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Empowerment Series: Money Mindset Expert, Licensed Investment Advisor & Broker, Author and Speaker, Scarlett Joyce Rojas Shares Financial Expertise with AW

We all need it, don’t have enough of it, and lately, we worry about it more often. If you guessed, money. You are correct! A survey done by Bankrate in 2023, revealed that concerns about money are taking a negative toll on the mental health of Americans. April is Financial Literacy Month. What better time to have an honest conversation about the green in our lives?

Growing up, our family did not discuss money. It was a personal matter that was expected to stay private. However, in this season of my life, I’ve decided to get real about it. If you had a similar experience growing up, possibly this article can help get you more comfortable with the topic.

Scarlett Joyce Rojas is a Money Mindset Expert with 20+ years of experience and a long career in Investment and Banking. She is a Licensed Investment Advisor and Broker bringing a psychological approach to wealth building. The bestselling author of “31 Badass Money Mindset Affirmations” has been highlighted by the NY Post, Bankrate, and Thrive Global. Also, the Financial Speaker has been on the stages of JP Morgan, Invesco, AOL, Advocate Channel, and LPL Finance.

Scarlette was raised by parents, who were immigrants. The single mother had to learn to shift her thoughts about money growing up, and instead adopt a healthier relationship with money. Today, as the Founder of Money Mindset Wealth Management, an investment firm fusing behavioral sciences with financial tactics, she works to inspire and help others break barriers and create wealth.

AW sat down with her to discuss scarcity vs wealthy mindset, the meaning of a healthy relationship with money, debt, managing finances in the home, women, and finances, reprogramming your mind, and starting the process of building wealth.

The term “relationship with money” gets thrown around a lot. What does it mean? How can it get in the way of a wealth mindset? How important is it for us to have a healthy relationship with money and what does that look like?

A healthy relationship with money is your ability to be able to grow wealth and continue to use money healthily without guilt. Our relationship with money starts when we are children. If the things that happen when we’re kids are not ironed out, they are magnified, as adults. The experiences you have during your lifetime set up a subconscious belief system that you may not even know is there. The thought process will hold you back from creating financial success without you realizing it, then you carry that around with you. It will make or break you, particularly in the areas of money and relationships.

There are people out there who say that wealth is dependent on luck or privilege. It’s hard to see the light in the dark. Challenging to visualize wealth when one is drowning in debt. Where do we begin a shift from a scarcity to a wealth mindset? 

It all starts with awareness and being real with yourself. I think it is one of the things that people don’t want to do. They don’t want to be real. They procrastinate. It’s something, I call Ostrich Syndrome. They could be in debt, and act like nothing is happening. It is the person that thinks “Let me put these bills inside my drawer and act like it’s not happening.” That does not make anything better. Therefore, step one is to look around you. Ask yourself “Is this what I want? Is this the life I want for myself? Is this what I want for my kids? Is it the life that I want to build? As a child, did I want this life or did I want something different?” Be honest with yourself. You are choosing everything around you, every single day. If you are living in a situation that you do not like, change it.

I read that women make an average of 16% less than men. In some homes, women leave financial matters to their partners. We may feel intimidated or afraid, perhaps, perceive men as being more knowledgeable in these matters, possibly, it’s too stressful to deal with. Can you offer insight into how we can empower ourselves more and transform the fear of money into something powerful or positive?

There are different reasons why a woman may not want to participate in their household finances. It could be fear. I don’t want to mess it up or I don’t know what I’m doing. So, I will let him do it. Whatever the reasoning is, you need to understand that if something happens to your partner, you are left holding the bag. These women come to my office with so much paperwork and statements, so we can try to figure out where the money is. You do not want to be in that position. You also don’t want your children learning to be in that position. You want to talk with your spouse and express to them that you’d like to be part of the finances – that is empowering.

Money is an important thing. You can say, “I want to learn about how we’re positioned in our finances,” “I want to be more responsible with the finances,” or “I want you to teach me.”  Help them understand you wish to be part of it. This way, you are coming to your partner, not in an offensive way but to know what’s going on. Mention how you are a team and would like to be helpful, in case anything happens to either of you.  You are there to add value.

As a Licensed Investment Advisor, you come across many financial products. There are IRAs, 401K, high-yield savings, life insurance, investments (stock market, index funds), etc. I am starting the process of trying to build a healthy financial future. What are two things to look into or start this journey with? 

Instead of thinking product, think process. First, look at what comes in, your income, and then what goes out. You want to look at everything that’s going out and ask yourself, what is needed and what is not. What is discretionary and what is a must? How much of the discretionary funds, do you want to begin investing or saving? Then, ask yourself, what am I saving for? This is creation, and it is a process.

Check your debt balances. If you have credit card debt, that is the worst debt you can have. Maybe some of that money from the discretionary funds should go towards paying credit cards down. Paying the minimum on a credit card is not enough. Challenge yourself to do significantly more than the minimum amount to decrease the debt.

Nowhere, in the market can I promise you 29%. But the credit card companies are charging you 29%, that money is already going out the back door. Meanwhile, you are hustling, trying to make more money. No, pay that stuff down.  Look at your income, and see what is going out, what is in your discretionary, and what is needed.

I like to end interviews with a quote, mantra, advice, or affirmation. You are the author of “31 Badass Money Mindset Affirmations.” Can you share your favorite affirmation? What has it done for you or how has it helped your journey? 

My favorite affirmation is, “I am here to make an impact. I have a powerful purpose.”

I know that I have a God-given purpose. I truly believe that we all have a God-given purpose. We think that we are here by accident but we are not. This has been impactful because I align with what I do.  I’m here to make an impact on others and with others. I’m not in competition with you, I am in creation with you.

AW is grateful to Scarlette for sharing her wisdom with our community. None of us has all the answers, especially when it comes to financial struggles. If you are dealing with financial challenges, as millions of people are, you are not alone. Hope this information has in some way encouraged you to begin the process.

Where do you begin building your wealth? If you’re wondering how to get started with your finances or if you’re making the right money moves, Scarlette Joyce has offered a no-obligation 20-minute money call to guide the next steps of your financial journey. Please use this link to schedule a session: https://moneymindsetadvisors.com/schedule-call/

To learn more about Scarlette, visit ⁠Money Mindset Wealth Management

⁠Stream AW Confidential on Spotify and Apple Podcasts to see the full interview and sidebar conversations. Also, available on our YouTube channel.

*This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Protected content. 2024 awakened-woman.com

Empowering Essentials: Discovering Women-Led Brands

We are a stressed-out nation. The US population is anxious, depressed, and on edge about not only matters that impact their lives but also the world. The cost of living is higher, it seems like we are always playing catch-up.

According to an article published by the American Psychological Association (APA), women report more elevated stress levels than men. We play multiple roles at home and work. Women are caretakers, nurturers, and matriarchs taking care of their tribe. To our detriment, we pour into everyone else’s mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health. Although women make it look easy, it can be a draining exercise.

Learning to care for myself has been one of the most valuable steps, I’ve taken this year. I’m learning that empowerment isn’t only about making boss moves. It is about using my voice to set boundaries, ask for help, and demand time for self-care.  Lately, I have been tending to myself in different ways. I lean into my inner voice to guide me, as I figure out what feels good, brings enjoyment, or makes life better. Our needs change over time but checking in with yourself regularly is an important part of the process.

In March, I intentionally nurtured an environment that inspired more self-love than usual. In the mess of the daily hustle, it is common to forget to treat myself. During Women’s History Month, I indulged in a few new items. In the tradition of sharing is caring, I’d love to tell you about some items that inspired me during this self-care exercise, in case, you want to check any of them out!

 Uzza Lash. Skincare is religion for me. It is probably the one thing, I am adamant about taking care of daily. It becomes increasingly important, as we age, to use best practices to maintain healthy skin. One of my pet peeves is makeup removal. I refuse to go to bed with the gunk on my face! Also, I  clean my tools to prevent bacteria. One of my favorite finds has been Uzza Lash’s Hygenic Beauty Box Bundle. It came with mascara remover, makeup brush, and blender cleaner. Good hygiene breeds better skin. The kit also includes a journal to write expiration and cleaning dates.

Zoe Powlak, Vessels and Muse Oracle Deck. I’m going to share a little secret with you. I believe in the power of energy, intuition, and art, which is why this deck is everything! My mother was an intuitive, she used her gift to help others. The skeptic in me resisted anything that I couldn’t understand. Since her passing, I find myself trying to find ways to connect. Recently, I used this oracle deck to try and awaken a deeper self-awareness, possibly a potential tap into a hidden part of my subconscious. The box includes a 40-card deck with beautiful artwork. It includes a guide to help users interpret the images, as well as, provide journal prompts. Truthfully, I’m enjoying the activity and asking myself so many more questions these days!

Moss Pure, Moss Pure Minis – Live Moss Air Filter.  I have always wanted plants at home but don’t have a green thumb or fingers to vouch for me. Terrible at taking care of greenery. Plants increase concentration, productivity, mood, and creativity. Not to mention they reduce stress and eliminate toxins in the air.  I came across these beautiful minis that do not require sun or watering! No maintenance is needed, can you believe it? These live moss terrariums are perfect, filtering the air in your space within minutes. They capture 30% of CO2 and pollutants like dust, allergens, and bacteria, among other elements. It has elevated my moods on days when I’m not feeling my best. Oprah listed these babies on her “Graduation Gifts They’ll Actually Use” list. It has become one of my favorite finds!

Mystic Gleam‘s Citrine Bracelet was a whim. I love pretty jewelry. Lately, I have become interested in crystals that carry different types of energy. The gemstone, Citrine is said to have big energy and healing properties. Throughout, history it has also been a symbol of success and prosperity. Sometimes, less is more and this bracelet is the cutest!

 

Happy Sol Wellness, Large Infrared Sauna Blanket. Last year, when I visited Mexico, I tried a dry, and wet sauna. I loved the dry sauna! This blanket is perfect to decompress from life’s intensity. The blanket uses infrared heat to provide a calming effect that helps you relax from the comforts of your own home. Its warmth has plenty of benefits such as reducing inflammation and improving circulation. I can adjust the temperature to my great preference if heat sensitive.  It is a splurge but save a few bucks on the spa budget! Of course, check with your doctor before using any new equipment.

Happy Sol Wellness Blue Tansy & Berry Hydrating Serum. I have been asked about my beauty routine. Honestly, it changes with the season. Winters can be brutal on our skin, especially, as we age. Right now, this is one of the items I love! I use this serum two or three times per week to nourish my glow. It has rosehip oil, good for reducing inflammation, and redness and brightening dull skin. The best part is that this is a vegan, cruelty-free, and preservative-free serum.

These are some of the items that make me feel extra special. We all need an occasional pick-me-up. This is your reminder to give yourself the love and attention you seek. I hope this inspires you to build your list of essentials or try one of mine.

AW likes to celebrate women’s brands. I’m happy to share that the items listed are from companies led by amazing female entrepreneurs.

Protected content. 2024 awakened-woman.com

*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission.

Empowerment Series: Mexican Actress, Writer & Tedx Speaker, “New Amsterdam, In the Summers, Seven Cemeteries,” Emma Ramos Shares Secret with AW

Emma Ramos was born and raised in Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico. It is a place known for its violence and notorious cartels. Despite the terror endured by its residents, her parents made sure to fill childhood memories with beautiful sunsets and great seafood. Her father saw life through the lens of humor and together with her mother, they showed her the happy side of life.

The Mexican Actress has an impressive portfolio of acting credits including recurring roles in hit television dramas like New Amsterdam, Law & Order SUV, The Endgame, and Unforgettable. You can also see her in the feature film, In the Summers, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. She is set to star in the upcoming “Seven Cemeteries” with Danny Trejo.  Emma added Writer to her resume with Nickelodeon’s DORA!

Emma’s TEDx talk, “Muerta de risa. No muerta” (Dying of laughter. Not dead.) is as powerful, as it is impactful. She shares an account of her “Secuestro Express,” referencing a 2005 Venezuelan film that follows the kidnapping of a young girl and boyfriend in Caracas, Venezuela.  The incident left her with an emotional and painful secret, she kept for 20 years. Instead of letting it poison her, she opted for resilience and turned tragedy into comedy. Today, she draws from personal experiences to reveal her character’s emotional truths.

AW sat down with Emma for a candid interview about the traumatic experience. We discussed how the moment changed her, the TEDx talk, family, and more.

I watched your TEDx talk. Powerful! For anyone not familiar with your story, would you share what happened to you? I was not an actress nor a US citizen, yet, when this took place. It happened during a change in administration in the country. While living in Mexico City, three men disguised as taxi drivers carried out, what is referred to as an express kidnapping. The kidnappings revolve around one man picking up a fare. Once a passenger enters the cab, the two other men jump inside the car and hold you at gunpoint. The goal of the kidnappers is to overwhelm the victim’s nervous system while in their custody. It presents the opportunity to take any valuables in your possession. Also, these crimes are predominantly led by males, and female victims are threatened with physical abuse or violence.

In the three-hour ordeal, which felt like a lifetime, they took my ID to threaten my family to get me to do what they needed. I was driven around, as they looked to withdraw cash from several cash machines. The intensity increased over hours and the last step was the “horrible thing.” I tried to negotiate my way out of the situation, even using laughter to get them to let me go. Ultimately, they dropped me off at a remote area, asked me to count to ten and now I’m here with you.

Most people would become bitter, sad, or fearful after an event like this happens. You turned your tragedy into comedy. How did you turn things around? It would seem impossible to make light of such a traumatic incident. It has to do with my dad and the way I was raised. It was a dangerous time in our town, and we were the bystanders of it. Culiacan, Sinaloa is known for its narco culture. Thanks to my parents, I know it for its beautiful sunsets and most delicious seafood. My parents were the greatest, they tried their best to keep me alive and happy. My dad confronts life through laughter. He taught me to connect through that to face the difficult times.

You have been part of lots of wonderful dramas. How did you use personal experiences to bring out your character’s emotions? Has any particular role challenged you, emotionally? I did a play called “Poison” which deals with loss. My character is part of a young couple who loses their 5-year-old child in a car accident, and then the husband leaves her. I read the play and auditioned for the role. It scared me. I played a mature woman. I don’t have children, nor do I want them, therefore, I don’t have that experience. I had to do a lot of research. It’s a play that required a lot of me, my character does the 3-act play in a cemetery. It opens with the couple reuniting after 8 years of not seeing each other. The conversation between these two characters spikes significant tension, due to so much regret and anger. The scene was challenging but satisfying to do.

AW likes to end interviews with a quote, mantra, or advice. We have millions of people on earth with heavy hearts, carrying their version of an emotional truth. What advice can you share to help them begin their healing journey? Secrets can harm and poison you. If you can find a secure connection with someone you love that you can share it with – do it, now. Don’t wait. Your body is precious. You can get sick if you ignore your thoughts. When you share your secret with someone, it helps the healing process.

AW is grateful to Emma for sharing her vulnerability and incredible story with our community. She turned a traumatic experience into an opportunity for growth and forgiveness. She learned a new definition of what it meant to be strong.

Her story is a reminder for us to keep pushing forward. Life is hard but we are more resilient than we think!

Watch the AW Confidential Podcast for the interview and sidebar conversations. Also, available on our YouTube channel.

*This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Protected content. 2024 awakened-woman.com

Empowerment Series: Senior Social & Influencer Manager, Beauty Influencer & Former Journalist, Mabel Martinez Talks Health with AW

According to the American Thyroid Association, it is estimated that 20 million people in the US have thyroid disease, and as many as 60% don’t know they have it. Thyroid Disease is any dysfunction of the butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck (thyroid). Thyroid disorders affect women ten times more than men.

Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of the thyroid hormone.

In June 2022, I was diagnosed with Graves Disease, an autoimmune disorder that leads to an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). My weight dropped to 85 pounds. I experienced hand tremors, night sweats, hair loss, depression, anxiety, and extreme heart palpitations. It was the worst, I’ve ever felt in my life. My primary physician referred me to an Endocrinologist, who confirmed my diagnosis after a thyroid panel and antibody testing. Having annual checkups was key to early detection. I felt afraid and alone but learned that I was not the only person experiencing this struggle.

Mabel Martinez is a former Journalist who worked at top-tier publications like People Magazine, Glamour Magazine, Siempre Mujer, El Diario La Prensa, and other platforms. Her career pivoted when she took the Social Media and Communications Coordinator role at Dress for Success, followed by Junior Copywriter at Bare Minerals. The Dominican beauty then moved on to carve a path at L’Oreal, where she worked at Maybelline, managing social strategy. She orchestrated the viral success of the Superstay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick “Thrill Seeker.” Currently, Mabel is a major global beauty brand’s Senior Social & Influencer Manager.

In December of 2022, the social media maven experienced a health scare amid a thriving career. She was asymptomatic and did not experience signs of illness. Her life was turned upside down, while doctors tried to figure out what was happening. It forced her to prioritize herself and make some changes. She was diagnosed with Hashimotos, an inflammation of the thyroid gland causing the underproduction of the thyroid hormone.

My first time meeting Mabel was a bonding experience. We exchanged details of our condition, which opened the door to connection. AW had the beautiful opportunity to sit with her and discuss Thyroid Disorder, treatment, managing stress, and lifestyle changes.

We both chose to share our story to help spread awareness and bring attention to the sometimes, silent disease. Hopefully, it will be a reminder to schedule annual checkups and listen to your body.

What has the journey of Hashimoto’s been like for you? When did you know that something was wrong? It started during a yearly physical in December 2022. The doctor noticed that my neck was enlarged. Initially, he ordered an ultrasound, and a few weeks later, he requested an ultrasound biopsy. They found a tumor attached to my thyroid and collected cells to test whether these were normal or cancerous. After waiting three weeks, it came back that the cells were not normal and I had a five to fifteen percent chance of cancer. I was referred to an ENT (ear, nose, throat) specialist, who walked me through everything. He confirmed a large tumor next to my thyroid. In some cases this requires monitoring but mine had to be taken out because it could develop into cancer.

There was no pain or symptoms nor did I feel any different. My blood work was abnormal, and after additional testing, there was confirmation of Hashimoto’s diagnosis. It is an autoimmune disorder, my immune system was attacking my thyroid, which caused inflammation and then resulted in a swelling of the neck.

Having any health scare is life-changing. What lifestyle changes have you implemented since your diagnosis to help improve your physical and mental well-being? I’ve done a lot of research, and have changed my diet, as much as possible. I need to eat anti-inflammatory foods and get rid of wheat, gluten, and soy, to name a few. Once in a while, I enjoy pasta, burgers, and pizza in moderation. I try to focus on whole-grain, high-fiber foods, antioxidant foods (blueberries), and healthy fats (salmon and avocado). Also, I read that Selenium and turmeric powder are good for your system, so I like to add them to my shakes, once a day.

Life happens, all at the same time. As women, we are so busy taking care of everyone else. We end up putting ourselves last on the priority list. Thyroid disorders affect women ten times more than men. In your opinion, what are some things we can do, aside from annual physicals to help keep a healthy thyroid? It doesn’t guarantee you won’t get it but every bit helps. Regular checkups and reducing stress are key. It impacts your physical and mental well-being, and if you let it, spiral out of control. Work on your stress levels, exercise helps release toxins, and increase serotonin. Also, journaling and meditation are great for managing stress.

What is one lesson you have learned from this experience? One lesson learned is that it’s ok not to be busy and booked constantly. What happened to me was a wake-up call. My body was screaming for help and I was not listening. Since then, I’ve been very intentional with what I do, say yes to, and who I surround myself with. I do not want to be in that place anymore. I want to live my life and be healthy.

We like to end interviews with a message of encouragement, mantra, or quote for our community. Can you offer some words of support for anyone who may be dealing with their health scare? My  mantra is “I let go of any negative thoughts and embrace positivity and healing.” It’s hard but don’t sweat the small stuff. Change your mindset and stay positive.

AW appreciates Mabel for sharing her story with our community. It’s never easy to allow ourselves to be seen, especially when it is related to our health. Thankfully, she is doing well and in a much stronger place.

As for myself, I am on a minimal dose of medication and get regular blood work to monitor the condition. The goal continues to be getting me into remission, one day. While I experienced my hell, another woman is beginning hers. We are lucky to have had the resources and early detection. Paying attention to your health, scheduling annual physicals, and prioritizing yourself is critical.  Your well-being matters, do not neglect it!

To learn more about Mabel, visit http://www.mabelmartinez.com or Instagram@msmabelmartinez

Watch the AW Confidential Podcast for the interview and sidebar conversations. Also, available on our YouTube channel.

*This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Protected content.  2024 awakened-woman.com

Celebration of IWD at SLS Beverly Hills

March 8th is International Women’s Day. It is the day we honor our cultural, social, economic, and political accomplishments. The global celebration began in 1911 and is a poignant reminder of our struggle for gender equality.

On March 5th, AW Sips & Socials attended the IWD Celebration at the SLS Beverly Hills. The stunning venue was perfect from the time of arrival through the scheduled event. The property staff took care of every detail and the food was delightful!

A day to come together, make new alliances, and strengthen bonds with other women. The program included a shopping bazaar to support female-owned businesses in the beauty, fitness, and wellness spaces. In addition, we enjoyed informative panels led by accomplished women who shared valuable knowledge and insight. The discussions surrounding women in Law, Finance, AI, and the Metaverse were empowering and delivered a fresh perspective on a variety of topics including our impact on media and entertainment.

The evening consisted of a female Directors’ panel presented by the African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA). We were hosted by Producer-Director, Aida Rodriguez and Sirius XM’s, Julia Cunningham. The MCs were engaging and brought their zest to the program. Attendees were also treated to an eye-opening fireside chat led by Lorenza Munoz, Amazon Studios, Senior Awards Executive, followed by an inspiring speech from the night’s honoree. Actress, Filmmaker, and Editor, Dyan Cannon. The first woman in the history of the Motion Picture Academy to be nominated for Oscars as Best Actress and Best Live Action Short for writing and directing a short film.

I met incredible women throughout this experience. There were countless exchanges of stories, as well as, energies that radiated strength, gratitude, and respect.  Women are powerful beings. Collectively, we have centuries of wisdom that have been passed on from generations of nurturers, providers, caretakers, professionals, mothers, wives, and partners. We stand stronger together with the potential to fulfill our biggest dreams. However, we have to believe there is enough success to go around and remember to bring someone with you on the way up.

AW is grateful to everyone who made this event, possible. What a magical time!

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Empowerment Series: Talent Manager, Carolina Alduey Shakes It Up with AW

Carolina Alduey is a former Publicist turned Talent Manager. The native New Yorker began her career at Columbia Records, where she assisted with press campaigns for mega artists like John Legend, Maxwell, and Beyoncé. She also worked on brand campaigns for Netflix, Hennessy, Hispanicize, and the Latinx digital conference. Currently, she is using her experience to help underrepresented comedy writers and Actors get exposure.

AW sat down with the energetic Latina to shake it up and discuss career, underrepresentation, life, and intuitive decision-making.

You have the task of helping underrepresented men, women, and non-binary clients source opportunities in television and film. Did anything in your personal life push you towards doing this type of work? I’ve always been the champion of the underdog. I grew up in a home with two older brothers, there are some feelings of being left out. Also, I come from a family who always rooted for the underdog in their way. We come from the Dominican Republic, and like many families, we were disenfranchised when coming to the US looking for a better life.

Being in New York, Dominican, raised in Washington Heights, and having this unique experience of having a multicultural life is beautiful. I remember being 13, visiting Orlando and some kids asked me where I was from. They had not heard of the Dominican Republic and the only reference I had was to tell them “It’s where baseball players come from.” In hindsight, I felt some erasure growing up. Something I didn’t understand at that age but now I can reference it. We weren’t seeing this dual, multicultural experience that I was surrounded by living in NYC. I had Spanglish, hip-hop, and Merengue culture. I wanted to give a platform to that world because there are too few opportunities on a mainstream level, which I saw growing up.

We have talked about “shaking it up,” doing something different, and going against the mainstream. It is critical to do things that challenge us. You’ve said that you like to shake it up. Can you share an experience or time when you reshuffled things in your life and had a good or bad outcome? I have so many! Grateful to my friend for teaching me about shaking it up. In 2015, I needed a break from New York and moved to Miami for 2.5 years! It was a scary process to leave the only city you’ve ever lived in. As Carla said, “Sometimes, you just have to shake it up!”

There have been different moments like this throughout my life. While in college, I worked with HBO for 3 years in Human Resources and Training but it wasn’t exactly, what I wanted to do. I knew I wanted something more creative, so the first time I shook it up was when I went to work at Sony Music, the parent company of Columbia Records. It was a big risk but it taught me the value of taking risks and trusting my intuition. I know not everyone can take big risks. We can take educated (managed) risks, though, and do what we want, no matter what stage in life.

You are inspiring change with the work you are doing. “We cannot be, what we cannot see.” Highlighting our Latino talent is one best ways to amplify our voices. I believe to create a real, lasting impact we have to unite and contribute in different ways to changing the landscape and telling more of our stories. Do you ever feel like you are swimming against the tide? What are some ways the Latino community can help each other more? Yes, every single day. I focus on the art and clients because when I look at the numbers and impediments, it distracts me from my purpose. Also, understanding that there is an acceptance we have to have for everyone’s culture. We talk about Latinidad, what are the things that bring Latinos together besides Bad Bunny. Sometimes, we get extremely siloed in our communities. Not to say that we can’t champion our community because we are different and special but let’s not look for ways to divide. We have to find ways to build bridges that encourage coming together. Let’s invite more people to the table and express who we are and what we need.

As a Talent Manager in a top-tier agency, what has been a major hurdle as you try to get visibility for your clients? First, studios and buyers, the people who give the green light on the shows, most of them, don’t come from our culture. People will usually want to work with the things that make sense to them. At the end of the day, a good story is a good story. Historically, the people in the US at least, those who have been able to tell those stories have been White. They have a wealth of experience, time, and generations of talent. We are catching up, we’re 20% of the country competing with the rest to get coveted spots.

The other part is mental, “representation matters,” if I don’t know that I can be a Showrunner Writer, Actor, or Standup Comedian, I have limiting beliefs. Even when you get there, you have to manage those limiting beliefs because you may have not seen others pave the way. Then, we need to retrain ourselves to believe we can do it, and know that it is possible. We can get in our way, too but there are lots of layers that go into it.

AW likes to end interviews with a message for the community to inspire and encourage. What do you hope to see in this new world post-strike? Do you feel the work that has been accomplished offers hope for more opportunities for the underrepresented talent? I think there is a desire to see more underrepresented talent but we are not being given the tools. I represent Writers and Actors, and usually, when you have unions coming for a cause, we are the most impacted by unfair contracts. SAG and UGA are fighting for our client’s needs, impacting our underdogs, positively.

Carolina gave us a wealth of information to ponder. Our community has power but how can we use it to lift one another? How can we support one another, more?

Lastly, her final message for our community was invaluable. She suggests we get still, trust our intuition, and live our truth. Get to know who we are. What stories are we telling yourself and the world? We have to believe that we can do anything. Figure out what sets our soul on fire then go after it!

What will you regret more, making that mistake or never trying?

Learn more about Carolina, Instagram @hola_carola

Listen to the AW Confidential Podcast for the interview and watch for sidebar conversations. Also, available on our YouTube channel.

Photo Credit: Kelvin De La Cruz

*This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Protected content. 2024 awakened-woman.com

“The Greatest Love Story Never Told,” a Love Story about Acceptance, Forgiveness, Self-Love

One of the most powerful and common threads we have, as humans is the need for connection. We want to be seen and loved for who we truly are but too often, the desire is so strong that we’re willing to bend backwards and forward in the name of it. We surrender to a relationship, even to the detriment of our self-worth. Millions get lost in the vortex of emotion, forgetting that the most important relationship we’ll ever have is the one with ourselves.

When I look at my relationship history, it’s clear that toxic relationships impacted me in different ways. I played my character in a loop. The same storyline but a different actor. Honestly, the process was exhausting and heartbreaking. It wasn’t until I dug deep that I began to understand the “Why?” Only then was I able to make a change, when I learned the love I sought was already within.

Millions of people share a similar struggle while fighting off spectators throwing stones at the glass house. For a lot of us, the tale plays out in private, however, for others, it’s a public affair. Can you imagine, if all the romantic mistakes you made played out in public? Would you share your truth? Do you have the courage to put your story out there for the world to see?

Jennifer Lopez’s latest project This Is Me…Now: A Love Story, is a musical experience unlike anything else, she has done. It is personal and raw, the narrative focuses on a woman on the journey to self-love.  The documentary that follows, The Greatest Story Never Told brings the story full circle. She was unapologetically herself. The work was cathartic and powerful, as she allowed audiences to see her scars and heart. Ms. Lopez turned vulnerability into a superpower. This is a story of someone who moves from pain to acceptance, forgiveness, and ultimately, self-love.

As a writer, creator, and woman, I was inspired by the production. It was a reminder that we’re all human with a little boy or girl inside of us, wanting to be seen, cared for, and accepted. Love is universal, it is everything but self-love is most of all, freedom. It is the biggest gift we can give ourselves and it starts with one person. You.

Self-love is the thing!

Stay tuned for a bonus episode of the AW Confidential Podcast on Friday, March 1st, where we discuss the documentary with a special guest!

This Is Me…Now: A Love Story and The Greatest Story Never Told are streaming now on Prime Video.

Photo courtesy of Prime Video.

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Empowerment Series: Captain & Quarterback of Mexico’s Women’s Flag Football Team, Forbes 30 Under 30, Gold-Medal Winner of 2022 World Games, Diana Flores Shares Greatness with AW

We all have our definition of greatness. Someone who sets themselves apart by being extremely good at something. For others, it means living a life that is truly authentic and aligns with their goals and values. Either way, we place a high value on reaching this level of achievement. It’s one of the biggest reasons we love watching the Olympic Games, Super Bowl, World Series, Stanley Cup, NBA Championships, The Masters, US Open, World Cup, and other competitions. We want to see the best, feel inspired, and believe that anything is possible.

Diana Flores fell in love with flag football at 8 years old. She says, that she never imagined everything she is living was a possibility for her.

In 2022, the Captain of Mexico’s Women’s Flag Football team led her peers to Gold at the World Games by throwing four touchdowns to defeat the United States 39-6.The athlete promotes flag football as an Olympic sport in 2028 and is an Ambassador for the NFL.In 2023, she appeared in an NFL Super Bowl LVII Halftime commercial and was featured in Forbes 30 Under 30, as one of the Most Influential People in Sports. She also received a Clio Impact Award and signed on as an Under Armour Global Ambassador.She has been a Guest Studio Analyst for NFL games and been an Assistant Coach at the Pro Bowl Games.Recently, she made history. She is the first flag football player, male or female, recognized by the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

AW had the honor of sitting down with her for an inspiring interview. Diana lives the definition of greatness on and off the field. We discussed what the word means to her, why breaking barriers and empowering women is important, and her best advice for anyone looking to tap into their greatness.

This episode is about greatness. You have had amazing wins. You are living and thriving in greatness but what does that word mean to you? I love the approach you mentioned in your introduction because greatness means different things to everyone. It is a process of evolution for all of us. As a kid, greatness was to be the best on the field, then it was to represent my country at the highest level in the world, afterward, it was winning the gold medal.

At one point, I understood that everything we do is bigger than ourselves. It can have an impact on the people around us, as well as, our journey and that of others. Greatness for me has evolved into contributing to a movement of change. Plant a seed of inspiration, and motivation for many stories. I feel that when you find your definition of greatness, it makes things a little easier. It helps you to connect with your purpose, focus on your why, and let that lead your actions.

You started playing flag football at the age of 8. When did you first tap into your gift? Do you remember a moment when it all changed for you? Wow! That is an amazing question. It has been a process for me, when I was younger everything was about having fun. I loved to be on the field and wanted to learn. It was a passion I shared with my dad and family, it kept us connected. I was developing myself while winning a place on the field. Playing with older girls was a challenge. I started realizing that the sport offered an opportunity to prove myself and get to know myself more deeply. It was the moment, I knew this was something bigger. This love helped me connect with others and encouraged me to work toward breaking gender and cultural barriers.

At the age of 14, I started playing with a team of boys because it was the only way to keep playing. I was the only girl in an all-boys team in the male league. Afterward, I traveled to the US with a girl’s team and was the only Latina in the league. This experience helped me realize two things. Sports is powerful and allows for many opportunities. Second, I understood that many things needed to change.  It was not possible that I was going to be the only female or Latina. I did not understand why it was all happening but in that moment, I found purpose and something bigger than myself.

At 16 years old, when I began representing my country, I saw the impact I was having on young girls who identified with me. Again, I realized this was more than me playing on the field and winning championships. What I was doing had the power to unite people and break barriers.

You have earned medals, awards, and many accolades in recognition of your talents on the field. You are also making great strides off the field. You have talked about how you want to empower women in sports, being outspoken about issues faced while rising the ranks, which I believe has elevated you to a new level of greatness. Why is it important for you to surpass barriers in your industry? Sports has the power to break many barriers but also representation impacts lives. I know, because it has completely changed mine. I was a young Mexican girl who fell in love with an American sport that seemed to be for men. I didn’t have many role models to follow, no one who looked like me. There weren’t women in my field, there were no Latinas. I grew up with the NFL, watching amazing players but felt like an intruder in a world where I didn’t belong. No matter what your passion, or dream may be, everyone deserves to dream big. This is very important to me at this time in my life. I’m so blessed and grateful to be part of this change. I want to remind the world of the power of sports and empower women through a message of unity. Our Latino community must continue to work harder than ever, we can do great things. Greatness starts in the mind. “If you can see it. You can be it” is real. This is the true power of sports and what we are doing.

You won Gold at the World Games, were featured in Forbes’s 30 Under 30 Most Influential People in Sports, won the Clio Impact Award, and signed with Under Armour as a Global Ambassador. Congratulations! You are seriously tapping into your power. As a Latina, a woman in Sports, what legacy do you hope to leave for the younger generation? I want little girls and women to remember that we are powerful, strong, smart, resilient, and capable of doing anything we set our minds to. You are never alone. I’m blessed to have amazing people around me to help me get to where I am and be, who I am. So, no matter how hard our goals are and how lonely we may feel, you will find someone to give you a hand. Also, be that someone for another person, too.

Be true to your passion and do what makes you feel happy. Prepare for when the big moment comes. I promise you, that life can be surprisingly, even bigger, brighter, and better than your wildest dreams.

We like to end AW interviews with a quote, mantra, or advice for our community. In a past interview, you said, “You fell in love with the sport at 8, and never imagined that all of this could even be a possibility for you.” Many adults and children are feeling like you once did, about their dreams. What advice can you share to encourage them to keep going and seek their greatness? Live your journey. If it makes your heart beat and gets you excited then you know you are doing the right thing. Even if you are not seeing the results you want and the journey is difficult, stay focused on yourself. If you are doing something that makes you happy, it will light a spark in you. People around you will see you shine and you will be better for it. In that synergy is where the magic happens!

AW is thankful to Diana for sharing her greatness and story. She is an inspiration to our community and a bright light for the world.

Greatness takes time. It is a process of evolution, and not exclusive to any one person.  It will serve you well to be patient, embrace the journey, and let go of expiration dates.  There is no timing for self-improvement. We have to continuously cultivate and nurture the greatness inside of us. The key is in putting in the work. over and over, again. The magic is in you.

To learn more about Diana, visit Instagram@dianaflores33

Watch or listen to the AW Confidential Podcast for full interview and sidebar conversations. Also, available on our YouTube channel.

*This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

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Does Being a Good Woman Mean Having To Be A Martyr?

Women everywhere have endured pain and suffering caused by betrayal, abuse, or other injustices. We’ve used our bodies as carriers to help the creation of tribes and families passing on traditions over generations.

Strong, courageous, and good women exist all across the globe. They come from different cultures, backgrounds, and socioeconomic levels. The common thread we share is our life experiences with children, partners, and career challenges. Innately, we’re nurturers willing to put others first. The needs of our loved ones often take priority. We sacrifice for the love of family. But what happens when we decide to put our needs ahead of others? Does it make us bad people? Do we lose our status as a “good woman” when we don’t abide by the hidden standards outlined by society?

Many of us have at one time or other accepted relationships with people who weren’t up to par with our desires. Choosing to remain with partners that don’t measure up to what we want or deserve. We compromise for the sake of an emotion that makes us do the craziest things. Love is convincing, enticing us to do whatever we can to hold on to it. Or is it possible that deep down, some of us still believe that nice girls don’t speak out of turn? Good girls don’t make demands. We are taught to accept what we’re given without gripes. I will be the first to admit that for much of my life, I lived with this idea.

Seeing my mother become a martyr in her marriage sent mixed signals. It gave me the false belief that a good woman forgives indiscretions, mistreatment, and bad behavior. It’s what a woman should do if she loves her husband and wants to keep her family together. My adult relationships took a few hits leaving me with a lot to learn. I couldn’t be further from the truth on my assumption. The misconception nearly broke my spirit. At least, it did for some time. I’d like to think that when one’s spirit is as strong as mine is, you can’t banish it. You can’t destroy it unless I permit you to do so. I realized that being outspoken in no way reflects the quality of one’s heart. Forgiveness is a sign of empathy. However, allowing myself to be used as a doormat shows a lack of self-compassion.

It has been a long road to where I am today. A woman who respects herself values her worth, and sees beauty in all that she is. The trials and tribulations have helped empower me. My experiences have helped pinpoint those things I’m not willing to accept. I’ve evolved from all the turmoil and continue to make tweaks as needed in my personal life. Thriving in the knowledge that I don’t have to sacrifice my identity, aspirations, or dreams to prove myself as a good woman.

There is great freedom and pride in owning who you are. Bring awareness, and value yourself without waiting for others to tell you how amazing you are. There is nothing wrong with considering your needs and prioritizing yourself. You don’t have to be a martyr to show that you are on the good side of life.

Are you a martyr or trailblazer in your life?

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Empowerment Series: Dominican, Digital Creator, Fashion Influencer and Entrepreneur, Glency Feliz Shares Mental Health Journey with AW

Can you imagine having over 700,000+ people watching you share the most intimate details of your mental health? It takes courage to let others see the real you. It can leave the strongest warriors vulnerable, but Glency Feliz did just that! She turned the camera on herself to share her mental health struggles with our community.

The Dominican Entrepreneur’s social media is a curated collection of her favorite looks, travel, moods, and helpful tips. Not only is her content useful and entertaining, but it is also engaging and real. She keeps a tight community by staying true to herself while sharing some of her most personal moments. The beautiful Latina is using the experience to help discourage the stigmatization that has been taking place for decades.

Glency sat down with AW for a candid conversation about her journey, struggles, lessons, and reasons for coming forward with such an intimate story.

We hope this interview inspires anyone who may be in the trenches and striving for mental wellness.

There are millions of people struggling with their mental health. You battled your challenges then decided to turn the camera on yourself and share this intimate part of you on your social platform. How do you make that call as a public figure with over 700,000 followers? Why did you feel it was important to take the step? Honestly, I didn’t think about it. I was having such a hard time and never saw anyone talk about mental health. It is important to mention that I went public 12 years ago. It is more openly discussed today. At the time, people advised me to keep quiet. Others will think you’re crazy, but I always follow my beliefs. You have to be loyal to yourself. The stigma was bothersome. It was hard to listen to the judgment. During this time, my mom had months to live and I began having panic attacks.  I decided to go public after someone said, “You’re so lucky, having amazing experiences and traveling the world.” Meanwhile, behind the scenes, it was a completely different tale.

How has your life changed since the day you decided to tell all? I don’t shut up about mental health, this is important to me. I have seen the impact the video made on a whole community. It blew my mind that so many people were struggling with their mental health. This was 9 years ago. I received so many DM’s, videos, and voice notes thanking me for sharing my battle. I recall someone, advising me not to come forward with my story because brands would see me in a different light. People would start to talk and think I’m crazy. It was not an option to hide who I was. Thankfully, my parents showed me not to let others’ opinions of me get to me. There was a lot of mocking but I wouldn’t take anything back.

We all have struggles and stress. We get the blues, nerves get out of control at times, and emotions get the best of us. Everyone has their breaking point, we can crash mentally, emotionally, and ultimately, physically. As Latinas and Dominican women, we are taught self-sacrifice. Our favorite phrase, “I got this.” No matter how much we have on our plate, we normalize carrying the overwhelming weight on our shoulders, alone.  What was your breaking point and how did you recognize it? I’ve had many stages of my mental health journey. There have been panic attacks, depression, generalized anxiety, and hospitalization. First, the reflection I saw in the mirror was unrecognizable. I saw something in myself that wasn’t me. I’ve had good and bad times, very dark times. During this last episode, I wasn’t smiling, nothing gave me joy and I had a newborn. There was this beautiful new blessing in my life but I wanted to spend all my time in bed. It was a horrible time. After work, I’d go back to this Glency that I began to hate. I was so angry at what I was becoming, repelling this version of myself.

You are 1 of 13 children. Your mom passed when you were young. America’s emergency rooms are filling up with young people dealing with mental health concerns. As we try to understand anxiety, depression, and everything that comes with it. What do you think we can do as parents to help our children? We are both mothers, as many of our listeners are also parents. How can we help our children, do better for our children? I think the most important things are to speak to your child and listen. My mom and I never sat down to talk about the way we were feeling. Although I know she did the best she could with what she had and I’m grateful. There were never conversations about menstruation, sex, life, college, or boyfriends. I’d go to your friends and speak to them, instead. My daughter has been seeing a therapist since she was 4 years old. I always said I would raise my child differently than my parents. I’m not here to judge them but I’d like to do things, differently. When my daughter began having night terrors, I took her to speak to someone. Our brain is the most important organ we have and is the last seen.

You are a busy entrepreneur, mom, wife, sister, friend, everything. It can all be a lot to juggle. After what you’ve experienced, you probably better understand your needs, limits, and how to keep things balanced with some tweaks along the way. What two things do you do to ensure Glency gets some joy in her life? Do you have any best practices you can share with us? I always try to fill my cup like Oprah says. You can’t fill anyone else’s cup if your jar isn’t full. It has taken a lot of time, therapy, and money for therapy to understand. I’m grateful to have learned that lesson. Now, I am a priority. I love my kids to death, love my husband, and I am thankful for my work and team but if Glency is not ok, nothing’s going to work. I had to drop one of my biggest clients on social media because peace is my main goal. When you love something you invest in it, I invest in myself to make sure my cup is full.

We like to end AW interviews with a piece of advice, quote, or mantra to help our community. Some may look at your life and think “She has it all.” But perception is not always reality, especially when it comes to mental health. What is one of the greatest lessons you have taken from overcoming your struggles, as it relates to your mental health that can help others in our community who are trying to manage their mental health? It is all in you. Whether it’s good or bad moments, everything passes. It is up to us to see the light in the darkness. I’d like to end with this – I don’t have it all together, I am a work in progress. Social media is full of filters. I love my stories, TikTok, and keeping it real because I know it can become overwhelming. There is so much to do but I’m excited to put in the work to be a better Glency, tomorrow.

We are a society living through a filtered lens. We must keep real life in perspective so we don’t get lost in the fantasy that everyone else has it better than we do. Everyone has a separate set of challenges and lessons. The greatest gift we can give ourselves is to take care of what we have, stay grateful, and remember, all that glitter isn’t gold.

AW is thankful to Glency for sharing so much of herself with our community. She has maintained bravery, conviction, and authenticity in the face of judgment, something difficult to do. In a world of highlight reels, it’s refreshing to see others who are showing up as themselves. It empowers us to do the same and gives hope for a new culture that is more comfortable having conversations surrounding mental health.

To learn more about Glency, visit Instagram or TikTok @glencyfeliz

Watch and listen to the AW Confidential Podcast on all streaming services for the full interview and sidebars during the conversation. Interviews are also available on our YouTube channel.

*This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

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