JANUARY 2011 HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR -- DEMEKA SCOTT

Cheetara of ThunderCats

 According to freedictionary.com a heroine is...

1. A woman noted for courage and daring action.

2. A woman noted for special achievement in a particular field. (from freedictionary.com)

Meet 2011's first Heroine Entrepreneur........
 

Demeka Scott - owner of HealthyLivingJourney.com

 
 
   
1. Tell us about your business, products, services and what make it special or unique.


My name is Demeka Scott, I’m a Natural Health Consultant and the owner of Healthy Living Journey, we carry a line of natural body products called “Jamion” that I personally make and sell. I use only high quality ingredients such as; unrefined Shea Butter, Himalayan Pink Salts, Coconut Milk, Essential Oils & more. We never use toxins such as harmful fragrances, NO synthetics and absolutely NO chemical preservatives!


2. How was it birthed?

My sister was diagnosed with cancer, which later claimed her life (as well as my father). Right before she passed I was researching on how cancer manifest in our bodies. I discovered that most of the commercial products (ingredients) we use on our skin is associated with cancer. After tons of researching and experimenting I started making body products for my family. And after getting so many good responses I set out on this journey to help everyone I know with this knowledge by way of my products.



3. What were the first steps that you took to get your business started?

After tons of researching and experimenting on myself and others I decided that it would be beneficial to have some type of schooling to back me up. So I enrolled in Intl. Institute of Holistic Healing to become a Natural Health Consultant. After becoming a natural health consultant I then switched gears to focus on developing a brand for my company.




4. Have you always been in this particular field? Do you have a history in this area?

Before starting this company I was not in the natural health field at all, I actually owned a dog accessory shop (I love small, toy breed dogs & their accessories). I had no prior history in body products or health. Although I have always heard that natural products were better, I just had no interest in using them or trying to find out more about them. As I look back I am truly thankful because now my children will grow up knowing about natural cures and a better way of living at a early age.




5.How much support did you receive when you first started out?

My husband and my aunt (Pat) were my guinea pigs and I love them to death for letting me experiment on them. They are still my biggest supporters. I did not initially get a lot of support when I first started out. I had to understand that people have been conditioned and they are not acceptable to new and different things. I didn’t let that stop me and now I have a new base of people who are my supporters, patience and persistence are the key words.





6. Is there anything that you wish you would have done or handled differently?

Yes, I wish I would have gained the knowledge I now have in a timely manner. I am content with the way things have been handled thus far. I have lined myself with the creator and I know that everything I do is at the time I’m suppose to do it.



8. What was your biggest hurdle in developing your business?

The biggest hurdle was learning a whole new industry. I knew how to make my products but I did not know the legal business side, for example: I had to learn about the FDA, what I could and couldn’t say when it pertained to my labeling and a slew of other things.



9. How did you stay motivated or what kept you motivated whenever you hit a bump/pothole in the road or a difficult time?

The love for my people and the knowledge that I am doing this for a greater purpose is what keeps me going, I have to constantly remind myself of my why. My why...Why am I doing this? My answer...I am doing this so that my children will have a better understanding of health & business and they too will be able to pass it on to their children.



10. Was there ever a time when you felt like giving up on or had doubts about your vision/business? And if so, what did you do to get past it or what was the catalyst that moved you to continue pressing forward?

No, I knew that this was my calling. I enjoy telling people about my products and giving advice on health related issues. Our community is in dying need of this knowledge and I raise my hand to give it :-)



11. There are quite a few women who are seeking to do what you’ve done. What advice would you give them?

Research, research & research on the industry you are trying to pursue. Find a new and different approach to market your products or services. Don’t follow the trend, start your own. Be creative, for example: if everyone is using plastic containers to package their product, use glass instead to package yours. *hint, hint :-)


I would like to also tell them, follow your passion... if something excites your mind go with it. Don’t let what others say or do jeopardize what you know is true to your heart. The entrepreneur road is long and sometimes scary, being patient and staying persistent will help you in achieving the goals you set out. Stay focused and let that passion drive you to success. And remember... plan your work & work your plan!




12. Is there anything new & exciting that we can expect from your business in the future?

Yes, this year we will be adding some new items to our product list. We also plan to have our products showcased around quite a few spas & salons in the Atlanta area. I look forward to gaining more personal clientele that I can grow with. :-)


p.s. I have a new found love for arts & crafts... some of my newest creations can be found at http://www.pizazzpens.com/




You can also check me out here:

My Website:
http://www.healthylivingjourney.com/

My Blog:
http://demekascott.com/

My Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/demekascott

My Twitter:
http://twitter.com/demekascott

My Youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/healthylivingjourney

Skype Id = demeka.scott


*A personal note to Demeka
Many thanks for allowing your story to be told here. Your words are inspiring and speak to me personally. I love that you know that everything you do is at the designated time that you're supposed to do it. Thanks for spreading and sharing your wisdom from your experience. May you continue on the path of great success in your business and in touching the lives of others.
Peace and blessings,

ANNOUNCEMENT!! ANNOUNCEMENT!!

HEALTHY LIVING JOURNEY SALES

24 Hour Sale ***ONE DAY ONLY*** 50% off Total Order

Going on right now!! Today! 1/5/11.

at HealthyLivingJourney.com

use coupon code 24hoursale at checkout! (Sale ends 1-5-2011 midnight)

Post Title → JANUARY 2011 HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR -- DEMEKA SCOTT

DECEMBER HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR - KAREN LANGSTON



Marvel Comics heroine - Arana. Art by Mark Brooks


According to Merriam-Webster online dictionary:


A heroine is  a: a mythological or legendary woman having the qualities of a hero
                    b: a woman admired and emulated for her achievements and qualities


So let's meet December 2010's Heroine Entrepreneur...

.....Karen Langston



                                        

1. Tell us about your business, products, services and what makes it special or unique.


I am the Chief Body Reorganizer and Extreme Food Whisperer of Karen Langston.com. What makes it unique is the fact that I was blessed with the opportunity to not only to be raised in Toronto Ontario, Canada but to be trained at the world renowned Institute of Holistic Nutrition. My first rate education along with Live Cell Microscopy gave me the opportunity to work in a chronic illness and cancer clinic where I truly understood the connection between food and deficiency and how it can either lead to disease and chronic illness or prevention.


I then moved to the U.S. living in Texas, Alabama and now Arizona I realized that there is such a disconnection between food health emotions and consciousness. From this I created one-on-one programs; Body Rehab programTM, Business RehabTM program which are an intensive 3 month program where we meet for 1.5 hours weekly and cover not only the physical aspects of nutrition, but the emotional connection and the release of those emotions. We also dive into your internal, exterior environment and business environment and how all of this impacts your health and wellness on a daily basis.


These two intensive programs have been broken down to other components such as E-guides, and detoxification programs. My programs have become so popular that I am in the process of putting them onto DVDs and for those who are not in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. You can get a complete list at KarenLangston.com.




2. How was it birthed?

When I moved to Arizona, and spent some time really connecting with the culture and realized that it is about the quick fix; nip, tuck, the magic pill and avoid the food issue at all cost. It seems that most of the general population is more concerned with building their business and getting to that 6 figure income at all costs. They would pay astronomical amounts of money for a course, fad, program and coaching and yet they are still struggling to this day trying to reach their failed Visions, or New Year’s resolution, or goals. I was at one of my many breakfast morning meetings when it hit me. What is the one thing that everyone does every day? They eat. I started to pay attention to what people were eating at breakfast and lunch and researched the emotions attached to those foods. I realized that what people were consuming each day was directly responsible for what was stopping them from getting to the next level in their personal and business success. The food we choose to eat is based on our unconscious thought process; which later becomes are conscious thought pattern based on the foods we ate earlier that day can alter not only our thought process, but our behavior, prohibiting us from following through with our tasks and goals to get to our desired vision. This is basically what birthed a complete evolution of how I did business. I had to tune into what was missing (the disconnect), in order to be of service to others. This is how My Body Rehab programs, especially the Business Rehab program was born.


3. How did you begin? What were the first steps that you took?


The first step I took was watching the local morning shows; see what guests were on there, what their services and products were, write it all down and figure out what was missing. I observed articles in all of the local free health magazines and newspapers, to see who and what the advertisements were, what they were offering to the general public. This was a hands-on affective and inexpensive market research. It let me see the community’s perception on health, or at least what the advertiser’s products and services perceived as health, and how they wanted to shape the health perceptions of the community essentially, the quick fix. I then looked through the messages to see what was missing and provided my services to fill the gap. Superficial temporary quick fixes, was sending people to the next provider, the next, and so on. I changed my 30 second commercial to reflect questions that would impact people on a different level than advertiser’s perceptions. For example, “how many of us here today have business and personal goals? How many of us find that we are not reaching them? Do you realize that what you ate this morning is a direct influence on what is stopping you from going forward in your personal and business goals.” That usually gets their attention.


Soon I found that networking was only a part of the equation. I needed to reach mass amounts of people and connect and be of service, in order to receive the abundance the Universe had waiting for me.


I turned to social media and video marketing. I did not realize how much I would enjoy social media and I consider myself an official social media junkie-never an expert. Like health, social media is always evolving, and there is no possible way one could be an expert at it.


I partnered with a friend who is also a person of service, Joey Sampaga co owner with Linda Hall of First Priority Financial. Joey and I wanted to provide value to our clients thus The Karen and Joey Show (.com) was born. It is a weekly health show that is sent to our email recipients as well as over 14, 000+ social media viewers. Basically we engage and interact with our viewers while giving valuable health information with no catch. It is a successful adventure and is now at the point of sponsorship and advertisement, and that excites me! This lead to another show 6 Degrees of Health and Wellness, where I interview people in the health and wellness and green industry. It is so much fun to be a part of other’s lives, increase awareness and give back to the community. What I did not expect was while being of service; I increased my business 300% and Joey 500% .


4. Have you always been in this particular field? Do you have a history in this area? Have you always had an interest in this field?

I was not always in the alternative health and wellness industry, In fact I did not believe in it at all. I believed this portion of the population to be a bunch of woo-woo hippie shaking tambourine kind of people. Sad but true. I grew up with Crohn’s disease, and was very much absorbed in the medical field. It was not until I was literally in diapers, my hair falling out, skin and bones, miserable and just waiting for death that two individuals who did not know each other recommended a naturopathic Dr for me to see. I was intrigued with the thought of two people in a large city recommending the same person, and given the fact that I really did not care anymore I went. Three months later, I was in remission for the first time in years. It is sad, and I see this all the time in my practice, especially when I worked in the Chronic Illness and Cancer centre that we are not driven to the alternative until it is out of desperation.


I learned quickly that there was something to this, and wanted to go to school to absorb as much education as possible. My only problem was the financial part. I had been nominated for a prestigious award at my work place that came with a substantial money award. I decided that if I won, it was a sign for me to go to this school. I did win the award, and after taxes it was the exact amount of the two year tuition-coincidence? I think not! What was even more incredible, my company’s school program actually covered the cost of tuition, allowing me to purchase my books, and maintain the rent on my home. I have never looked back and have been pain and medication free for 10 years!


5. How much support did you receive when you first started out?

Toronto is a big city, and it seemed that support was not an option. I modeled myself after others, and partnered with liaisons for referrals. One of the biggest supports is the fact that in Ontario, my credentials and registry was covered under the Ontario Health Insurance plan via extended health care benefits. My registry allowed for clients to pay me, and be reimbursed by their company. Moving to the United States was such a shock. I no longer had the prestige of coverage under insurance. My biggest support at this point came from my daughter and my husband. Without the two of them, I would not have become the success I am today. I also met another through twitter another support, Carolyn Aken, Raw Food Chef and Health Coach to Women who was my sounding board, and would look over my material. I am grateful for her too.


6. Is there anything that you wish you would have done or handled differently?

I don’t think there is anything I would have done differently or handled differently because I believe that everything happens in the right time place and sequence. What I know now, I may not have been ready for a year ago, etc. However, with that said, I do wish that I had taken my material and put into E-book form long ago. I wish I had gotten on the social media band-wagon long ago so that I could understand how effectively I could use it to grow my business. But then again, I probably was not ready. You see; the right time place and sequence.


7. What was your biggest hurdle in developing and growing your business?

My biggest hurdle was living in limbo for three years waiting for my Immigration Visa to come through to move to the United States. It was tough not knowing how long I was going to be in Toronto, and could not lay roots in Arizona during that time. It was difficult to understand the culture via the internet, as I really needed to be there to understand how it all worked, after all not only was it a new city, but a new country.


As a “solo- entrepreneur ” start up with limited financial resources meant I had to do it all myself, creating a huge learning curve, but has made me a stronger person. I am the social media coach, writer, author, editor, producer, video editor, sales, marketing, life coach, Mom and chauffer. I am grateful to learn new roles as it makes me stronger and more knowledgeable.


8. How did you stay motivated or what kept you motivated whenever you hit a bump/pothole in the road or a difficult time?

Motivation is having a plan. When I would lose steam, I would refer back to my goals and plans. My ultimate goal is to own my own island with my home and wellness centre on it. That picture, keeps me motivated.


I also believe in taking time for myself, because that regenerates and reconnects me with the Universe. I find people in business do not take time out for themselves out of guilt. What good is a stressed out ill person in their business? Absolutely no help at all! I take mental days and go hiking with my best friend Lisa and reconnect with nature, which grounds me and puts me back on track. Once a month (I try for more) I gather up the family and spend the day exploring a part of Arizona.


My husband Ernie is also my rock. He is there when I need a boost of confidence, to see things differently or to keep me motivated. He travels weekly and is not with me physically, but is always on the other end of the phone when I need him. I am fortunate to have the time to bounce ideas off of him and have his “consulting-MBA business brain” to see where that would effectively fit in with my business model.


I have the opportunity to spend time in San Diego and I will go there and work just for a change of scenery. What grounds me the most is putting my feet in beach sand. Once I have ground myself, I then slip back into work mode.


I truly believe that the future, is what is happening right now in my life. If I don’t take care of me, rest and have fun, this will not be available in the future. I have days where I get frustrated, feel depressed, and have thoughts of doubt. I stop and look at what is out of balance, and deal with the imbalance and get back on track.


9. There are quite a few women who are seeking to do what you do. What advice would you give them to get started on that path?

Find your story and your passion. If you think you are going to heal the world, it will be like leading the horse to water...well you know. If you come from a place of passion and your story, you will be able to connect with others. It is your story that the passion comes from, which opens the Universe to bring you what you need. For example, I wanted to help people get healthy, and lose weight, and I was struggling with such resistance that I had to revaluate. I got into this field because of my own health issues. And that is where I have been able to make a difference in other’s lives. Struggling in my own business in the beginning allowed for me to come from a place of passion through my Business RehabTM Program.


• Have a plan; write out your 1 year, 2 year, 5 year, 10 year goals and what retirement looks like for you. Then write out what you need in order to achieve those goals. Revisit your goals frequently.


• Find a couple of people in your profession that are doing well, and figure out what it is that they are doing, and be inspired.


• Get into and learn social media and video marketing. Newsletters do not have the same Clout.


• Think of how you can be of service to your clients and potential clients. Give tips, write articles, have a blog with a sign up to capture emails.


• Connect with organizations that could use your services and give talks, workshops etc.


There are so many tips that I could give, but I really believe the biggest tip is to do just do it. Don’t allow peers, friends or family to talk you out of your passion. Seek out those that will support what you do. Don’t give up, if something does not work, evaluate and do it differently. Call me if you need motivation!



10. What is it that you want your business/service to contribute to the world? To people? To the environment?

Without health and wellness you have nothing. You can have all the wealth in the world, but if you are ill, how can you enjoy it? My business contributes to anyone who truly wants a better lifestyle. But it goes beyond that. I want to inspire through key note speaking so that I can reach the masses. If I can influence or inspire one person in that room, I feel I have changed a nation. My programs are about transformation and evolution, so that that person can then influence and inspire another; it is a viral effect. My programs are about educating on their environment, and the world’s environment. Through knowledge; that “aha-moment” is the conscious transformation of their environment, and the environment of others. We can be talked at all day long, it is not until we engage that we truly understand, and then want to make a difference. I bring the knowledge to them, I have them research their food products, personal hygiene products and cleaning products and it’s at this point that it becomes intimate. This gives them the empowerment to want change. I can then provide them tips, tools, techniques and resources to empower change. This to me is the biggest gift I can give to our planet.


11. Is there anything new & exciting that we can expect from you and your business in the future?

Great question! My business is always evolving. I am writing my story about struggles and triumphs with Crohn’s Disease. It will also involve my knowledge on the subject and what is out there to help another take control and live the life they were meant to live. I have my friends, Raw food Chef Carolyn Akens of CarloynAkens.com adding her expertise on the connection of raw foods and health. My friend Natalie Lauzon, Homeopathic Doctor and Director of Research and Regulatory Affairs at CanPrev Canada lending her expertise on how homeopathic medicine that can help with Chron’s Disease.


I am excited about this new adventure, and I know I will be touring and inspiring others with chronic illness to take control and get back to their life. Look for the release of this book late next year.


 
You can connect with Karen at:
 
My website (still under construction):  http://karenlangston.com/


The Karen and Joey Show:  http://www.thekarenandjoeyshow.com/

6 Degree of Health and Wellness:  http://www.6degreesofhealthandwellness.com/

Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/#!/KarenLangstonNutritionist

Twitter:  http://twitter.com/KarenLangston


*A special note to Karen:
Wow! First, I want to thank you for doing this interview. I had heard and read of you before this interview, but honestly thought you probably wouldn't be interested in doing this. How silly of me! Secondly, I thank you for sharing your story, your journey to entrepreneurship. Thanks for allowing your experience and your words of wisdom to encourage, inspire and motivate other women. I can't wait for your book and one day hope to meet you in person.
Peace and blessings,

Post Title → DECEMBER HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR - KAREN LANGSTON

OCTOBER HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR - SUNCEAR SCRETCHEN

DC Comics Hawkwoman

Heroine - 1. A woman noted for courage and daring action.


2. A woman noted for special achievement in a particular field. (from freedictionary.com)



Meet October's Heroine Entrepreneur..
 

...Suncear Scretchen

 
 
1 . Tell us about your business, products, services and what makes it special or unique.

As a Health Coach, in a nutshell, I help people lead healthier lifestyles. I specialize in women who suffer from thyroid disorders but I also work with anyone who wants to lose weight, gain energy and just feel better overall.

2 . How was it birthed?
Over 10 years ago, I was diagnosed with Graves Disease (which is a form of hypothyroidism) and
I knew it was because I was very unhappy in life at the time. That’s when the concept of balance
really took form for me. Taking care of yourself emotionally, physically, spiritually and mentally
seemed to be the key to being healthy. However, I didn’t recognize it as a life purpose until I had a
challenging 2009. I knew I was on the wrong path in life so I became a certified Holistic Health Coach.

3 . How did you begin? What were the first steps that you took?
I enrolled at the Institute of Integrative Nutrition (if you are interested in attending, please use me as
a reference.) Prior to that I started a blog on Conscious living (www.theconsciouschick.com) to help
establish myself as a health and wellness expert.

4 . Have you always been in this particular field? Do you have a history in this area?
I’ve always been pretty Conscious- even as a child- but like so many others, my emotional state dictated what I was consuming. It wasn’t until I left behind my 12 years of experience in the music industry that it became a passion. There’s not a lot of healthy living in the entertainment world :)

5 . How much support did you receive when you first started out?
Most people were behind my decision to pursue this as a career but you always have the skeptics who
point to the economy and say “this is a tough time to start a business.” They may be correct in some ways but I feel the timing is right for me.

6 . Is there anything that you wish you would have done or handled differently?
I wish I had pursued this sooner as a side gig. There is a national conversation going on right now
regarding health, obesity, insurance, etc. It’s great to be in the midst of it but competition is heating up.

7 . What was your biggest hurdle in developing and growing your business?
Not having the funds to hire the right people to take it to the next level- PR, Web Designer, etc. I had to do some of it myself and it’s very time-consuming.

8 . How did you stay motivated or what kept you motivated whenever you hit a bump/pothole in the
road or a difficult time?

Knowing that this is the path that I am supposed to be on has kept me going.

9 . There are quite a few women who are seeking to become a Holistic Health Coach. What advice
would you give them?
Be open to learning things about yourself as you help others. Have a genuine passion for health and wellness. And attend a school that helps you with setting up your business.

1 0 . Is there anything new & exciting that we can expect from your business in the future?

Ultimately, I envision having a wellness empire with a dessert line, books, films and most urgently,
Conscious beauty products. I will be launching a Conscious Chick organic cosmetic line featuring items like lip balm, face toners and perfumes in the near future.
I love it!! How exciting!

A personal note for Suncear:
Many thanks for agreeing to do this. I absolutely love what you've shared with us. Thanks for opening your life's book up to inspire us. You've certainly said some things that have touched me. I wish you great success with your wellness empire! And I'm certainly looking forward to your Conscious Chick organic cosmetic line!
{{Hugs}},


Find more information on Suncear Scretchen, Holistic Health Coach:
http://www.suncerewellness.com/
http://www.theconsciouschick.com/

Post Title → OCTOBER HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR - SUNCEAR SCRETCHEN

CALLING ALL HEROINE ENTREPRENEURS!!

DC Comics Heroines by Kevenn T. Smith

Calling all female entrepreneurs whose business falls under holistic, all-natural, organic, free range, vegan, raw vegan, eco-friendly, fair trade, green lifestyle and/or sustainable living. If your business or service falls under one, several or all of these categories and you’d like to be featured as a Heroine Entrepreneur on ChocolateOrchid.blogspot.com, please contact me ChocolateOrchid08@gmail.com .

Post Title → CALLING ALL HEROINE ENTREPRENEURS!!

SEPTEMBER HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR...... FLEURTZY

Storm from X-Men of Marvel Comics

What is a heroine?....
According to Merriam-Webster online dictionary:


A heroine is - a: a mythological or legendary woman having the qualities of a hero b: a woman admired and emulated for her achievements and qualities.

Introducing September's Heroine Entrepreneur.....

Fleurzty of La Boutique de Fleurzy

 
1. Tell us about your business, products, services and what makes it special or unique.

My business began as a blog. I started Texture Playground to research and share some information about natural hair care. I found myself drawn to the blog, writing and the readers as time went by. At the same time, I began experimenting more and more with some old recipes, some of which became the very products I now share with my customers.


The products are all-natural, including the preservatives and fragrances that are used. Three out of the four products currently available in the boutique are fragranced solely with essential oils. The focus of my line of products is to do more with less. They are heavily concentrated and effective, so a little bit goes a long way. The products also don’t use any filler ingredients, solely what is needed for maximum effectiveness within the recipe.


2. How was it birthed?

Texture Playground and La Boutique de Fleurzty both birthed out of passion and excitement. The same fuels that continue to drive their operation day to day.


3. What sparked the development of your business? How did you begin?

Believe it or not, I did my first big chop about 4 months before my wedding. I was seriously thinking about the idea of going natural and ridding myself of the harsh chemicals that I regularly subjected my hair and scalp to. My fiancé, now my husband, was very supportive and even took me to the stylist. Just as a symbol of my immaturity in the natural hair world, we went to Super Cuts! LOL! I learned a lot in the first years, much of which is now shared on the website. The products came on much later, and were the result of testing, sharing with family and friends and much kitchen play. After finalizing the Nurturing Treatment Oil, I shared the recipe with my readers who loved it. I also began making products for family members. We all loved the products. Little by little, I felt myself moving in the product creation direction.


4. Have you always been in this particular field? Do you have a history in this area?

I don’t have a history in the field of natural hair care and culture. It began with the research that I did for a few months prior to my first big chop in November 2004. I did my undergrad in psychology and my graduate degree is in Cultural Studies and Conflict Resolution.


5. How much support did you receive when you first started out?

By the time I actually launched the products, all my readers were already anticipating them. It was great to see the outpouring of love and support. I could have not asked for a better group, more supportive beginning.


6. Is there anything that you wish you would have done or handled differently?

I took the time to research, plan, and manage all of the necessary steps to start my hair journey, website, and products. A lot of the information I learned during those times spent on preparations has not been used, some will never be in fact! I think it has made me a better business woman and a more educated consumer, but I would be more discerning in the information I read and the time I allocate to that if given the chance.


7. What was your biggest hurdle in developing your business?

 My biggest hurdle has come in a tri-pack, time, energy and finances. Being able to manage my time between family and business; having enough energy to get the work done that I know needs to get done; and of course, being able to financially support my ideas so that they can grow. This can all be summed up in a 4-letter word, L – I – F – E! What I have found is that there is no time that will be a, “good time.” I have decided to take action toward my dream, and have been blessed with success, thus far.

8. How did you stay motivated or what kept you motivated whenever you hit a bump/pothole in the road or a difficult time?

There are several things that keep me pressing forward and in no particular order I will discuss a few that come to mind. The first would be my faith. I have a passion for what I do because it is what I enjoy, but I also know that God has a plan for me and I believe that he has blessed me with strength to allow the rough times to simply smooth out edges. The second would be my readers and supporters. I feel so humbled to hear others speak highly about my products, website, posts, and other contributions to the natural hair community. It is difficult to put into words, but it is an awesome feeling when you know that you are positively influencing so many women from different walks of life and figuratively speaking, liberating some of them from the restrictions of beauty and their natural afro hair. I would be remiss to not mention my hubby. He supports me and my work and does not allow me to give up. He is adamant about my progress and so is our son who supports in his very toddler-ways.


Thankfully I also have a host of siblings and friends who make their support known. I am grateful for my surroundings and constant encouragement and appreciation.


9. There are quite a few women who are seeking to do what you’ve done. What advice would you give them?

 This may not be the answer that someone would like to hear, but the best advice I can give is, ‘be yourself.’ You’re more likely to succeed and find a niche, if you think about what you love, and allow your personality to shine through. If your idea is to provide a natural hair service, do think of where you can serve best. It may be as broad as natural hair care or you need to specialize and cater to the care of a particular style. Wherever your heart leads you, follow it!

10. Is there anything new & exciting that we can expect from your business in the future?

Absolutely, but I am not ready to share much just yet. Don’t want to say too much prematurely ;-) Rest assured, I am working on some items for La Boutique de Fleurzty, some writing projects for Texture Playground and some more fun stuff for the Fall.


And there you have it. Another insightful and encouraging interview for all of you newbie biz owners, wanna-be biz owners and everyone else.

You can connect with Fleurzty at:
Her blog: Texture Playground
Her Store: La Boutique de Fleurzty
Youtube: Texture Playground Channel
Email: Fleurzty@textureplayground.com

**A special note to Fleurzty
Thanks for agreeing to do this interview. I count myself fortunate to have connected with you on the web. I remember following your blog soon after you created it. Loving your informative posts. And when I saw that you decided to go for it and create your own products, I was so excited and moved. I heart all who go after making their dreams and hearts desire a reality. Thanks for sharing yourself, your experience and your wonderful products with us. I pray for your continued success and growth in your business, your family and yourself.
Much love to ya!

Post Title → SEPTEMBER HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR...... FLEURTZY

AUGUST HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR....LAQUITA

Isis

 Heroine - 1. A woman noted for courage and daring action.



2. A woman noted for special achievement in a particular field. (from freedictionary.com)

Introducing August Heroine Entrepreneur.....

                           ......Laquita of Bobeam Natural Hair Products

1. Tell us about your business, products, services and what makes it special or unique.


Under the Bobeam Natural Hair Products I sell shampoo bars, hair teas, conditioners, moisturizers and accessories. Little to my surprise, I guess outside of the natural hair care world not everyone knows about shampoo bars so many first-time buyers consider them to be very unique. The shampoo bars contain no SLS or SLES, detergents, surfactants, or sulfates. They are all-natural, 100% vegetable soap, non-comedogenic, hypo-allergenic and biodegradable.

Also the hair teas – are unique as well because they way they are package in actual tea bags.


2. How was it birthed? What sparked the development of it?

Bobeam Products came about by way of me trying to create a shampoo bar that wasn’t drying or felt like it totally stripped my hair after washing. I started playing around with mixing oils like Shea Butter and Olive Oil in the shampoo bases and after many trials came across a formula that worked well for me. I started making them for myself then giving them away as gifts for my family and friends. My mother suggested that I start charging people who kept coming back for more.


3. How did you begin?

I decided to start selling the shampoo bars online. My stepfather, who is from Ghana came up with the name ‘Bobeam’ it is from the Ghanaian language Twi – and means 'the way it was created' and it characterizes all of the shop items - they are all handmade. I decided to start by setting up and Etsy.com shop to see how the shampoo bars would sell. Once they started to do well, I added the hair teas and other items.

I still liked the idea of giving the bars as gifts – there are so many people who would like to incorporate natural products into their routine but can’t afford the high prices – of course, I realize in order to keep the business going and me from bankruptcy I have to charge something for the items, but I try to keep the prices as low as possible. Also I use proceeds of the sales to go to various charities as well as a way to give back to those in need.

With the new accessory line, I plan to give at least 50% or more of all proceeds to charities. The proceeds from the sale of the Bobeam flower clips will go to the 1 in 8 Foundation.org (via KimzWimz Cancer Awareness Blogtalk Radio Show titled 'Detection Detectives')- to aid in the fight against cancer.


4. Have you always been in this particular field? Do you have a history in this area?

My mother has been in every type of own-your-own business venture there is from Mary Kay to Organic foods, being surrounded by all types of products and observing my mother's 'one women show' and hearing her repeatedly say "Be your own boss" inevitably led me to start my own business venture, and since I am a fanatic about all things natural hair, and love researching, and experimenting with essential oils, butters and herbs natural hair products is a business I will never get tired of.


5. How much support did you receive when you first started out?

I got lots of support from my family and friends – who pretty much all said the same phrase “it’s about time!” when I told them I would start selling products.


6. Is there anything that you wish you would have done or handled differently?

The main thing that I would have handled differently is actually ‘starting’ the business. I talked about selling the shampoo bars for years before I sat down and set up the site which took only minutes to do.


7. What was your biggest hurdle in developing your business?

The biggest hurdle was me – I didn’t think I would have the money to start a business, i.e. for packaging, supplies, labels etc… But once I got started I saw that it didn’t require much at all to get started.


8. How did you stay motivated or what kept you motivated whenever you hit a bump/pothole in the road or a difficult time? Or what is keeping you motivated?

My main motivators are the customers. I have been getting so much feedback and it is very helpful. I love all feedback whether from people who say they love everything and from those who say something doesn’t work well from them. I love tweaking the products/ingredients – being a ‘kitchen chemist’.


9. There are quite a few women who are seeking to do what you’ve done. What advice would you give them?

The main advice would be to do your research – check out other people who are doing what you want to do or similar to what you want to do, especially those who are succeeding. If possible check out what their customers are saying – find out where there is a need and fulfill it.


The next thing I would say to those seeking to start a natural hair products business or any business venture is to – (borrowing Nike’s tagline) – “Just Do It!” Again, I talked for years about starting a business and it just took minutes to do so.


10. Is there anything new & exciting that we can expect from your business in the future?

I have just started testing new scents for the Bobeam Shea Moisturizer (which is my first ‘fragrance scented’ product. I also plan to add more hair accessories. A Bobeam frequent buyer/referral program is in the works. And I will be adding more charities with opportunities to donate by purchasing items.


Needless to say, I had to encourage Laquita to share all of the other numerous things that she does. Some of you may be more familiar with her following resume points. So go ahead and share, Missy. =)


Aside from making natural hair products, I work full time as a transcript editor (editing financial earnings calls from oil, textile, fashion, medical and the food industry as well as CNN/MSN/Bloomberg news captions). But I am trying to break into the freelance writing business, I would love to use my Journalism degree and combine it with my 'obsession' with natural hair and turn writing natural hair articles into a business.


To build up my 'freelance' resume, I write for and contribute to several online publications. Most know I write natural hair articles for Clutch Magazine, but aside from Clutch below is the list of others.


Clutch Magazine - latest article - interview with T’Keyah Crystal Keymah
http://clutchmagonline.com/newsgossipinfo/spotlight-natural-hair-celebrity-tkeyah-crystal-keymah/


I'm the DC Natural Hair Examiner for Examiner.com
http://www.examiner.com/x-9837-DC-Natural-Hair-Examiner


I contribute to Afro Glitz online Magazine/Societal Networking site
http://afroglitzmag.com/beauty/hair-beauty-2/the-natural-hair-waves-natural-hair-then-and-now/


Kinnks.com - Monthly Guest Blogger - I will be writing about the business of natural hair
http://www.kinnks.com/blog/index.php/site/C10/


ebraiding.net/eNaturlas.net - where I'm an Advisory Board Member and newsletter contributor (I’ll also be contributing to its upcoming International Sanata (natural/braid) Magazine that will be launched in December)

Sign up for the free newsletter and customer discount card here - http://www.ebraiding.net/index.php


I also have a couple of blogs, All Naptural Blog and Naptural Hair Story, which is a work-in-progress novel I'm writing centered around natural hair.


**A note for Laquita**
You are one of my  SHE-ro's!! Thanks so much for taking time out to do this interview. You have and continue to be one of the kindest and most supportive women that I've met in the blogosphere. I am truly fortunate to have made your aquaintance. May God continue to bless you, your family, your business and many ventures. Sending much love and positive energy your way.
{{Hugs}},
ChocolateOrchid

Post Title → AUGUST HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR....LAQUITA

JULY HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR - SCARLETT of WONDERCURL

Major Motoko Kusanagi (Ghost In A Shell anime')
by Mynwbckgrnd

Heroine - 1. A woman noted for courage and daring action.


2. A woman noted for special achievement in a particular field. (freedictionary.com)

Introducing July's Heroine Entrepreneur.......

Scarlett of Wonder Curl products

1. Tell us about your business, products, services and what makes it special or unique.


Wonder Curl is a family of products designed specifically for the unique needs of curly-haired individuals. The most unique part of Wonder Curl is the simplicity in the products and how easy they are to use. Most curlies know that it usually takes 3 or 4 (sometimes more) products to get the look you desire. With our flagship product, Get Set Hair Jelly, that's all you need and for extra moisture you can use Get Slick Hair Smoothie. Either can be used alone or together. The Get Slick Hair Smoothie can also be used to refresh your curls and spot de-frizz sections.



2. How was it birthed?

Simply, I wanted to create hair products that I loved and wanted to use.



3. What sparked the development of your business? How did you begin?

Wonder Curl first began as a resource for other curly girls to learn about their hair through my own experiences. It turned into a business when I created Get Set Hair Jelly because I found myself mixing four different products in my hair and spending over an hour applying those products. I spoke to friends who had similar dilemmas. So, I began researching ingredients and testing different formulations on myself until I found the perfect formulation.When it was ready for market, I set up an eCrater account which is a free marketplace. I set up a Facebook account, Twitter account and spent hours studying the different blogs and youtube videos that catered to curly hair.



4. Have you always been in this particular field? Do you have a history in this area?

I worked for a start-up technology company for several years, that exposure has helped me tremendously in starting my own business, especially as a person with a marketing background. I am also a girlie girl who loves products and packaging. Creating Wonder Curl has been a natural fit for me because curly hair is my passion. I can talk to anyone about my hair, my woes and triumphs all day for days! I also tell people that all Curly haired people by default are chemists.



5. How much support did/have you receive(d) when you first started out?

I just launched Wonder Curl this February and the response has been overwhelmingly great. So far everyone I've told about Wonder Curl are genuinely impressed and ask me more questions about the business and product. My family have been particularly supportive and they've been spreading the word to everyone they know.



6. Is there anything that you wish you would have done or handled differently?

Since I'm still pretty new, I haven't had time to make too many mistakes. The few that I've made I learn from to not repeat them. My biggest struggle is to stay fully stocked and keeping track so I can reorder what I need on time.



7. What was your biggest hurdle in developing your business?

Creating the formulation for Get Set Hair Jelly. I wanted to make sure this was absolutely perfect before going to market. I've tested so many versions on myself and used friends as my testers also. When I got my first "I love it" review, I knew it was ready. Finances are also a hurdle and having to decide on what I really need as opposed to what I want for the business. Creating a budget and having the right accounting software to track everything is key.



8. How do you stay motivated or what keeps you motivated whenever you hit a bump/pothole in the road or a difficult time?

I believe that Wonder Curl is now bigger than me and I have no other option but to keep it going and make it happen for my customers. I appreciate the repeat business and the reviews people send me when they love a product. To discontinue these amazing products would be cruel ;-)



9. There are quite a few women who are seeking to do what you’ve done. What advice would you give them?

My advice to anyone looking to do this is "to do it", ask lots of questions, find others who have done it and latch onto them for as long as possible. You get the best information from others who have run their own businesses. The Internet is your best friend. I spend hours online researching vendors, software, blogsites, everything that can be relevant to my business. Have a streamlined business model and implement them early to save you from headaches later on. Lastly, be prepared to have several titles. I am the Creator, President, VP of Marketing, COO, CFO and Administrative Assistant of Wonder Curl!



10. Is there anything new & exciting that we can expect from your business in the future?

Get Slick Hair Smoothie is the latest product that I'm crazy about. The next product I'm working on will be an "Everyday Spray" something that you can use before/after and anytime. I prefer products with multi-uses and plays well with others. You will also be able to see me on youtube with a set of How-to videos and "Curls just Wanna Have Fun" series where curly girls discuss their hair.



I'd like to do a promotion for your readers when you post the interview:


Buy a 16oz Get Set Hair Jelly, get 4oz Get Slick Hair Smoothie Free


Buy an 8oz Get Set Hair Jelly, get 2oz Get Slick Hair Smoothie Free


Buy an 8oz Get Slick Hair Smoothie, get 2oz Get Set Hair Jelly Free


All they would have to do is type 'Chocolate Orchid sent me' in the ordering instructions and the free product will automatically be included made with the same scent.

**A note for Scarlett**
Thanks for taking the time to share your experience and what you've learned along the way with everyone.  It's always exciting to watch entrepreneurs blossom! I wish you much success with your product line, your business and in life.
Peace and Blessings,
ChocolateOrchid
 
 
You can check out and purchase Wonder Curl products at WonderCurl.com
You can find Scarlett at her blog Wonder Curl.

Post Title → JULY HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR - SCARLETT of WONDERCURL

MAY HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR - REBECCA CARLSON + A GIVEAWAY

Heroine - 1. A woman noted for courage and daring action.
2. A woman noted for special achievement in a particular field.


Hola Beautifuls! I am happy to introduce you to this month's Heroine Entrepreneur...

                                                         ....Rebecca Carlson

1. Tell us about your business, products, services and what makes it special or unique.


Purely Delicious is a quarterly raw and eco-friendly lifestyle magazine. One thing that makes it unique is the production quality (design, quality of printing, professional writing and photography). Additionally, the fact that we are not focused on one small aspect of raw food, but on the entire lifestyle, from green products, pets and makeup to interviews, recipes and fitness makes us unique. The content of Purely Delicious is specifically geared to help people make small steps toward their goals, so we appeal to beginners as well as well seasoned raw foodists.


Our online retail store, 123RAW.COM, offers a full line of raw food products and eco-friendly items, such as bamboo towels and sheets and soy candles. 123RAW has the same target demographic and operating philosophy as Purely Delicious, and both the magazine and the store are focused on giving back to the community.



2. Purely Delicious is a high quality print magazine. How did you come about developing and delivering such a great product?

Thank you – that is very kind. One of my primary goals when I bought Purely Delicious, was to produce something that looked just as slick and professional as a Gourmet or Food and Wine magazine, but with a raw and eco-lifestyle angle. Luckily, I was able to call on my experience as a designer to help bring the raw message to a more mainstream audience. But I certainly couldn’t do it without the help and support of a lot of talented and wonderful individuals co-laboring with me.



3. What sparked the development of and idea for your business?

Before I embraced the raw lifestyle, I was at one of those life-turning points. I was successful in my career as a creative director, but had been doing it for many years and the stress was taking its toll on me. I knew I wanted to do something different but I wasn't sure what. Meanwhile, I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, which eventually led me to discover the raw food diet. Once my MS symptoms started going away and I was once again feeling so good, the diet evolved into a personal mission to help people by using the talents and skills developed over the course of my career.


4. Have you always been in the magazine industry? Do you have a history in this area?

I was a designer and a creative director for many years. I had the good fortune to work with some fun and wonderful clients, such as Animal Planet and Discovery Channel, and I also had the opportunity to work on a magazine for six or seven years. So the magazine industry wasn’t a new thing to me, though I was previously responsible only for the design, and was not involved in the editorial aspect. Now I work on all facets of production So while there has certainly been a steep learning curve, it's not as bad as if I hadn't had some past connection to the magazine industry.



5. How much support did you receive when you first started out?

Some people were incredibly supportive, such as my mom, husband and best friend. But I also met with quite a bit of resistance from people who were worried I was making a big mistake. They counseled me to go back to the safety of a full-time position, etc. But looking back – and even now – It seems that whenever I spoke a need, a few days later out of the blue someone would show up and volunteer to help or otherwise solve the problem. So, in that sense – from proofreaders to writing and photography, etc. -- the raw community has been extremely supportive.



6. Did you always envision you business growing to be sold in major stores like Whole Foods?

Yes. I remember standing there at the checkout line visualizing the cover in the magazine rack. It was only a short time after I did that, Whole Foods e-mailed me with a distribution contract to look over. I would love to see Purely Delicious in every airport and Borders too, but we’re not quite there yet. Baby steps.


7. Is there anything that you wish you would have done or handled differently?

Life is just too short to waste on regret, but I probably would have sought more outside funding earlier in the process and asked for help earlier.


8. What was your biggest hurdle in developing your business?

I think that would have to be the tendency of spreading myself too thin by not delegating and by working on too many projects and ideas at once. Even now, I have three to four binders of back-burner projects I’m just itching to work on.

Finding advertisers in such a down market is a hurdle too. We launched exactly when everyone was cutting back on their advertising budgets. Luckily, businesses are booking space now, especially now that we are in Whole Foods Markets and have received recognition as “Best Raw Magazine of 2009.”



9. How did you stay motivated or what kept you motivated whenever you hit a bump/pothole in the road or a difficult time?

My motivation came – and continues to come – from friends, family, my husband and lots of prayer. The funny thing is that just when I may think, "OK, that’s it – I’m quitting,” I'll receive a lovely and encouraging e-mail or phone call from a subscriber telling me how much the magazine has helped them or how a friend or family member picked it up and started reading it. That’s what keeps me going. I actually created a little mailbox where I place all of the nice e-mails. I need to put a label on it that says “Break glass in case of motivational emergency!”


10. What advice would you give to women who are seeking to do what you are doing?

Don’t make business decisions until you have developed a tight, one- to two-line mission statement defining your goals and values. Then pass every single decision you make through that mission statement to see if it fits. If it doesn’t fit, don’t do it.

Our mission statement is, “We make the raw food and eco-lifestyle understandable and doable for the masses in a fun, creative and upscale way. We give to charity and seek to bring joy and health to mind, body and spirit.” Also, don't be in anything solely for the money. Follow your passion, and the money will present itself


11. Is there anything new & exciting that we can expect from your Purely Delicious magazine in the future?

Absolutely! Some things are still under wraps because they are in development, but we are looking forward to unveiling a new and improved Web site and an online version of the magazine in the very near future.


**A note for Rebecca**
Rebecca, I cannot express to you how much I appreciate your time for this interview. I highly respect your work and am in love with your magazine. I am convinced that the work you do is bringing healthy and conscious living to the awareness of more and more people each day. I wish you great and continued success in your present and future.
Peace and blessings,
ChocolateOrchid
 
You can connect with Rebecca at:
Purely Delicious blog
twitter
123RAW.com
 
****THE GIVEAWAY****
**open to U.S. and Canadian residents only**
I'm sure that there are many of you out there who have no idea what the raw foods lifestyle is about. Or you wonder if its really for you. Or you're just plain curious about it. Maybe you're looking into living a healthier life and you'd like to learn more about it. Well, I am positive that reading Purely Delicious magazine will give you the answers you seek and more.
 
Thanks to the kind and lovely Rebecca Carlson, one person will win a 1-year subscription of Purely Delicious magazine. All that is asked of you is to leave a comment about your desire to embrace a healthier lifestyle and why. You have until Tuesday, May 13th at midnight EST. The winner will be chosen by random.org and announced on Wednesday, May 14th. 
 
I wish you all the best!!
 
 
 
**The top heroine photo is the Marvel comics character, Elektra**

Post Title → MAY HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR - REBECCA CARLSON + A GIVEAWAY

MARCH HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR - CAROLYN AKENS

Heroine - 1. A woman noted for courage and daring action.
2. A woman noted for special achievement in a particular field.

Meet this month's Heroine Entrepreneur.......

Carolyn Akens.

1. Tell us about your business, products, services and what makes it special or unique.
I am a certified, master raw foods chef as well as an instructor. And I’m also a weight-loss coach. I promote well-being thru raw foods. I train people to become raw foods chefs and instructors. I also have a weight-loss side to my business.

2. How was it birthed? What sparked the development of it?
I feel that the only way you can be successful in losing weight is to lose it the natural way. That is by incorporating raw food and vegan food. That’s the way I did it. I found myself weighing 185 lbs at 5’4. So that put me into the obese category based on my bmi (body mass index). The thing that really brought it to the fore-front for me was my 45 year old younger brother died from complications from being morbidly obese. That was a wake-up call for me in the worse way. His death really made me look at myself. I decided that I had to change and began looking at raw foods.

I utilized raw foods to lose weight and in the process created a weight-loss system! What I found was that you will lose the weight you need to lose. And then your weight-loss will level off. I weigh 125 lbs and I haven’t weighed that since I was in my 20’s. I will be 60 years young this year and I feel great! I don’t look like something is wrong with me, i.e. anorexic or gaunt. I have so much energy whereas before I suffered from high cholesterol, migraine headaches and arthritis in my lower back. I don’t have any of those ailments anymore.


3. Have you always been in this particular field? Do you have a history in this area?
I began my culinary career in 2001. Before then, I was in corporate working for a Fortune 500 company. I was employed with them for years. Cooking was something that I always loved and enjoyed. Especially baking. For years I had my own personal chef service where I prepared and delivered meals to my clients. Once I discovered raw foods, it made sense for me to convert to it (raw foods) and go to school to become a master raw foods chef and instructor.


4. How much support did you receive when you first started out?
I got a lot of support. My children, grandchildren, and friends were very supportive. My 17 year old grandson will eat anything I prepare. He has really embraced raw foods so he is my tester. I test everything on him. My 16 year old granddaughter has made green smoothies a daily part of her life, and her mom, my daughter, has now embraced raw foods. Yes, my family has been extremely supportive.


5. Is there anything that you wish you would have done or handled differently?
Yes. I just really wish that I hadn’t been like an ostrich with my head in the sand. You know when you’re gaining weight. Your waist expands, clothes fit tight, and you buy clothing with an elastic waistband or clothing that is loose and free-flowing. Had I not been in denial I would have been in a better position to help my brother; however as adults we make our own choices and don’t always want to listen and sometime that decision is deadly. My goal is to make sure that people truly understand the consequences of their decision making process when it comes to food. Eating healthy is not about dieting it is a lifestyle because diets don’t work.


6. What was your biggest hurdle in developing your business?
I haven’t had a lot of hurdles. I expected them but I didn’t get many. I think the hurdles come from being in the South. Meaning this is a meat-n-potatoes land. Pasta. Fried foods. Mac-n-cheese. So when you talk about raw foods, people look at you as if you have a third eye because they don’t want to embrace it. But when I take the time to really sit down and explain it to them and then, do one better and bring them something to taste, that changes. When people know better they do better and change is inevitable.


7. How did you stay motivated or what kept you motivated to continue doing what you do?
Health. I want people to live long and be happy without all the various diseases that infiltrate our bodies. Whether I live to see it happen or not, I want obesity stamped out once and for all. I also want the food industry to take responsibility for this addictive food behavior because of all the GMOs and addictive ingredient that is put in food that keeps you coming back for more … it’s very addictive. We acknowledge that there are drug addictions, sex addictions and alcohol addictions, but food addiction is worse because it starts with our children and sets them on an addictive path that leads to adulthood, hence obesity, diabetes, low self-esteem and even suicide. These things keep me motivated.


8. There are quite a few women who are seeking to do what you’ve done. What advice would you give them?
I would say, “Contact me and I will train you on how to become a raw foods chef, as well as an instructor.” I feel there are not enough of us out there. You don’t have to become a “master” raw foods chef but you should learn everything you need to learn to make sure your craft is always on the breaking edge of all the various new things that are happening in the culinary world. Continual learning is very important because we should become life students.
From the instructor side of it, it is really important that once you complete your training as a chef that students knows how to set up their business the correct way. How to set up classes; how to use assistants; pricing classes; determining overhead cost; pricing and costing menu items; back of the room sales; pricing and costing your catering services; recipe development, etc. Setting up your business structure the correct way is crucial. I have created a blueprint just for the culinarian, Mise en Place Marketing Blueprint™ for Success! How to Keep “everything in place” for Your Business. I encourage my students to think outside-the-box to augment their businesses, and I make sure my students get all the tools they need to make them successful.

9. Is there anything new & exciting that we can expect from your business in the future?
I will be traveling this year training chefs and instructors in various states and talking about raw foods. Carolyn’s Raw Foods Institute will also be teaching via Teleseminars, Webinars, YouTube, and DVDs.
I’m also rolling out a licensing program where I will train people on how to become a weight-loss coach using my tried and true weight loss system.

**A note for Carolyn**
It was a pleasure interviewing you. I thank you for taking time out to do this and share your experience and wisdom with everyone else. My deepest thoughts and well wishes for your success in touching and changing the lives of others.
{{Hugs}},


Contact & Information
Carolyn's Raw Foods
twitter: CarolynAkens
email: carolyn@carolynsrawfoods.com

The top picture is of anime' heroine, Izumi Curtis (aka Teacher), from the anime' series Full Metal Alchemist.

Post Title → MARCH HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR - CAROLYN AKENS

FEBRUARY HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR - SHELLEY CHAPMAN

Heroine -1 a: a mythological or legendary woman having the qualities of a hero b: a woman admired and emulated for her achievements and qualities

Introducing February's Heroine Entrepreneur - Shelley Chapman of Naturi Beauty Concepts.


1. Tell us about your business, products, services and what makes it special or unique.
Naturi Beauty Concepts is a brand. We promote radiance by enhancing your core and your crown. For the crown we offer natural hair care products. That started as a result of me not being able to find quality products that “delivered”. And so, I would find myself mixing three and four products in order to get a desired result. The other half of it was learning that the ingredients in them were carcinogenic, they were drying my hair, or they were linked to other diseases. I not only wanted a product that delivered results but a way to promote beauty naturally.
The other part about “nurturing and nourishing your core” is that I’m a personal chef. I provided culinary services for individuals and families. That started out as a passion for cooking. I started cooking and realized that I had a gift for it. I didn’t go to school for culinary arts so I struggled against that for awhile thinking that maybe that didn’t qualify me. But the proof is in the pudding. Anyone who tastes my food doesn’t ask where I went to school or where did I study. Their response is, “Oh, you can cook. Would you mind doing this event for me?”
The entire brand came together as nurturing and nourishing from your crown to your core.

2. How did you begin/start your business?
After I graduated from Harvard (where I pursued my Masters in Psychology), I was on my way to NYU to get a Doctorate because my plan was to become a Psychologist. And while I was at Harvard, a lot of things changed. Nothing bad happened, I just found myself forcing myself to go to class. I was forcing myself to be motivated about the subject. So I realized that I was doing it because I was good at it but not because I loved it. I’ve always done hair and I’ve been a foodie since I came out of the womb. If you read my first blog post at my Naturi Beauty blog, you’ll see that I talk about my passion for food as a child but I never paid attention to those because to me they weren’t real careers. I thought, “I’m not gonna work in a restaurant. I’m not gonna be doing anyone’s hair. I’m not gonna be a beauty stylist”. Those were just my own “isms” growing up. So I was like, “I wanna have something professional. I want to be a psychologist.” I still did hair all the time. And anywhere I traveled, food was a major part of it. I realized that those were my passions and I started pursuing them more. When I moved to New York, I met quite a few women who were entrepreneurs who owned their own natural hair product stores. This one sister I met, Karen of Karen’s Body Beautiful, was instrumental in this. She mentored me for a while. I watched her make products. She had a kitchen set up in her store so you could see her make the products as she sold them. And I realized that it was the same process as cooking. It’s the same art that goes into both of them. It’s the art of taking ingredients that are beneficial and making them into something more. I just took that, started researching and Naturi Beauty was born.

3. How much support did you receive when you first started?
I received a ton of support. I told my mom what I was feeling. She has always been encouraging. She’s always encouraged me to follow my passion. My friends were also very supportive, super excited and eager. They helped me to understand how my brand fit in. They would even speak higher dreams than what I was thinking. When you start something that a lot of other people are doing, then you wonder what sets you apart. Why would people support me over Miss Jessie’s or Karen’s Body Beautiful or Carol’s Daughter and all the other people that are out there.
Then in terms of the food or cooking, I’ve never had anyone meet a plate of mine that they didn’t like. I heard that! (laughs) So that’s always been affirmative.

4. Is there anything you wish you had done or handled differently?
No. Absolutely not. This process has been a journey. Where there are things that we may perceive as a setback, something negative or a hard time, it’s just a blissful opportunity to grow. I think I’m on the perfect divine path and I’m excited about it.

5. Was there anything that you may have considered a hurdle in developing your brand?
Yes. A huge hurdle was battling myself and the brand. Because when you create something people automatically associate it with the creator. And they don’t necessarily let it become its on entity. The other thing is that when we created something it is part of us. So for the longest, Naturi Beauty was like the divine, ultimate version of what I would love to be; which is the nourish, the nurture, you grow. Its’ nourishing yourself and not just through food; through your thoughts, your actions, your words and your environment. And then nourishing yourself with all that. Like being gentle with yourself. Not being too harsh with yourself when you make a mistake. And allowing those elements that help you grow into a better being. I had a hard time because I didn’t know if I was that woman. I thought, “How can I be the CEO of Naturi Beauty Concepts when I’m not necessarily that woman all the time?” It was difficult. And it wasn’t until this year when I started to reconcile that and realize that I am my brand and my brand is me. And the best thing I can do for my clients, customer and devotees is to be honest about that.

6. How long have you been cooking and making hair products?
I’ve been cooking since I was 15. I’ve been cooking for real since I was 18. From the age of 15 to 18, my mother forced me to get in the kitchen with her every weekend. I was like her prep chef and I hated, hated, hated it. Saturday would come and I couldn’t stand it. She would make me get into the kitchen. I felt like I was in “Hell’s Kitchen” (Gordon Ramsay show) because I wanted to be elsewhere watching BET or something. But I give thanks to her because through that I learned a lot. At 19, I went to the Dominican Republic on an exchange program and the food was awesome. I actually went there to learn Spanish, not to eat, but it worked out perfectly. So I realized as my trip was ending, that I wouldn’t be able to find the same dishes in Atlanta. So I began buying cookbooks and collecting recipes because I knew I’d have to prepare myself. And that’s when I started cooking for real. So when I got into the kitchen, it was all second nature. I started making hair products in 2004. Growing up, I was always mixing things, even as a teenager. But as far as hardcore getting into the kitchen, melting and mixing things up- 2004 was the year.

7. How did you stay motivated whenever you hit a bump in the road?
I would say, “My child”. I know this might sound interesting but I don’t have any children yet. I’ve always thought that whatever I do is going to affect my children. I believe that my children will be daughters. Whenever I feel myself slipping, I feel that they are around reminding me of the path I’m supposed to be on. It’s a very spiritual feeling.

8. What advice would you give to women who are seeking to do what you do?
Don’t do it because you feel as if it’s lucrative. Don’t do it because you feel as if it’s going to make you popular. Don’t do it if you feel as if you’re competing with what’s already out there. Do it because, internally, you feel connected to it. Do it because you feel that, divinely, it is your purpose. And when you do bring it you’re spreading more than a product or service. You’re spreading life.

9. Is there anything new and exciting that we can expect from Naturi Beauty in the future?
Yes. Naturi Beauty is revamping for 2010. While the overall brand will stay close to its original roots, it is getting a makeover. My brand manager and I have been working very closely so I’m very excited.
Naturi Beauty is also working very diligently with my producer to hook up with a major network and have a culinary show on air. Also, a culinary book is in the works. And more work and collaborations with other organizations that are promoting beauty. I’m really excited about everything that’s on the horizon for Naturi Beauty.

**A Note for Shelley**
I'm certainly excited for you and Naturi Beauty Concepts. I want to personally thank you for agreeing to this. It was a total pleasure interviewing you. Your spirit is a joy to be around. Thanks for sharing your light with everyone. I wish all the best for you and Naturi Beauty. {{Hugs}}

You can check out Naturi Beauty Concepts services and products here. While Naturi Beauty Concepts culinary services specializes in Vegan and Vegetarian cuisine with a global influence, they also use high quality, free range, organic meat, poultry and seafood. The Naturi Beauty Concepts offers an extraordinary hair product line, Naturi Tress, created by me, Shelley! Using only the most exceptional of ingredients, Naturi Tress caters to those who desire healthy, long, lustrous, defined hair.

You can connect with Naturi Beauty Concepts on twitter here.


The heroine illustration used above is the X-Men character, Jean Grey, of Marvel comics.

Post Title → FEBRUARY HEROINE ENTREPRENEUR - SHELLEY CHAPMAN