My Vision for Tomorrow + How I'm Making It a Reality

Last night, the Centre for Social Innovation hosted its annual fundraiser. The theme was Make Tomorrow | Create a Better World.The CSI community consists of over 250 social entrepreneurs working to make our dreams of a better world come to life.

Here is a photo of me with our Agents of Change cohort at the fundraiser.

The public lobby of the IAC Building has two tiled video walls that provide an interactive experience of imagery display. Capitalizing on this innovative feature, CSI asked all of its members to describe our vision for tomorrow and how our social innovation is making that vision a reality. Our impact number (some metric or outcome measure of our work) along with a headshot and collage of pictures were displayed on the video wall during the event.

This is a phone capture of my headshot on the video wall.

I thought you might like to read my responses to the questions for my Social Impact Innovator Profile. I answered from the perspective of Start Within Coaching, the new brand umbrella that encompasses my coaching, EFT work, and public events/workshops for women.

My Organization Mission:

Start Within Coaching seeks to disrupt the conversation around self-worth and self-esteem for women of color. Motivated by Sustainable Development Goal # 3.4, we promote women's mental health and wellbeing via live and virtual workshops, events, and coaching programs. 

My Vision of Tomorrow:

To reduce the percentage of black women who live with feelings of sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, and/or that everything is an effort all of the time. For the last point, nearly twice as many non-Hispanic Black women felt this way in 2014, compared to their non-Hispanic White counterparts (9.9% vs. 5.8%). More than just the absence of a disorder, true mental health is a state of wellbeing in which a woman can realize her own potential, cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively, and make a contribution to the community. "Tomorrow," women of color will feel a sense of worthiness; they will know that their dreams, their health, and their overall lives matter. Start Within to Finish Strong!

My Social Impact:

In 2017, we hosted 10 New Moon Circles at CSI designed for women to create supportive relationships with other women, and to receive rejuvenation and support (via Guided Heart Meditations, Intention-Setting Rituals, and other wellness activities). Other public workshops and events focus on topics including Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT-Tapping), Self-Care Strategies, and Stress Management. Through private coaching, we map out personalized strategies for women to enhance their interpersonal communication, leadership style, and personal wellbeing.

When I Joined CSI:

October, 2016

Impact of CSI on Me / My Organization:

Since joining, I've become an Agents of Change Fellow, which has connected with more female founders who are committed to improving the status of women and girls globally. I've also been a founding member of the Women's Lab at CSI, an experiment in creating a safe haven space for female founders and their mission-driven organizations. I have hosted my New Moon Circles at CSI.

What is YOUR Vision for Tomorrow?
How are YOU Making it a Reality?

Why You Should Wish Upon a Dandelion

You may be wondering why I've been talking so much about dandelions. When my designer and I created the Start Within branding, I was so excited to include a dandelion in the new logo. I feel that, symbolically, the dandelion is a great icon of renewal and growth -- that only can come from an inward focus ... like starting within!

The dandelion plant itself has amazing internal cleansing properties, as I discussed in my last post. Cleansing rituals, I believe, can help you to rejuvenate yourself. Cleansing is beneficial for each part of you --- your mind, body, and spirit.

Read on for more interesting points about dandelions and suggestions on how to do a Thought Cleanse for the Spring!

Why the Fascination With Dandelions?

There are many folklore superstitions that have been attached to dandelions over the years. In addition to granting wishes, many people believe that dandelion seeds will carry your thoughts and dreams to loved ones when you blow them into the air. It's been said that if you can blow all the seeds off a dandelion with a single breath, then the person you love will love you back. If seeds remain, then the object of your affection may have reservations about their feelings toward you.

Still others believe dandelions may help you tell the time or even predict the weather. For example, dandelions have been called the shepherd's clock; since their flowers tend to open shortly after first light and close again at dusk. Amateur meteorologists might use dandelions as an informal barometer. When dandelions have seeded, they will tend to extend into a full ball in good weather. If rain is on the way, however, they will tend to fold like an umbrella and remain tightly closed.

How many of these superstitions hold any truth? You can decide! 

Wish Upon a Dandelion to Cleanse Your Thoughts

The one thing that is for sure, scientifically, is that blowing a dandelion's seeds into the air will have an impact. Where those seeds fall on fertile soil, there likely will be new dandelions in the future!

When your attention is caught by dandelion seeds floating in the spring breeze, pause for a moment and take stock of your thoughts. Which thoughts are consuming your mind -- positive and hopeful or negative and fearful? Is it time for a thought cleanse?

By replacing negative beliefs with new, revitalizing thought patterns, you can gain the power to transform your behaviors, emotions, and attitudes. Even if you can't find a dandelion on which to blow, you can still do a thought cleanse.

With that in mind: close your eyes, envision the dandelion, get quiet, and start within. Ask yourself:

What NEW Thought Seeds Would You Like to Plant This Spring?  ... then blow

Why I Love Dandelions ... And You Should Too

There's one weed that often drives adults crazy. Many kids love it, however. When it's in full bloom, its flowers look like the bright Sun. When it puffs out into a ball, it resembles the Moon. And when kids pick it and blow it to disperse its seeds, they fly into the air like the stars of the night sky. What am I talking about? The Dandelion, of course!

Etymological Meaning of the Dandelion Flower

The Dandelion name first developed in the 15th century. It was derived from the Medieval Latin phrase dens lionis, which refers to the jagged shape of the leaves by calling them a lion’s tooth. This transformed into dent-de-lion in French, and then became Dandelion in Middle English. We still use the same name today because it’s easy to remember and definitely still applies as a description of how the plant looks.

Description of the Dandelion Flower

Everyone knows what the dandelion looks like, it is such an easy flower to recognize. A dandelion can be characterized by its long hollow stem and the yellow flower that it has on top. Depending on the season that it is, it may have white fuzz on top of it that is the pollination and how the dandelion spreads.

Health Benefits of the Dandelion Flower

What's better than a plant that gives wishes when you puff its fluff? A plant that provides health benefits! Dandelion is an excellent food and medicine!

Medicinally the dandelion has some tried, tested, and true results. Ever since country folk have been stirring pots over fires, dandelion teas have been a brewing for the purpose of calming nerves, and promoting a sense of well-being. Dandelion roots infused in hot water and then strained make an excellent tonic, because the dandelion is a natural detoxifying body-cleanser and diuretic.

Every part of this common edible weed is tasty both raw and cooked, from the roots to the blossoms. Dandelion leaves can be harvested at any point in the growing season, and while the smaller leaves are considered to be less bitter and more palatable raw, the bigger leaves can be eaten as well, especially as an addition to a green salad. The flowers are sweet and crunchy, and can be eaten raw, or breaded and fried, or even used to make dandelion wine. The root of the dandelion can be dried and roasted and used as a coffee substitute, or added to any recipe that calls for root vegetables.

How can YOU use dandelion to cleanse your system and spring into better health?

Are You a Truthsayer?

The dialogue around Oprah's Golden Globes acceptance speech has inspired AND challenged me. I've noticed that the more personal growth work that I do -- particularly around my sacral chakra -- the more present I've become to my anger and dissatisfaction as a black woman witnessing our current state of affairs.What's been challenging about this personal growth has been that I haven't always been clear about how (or when) to express my feelings or observations of unconscious bias, inequity, etc. -- in my professional (and personal) conversations.

Sometimes, I have felt constrained by my role as a coach who holds space for others to heal. What will they think of me if I express ...? And, when I have spoken my truth, and it's not been fully heard or received, I also have felt bereft of my full expression. Today, like Oprah said, "Time's Up!" No longer will I hush my voice.

My A-HA! moment came early this morning -- that's when I have a lot of these epiphany moments -- I'm probably not the only Truthsayer who has struggled with this! To my fellow Truthsayers I say, I have your back! AND, it would be my honor to share with you my Start Within coaching techniques and other tools to help support you in speaking your truth, as well as to manage your internal energy / chakras -- so you can stay whole and healthy on your soul journey.

This year, more than ever before, I feel called to support fellow Truthsayers in amplifying their mindful communication and leadership, as we all are on a mission to be fully heard, witnessed and recognized. And, it's not purely for personal gain (at least not for me). I believe that our stories hold power -- power for change, power for healing, power for truth.

Are YOU Ready to Speak Your Truth?

Why You Need Rituals in Your Life

What Are You Ready to Release?

November, 2017 marks one year that I've been leading New Moon Circles!

Over this past year, I've learned so much -- about myself, and also about the significance of rituals. Rituals enable us to consciously recognize pivotal moments in our lives, and notice the synergy with the ebb and flow of Nature and the world around us.

What rituals do you include in your daily / weekly / monthly / quarterly routine? Do you have a Circle or tribe of women that supports you in your rituals?

I've recently learned that this period of late October / early November is called Samhain, in Celtic tradition.  You may be more familiar with it as Halloween as it's typically celebrated in the US.

It's a ripe time to take the opportunity to reflect on your year and note what you've manifested, and note what you're ready to release.

If you'd like to try out a Samhain ritual to assist you with this release, click HERE.

Full Moon Ritual

Good news -- the Taurus Full Moon is all about abundance!

So, this is a good time (after you've released what no longer serves you), to be conscious about what abundance you'd like to call into your life. Remember that abundance is more than just about financial overflow.

In what other areas of your life would you like to manifest abundance? Click HERE for a ritual to help you set conscious intentions for abundance over the next few days.

Step It Up with Me October 13-26

It's time to Step It Up and get moving! Yes, it's fall in the northern hemisphere. Why not take advantage of the cooler (yet still sunny!) weather (at least here in NYC) to get in more steps outside.

Join our Start Within - Coach Colette team in the Fitbit Step It Up USA Challenge.

Commit to move more: See how many steps you can get in 2 weeks! 

Track your progress: Check your dashboard to see how your activity (walking, running) adds up!

Visit the website to connect your Fitbit; search for and join our Start Within - Coach Colette team. 

Post pictures of yourself as you get moving. Connect with me on Instagram and use the hashtag #StartWithin. Are you up for the Challenge?!! :-)

Manage Your Stress for Greater Impact: Learn How May 23

You're invited to Slow Down to Start UP! a Be Social Change Class for Purpose-Driven Leaders

Join me on Monday, May 23 from 7 PM to 9:00 PM to learn how self-monitoring can help you better manage your stress and improve your overall well-being.

Each of us has the opportunity to create solutions that address key issues facing our world, but when you're on the front lines, how do you give yourself “permission” for self-care?

In this interactive session, you will learn proven, mindful stress reduction techniques so you can achieve greater social impact while improving your own well-being. You will recognize the link between wellness and sustainability, and receive guidance to help ditch your anxiety for lasting results.

This Class is Designed For ...

• Social impact entrepreneurs, business owners, and nonprofit leaders looking to reduce stress, increase motivation, and experience less burnout in your quest to drive change
• Purpose-driven professionals looking to experience greater intention and fulfillment in your work and life

Manage Your Stress to Achieve Greater Impact

By attending, you will become aware of the signals that can indicate your stress is becoming unhealthy. Also, you'll learn how to choose effective coping strategies to reduce (or even eliminate) your stress triggers.

Register NOW to Join Me: May 23, 2016, 7:00 PM at Centre for Social Innovation -- a home for nonprofits and social entrepreneurs in New York City.

Is Your Company Happy & Healthy? Learn 3 Ways to Measure on May 20

You're invited to the Happy & Healthy Company Conference | Presented by CMYK Ventures

Join me on May 20 from 9:30 am - 3:30 pm to discover new strategies and partners to help you design a happy and healthy company. Enjoy a healthy breakfast and lunch, watch inspiring talks, and meet over 50 founders and leaders who manage Talent, Culture, People, and Recruiting programs at leading NYC companies including Industry Standard, Luminary Labs, and ustwo. 

I'm excited to be one of the Keynote Speakers, sharing strategies to define a culture that engages and inspires employees even as your company grows.

Learn strategies for improving internal communication, collaboration, happiness, and wellness. Meet business vendors to explore services that cater to workplace happiness. Participate in discussions and workshops on themes related to organizational design, including:

• Human Company Design
• Planning for Change
• Common Play
• Diversity & Inclusivity 

Get help to manage HR, recruiting, operations, snacks, perks, interior design + more! Register now to join us on May 20th -- see you there!

Is All Stress Bad Stress? [Podcast]

Is all stress bad for you? Not necessarily! If you're looking for healthy ways to cope with stress, I'm excited to recommend this podcast from my second appearance on the Gfem Talk Show, a show that discusses important personal and business issues to help people transform their lives.

In my lively chat with show host Femi, I shared tips and insights on when to be concerned that you have crossed-over from a healthy state of stress to an unhealthy one. I also share best practices to help identify your stress "triggers" and determine whether your "go-to" stress coping behaviors are helping (or perhaps hurting) you in the long-term.

Since we know that up to 60% of health conditions have stress as an underlying cause, you can recognize how this knowledge can be helpful to you and your loved ones. Tune into the podcast and let me know what you learned -- comment here on the blog or tweet me on Twitter.

How Did I Begin My Eco-Transformation Journey?

Since we launched the Foraging for Wellness guided nature walks in Prospect Park, I've been feeling an urge to share my motivation for launching this new aspect of my work. The story is part personal and part professional -- as has been most of my journey in the wellness arena.

I began telling the story of my eco-transformation by recording some thoughts about my experiences this past year -- the audio of which I just released on my iTunes podcast channel: The Eco-Transformation of a Coach. This is Part 1 of my story -- composting made easy.
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My transformation from a focus on personal wellness to a greater awareness around Sustainability of the planet and Green Living began (now) about nine months ago when I met Tim. We started to have conversations (OK, sometimes heated discussions) about why wasn't it OK for me to just throw certain plastic wrappers in the garbage. Or, he would come behind me and take them out of my garbage. This created tension and conflict on a personal level. There were a few things going on, two of which I believe are relevant to my transformation.

1. The first was a level of tension within my personal relationship, that led me to often think: “Why isn't he respecting my space, my point of view?” 
2. The second aspect was me not seeing the larger potential problem of discarding certain plastics into the garbage. 

I like to say now that these Green issues were in my “Eco Blind Spot.” After all, I was already recycling paper, metal, glass, and hard plastics; “Why did I need to do more than that?”

Tim started helping me too, though; collecting food scraps from our meals together and putting them into old plastic containers from Chinese delivery meals, or in other hard plastic containers that I had in the apartment, and storing them in the refrigerator. I thought this was interesting, not really having thought about saving my food scraps before, not really being aware of what composting was nor what the benefits of composting could be. But, in essence, it became pretty easy for me over time to just put food scraps into the containers. I just got used to doing it; I would put in my banana peel, my tea bags, his coffee grinds, our leftover food – all of it would go into the containers. Around that time, I was co-working out of Impact Hub NYC, and I noticed that they too had a large plastic bucket there labeled for composting, so I began to do the same thing there. It just became a habit to compost my tea bags and my banana peels and my leftover food scraps.

An interesting project idea developed from my home composting. I live in Brooklyn; Tim lives in Jersey City. Initially unbeknownst to me, he was taking the composting containers when they were full with our scraps and bringing them back to Jersey City to compost them in the garden at the back of his house. It was several weeks before I started to notice what he was doing. For a long time, composting was just really easy; I’d put the scraps in the plastic containers and the composting containers “magically” disappeared and then reappeared empty. It was composting made easy for me, which actually led to our business idea of CompostIFY. The “IFY” stands for “it for you;” meaning “We compost it for you.” We started to do some research around other cities that were creating either nonprofits or social enterprises to pick up compost scraps from local residents and businesses. We've explored the CompostIFY idea to some degree; I have pitched the concept at a few Green startup events.

When I became consciously aware that Tim was taking away the composting containers, it became of interest to me to figure out: “Is there another way that I can compost?” I decided to research my alternatives and found out I could bring my compost scraps to the Greenmarket. That comes back to the personal aspect of my transformation: the personal relationship was what started me on this journey of eco-transformation and foraging for wellness, or foraging for greater sustainability, actually. I began to look at Tim's actions in a different way that was less about him "making me wrong," and more about his passion for reducing waste, reducing consumption, and improving sustainability of the planet.

That was the first pivotal shift in my eco-transformation: recognizing that I could let go of my story around his not respecting my personal space or not respecting my personal boundaries, and open up to think about it from a wider perspective – from a collective wellness perspective, in some ways, and definitely from an environmental perspective of protecting and saving the planet. When I made that shift it created a whole new level of interest for me around composting, and I was motivated to research alternatives to compost my own food scraps. That's when I discovered the Greenmarket and learned that NYC Organics has composting bins at many local Greenmarkets. That's when I realized that I could continue the process of collecting my own food scraps, storing them in the refrigerator, and then once or twice a week bring those containers to the Greenmarket myself and dump our food scraps into their larger bins. I also learned that the food scraps are delivered to local composting organizations and community gardens dedicated to greening New York City.

I've been (consciously) composting at the Greenmarket ever since.

9 Beautiful Reasons Why Coconut Oil Belongs in Your Medicine Cabinet—And A Free Jar!

When it comes to beauty products, many of us will shell out big bucks for a magic concoction of mystery ingredients—as long as it promises clear skin or voluminous hair. But, often, the natural option really is the best. Take coconut oil, for example. This one-ingredient beauty product is so versatile that it could give your moisturizer, body lotion, lip balm, and makeup remover a run for their money.

Why is coconut oil better than the typical drugstore lotion? For one thing, it’s not water-based. Most commercial beauty products contain tons of water, and as soon as it evaporates, they stop moisturizing your skin. Not coconut oil—this beauty product is 100-percent moisturizing.

Plus, coconut oil is naturally free of silicone, parabens, fragrances and dyes, and other artificial chemicals that can be harsh on your skin and damaging to your health. The slightly sweet, tropical smell is an added bonus! I love using coconut oil as my all-over moisturizer and have seen positive impacts on my skin!

Here are the 9 miraculous ways you can use this oh-so-versatile oil in your beauty routine:

• In oil pulling
• As a moisturizer
• As a leave-in conditioner
• As lip balm
• To soothe itchy skin or bug bites
• As a natural treatment for lice
• To relieve the pain of a sore throat
• In a DIY body butter
• As a makeup remover

Not sure if you’re ready to start slathering coconut oil all over your body? Lucky for you, Thrive Market is offering all first-time members a FREE full-sized jar of Nutiva organic, fair-trade virgin coconut oil! Claim your free gift today before they’re gone HERE!

Thrive Market is a membership-based online marketplace that sells the top 4,000 healthy foods and wholesome products at 25 - 50% below retail prices and matches every paid membership with a free membership for a low-income American family so we can all thrive together. The free coconut oil applies to new Thrive Market members only; existing Thrive Market members will receive an additional 10% off their purchase!

How to Be Fabulously Fit & Healthy [Radio Interview]

Tune in to hear my recent interview by Renee Wiggins, Registered Dietitian and founder of Results by Renee. Her radio show is called Being Fabulously Fit in God's Kingdom.

We had a very insightful conversation about nutrition, fitness, stress management, and mindfulness. Let me know after you listen what you think about the show. And, share your best tips for how you maintain balance and a healthy lifestyle.

Check Out Spirituality Podcasts at Blog Talk Radio with Being FabulouslyXinXGodsXKingdom on BlogTalkRadio

Slow Down to Speed Up: Sustainable Living Talk at Green Festival

While we're working on editing the video, here's a peek at the slides from my Slow Down to Speed Up! talk on Slideshare from the Green Festival Expo in DC. It was exciting to be speaking about the intersection of wellness and sustainability on three levels: personal, collective, and environmental.


And, here's a very brief (unedited) video clip from the Q&A portion after my presentation -- graciously shared by one of the participants.



The full talk was filmed, and we're working on editing the video for you to view -- coming soon! I wanted to share this info now so you have some sense of what a fantastic experience it was to participate in the event.

Maybe It Is Easy Being Green - Get Tips June 7

Do You Have Trouble Staying Healthy?

Even if you’re constantly on the go, working long hours, or are extremely busy it IS possible to make healthy (and green!) lifestyle changes when you have the right tools and support. Learn how to adopt proven healthy eating and sustainable lifestyle techniques. Plus, receive motivational guidance to help you ditch your stress and anxiety for lasting results.

Join me at the DC Green Festival Expo for my talk Slow Down to Speed Up! Sustainable Living in a 2.0 World from the Main Stage on Sunday, June 7 at 11:30 am.

Meet the Experts & Learn Sustainable Living Secrets

Green Festival Expo is an excellent opportunity to discover new, practical and easy ways to live healthier, more sustainable lives with thousands of products offered by new brands, national and local businesses and pioneering thinkers in the sustainability field. 

We've got a great speaker lineup at the DC Green Festival --- articulate, powerful advocates for a just and sustainable world. From authors and filmmakers to politicians, musicians and scientists, these renowned individuals will inspire you with their commitment and expertise.

I'll also be taping a radio segment to share more tips on healthy, green living for Green Is Good Radio onsite at the Festival on Saturday, June 6 at 2:30 pm.

Hope to see you in DC at the Green Festival! Tweet me or comment below if you'll be stopping by ... to get my special, (LIMITED) DISCOUNT code to attend!

5 Unexpected Tips to Beat Your Holiday Stress

'Tis the season to be jolly. If you're seeking ideas on how to ease into the holiday season and lessen your stress, read on for 5 Unexpected Tips to Beat Your Holiday Stress!

1. Recognize your holiday stress triggers: A stress trigger is an incident that causes either a negative physical (e.g., headache, cold, or pain) or emotional response (e.g., anxiety, insomnia, or sadness). The holiday challenge is that stress triggers can be associated with family and personal relationships, or finances. What are your holiday triggers? A dreaded encounter or perhaps the absence of a loved one? Concerns about your holiday shopping list or travel? Becoming aware is your first step to lessening your stress.
2. Be willing to let go of past resentments: Once you've identified your triggers, consider viewing them from a NEW perspective. If you're already dreading an encounter, try imagining that your experience will NOT be negative.  Set an intention to approach the person with a positive outlook, and not allow their comments or behaviors to affect your stress level. 
3. Seek out lower-cost holiday options (e.g., "grab bags," "Secret Santa’s," or “potluck” dinners): If your trigger is your finances, be honest with yourself and your family about what you can and cannot take on this year. Focus your attention on how great it will feel to spend time with those whom you love. Infuse yourself with the true holiday spirit of loving and sharing!
4. Tune in to your holiday self-talk: We all have a running script of "self-talk." These are unconscious thoughts about finances, relationships, or goals that occur when you're stressed or overwhelmed. Coach yourself to flip your script for a more positive outlook. When you notice a negative thought, tell yourself to STOP! Take a deep breath, think of a positive statement, and reflect. Think of as many positive ideas that show the negative perspective is NOT true. 
5. Give yourself holiday ME-TIME: With the hustle and bustle, it can be easy to forget your needs. Build time into your holiday schedule just for you. Take on a new physical activity; or social activity, like volunteering to help others in need. Sharpen your mental abilities with a new book; unplug from your devices. Create more space in your mind for holiday joy!

This year has been a year of many changes for me, some of which I've not yet shared with you. Looking back, I'm thankful for all of the expected AND unexpected blessings that 2014 has brought me. For example, I literally have a new looking-glass through which to view the world, my new living space! Now, I'm looking forward to spending time with my parents and extended family over the holiday season.

What are YOU most thankful for? How will YOU beat your holiday stress? Comment here or tweet me on Twitter. Happy Thanksgiving!!

Rise & Shine: A NEW Cup of Joe to Improve Your Health

Do you love coffee? DID YOU KNOW? About 90% of the naturally occurring antioxidants in regular coffee are destroyed during the roasting process—so they never even reach your cup. No worries, because there's a NEW coffee from Zrii called RISE™  that retains those antioxidants.

Back in 2006, when I was dealing with my chronic indigestion / acid reflux, I stopped drinking coffee to avoid anything that could upset my stomach. Little did I know that I was losing out on so many health benefits of coffee including: reduced risk of Alzheimer's or dementia, oral cancers, and stroke!

If you love your coffee like me, and want to get healthy too, this is the cup for you. Zrii RISE™ has green coffee bean extract from beans that haven't been roasted to preserve powerful antioxidant benefits and still give a boost. Green coffee antioxidants counteract the damage caused by free radicals (including aging of the body’s cells).

Zrii RISE™ also has the unique super-fruit Amalaki that enhances vitality and overall health—including digestion, immunity, and cellular functioning. With all of this, Zrii RISE™ has more antioxidants than most of us consume daily from fruits and vegetables combined!

Watch this video endorsement of Zrii RISE™ from Dr. Deepak Chopra:



I'm excited to be able to include Zrii RISE™ coffee as part of my healthy living and wellness offerings, especially for those of you who are committed to clean eating! Let me know in the comments (or tweet me) if you have more questions about the coffee or want to know how to order Zrii RISE™ online.

What Will Medicine Look Like in 10 Years? You Need to Know!

Medicine is Changing -- Will it Work FOR You or Against You?

Evolving medicine means that we are learning new things and using new techniques constantly. How do you expect to stay at the forefront of your own health?

The Evolution of Medicine Summit will shine a light on the work of more than 30 innovators leading these changes, to set a vision for a more empowered, proactive and patients-value focused healthcare system.

Whether you're a health or wellness coach like me, or just someone who wants to be healthier, The Evolution of Medicine Summit will show you the future of healthcare. Plus, it's ONLINE and FREE from September 8-15, 2014.

Here are a few of the incredible presenters: 

• Deepak Chopra, MD, Best Selling Author; Ayurvedic and Mind/Body Medicine 
• Mark Hyman, MD, Multiple Best Selling Author, Chairman of IFM 
• "Food Babe" aka Vani Hari, Activist Blogger; Digital Innovator 
• Joe Cross aka "Joe The Juicer" 
• Larry Palevsky, MD, Board Certified Pediatrician

Navigate your way through the overwhelming amount of health information to elevate yourself and your family towards optimum health.

Come listen to The Evolution of Medicine Summit ONLINE for FREE from September 8-15, 2014. Be a force of change for the future of health and medicine! Register TODAY! 

Tweet me your thoughts and reactions to the sessions and use the #EvoMed hashtag to join the discussion.

What's Your WHY?

So much of what we do comes down to WHY -- even if we're not consciously aware of it. The more you tap into your WHY, the closer you can get to what really matters to you. My WHY to support the American Heart Association is because I want my mom to continue living a healthy life -- and NOT be impacted by a stroke.



My grandma died suddenly of a stroke, and it was devastating for me. Since then, my mom has changed her diet so that she can manage her blood pressure and other vital functions. As a health and life coach, I have no problem with her healthy eating and living habits. I'd just love for her once to not be so concerned about sodium in meals when we go out for special occasions. She's a real trooper -- has an inner strength that I've only just begun to really recognize. It just would be nice to take that concern off her plate, if you will.

So, that's my WHY for creating a team for the AHA Brooklyn Heart Walk coming up on Sunday, October 5th.

What's your WHY to join us to walk or support our efforts?

How to Eat Healthy -- At Home or On the Road

Do you fall into the “eat what I can, whenever I can” category? Does your digestion suffer because of stress or poor eating habits? 

If you answered "yes" to either one of those questions, you are not alone. Now that summer is upon us -- which brings BBQ's and other outdoor adventures -- it can be a good idea to consider your eating habits. Are you taking advantage of the fresh fruits and vegetables that now are in season?

It IS possible to make healthier eating choices, even with your busy lifestyle. It just takes a little advance thinking (about WHY it's important to you) and planning (adding simple steps into your normal routine).

These are some of the ideas that I recently shared during my appearance on Menu for Great Health – At Home or On the Road, a radio show hosted by Chef Tom Castrigno, author of the forthcoming book The Confidence Diet.

Tune in to hear me share self help tools to balance your diet and increase your motivation to achieve your personal health vision. Plus, hear more about how I manage to include healthy foods into my entrepreneurial lifestyle. As always, let me know what you think -- in the comments here or tweet me your thoughts on Twitter!

Get Real About Your Mental Health: Hangout on May 8

Do you know someone who has been affected by mental illness? Chances are, you do ... even if you're not aware of it because so many of us hide our challenges for fear of the stigma. Now, it's time to Break the Silence and Get Real About Mental Health!

Join me on Thursday, May 8 at 1 pm ET for a Google+ Hangout: Let's Get Real About Mental Illness: Pain as a Platform to Wellness. I'll be speaking with Hakeem Rahim - certified mental health educator and advocate. May is Mental Health Awareness month. Hakeem will share his story of diagnosis with mental illness, his recovery and commitment to wellness. 

We invite you to join us for a real conversation to break the silence and shift your perspective on mental health. Learn what is mental illness, and how to seek treatment. Hear what is it like to have bipolar disorder, and how sharing one's story can inspire recovery and resilience.

Post or tweet me your questions to be answered live on-air. Sign up to watch our Hangout today!