not end there with close to a dozen dialects in the Spanish language, it makes it difficult to fulfill society’s widespread expectation of what a Spanish speaker is supposed to sound like.

Native Spanish speakers are sitting in classrooms across the US. Plenty of students are being told, they speak the language incorrectly. Students are learning “proper” Spanish, as outlined by the American school system. Latin American Spanish is the preference in schools, however, the variety of dialects is leaving many excluded.

Recently, Peacock TV’s “Saved by the Bell”  tackled the difficult subject. The episode revolves around a student, played by Alycia Pascual-Pena, who confronts a teacher’s discrimination. The predicament pushes the character, Aisha Garcia, to battle insecurities over cultural identity after being corrected in a Spanish class.

Alycia is best known for her role in Amy Poehler’s, Moxie, released in the Spring of 2021. She is a pillar of cultural pride and is unapologetic when speaking against acts of social injustice. The young actress is a Bronx native who feels as strongly about her Dominican heritage, as she does about her convictions.

This episode was directed by Maureen Bharoocha, as part of NBC’s annual initiative Female Forward program. She is an accomplished Writer/Director with impressive credits that include Jimmy Kimmel Live!, HBO’s critically acclaimed female arm wrestler film Golden Arm, and the film The Prank – a dark comedy that stars Rita Moreno, Keith David, and Ramona Young.

AW had the wonderful opportunity to sit with both talents and discuss the powerful episode, as well as, their personal challenges with cultural demands, and the importance of telling our stories. Both women were open and honest when sharing their experiences and thoughts about these tough subjects. Our interview is available on AW’s YouTube channel in its entirety.

Alycia: Have you ever dealt with something similar to your character in real life? Who or what did you channel to give us such a realistic experience during your scenes with the teacher or at any time during this episode? “Lord, Have I!” I have too many stories to count. I am so grateful for my complexion, melanin, and having a mother who has empowered me as a Black woman. As an Afro-Latina, I have stories of walking into auditions, having other young Latinas, say “This girl is Black, why is she here?” I don’t hold it against them, it’s ignorance. It is unfortunate but I understand where that is rooted. In the Latinè communities, there has not been expansive enough conversations about colorism and internalized hatred. We come in different colors and speak Spanish, differently. Being a girl with braids from the Bronx who wore Timbs, people (even members of my own family), negated my Latinidad.

All of that goes to say, I have dealt with an immense amount of adversity and obstacles as a result of being an Afro Latina. I have people look at me in the eyes and invalidate my experience because I am black. The fact that I had this episode to tell the story of a Latina advocating for herself “Saying, Latinos, regardless of what our Spanish sounds like or the color of our skin, should be proud of our heritage and culture.” To play this character on this type of platform was such a blessing. I’ve sat in a Spanish classroom, as a native speaker, and was told all the time that my Spanish is “not right.” How do I go back home to my father, who taught himself English and learned to navigate this country, as an adult, that his Spanish isn’t correct? It is a culmination of all these emotions that is invalidating and dehumanizing, as a Latina. So, to have a character that spoke up and see a teacher held accountable at the end of this episode makes me proud. I hope Latinos, especially, Afro Latinas feel empowered, walking away from it.

Maureen: As the Director, how did you prepare and guide Alycia and other cast members on an episode that dealt with such a sensitive topic? For me, it is about listening to Alycia’s story and what she has lived. It’s also talking to the writers about why they wrote this and include the details. After listening, I was able to relate to so many of their feelings.  I grew up in Santa Barbara, a lot of Spanish speakers were friends. I never knew this type of thing happened all the time. I’m so happy, I played a small part in a story that needs to be told. I come from a mixed family and struggled with people telling me, my identity. The story has not been told and it is such a universal subject within the Latino community, hence why it’s so important. I’m very happy to have been able to help Alycia tell her story and work with her. She is such a force and I felt very lucky this was the episode, I got to direct.

Alycia: Your character seemed defensive, hurt, and insecure, as she faced the dilemma of speaking of her feelings of discrimination. Have you questioned your own cultural identity at any point in your real life? I still do and think I always will. Growing up, of darker complexion than the Latinas I watched on television or auditioned with. I always felt the need to prove myself, whether dancing the Bachata better than anyone in the room or eating the most “platanos” (plantains) (or whatever, ridiculous notion I had as a kid). I question my identity all the time because I don’t look or sound like the Latinas “I was told, I am supposed to look like.” It started with my complexion but then on took on a more nuanced level. I had to navigate sounding different or defending my curl texture. Thankfully, I am at a place where I’m rooted in my truth. I don’t need validation from other people and understand my ancestral connection, heritage and did my due diligence to understand my roots. I know who Alycia is, as a Dominican and Afro Latina who stands proud.

We all have some decolonizing in the brain, which we need to do. Eurocentric standards of beauty are something so deeply rooted in every community. It is a rebellious act to tell yourself “I am beautiful how I show up today and thankful for the body I am in.” It is beautiful to stand in your truth, and important to know that it is your right to stand proudly, knowing that no one can take that away from you.

Maureen: You are half-Irish Catholic and half-Indian/Pakistani/Burmese/Muslim. Have you faced your own struggles with cultural identity? It is kind of rooted in our history – colonialism. On my dad’s side, he is Indian-Pakistani-Burmese-Muslim and grew up in Burma. Our family is Indian Gudrati but because of colonialism, they lived in Burma but that country became socialist and they naturalized to Pakistan. Details and nuances of this are confusing to people, so I try to bite-size it down to where people understand. I am grateful that my parents were from different cultures and religions, and did not change or convert. This taught me, we can be different and struggle with the same things.  The experience helped make me become more aware of others. We can relate to one another as human beings. Now, I go through the world with a better understanding of people. This is why these stories are so necessary, they give us something we can relate to.

Alycia: This episode is packed with a lot of messages about cultural identity, discrimination, cultural pride, empowerment, (e.g., your character using her voice). What do you hope is the key takeaway for Latinos and non-Latinos watching this episode? I hope Latinos feel pride in the story told and the episode appears rooted in authenticity because it is the most important component of storytelling. I’d like them to be happy and empowered when seeing themselves in a different light. Hopefully, it influences a lot of Latinos to have those difficult conversations. We shy away from topics like colorism and having a social hierarchy connected to that, misogyny, homophobia, and transphobia. I love my community so much but know that we can do better. I still deal with a rampant amount of discrimination and racism from fellow Latinos, who I call brothers and sisters. I hope people feel seen and love it when I say “I am Dominican” to the camera. To be able to do this episode with Maureen was such a gift. She is a very talented director and storyteller.

For non-Latinos, I hope it encourages them to look outside of themselves. I always want to learn and do my due diligence about other communities. I want them to be part of larger conversations about marginalized people – queer, Asian, Indigenous, and people with disabilities. I want non-Latinos to learn something new. There is so much in this episode and I hope people take it all, in.

Maureen: As Director, what impact do you hope this episode has on the audience? I was so honored to do this episode and get to direct because it is such an important story to tell. I hope people enjoy it. It’s is a funny episode, and it is about something. Hopefully, you will learn something that you may not have known. You can support and be an ally by listening to those in these communities, anyone can do it.

We end all interviews with a positive message. Can you share something positive about your experience with this episode?

Alycia: Something, I always say,  “Commit to your distinct truth and journey.” I have so much gratitude. Little did I think, I would be a black Latina in braids saying, “I am on Saved by the Bell!” I’d say don’t change, stay committed to your truth. For so long and many auditions, I straightened my hair. I was told that I shouldn’t say this or that. When I started acting, I was asked, if I wanted to change my name. Having an episode that validates me on so many levels, a  decade later, is amazing. I say, stay on your path, even if it looks different, and feels you don’t have a chance. Tell your nuance multidimensional, unique, intersectional self, just commit! I have been walking on light because of how grateful I’ve been for the crew, Maureen, as Director and the cast,  having two Latinas as the epicenter of the story.

Maureen: I am truly grateful. I come from features and directed Jimmy Kimmel Live but this was the first episode of television for me. I was very honored this was the episode I got to direct through NBC’s annual initiative Female Forward program. Getting to work with the cast and crew was great. I had watched Moxie and was already a fan of Alycia. As a director, working with actors that are exciting and light my fire was an amazing and positive experience. I look forward to working on more projects in the future. A lot of great people!

The team behind and in front of the cameras of this poignant episode were able to treat this topic with dignity and accountability. I watched the show, prior to conducting our interview. As a member of the Latino community, I felt seen and heard. Growing up, I did not see many people that looked like me on television. Outside of the occasional Latina playing a maid or vixen on television and films, we didn’t see ourselves portrayed in a positive light, much less telling our stories. Seeing our story play out on American television in a way that sheds light on a topic that affects all of us, in one way or another is a milestone.

Whether you are part of our community or not, I invite you to watch Peacock’s Saved by the Bell, Season 2, E7 “La Guerra de Aisha.”  If you are Latino, or someone you know has been affected by the topic, check it out. If not, you may know or work with a member of our community. Learning of the struggles outside your race or culture is a great way to show support. The more we know, the better we can understand one another. Hopefully, these stories encourage everyone to practice acceptance and empathize with others who look or live, differently.

AW is immensely grateful to Alycia, Maureen, and the teams that helped make this interview possible for our readers. The goal is always to inspire, empower and encourage you during your personal journey. If we can help educate readers about topics that challenge perspective or offer a different one then we all win.

Please visit AW’s YouTube channel for the full interview and enjoy all the side conversations that took place during our Zoom meeting.

This interview has been condensed for clarity.*

Protected content. 2021 awakened-woman.com

Empowerment Series: Dominican-Puerto Rican, Actress, Writer, Comedian of HBO Max’s “Fighting Words” Aida Rodriguez Shares her Vulnerability with AW

Growing up Latina in New York had its advantages. We lived in a community filled with bodegas, botanicas, and people that looked like me until my parents moved our family to a different part of the city. A place that offered an improved environment but also exposed me to the contrasts that existed during that time. The assimilation of a brown-skin girl who lives in a world that favors fair skin, straight-haired people is complex, even when you are raised in a melting pot.

I went to a high school with a pretty diverse student body. Not all my friends were Latinos, sometimes, the inadequacy pressured me into justifying my curls, music, and food.  Misconceptions about our culture were rampant. I became increasingly embarrassed of where my parents came from, ultimately, overwhelmed by feelings of shame. The inner conflict followed me into adulthood, creating a great deal of confusion, impeding true self-acceptance.

With age comes wisdom and experience,  I’m no longer bound by the opinions or beliefs of others. The Dominican culture and heritage gave me a set of values and traditions that I hold dear. I’ve learned to bring it with me everywhere, embracing my parent’s history, as my own. The hardships they endured to give us a better life, no longer go unnoticed. This interview is for anyone who struggles with the pain of adapting, feelings of not being good enough, or lack a sense of belonging, You are not alone in your fight, plenty of us share a similar story.

My parents gave me the confidence to believe that I was enough but the outside world’s views did not align with what I learned at home. Society’s perception of beauty always felt in direct conflict with reality. My family tree consisted of a mixture of skin tones, hair textures, and eye colors. There were various contributors to my identity crisis during adolescence, it is more common than we’d like to admit and manifests in different ways.

Aida Rodriguez is of Dominican and Puerto Rican descent, born in Boston, raised in the Dominican Republic, New York, and Miami. She was a student of Florida University for several years before dropping out and starting a career in modeling, followed by years in the corporate world. Her life was presented with countless challenges that include being kidnapped twice by her mother then abandoned by a father but none of it deterred her from greatness. The comedian is known for her appearance in Season 8 of The Last Comic Standing, as well as, being a commentator on Young Turks. She was one of several comedians featured in the comedy series, Tiffany Haddish Presents, They Ready on Netflix. Most recently, Aida can be seen in Fighting Words, an HBO Max Special full of humor that is inspired by her true story.

I had the incredible opportunity to interview this fearless Latina. It was a perfect night, the space at HBO offices was vibrant with stunning views. The safety protocols emboldened guests to enjoy the night’s event. If you have not seen Aida Rodriguez’s, Fighting Words, I hope this inspires you to watch it. A beautiful tale that has heart, humor, and some truths not everyone is ready to hear but deserves a conversation.

She was wearing a cobalt blue suit that screamed empowerment, it was the first thing that grabbed my attention. I entered the green room with excitement and questions in hand, completely prepared for my face-to-face interview. I left with something much more valuable, surpassing all expectations. Aida is charismatic, humble, and authentic, in another time and place, we could have been besties.

Storytelling is one of the most beautiful tools we have to connect.  Aida and I are both storytellers, whether you write songs, humor, music, books, poetry, scripts – you tell stories. Sharing them creates connection, heals, and brings life to the human experience. On this night, a real connection took place. We had an open dialogue with an exchange of emotions and joy. Amazing!

The AW Empowerment Series consists of a group of women, each with their own individual power. Every interview delivers a special gift. Aida’s genuine vulnerability was a point of connection. Her humor comes from a place of real-life pain but ultimately, she demonstrates how self-acceptance has become her superpower.

During the HBO Max documentary, Fighting Words, you said “I’m my doing my best. Some wounds never heal but we learn to live with them.” How did meeting your father for the first time, change you? There were a lot of thoughts and emotions going into this moment. I was thinking about what to wear. Do I wear something really nice to try to impress this man or not try too hard? Over the years, I dealt with issues of self-worth and abandonment. My father’s departure made me question whether he loved me. I felt alone in my shame but telling my story helped me. I’ve realized there are others with a similar story. My hope is that my experience resonates with others and encourages them to find their own truth.

I am a product of Dominican parents, born and raised in New York. Although I was brought up to embrace my culture, there were challenges that prevented me from complete self-acceptance? Our lives are frequently, driven by shame, guilt, or pain. You are leading with truth, positivity, and an unapologetic sense of self. What do you hope is the takeaway for Latinos watching Fighting Words? I would like people with estranged parents to feel worth. If they want to seek a parent that left them, they should but also remain grounded without expectations of a specific outcome. It’s ok to look for your absent parent for personal healing and evolution, if something comes out of it then it’s a bonus. The process should be about finding the resolve of your pain or hurt.

In times of difficulty, many of us ask ourselves “Why me?” In your HBO Max Special, you state “All of this happened because it was supposed to, it made me who I am today. I am enough.” Do you believe you found your purpose, if so, how will you use it to inspire others? 100% I found my purpose. I’ve been an active voice in the community. I speak about issues that affect our culture but I am no longer engaging in the topic of politics. I’ve grown into my role as an artist, learning to use my platform to help change the culture and improve life for others. My way is to make way, advocacy lives in my act. I shine the light on those that do the real work, giving space to making a difference. I do whatever possible by using my art to advocate.

AW interviews end with a message of positivity. Can you offer yours for our readers? Self-Acceptance. Embrace everything you are. Love and accept yourself completely with flaws and all. “I am a sancocho! but it is how I show up as myself.” All of it makes up who I am, no need to overcompensate. Self-Acceptance is one of the biggest hurdles we have but everyone must show up in their own way. Go as you. I allow myself grace and not let anyone shame me, and want the same for you.

AW is grateful to Aida and everyone involved with Fighting Words for allowing us to share this story and empower readers to embrace their own narrative with pride and courage. I am immensely grateful to this beautiful soul because our conversation gave me the strength to tell you about my shame growing up. Every story matters.

Aida Rodriguez, and Director, Emmy-Nominated Cinematographer, Nadia Hallgren (Becoming), as well as, Palante HBO Max are using their platforms to shine the light on others. Telling stories to help educate, inspire and encourage us to shatter stereotypes. Hopefully, these types of collaborations will begin to help ease the feelings of shame and guilt being experienced by diverse populations all over the world.

This interview has been condensed for clarity.*

Phototography, Courtesy of HBO MAX

Protected content. 2021 awakened-woman.com

Empowerment Series: International Model, Author, Motivational Speaker, and Christine Handy Shares her Courage with AW

It is estimated that a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every 2 minutes. Each year, in the United States, 1 in 8 women will be given the news, they have breast cancer. This is the most common cancer among American women. Unfortunately, most of us know someone who has endured the pain of this disease. The better news is that breast cancer is also 1 of 5 cancers with the highest survival rate. More than 3.8 million women in the country have recovered. Improved awareness, early detection, and successful treatment options are responsible for saving countless lives.

Christine Handy is one of those breast cancer survivors. In 2012, the She-Hero was diagnosed, since then she’s had many surgeries and more than a year of chemotherapy. Despite the trauma, she continues to thrive, living her best life. The devastating experience brought on a transformation that gave her purpose. She is using the gift of life to spread faith, change lives and bring hope to as many men and women as possible. Devoting herself to serving others has become her mission. She shares her story around the world, is a board member of several charities, and mentors those who need it. The author of the best-selling book “Walk Beside Me”  has also been seen on FOX, CBS, NBC, and BuzzFeed.

AW sat down with this courageous woman to discuss her journey to healing. Our lengthy conversation over Zoom provided a true visual of Christine’s challenges and triumph. This is an incredible story of resilience that demonstrates the power of the human spirit. I’m sure you will be inspired by the highlights of our chat.

What has been the most challenging aspect of this journey and the biggest lesson?  I started my modeling career at a very young age, it’s been 40 years. The journey began with a lot of self-discovery. I was trying to figure out where I fit in the modeling world and society.

At age 35, I had my first major surgery, part of my colon was removed. This was a traumatic experience and my first brush with death due to complications. Fortunately, I scarred well, came out ok. I was trained to care about the way I looked, addicted to the praise. I realize this was me trying to get validation from the outside. I was dependent on external relationships, modeling jobs, and society.  Then at 41, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. There was no family history, I did everything right but there I was, thinking that ultimately I would lose my hair – my beauty. Pride and ego were faltered. I was ashamed to ask for help, I couldn’t do it. My friends, eventually, helped me understand how I would be able to help others if I fought for myself. I ended up fighting for my life.

My darkest moment – the day of the diagnosis, taking the call. I was alone at home with the news. It took about a month before I found my defining moment. I went from being self-involved to only serving others. I love sharing my story because I want to inspire. From that point, 10 years ago to now, so much has changed.

During my journey, I am learning to embrace pain and use it as a motivator. I believe it has helped me push forward and out of dark moments. Have you had a similar experience that you can share? Once diagnosed, I had a mastectomy. I waited a couple of years to get healthy then went for a second mastectomy.  The new textured implants were great, I loved them and there was no pain. I was happy with my implants from 2015 to 2020 until the FDA recalled textured implants for risk of cancer. Now, it was the beginning of March during a CoVid lockdown. I was dealing with a staph infection, lots of pain, and it was a tough time to be in the hospital. The doctors also had a difficult time figuring out how to get rid of the infection.

One day, after returning from a trip, more trouble. I noticed a fever and discharge from my breast. I got on facetime with the oncologist. The immediate response was to send an ambulance that would transfer me to the hospital. I had a Mrsa infection, it was critical. I was admitted, right away, the doctors excavated the breast. This pushed me over the edge, plus CoVid put me in the hospital alone. It was my breaking point, I realized how dangerous it was for me to feel this bad. I was in an emotionally traumatic space. A doctor visited my room to check on me. He must have seen through me when he said, “Don’t let this break you.” I think he knew I was shutting down, he noticed that something was wrong.

When you don’t have the courage, you lose the will to live. It was a breaking point. I had to find fierce determination to help myself then help others through their trauma.

You have mentioned that you “found joy in your life.” For many people, true joy is elusive. We don’t quite arrive at that place, maybe because we look for it, externally. What does joy look for you today, compared to the time prior to your second act? I thought joy came from a new bag or material things. It was the holidays, I was really sick but tried to open presents with my kids. I was going through chemotherapy, and my son, who was 13 at the time, gave me an orange bag that looked like a Hermes. In a box was a hand-carved cross he made for me. I thought it was a bracelet from Hermes, what he gifted me was the nicest thing anyone has ever given me. Initially, I was most concerned with the packaging without knowing what was inside. It was a profound moment for me and my family.

Fast forward, I attended a speaking engagement at a jail to share my painful experiences. I received an embrace from inmates in the audience who were grateful for the inspiration. Great joy came from the spirit of serving. It did not come from a place of self but for selfless. I was happy for a long time but not joyful. The inmates did not care who I was or what I had, they wanted the hope, I was bringing. Things don’t bring joy, I now understand “There is no Uhaul behind the Hurst.” We have to put things into perspective. What we worship we become. My beauty was stolen at 41 with chemotherapy, I do not depend on the temporal, that’s why my self-esteem is unshakeable.

You wrote “Walk Beside Me” which is being turned into a movie. Congratulations! Can you explain why you decided to share your story? Are there any details you can share about the film?  The film, “Willow” is a fictional depiction of my life that shows the transformation. A woman without self-esteem becomes a courageous person through trauma. I wanted to demonstrate women supporting women. The world often depicts women pitted against each other but when I was sick, the women around me were there for me. They gave up their lives and resources to be present, by my side. When I wrote this book, I wanted to show the story in a way that would reflect everything they did for me. In May 2020, we stopped the filming due to CoVid. The screenplay resembles the book which I really love. It has my grit, grace, and perseverance.

We can talk about your inspirational story for hours! Your resilience can serve as motivation to anyone going through difficult times in their life. What have you learned about yourself that has surprised you? I was very dependent on interpersonal l relationships. Throughout my life, I never felt that I could be on my own. About 5 years ago, my husband and I separated, which left me struggling more than during my illness. Co-dependency was the story of my life, it had its claws on me. Being alone was a cause for my anxiety but in time, I got over the discomfort. The space was filled with helping others. I’ve replaced my co-dependency with work but I continue to work on getting a balance.

I like to end AW interviews with a positive message. Can you share advice, mantra, affirmation, or some words that helped you during some of the toughest moments in your life? Firstly, my favorite affirmation. “Let go and let God.”  Get rid of the pain, the only person you hurt is yourself. It takes practice, and will not work overnight.  Secondly, remember that when we react to people, things, or situations; we can react with malice, compassion, or pride.  Think about which way you want to react to things, reacting out of compassion, changes you and the people around you. It shifts your spirit and your heart guiding you to a peaceful light. It’s a gift.

AW is thankful to Christine Handy for sharing her powerful story of hope. She has gone through serious physical and mental pain while battling immense medical challenges. The experience did not make her bitter, instead, it gave her newfound purpose which she pays forward to anyone in need. Her work to bring hope continues to be her mission and joy.

Life jams our plate a lot. During moments of hardship, we can become convinced that God or the Universe is giving us more than we can handle. Good things happen to good people but bad things happen, too. Throughout my own personal journey, I have felt pummeled by the realities of financial and emotional struggles. Having the resilience to combat adversity fills me with gratitude and perpetuates strength that inspires me to keep pushing forward.

The gift of the human spirit is one of the most amazing gifts we possess. Tapping into that energy can reinvigorate the soul. Many have fought their way back to life from catastrophe, illness, poverty, and despair. The belief we can do anything is key to any comeback story, as is self-love. Everyone has the power to overcome suffering but must be willing to take the bull by the horns, in order, to transform pain into purpose.

“This interview has been condensed for clarity.” The full interview can be found on AW Confidential YouTube channel.

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Everything You Should Know about Cuffing Season

The foliage is starting to show its palette of beautiful colors. Leaves are falling, so are temperatures. Pumpkin Spice Latte season is here to help us keep warm. This time of year makes me want to cozy up with that special someone next to a fireplace while dressed in snug home attire. Getting comfortable with a good book or binging a Netflix series are some of our favorite pastimes between October and Springtime.  The security of your guy or girl keeping you company is a completely normal feeling. But what happens when you are single and not paired up with anyone during the winter months? Do you go about your business, happily in solitude, or nab a partner for the short interval? The answer to this question depends on who you ask. There are plenty of men and women that take pleasure in their “me” time. Others like to take up temporary real estate in a partner’s arms until flowers bloom. Cuffing Season has arrived, if you are not in the know, this is the time when people look to couple up to get them through the chilly winter months.

Summertime is a great period for romantic flings. Singles are out and about, not only getting Vitamin D but spreading their social wings. October comes around, the days get shorter and nights colder.  Some people are greatly affected by the changes, triggering loneliness or depression. The upcoming festivities put pressure on those that receive invitations in the mail. Holiday office parties, family get-togethers, and friends asking, who will you bring to the next event. Showing up without a plus one at social gatherings has the potential to make people feel sad, hounded, or inadequate. One quick fix is to find brief relationships that fill the void for the moment. There will be a handful to stand the test of time but it’s not the intended purpose of a cuffing partner. Dating apps report an increase in activity around these months. Online sites such as Bumble and Hinge benefit from singles wanting to find their bae before yuletide.

These short-term partnerships have advantages and disadvantages. It’s nice to have a cuddle partner when the temperatures start descending. Being on the receiving end of affection has been shown to be good for our health. Cuddling is great for relieving stress, lowering blood pressure, and giving us the warm and fuzzies! Humans thrive from connection, it can relieve anxiety and depression, too. Our moods generally improve when we feel cared for, and hugs have the power to boost our level of happiness. Besides, denying the feel-good effect of an embrace is hard to do.

Seasonal relationships also have a downside. The lines of commitment can get blurred. The flings are not full of promise, therefore, investing emotion and dreaming up a future is not the goal. It is an arrangement offering a convenient solution to spending all your time alone. Winters can be brutal and having a warm body to share the couch is enticing for some of us. No judgment, different things work for different people. However, I would refrain from taking a cuffing buddy and trying to turn him or her into a forever. Of course, it is possible for you and your sweetie to survive the cuffing season. Anything can happen when it comes to a love connection but it would take effort on both sides, as well as, a desire to continue getting to know each other.  Honestly, I do not suggest using this type of linking up, as a way of seeking a healthy, stable relationship. Disappointment happens more often than not when partners’ expectations do not match up. How will you know? A conversation should take place to check each other’s expectations. Ignoring having the talk can result in heartbreak or regret if the relationship goes wrong.

Navigating these relationships is doable, as long as you set boundaries for yourself and the chosen one. Setting basic guidelines protects both parties’ feelings. It helps to avoid an implosion when Spring comes around. It is smart to set the rules of attachment because exclusivity is not necessarily, a perk of this kind of partnership. Make sure to check in with yourself, spend time with family and friends while continuing to enjoy independence. Assuming he is devoted to only you,  the affair is destined for the long haul, and holidays at his parents are happening are all thoughts that can be dangerous, unless you are both on that wavelength.

There is nothing wrong with enjoying company during cuffing season.  Having everyone on board with the terms of the tie-up is critical. The ideal way to go into your arrangement is with full transparency and eyes wide open! Societal norms convince people into believing the only way to have romantic relationships is to abide by the conventional or monogamous standards set by the mainstream. The reality of life has much more contrast because the world is made up of millions of people who hold different ideologies, values, and desires.

If you are considering participating in cuffing season, do so responsibly, aware, and with limits in place. Be open to the possibilities that each moment can bring while savoring human connection.

Photo Credit: Unsplash

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Empowerment Series: Breakout Star of “Rosario Tijeras” joins Hollywood Cast of film ”Blackout,” Barbara de Regil Shares an Empathetic Message about Telemundo’s “Parientes a la Fuerza” with AW

The opportunity to tell the stories of unstoppable women is a gift. The mission to continue sharing our stories comes from my belief in the importance of designing a space where we share positive messages that encourage others to rise. Everyone has individual challenges, being a witness to the resilience of other women is a reminder that we can do the hard things.

Barbara de Regil experienced adversity early in life but the pursuit for greatness has been unrelenting, so is her ability to forge ahead in the direction of her dreams. The Mexican stunner’s career in telenovelas took a high road when her character, Rosario Tijeras gained global popularity. The Sony Pictures Television and TV Azteca action-thriller was a megahit, placing the actress on a course to notoriety. The work to create the life envisioned continues to pay off. She is making beautiful strides in every aspect of her life.

AW had the pleasure of sitting down with the actress for a Zoom interview. Her down-to-earth and warm personality made it very easy to connect. We discussed her newest role in Telemundo’s Parientes a La Fuerza and the Hollywood movie, Blackout which she just signed on to do. She also shared a bit about being a mother. Our open and candid exchange is sure to inspire readers!

Congratulations on the Telemundo production Parientes a la Fuerza and your upcoming film Blackout! You are staying very busy! You rose to international popularity, as Rosario Tijeras. The crime thriller was a big hit and offered you the opportunity to play a very strong female character, who was tested by life’s misfortune. In your new role, as Carmen Jurado in Parientes a la Fuerza you play an inspiring singer who falls in love with George Cruz. It seems these two women are completely different! As viewers, we often get attached to characters. In what ways do you feel the audience will connect with Carmen Jurado that may be different from how they connected to you in Rosario Tijeras? They are so different! Rosario was a killer, empowered, she was all about action. There is such a contrast but I like them both! Carmen is an honest woman, funny, a natural at comedy. She comes to the US without papers and moves to Los Angeles to follow her dreams. I really like this series, it also has a beautiful love story with Guy Ecker (who plays George). He is older, making the romantic storyline a little different but you will love the series!

As an actress, I imagine there are roles you take on that change or challenge you in some way. In the role of Carmen Jurado in Parientes de la Fuerza, did you learn anything new about yourself while playing this role? She is just like me! A funny girl, who is honest with her feelings. Carmen likes to sing and dance. I don’t sing but like her, I’m not shy! However, I do not like older men but Carmen does!

The story of the Jurados will resonate with US Hispanic audiences. It highlights some of the cultural clashes and challenges encountered while trying to assimilate into American Life. What do you hope audiences walk away understanding better about Latinos after watching this story? You have to follow your dreams. They will come true if you do the work. Carmen came to Los Angeles to pursue her dreams but missed her country, culture, food, and family. When I thought about that, I imagined my life far from family, it’s hard to deal with that.  I am so happy the series came to America first because of the story – you will feel it. A lot of Latinos leave everything behind, immigrants arrive here without any support.  They come with nothing. You will be motivated after watching this series!

You just signed on as a cast member in Blackout, the new action Hollywood thriller. We are incredibly excited to see a Latina superhero! What does it mean to you to be part of this project? What will you bring to the character? It means everything to me. The movie came at a difficult time, I was living. Being with Josh Duhamel, Abbie (Cornish), with Sam (Macaroni), the director was amazing, like a dream come true. This will be the first of many movies that I will make for this country.

You are limitless. A Latina, who is an actress, entrepreneur, fitness guru, motivational speaker, and single mother. You are an example of what is possible when we believe in ourselves.  Can you leave us with an inspirational message to empower me, and our readers to go after the life envisioned. You can do it. You just have to believe in yourself. You can do and be whatever you want, be that woman for your child. I was a single mother at the age of 16 years old. I was afraid for my future and my daughters but I pushed those thoughts away. I had to tell myself, “I can do this.” Today, I am happily married, very happy with my life. You can work, be a good mom, exercise, do all the things you want to do. Becoming a mom at a young age, felt lonely. I’d often think “Why me?” I wanted to be with someone, have help, and support. But now, I say thank you. I’m ok doing things on my own. My child gave me the push to get through this. Now, I am a strong woman with an amazing partner and love being a mom. I’ve realized that everything happens for a reason.

AW is filled with gratitude to have been given the opportunity to interview. Barbara de Regil. She is doing it all, her way. The journey is ongoing with a new telenovela, Hollywood role, and entrepreneurship. Her love for fitness is about to take her on a new venture, as she begins to promote her protein shake which is expected to be sold on Amazon.

This story will resonate with countless women. An empowered Latina that has fought against all odds to be where she is today. The doubts, insecurities, and fears faced during hardship did not hinder personal and professional growth. On the contrary, she was able to use her struggles, as a motivator to generate courage and persevere. We all have a warrior within, it isn’t until life challenges us that we meet the fighter within.

Telemundo’s Parientes a La Fuerza tells the story of millions of immigrants that endure suffering and sacrifice to come to the United States. The men, women, and children leave their familiar territory with the hope of finding something better. Productions like this are necessary, in order to shed light on the diversity that makes up our society. We cannot truly understand one another unless we open ourselves to learning about other human experiences. 

Make sure to tune in to the romantic comedy, Parientes a La Fuerza on Telemundo, Tuesday, October 26 at 9 pm/8c. Check your local listings for times in your local area.

“This interview has been condensed for clarity.” The full interview can be found on AW Confidential You Tube channel.

Photo Credit: Telemundo

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