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Established in 2007, Huami Magazine was the premiere publication produced by Mykel Media Company LLC. Its focus is to recognize individuals for their achievements and accomplishments and to connect African American owned businesses with African American consumers. Huami Magazine is primarily an online publication and offers editions for Memphis and Nashville, TN, Richmond, VA, and Greenville and Spartanburg, SC, Charleston, SC, Greensboro/High Point, Burlington, and Winston Salem, NC, Dallas/Fort Worth, TX, Houston, TX, Huntsville, AL, Arkansas, California, New York, New Jersey, Detroit, MI, St. Louis, MO, Philadelphia, PA, Milwaukee, WI, Florida, Indianapolis, IN, Chicago, IL, Cleveland, OH, Atlanta, GA, Hampton Roads, VA, Mississippi, and the DMV (DC, MD, VA). Huami Magazine also provides effective and affordable marketing and promotional services to small businesses.

Episode 76: Will Casterlow and Triad PC Solutions 01/24/2024

Episode 75: Keith Siler and Siler's Cane Corso's 01/19/2024

Episode 75: Keith Siler and Siler's Cane Corso's He has been called a dog whisperer. The familiar adage, dogs are a man’s best friend, rings true for over half a million households across the United States. According to the Forbes Advisor, 66% of Americans own pets, totaling nearly 89.6 million homes. Of that 89.6 million, 65.1 million are dog owners. (Information based on Pet Ownership Statistics 2024) The numbers mentioned are based on registered ownership of dogs; however, they don’t account for the countless number of people who have picked up strays or acquired a dog from a friend of a friend. Needless to say, owning a dog is a part of American culture, but what’s not typical is finding legitimate breeders who take pride in ensuring the animals they breed are worthy of their bloodline. Keith Siler is anything but typical. Keith is a breeder of the Italian Cane Corso. “The Cane Corso is a large breed originally called Italian Mastiffs. They are a beautiful breed and intelligent protectors,” Keith explains. The Cane Corso’s lineage goes back to ancient Roman times, and the breed’s name roughly translates from the Latin as ‘bodyguard-dog.’ Keith shares he was initially attracted to the Corso because of their beauty and their complex reputation. According to the American Kennel Club, the Cane Corso is smart, trainable, and of noble bearing. They also identify the breed as being assertive, confident, and fearless protectors. Throughout Keith’s life, he has always loved dogs. “As a kid, I always loved animals. It didn’t matter if it was a stray mutt or not. I just loved dogs,” Keith explained. “When I was eleven, my mom bought me a pit bull terrier as a pet, and I’ve had a heart for the breed ever since.” Keith would begin his breeding journey with the American Pit Bull Terrier and shared that, like the Corse breed, American Pit Bulls are often misunderstood. “Pit Bulls are no more dangerous than any other breed. They require love like all dogs, but most importantly, you have to know how to train the animal.” In his late teens or early twenties, Keith started to study breeding, and he wanted to become an advocate for the pit bull terrier. “My goal wasn’t just to breed the dog but to help save the bloodline. I believed that with proper breeding, I could create a stronger breed of the terrier and help change its reputation,” he shares. The American Pit Bull Terrier was categorized as a fighting dog breed in 19th-century England for just that purpose. The American Kennel Club doesn’t recognize it as a distinct breed, but its cousin, the American Staffordshire Terrier, is. The love of the breed and seeing American Pit Bulls flourish is what has kept Keith going for almost thirty years. During this period, he was faced with the challenge of helping the American Pit Bull Terrier escape its image as a savage fighter. “As a kid, I didn’t know what I had. It was a pet, a friend, and a companion to me. It wasn’t until I became an adult that I learned what the Pit Bull breed was created for and why people wanted them. I felt like they were given a label because of how people chose to train and use them, not for what they were. For me, they were affectionate, protective, friendly, and playful, and I believed they could gain a different reputation with proper breeding. Yet, no matter what I did. I couldn’t seem to move the needle,” he says. Breeding and boarding animals is an expensive business that can yield big dividends. Still, buyers didn’t want to invest in the quality that Keith had poured his soul into. “The biggest issue I came across was that people wanted quality but didn’t want to pay for it. I had a good reputation, but because I was from the area, people assumed my dogs were subpar,” Keith explained. “In truth, I was able to achieve my goal of creating a stronger bloodline with the American Pit Bull Terrier, but no one was willing to pay for the quality of the animal.” A period of rest would settle upon Keith, and he took a ten-year break from the breeding business. As fate would have it, his love for dogs brought him back. “I was disappointed that in all that time, I hadn’t succeeded in helping change people’s perspective of the Pit Bull. I had to realize that I was only one person. I could only do so much.” Keith shared. “I wanted to give breeding another try because I loved what I did.” This time, he ensured everything would be in place to make his breeding business successful, which involved finding the right dog. The time arrived when Keith was ready to resume breeding. He had a specific breed in mind. After investing so much into breeding the American Pit Bull and not getting a satisfying return on his investment, his focus changed to another breed of dog. “This time, I had done my research and set my sights on the Presa Canario,” he says. The Perro de Presa Canario is described as a strong-willed, confident, yet calm breed. It has an excellent reputation for being obedient and docile but suspicious of strangers. Keith says their nature offers a commercial appeal the average dog lover wants. Amazingly, in his effort to procure the Presa Canario, he was redirected when a friend introduced him to the Cane Corso. “I had a lead on a Presa Canario, but it fell through,” Keith explained, “Then, one of my friends, Allen Holmes, called me and enlightened me about the Cane Corso breed. He owned two of them, and he sent me a video, and I was sold.” Because of the strength and dominance the Cane Corso is born with, potential breeders are encouraged to do their homework. According to the American Kennel Club, at almost 28 inches tall and sometimes weighing more than one hundred pounds, the Corso, with their large heads and rippling muscles, project an imposing and intimidating image. The animal is said to look and think the way a bodyguard would. The breed is intelligent, loyal, and eager to please, yet it can be willful and leave the owner wondering who is the master. For this reason, it’s recommended that breeders and owners understand that it is essential to establish dominance early with regular training. “I was told that if I was serious about breeding these dogs, I needed to do about two years of research and preparation,” Keith says. After completing his research, Keith knew he had found his breed. In 2020, he launched his new breeding business, Siler’s Cane Corso’s, and hasn’t looked back. Again, Keith loves all dogs, regardless of breed, and his love for the Corso is authentically genuine. He says, “Despite their reputation for being strong-willed and sensitive, these animals are so majestic and intelligent that training them is easy. I now have eight in my kennel, and people are amazed at how well-behaved they are.” Keith is taking steps to build the reputation needed to be seen as a serious contender in the Corso community. “I have secured my breeder’s license and Kennel number. I have also entered several dog shows to get our name out there. My ultimate goal is to make breeding the Corso my only source of income. That’s just how much I love working with these dogs,” Keith shares. He also plans to help potential owners by educating them about the importance of continuing and maintaining the lifelong training the Corso requires. “Right now, I breed them, but I plan to expand my Kennel’s services and assist people with training.” As a breeder, Keith must possess a great amount of attention to detail. “Because this breed is so exclusive, sometimes the cost for purchase can be prohibitive. So, I am careful about who I sell the dogs to. I need them to understand the investment they are making when they purchase one of my Cane Corsos,” he says. As Keith continues to build the Siler Cane Corso brand, he is concerned about how his efforts will benefit the Cane Corso breed’s longevity. “Just like the American Pit Bull, I want to bring more awareness to the Cane Corso breed. I want to be intentional about breeding and create something that will continue its bloodline,” he says. These are the true words of a breeder and natural lover of all dogs. Please click on the link below to read the edition of Huami Magazine that Keith Siler is featured in. You may also contact Keith Siler at 336-686-4201 https://issuu.com/terrywatson7/docs/triad2_f12f41223ae45c/18?fr=sZDljZjcwMDkyNTg www.huamimagazine.com /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/29557628

Episode 74: Jarie Chantell with Clear My Skin by JChantell 01/16/2024

Episode 74: Jarie Chantell with Clear My Skin by JChantell When it comes to maintaining beautiful and healthy skin, Jarie Chantell Ayala-Bullock knows something about it. The Orlando, FL, resident is an Esthetician licensed in Virginia, Maryland, and Florida. Jarie enjoys a balanced and well-rounded lifestyle. She is married with four kids, having one son of her own and two bonus daughters and one bonus son. Besides being a savvy businesswoman, she has accomplished quite a bit professionally and personally in her life. Jarie is an Army Veteran and graduated with honors from American InterContinental University with a degree in Business Administration. She graduated from AVI Career Training as a Master Esthetician in 2013 and obtained her Acne Certification from Face Reality Skincare. Additionally, she has numerous Certificates of Completion for Herbal Medicine, Perfumery/ Artisan Perfumery, Makeup Application, and Makeup Artistry. The name of her business is Clear My Skin by JChantell. She shares how her journey in business began as a young girl who was impressed by the presence and sophistication of her mother. “I remember smelling my mom’s clothes in her closet. That was my first love of fragrance. I would watch her get ready to go out with her girlfriends, and she had her skincare and makeup application down to a science. First her skincare routine, followed by her makeup then her clothes selection and last, her perfume scent. As a teenager, I had acne issues, and the first skincare product I used was Noxzema. No moisturizer, exfoliant, mask, or sunscreen - just noxema. It worked okay on my skin, and at the time, I didn’t know or understand I needed a routine rather than one product. It was then I developed my interest in skincare. The more I explored and experimented with different products, the more I wanted to know about skincare and skin health,” she says. Her interest would soon develop into a career involving skin care and Esthetics. Jarie says if she could change anything about her journey in business, she would’ve been more confident about what she had to offer in her field and not be afraid to take more risks. "I was so cautious and wanted everything to be perfect rather than take chances and fail in order to learn," she says. Moving forward, Jarie plans to continue to learn about skin health, herbalism, and perfumery and hopes to expand on being a Virtual Esthetician and getting her Eau de Parfums in stores. She also wants to donate more of my services to nonprofit organizations. To learn more about Huami Magazine, please visit our website at You may also follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine, or This Is Who I Am Podcast in your search box. To learn more about the family of products produced by Mykel Media Company LLC, please visit our websites below: Huami Magazine Gear Spunq Sports Magazine Huami For Kids Magazine To learn more about Jarie Chantell and Clear My Skin by JChantell, please visit their website at www.jchantell.com /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/29509533

Episode 73: Daria Via and Cozy + MeTime Candles 12/06/2023

Episode 73: Daria Via and Cozy + MeTime Candles The history of candles dates back many years, even centuries. According to The National Candle Association, one of the earliest uses of candles can be traced to the Ancient Egyptians in 3,000 B.C. as a way to provide light. Candles have also been central to worship and religious ceremonies thousands of years ago. Did you know that in the 1800s, candles were used by miners as a way to keep track of time? The candles were marked with 12 lines, and when the wick burnt to a specific line, the miners would know it was time for a shift change. Today, most people use candles to make their homes feel cozier. They have become decorative pieces, proven to enhance one's mental vibe. Greensboro, NC, resident Daria Via has made it her business to bring the art and culture of candle-making to the forefront. Daria is the owner and operator of Cozy + MeTime Candles. Originally from Martinsville, VA, Daria understands the nuances of candles, how they complement an environment, and most of all, how impactful they can be in providing a feeling of peace and serenity to those who utilize them. She attended the Art Institute of Charlotte, NC, and majored in fashion and marketing. She also attended Guilford Technical Community College and received an associate degree in business administration and marketing. Daria shares, “For me, candles have always set a vibe in any space they’re in. If you think about it, candles have been setting the vibe for well over 5,000 years. Most people may not be aware of that. You could be at a funeral, a birthday party, or a celebration; when you light that candle, you set the emotional vibe at that moment. I need to have positive energy around me; that's very important," she says. For avid candle lovers, candles are an integral part of their personal downtime. Whether relaxing at home in a hot bath with a scented candle or simply sitting in your favorite chair enjoying your quiet time, candles help to set the mood. According to Daria, “During my "MeTime" I can relax, clear my head, and focus on what I need to do next. Clarity is important; if you’re burning candles to relax, you don’t want candles with chemicals and unnecessary additives. Those things can lead to health issues. My candles are all-natural soy candles, a safer and healthier product to burn. I truly believe that’s why they sell so well, especially at the farmer's market. When I first started selling them there, I would sell out every time. Then I thought, if they’re selling really well here, let me see if I can get my candles in a boutique. So, I started going into the different shops in Greensboro and Kernersville, introducing myself and my product, and asked if I could leave a few candles there," she says. The answer was yes. "Doing that leg work allowed me to become familiar with the surrounding communities and the different establishments inside of them." Some of the flavors of candles Daria offers are Watermelon Sugar, Coconut Lime, and Jamaica Me Crazy. There is also a Men's Perspective line with scents like Black Ice, Kentucky Bourbon, and Cool Water. Under Daria's direction, Cozy + MeTime Candles is set to change the way people enjoy the art of candle burning. For companies who are interested in taking team-building exercises to the next level, she is ready to help. Daria also is available to provide her unique candle-making experience for church meetings and assist with building closer relationships during "girl's nights out" events. To learn more about Daria Via and Cozy + MeTime Candles, you may visit their website at www.cozymetime.com To learn more about Huami Magazine, please visit our website at You may also follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine, or This Is Who I Am Podcast in your search box. To learn more about Michelle Coleman and Wellness Consulting Group LLC, please visit their website at or call 614-687-2759 To learn more about Erika Burnett and Erika Nicole LLC Reliable Virtual Assistants, please visit their website at or 215-376-4807 /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/28952058

Episode 72: Coach Melody McClellan with Unwrap You 11/30/2023

Episode 72: Coach Melody McClellan with Unwrap You Americans are among the most morbidly obese globally. Still, we spend more than any country per capita on weight loss gimmicks. Melody McClellan is a wife, mother, and former pharmaceutical sales rep, and eleven years ago, she would have never imagined herself helping others in physical health and wellness. Today, she can’t imagine doing anything else. As her clients call her, Coach Melody is an outstanding Health and Wellness transformation strategist with twenty-plus years of experience. “After years as a pharmaceutical sales rep, I realized there is a huge lack of education around nutrition and wellness,” Melody explained. “I saw the bags of medication growing, but nobody was actually getting better.” In October 2013, Unwrap You was born. “I was at a turning point in my life. My kids were older, and I started to feel like I wanted to do something more with my life,” Melody shares. “I studied wellness and nutrition and started trying to show people that there was a better, long-term solution to a healthier way of life. When I started as ‘Coach Melody,’ I thought it was just about helping people lose weight. But I quickly learned that there is a lot more to this process. It’s about the individual’s mindset. You have to consider what people have been through, what mental baggage they may be carrying, and overall be willing to meet people where they are on their journey.” Melody was born in St. Louis, Missouri, but moved with her mother and brother to Los Angeles when she was about ten. The fitness and body image bug didn’t hit her until age sixteen. “I wasn’t the healthiest kid growing up. What I mean is I wasn’t into sports and athletics. I think it was around sixteen that I got into health and nutrition,” Melody admitted. “I started watching what I ate and changing some habits. When I saw the results, it motivated me to continue exploring what a healthier me looked like. Like most people, I tried different fad diets and meal plans. But that’s how things started for me.” Coach Melody’s health and wellness platform has caught on in a big way. Five years ago, she left pharmaceutical sales and went full-time as a health and wellness coach. Make no mistake, this wasn’t just a good idea. Melody wanted to make sure she was adequately prepared to succeed at changing how people viewed their personal health and wellness. “When I started, I wanted to be as informed as possible because you only have one chance to make a good impression. The last thing you want is to be uninformed about the root cause of the illnesses you are trying to prevent,” she shares. “As a pharmaceutical sales rep, you are well-trained on the latest drugs and their uses. Having that foundational knowledge of the different diseases a healthier lifestyle would be combating was helpful. When I started the business, I went back to school to get the certification in nutrition to complete the package.”' When it’s all said and done, Coach Melody’s goal is to allow everyone to live better. “I pride myself on ensuring everyone has the most amazing experience! If you enjoy the experience, you will keep doing it. A healthy lifestyle increases productivity, makes you feel better, and improves mobility. It is not about a number on a scale. It’s about the nonverbals and the things that we sometimes don’t consider until we see those things change. For example, walking up a flight of steps without being out of breath, your clothes fit better, which builds confidence and improves your mood. I could go on and on because there are so many benefits to creating a healthier lifestyle.” To learn more about Coach Melody McClellan, please visit her website at You may also call her directly at 314-740-3285 To learn more about Huami Magazine, please visit our website at You may also follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine, or This Is Who I Am Podcast in your search box. To learn more about Michelle Coleman and Wellness Consulting Group LLC, please visit their website at or call 614-687-2759 To learn more about Erika Burnett and Erika Nicole LLC Reliable Virtual Assistants, please visit their website at or 215-376-4807 /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/28857978

Episode 71: Jensine Reeder & The Source Unlimited LLC 08/22/2023

Episode 71: Jensine Reeder & The Source Unlimited LLC Without question, Jensine Reeder is a lover of all people. The Greenville, SC, resident has a reputation for giving and pouring into others. She has intentionally made limitless connections across the beauty, technology, and nonprofit sectors and provided hope and opportunities while doing so. Jensine’s story reflects the life of someone who has refused to be denied or misled. She shares, “Family has always been important to me. I grew up in Greenville, SC, as the oldest of five siblings, and Southern Baptist ideals shaped my adolescent identity. While the church offered community, support, and love, it also led me to believe that money, specifically desiring money, is bad. I scraped by for years to make ends meet. I hoarded basic supplies like toilet paper and worked tirelessly for less than minimum wage to feed myself and my family. My efforts kept us fed, and we were alive but not truly living. I knew deep in my bones that I was capable of more, and we deserved more.” Jensine says her career and entrepreneurship journeys taught her that wealth is not inherently evil. “I learned that money is neither good nor bad but simply a tool. What matters is how you use it. Money provides stability and offers opportunities. I wanted to allow my children to pursue their education, dreams, and passions and access the best care and resources money could buy. Furthermore, I never wanted my children to feel the suffocating fear of living paycheck to paycheck. So, I carved out a new career path for myself and climbed from minimum wage jobs to a salaried position,” she says. However, little did she know her journey out of poverty had only begun. Today, Jensine owns Source Unlimited LLC, a consulting firm dedicated to connecting small businesses, nonprofit organizations, and corporations with the resources necessary to thrive professionally. “We offer nonprofit IT consulting services to ensure data collection procedures are efficient and accompanied by effective workflow processes,” Jensine says. “That enhanced efficiency better positions organizations for additional funding opportunities and enables organizations to tell their stories.” One of the services offered by The Source Unlimited is Professional Nonprofit IT Consulting. Her goal is to ensure data collection software and procedures are efficient and accompanied by effective workflow processes. “This positions the organization for additional funding opportunities,” she says. Another product offered is Elevation Coaching™, designed for small business professionals, which offers small business establishment for Limited Liability Corporation (LLC), Incorporation (Inc), Sole Proprietorship, and Nonprofit (501(c)(3) establishment. Additionally, they offer coaching with a phased approach to growing their clients’ businesses. Another product offered, which is designed for individuals, is Elevation Coaching™. Jensine asks, “Are you ready for your elevation journey? We offer a process to tap into your highest self and elevate your thinking about yourself, your purpose, and your life! My services are for anyone with a vision to start or expand their business and who needs guidance, support, and accountability.” Jensine’s creative side is displayed with Goddess Wraps by Jensine™, which was launched in 2021. She hand-makes vibrant satin-lined headwraps with 100% Cotton Ankara fabric lined with high-quality satin. She says the line resulted from her doing some soul-searching and learning what her life’s purpose was. Annually, a portion of their sales are donated to organizations that focus on raising awareness about breast cancer and alopecia. Additionally, Jensine provides virtual and in-person wrap services for photoshoots, date nights, weddings, birthday celebrations, anniversary events, and more. Jensine says her journey in poverty began in 2012 while working as a paralegal at a private law firm. She overheard a conversation between the attorneys about a client who didn’t understand their life of poverty. At that moment, Jensine learned there was a difference between being poor and being in poverty. “I was in shock because, according to my family and friends, I was doing well for myself because I had a good job, a car, and was renting a home. I then researched what career I could transition to in order to increase my income to make enough money to be above the federal poverty line,” she says. Her next move was returning to college to get her degree in Computer Technology at Greenville Technical College. While being a full-time student, she worked on campus in the Engineering and Technology computer lab, an experience that allowed her to sharpen her skills and gain professional experience. Jensine shares that with the support of her family, friends, and church members, she graduated with honors in 2014 with a degree in Computer Technology. Continuing her educational journey as a working mother required great personal sacrifice, Jensine confesses, but she was ready to pursue a career in technology. She soon started her consulting business, The Source Unlimited. In no time, doors began to open in her favor. Jensine says, “The United Way of Greenville County was searching for a Database Administrator. I applied and got the contract, and that seven-year opportunity helped me find my niche within the technology field. I also assisted over 222 Greenville County nonprofits with acquiring over $4 million in grant funding.” She was off and running, and The Source Unlimited LLC was birthed in 2014. Jensine’s new career helped her purchase her first home in 2015. “My children and I were so happy to have a place to call home,” she says. Her children also inspired her to share her story with others and pursue public speaking engagements throughout the Upstate community. When asked what she loves most about her journey in business, Jensine says it’s the opportunities she has to mentor entrepreneurs, business owners, executives, and professionals. She enjoys transforming their lives, careers, and mindsets through the power of radical self-discovery, self-care, and self-love. “I also love the opportunity to honor my Afro-Indigenous heritage with Goddess Wraps by Jensine.” Jensine emphasizes that external success cannot exist without internal success, and when she reflects on the fear, anger, and grief that consumed her at the beginning of her journey, she’s overwhelmed with joy. “I cherish and appreciate the peace, prosperity, and stability my family knows now. I am also humbled by the blessings God placed in my life,” she said. Jensine thanks the members of her community for their constant support. She also thanks her mother for always breathing life into her vision. “Thank you, Mom, for being the wind beneath my wings!” Her advice to others who may follow in her footsteps is simple. “Life will never be without trials and tribulations, but we are strong, creative, and gifted enough to turn those trials and tribulations into something more. Whether it takes a year, a decade, or multiple decades, you can transform your life. You have everything you need within you to start and succeed.” The future looks very bright for this savvy businesswoman. Jensine’s businesses and brands are growing, and soon she will launch a new men’s line at the beginning of 2024. To learn more about The Source Unlimited LLC, please visit their website at To learn more about Huami Magazine, please visit our website at You may also follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine in your searchbox. T /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/27821421

Episode 70: ICONI Leggings & Angel Johnson 08/18/2023

Episode 70: ICONI Leggings & Angel Johnson Angel Johnson is sort of a world traveler. Her feet have touched down in many places, such as Kuwait, Qatar, and Afghanistan. However, she is still a true Southern girl. Originally from Charleston, SC, she attended the Citadel Military College there and is one of the first one hundred black women to graduate from there in its 150 year history. Her next move, she was commissioned into the United States Air Force as a Second Lieutenant and enjoyed an eight-year career there, obtaining the rank of Captain while, of course, traveling abroad. All of her experiences have shaped Angel into the person she is. Today, she resides in Denver, CO, and owns ICONI. “I consider myself a start-up founder that likes leggings,” Angel says. Her company offers products for men and women, such as leggings, sports bras, shirts, shorts, and tops. Angel adds, “ICONI activewear delivers motivation and empowerment, and we guarantee to safeguard and support our customers’ bodies. More importantly, we aim to ensure our customers can focus on their workouts instead of see-through, non-supportive, low-quality, and boring activewear.” ICONI is an acronym for “I Can Overcome, Nothing Is Impossible”.”The ICONI logo represents power, strength, and versatility. The base is a power button representing your power to accomplish your goals. The overlay is the Adinkra symbol for strength and versatility. It takes all these elements to control your total wellness, especially when starting a fitness journey.” While still in the military, Angel started her company. The idea came about in October 2019, but the company was launched in January 2020. Angel says, “I got tired of spending so much money on activewear. I never understood why women’s activewear was see-through, and I wanted to change that. I also learned that other women shared the same concern, as well as others regarding active wear.” To build the ICONI brand, Angel utilized the power of social media. “I asked questions about the issue other women had about activewear. One thing I learned was the issue they had with leggings falling down. I thought to myself, well, I need to ensure that leggings will not fall while my clients work out. I need to make sure they are not see-through and have compression. I used social media and the feedback from my friends to help create the best products.” In addition to finding ICONI products on their website, they can be purchased from their Amazon store. Their goal is also to have them available in five to seven boutique stores and gyms by the end of 2023. “We are moving slowly with distribution because gyms will reach out to us to have our products available in their business, but they are not an inclusive environment. We only want to work with inclusive environments because our customer base is very diverse.” Angel credits her mother, Pearl, with having the most considerable influence on her life. “She has always taught me the value of having a hard work ethic. She taught me the value of working hard at some things and keep going,” Angel said. After launching her brand, Angel faced the challenge of the Covid 19 pandemic. She had an activewear line, and her original marketing goal was to go into the gyms, but most gyms across the country were closed. She overcame this challenge by networking and applying to various databases and even hired a marketing company to assist with her marketing needs—those challenges Angel shares have only made her a stronger and wiser businesswoman. There have been some highs and lows with running her company. One high was when it was listed as one of Oprah Winfrey’s favorite things in November 2020. Angel says that experience turned her side hustle mentality into a fully-fledged business. Since its inception, they have done over half a million dollars in sales. Now, with the assistance of outside investors and a marketing company, the projections look promising. Looking ahead, Angel says she hopes to give back and mentor other aspiring entrepreneurs. She also wants to expand their size range and incorporate more fabric technologies into their clothing. To learn more about ICONI, please visit their website at You may also follow them on Facebook and Instagram by putting "ICONI" in your search box. To learn more about Huami Magazine, please follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine in your search box. You may also visit our website at www.huamimagzine.com /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/27792579

Episode 69: Bridgette Williams - Demhaj Poetry Lounge 07/05/2023

Episode 69: Bridgette Williams - Demhaj Poetry Lounge Bridgette Williams is an entrepreneur who allows divine inspiration to guide her, and it hasn’t steered her wrong yet. Currently, she owns two thriving businesses. Bridgette’s latest product of divine intervention is Demhaj Poetry Lounge, located in High Point, NC. The name Demhaj is significant for many reasons. “When I first conceived the idea of the coffee shop, I remember thinking about how much love and joy my son brought me so that I would name the business after him. I wanted people to feel what I felt in a way. My son’s name is Jahmed, so I said I would name the shop Demhaj (Dem-hage),” Bridgette said with a little lift. “The first time the idea about a poetry lounge and coffee shop came to me, I was a young mother and met a woman named Teresa at the social services department,” Bridgette shared. “I was sitting in the waiting room, and there was this older woman staring at me. So, I smiled and introduced myself. We started talking, and she told me she was a poet.” This intrigued Bridgette because she had been writing poetry since she was thirteen years old. “Writing was a therapeutic outlet for me. I have drawers full of poems I’ve written over the years.” As a result of Bridgette’s passion for poetry, she and Teresa found an instant kinship that exists to this day. “Teresa was one of the first people I shared my vision about the poetry lounge with. I told her I wanted to create a space where people could come together and express themselves while enjoying each other’s company. I asked myself, ‘What brings people together? Coffee.’” The idea came to Bridgette in 2003, but it would be eighteen years before she would see it come to life. “It’s funny how you plan to do something, and God redirects you,” Bridget laughed. “In middle school, I was part of a mentorship program. A young lady from North Carolina A&T State University came, and she had such a positive effect on me. She made me want to do something with my life. I was so inspired by her that I wanted to become a mentor.” After graduating high school, Bridgette started at Winston-Salem State University in Winston-Salem, NC. Still very passionate about helping others through mentorship, she enrolled in a program to become a certified mentor. “Rebuilding the Walls of Hope was the name of the faith-based mentorship training program I attended. Marie Carter led it,” Bridgette explained. Her goal was to start her own mentorship program for troubled teens eventually. But when she started planning, Bridgette was led in a different direction. “When I say led, I mean God literally redirected me to something completely different from what I thought I wanted to do. I was playing around with names for the mentorship program, and God started dealing with me about a home health care agency,” Bridgette said, laughing as she remembered the unexpected and confusing shift. “Before I knew it, God had given me a name and a plan on how to start a home healthcare agency. I knew it was God because I had no idea how to start or run this kind of business.” In 2006 Faithful Nurses Healthcare Inc. was born. It’s been seventeen years since Bridgette followed God and launched her first business, and it’s still going strong. After starting the home healthcare agency, Bridgette switched her degree to nursing. But the demands of being a young wife and mother caused her to leave college a year short of graduating. “Life was very demanding during that time. Anyone who knew me before then knew the “happy, fun-loving, and easy-going” Bridgette, but I think somewhere along the way, I lost my spark,” Bridgette admits. In 2021 Bridgette found herself as a single parent. Bridgette was living life with no net or restraints for the first time in over twenty years. Over the years, she continued to share with her family and friends her vision for the poetry and coffee shop. Newly single, with her only son in college, Bridgette was in unfamiliar territory. “Everything was different. I was on my own, my son was independent, and for the first time in twenty-one years, I could think about what I wanted and what would make me happy. I won’t say it was easy,” Bridgette admitted. “I had to overcome the fear of failing. This would be the first time I did something like this alone. After what I’d gone through, I wasn’t ready to have one of my lifelong dreams fail.” Bridgette decided to step out on faith, putting everything she had behind her new business venture. Since her son had heard her say for years that she would open this café, he didn’t take her seriously initially, but after seeing the energy she was putting out, he soon got on board. “It seemed as if as soon as I chose to trust God with my dream, he put everything into place,” Bridgette shared. “Since opening the Demhaj Poetry Lounge, I have my smile back. The spark that made me, me, is back, and I’m grateful. From the moment a customer walks in, I pray they can feel the love, peace, and genuine joy I feel daily. Demhaj is not just a place to get great coffee. It’s a place where people from every walk of life can come and feel comfortable expressing themselves, meet new people, and enjoy being part of something beautiful.” To learn more about Demhaj Poetry Lounge, you may visit their website at You may also call them directly at 336-307-4105 To learn more about Faithful Nurses Health Care, you may visit their website at or by calling them directly at 1-888-598-1882 ext 2, or by calling 704-598-1882 ext 2 To learn more about Huami Magazine, please visit our website at You may also follow Huami Magazine on Facebook and Instagram. You may also follow this podcast on Facebook and Instagram by putting This Is Who I Am in your search box. /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/27381063

Episode 68 - Dionne M. King - DMK Consults - Huami Magazine Community Celebration 2023 05/22/2023

Episode 67: Seretta Boson - The Pickle Lady - Huami Magazine Community Celebration 2023 05/22/2023

Episode 66: Trudi B. Parson - The Huami Magazine Community Celebration 2023 05/18/2023

Episode 65: Tarolyn Street - Huami Magazine Community Celebration 2023 05/18/2023

Episode 64: Leslie Valentine - L and M Valentine Foundation Inc. - Huami Magazine Community Celebration 2023 05/17/2023

Episode 63: Christopher Jackson - Smart Technology Corporation - Huami Magazine Community Celebration 2023 05/17/2023

Episode 62: Iris Lashawn - Beauty Buttah Skin Care Products 05/16/2023

Episode 61: Porscha Davis and The Knotty-N-Natural Hair Festival 04/27/2023

Episode 61: Porscha Davis and The Knotty-N-Natural Hair Festival The natural hair revolution has begun, and Black women are fully embracing it. It’s common to see black women wearing their natural hair in all its curly, coarse, silky, and robust glory. Companies that cater to the naturalist with products that promise to promote healthy growth and beautiful locs and tresses are also becoming more and more commonplace. So many products claim to be good for natural hair but are petroleum jelly with fragrance and ground sage. With so many options, how do we decide which products to use and what to look for? Porscha Davis, owner and proprietor of The Salon by Porscha Danielle, is a natural hair stylist who has made it her mission to cut through all the hype. As a seventeen-year veteran in the styling industry, she has a lot of wisdom to offer, but surprisingly becoming a hair stylist wasn’t on her “when I grow up” list. “As a kid, I never thought about cosmetology as something I wanted to do. It just wasn’t an interest of mine. I didn’t learn how to braid until college,” Porscha explains. “A guy friend of mine came and asked me to braid his hair. I was like, ‘I don’t know how,’ and I was okay with that,” Porscha said, laughing. “But he insisted I braid his hair. Finally, my suitemate came in and wanted to know what the commotion was about. I told her what was happening, and she said, ‘Oh, that’s easy. I can teach you.’ So, she did. And it was absolutely horrible!” she scoffed. “But I kept trying, and eventually, it got better. Then other guys started asking me to braid their hair. I initially said no, but then they offered to pay, and the rest is history.” Porscha continued to practice braiding until it became her “side hustle.” We all had one in undergrad. It wasn’t until she had a frank conversation with her mother, did Porscha see becoming a stylist as a real option. Today Porscha is a professional hairstylist and event promoter. Her salon is located in Greenville, South Carolina, and is known as, The Salon by Porscha Danielle. As a natural hair stylist, she has no shortage of clients, but it is time to look toward the future. On June 4th, 2022, Porscha hosted her first Knotty-N-Natural Hair Festival. Owning a hair salon and styling hair are not the only things important to Porscha. She is committed to serving her community and hundreds and thousands of people at once. With the Knotty-N-Natural Hair Festival, she is able to do that. “A lot of people have a lot of questions regarding natural hair. With the festival, I am able to connect trusted vendors who have trusted products with individuals who need their questions answered,” she says. The 2022 Knotty-N-Natural Hair Festival hosted over 500 guests. Porscha projects that the 2023 festival will see over 2,000 guests. Porscha states, “It’s getting bigger and better. This festival is not just about hair, but it’s a safe space for us to come and explore what is beautiful about us (black Americans).” To learn more about the Knotty-N-Natural Hair Festival, please visit You may also contact Porscha Davis at 864-501-5112. If you are in Greenville, SC, please stop by her salon, The Salon by Porscha Danille, at 637 Congaree Road. To learn more about Huami Magazine, please visit our website at You may also follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine in your search box. You may also follow this podcast on Facebook and Instagram by putting This Is Who I Am in your search box. For advertising opportunities, please call 336-340-7844, or send a detailed email to [email protected] /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/26672310

Episode 60: Reketta Brown with Thrive Foundation 02/11/2023

Episode 60: Reketta Brown with Thrive Foundation Before the 2020-21 pandemic, the stigmas around mental health were alive and well. As the world was becoming increasingly aware of the realities of mental health, it was still easier to put those who suffered into neat categories that could be explained away. As the global community adjusts to life post-pandemic, we find that the truth about mental health issues is that anyone can suffer from them. Add to it the stress and anxiety brought on when the world was paused for a year, and we see a new level of “woke.” But now that our eyes are open, what do we do? Reketta Brown, a North Carolina Licensed Professional Counselor with over twenty years of experience and her new initiative, is here to help answer that question. Thrive Foundation is a Guilford County-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that educates children, families, and the community on the importance of mental health awareness. This next level in servicing our communities wasn’t something that just happened. “I’ve been sitting on this nonprofit for about three years,” Reketta explained. “Where Wrights Care Services focuses on treatment and care for individual clients and their families, the Thrive Foundation focuses on training professionals in the community, the schools, and different organizations on the importance of mental health awareness.” Reketta is the founding director of Wrights Care Services. “Wrights Care Services is a privately-owned, full-service behavioral healthcare agency. We are committed to providing clients with a personalized approach to behavioral health and substance abuse services.” As a mental health care provider, Reketta says that she always knew that she would be in the service of helping others. “I grew up in the church as a PK (pastor’s kid),” Reketta explains. “Watching my parents serve in the church and the community inspired me. I knew that when I grew up, I would be in a profession that focused on helping others.” A compassionate heart and empathetic spirit are essential when helping people with mental health issues. Ignited with the understanding that serving others was her destiny, Reketta set her sights on nursing. After testing the waters as a C.N.A., she felt like her calling was taking her in a different direction. Reketta attended Winston-Salem State University. Reketta continued to push forward by attending North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and receiving her Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling. Her first business was a joint venture between her and two friends she met while earning her master’s degree. Behavioral Health & Wellness Care Services was launched in 2006. Then in 2009, Reketta and a partner started Wright’s Care Services. For the last thirteen years, Wright’s Care Services clinicians have been servicing North Carolina, the Triad, and surrounding areas in emotional restoration and recovery. But Reketta saw that there was more to be done. “In this post-pandemic climate, we see more and more people experiencing mental health issues or symptoms exacerbated by the stresses of pandemic life. This exposed gaps in care and the availability of information,” Reketta explained. “As we worked with our clients, we received questions from healthcare providers, parents of students, and leaders of professional and religious organizations. A lot of these questions can’t be answered in counseling. This was an opportunity for education and awareness.” From this understanding, the Thrive Foundation was born. The Thrive Foundation focuses on training and empowering patients and their families. “At the Thrive Foundation, we foster hope and resiliency in the communities we serve. This is done by providing programs and resources that help empower, educate, and evolve communities. Our trained team of mental health advocates is committed to building emotionally healthy communities.” Moving forward, Reketta’s goal for Thrive Foundation is to continue laying the groundwork and building relationships between the public and mental health professionals. To learn more about The Thrive Foundation, please visit their website at www.thrive-wellness.org You may also follow The Thrive Foundation on Facebook by putting Thrive Foundation in your search box. To learn more about Wrights Care Services, please visit their website at www.wrightscareservices.com You may also follow them on Facebook by putting Wrights Care Services in your search box. To learn more about Huami Magazine, you may follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine in your search box. You may also visit our website at www.huamimagazine.com You may follow This Is Who I Am Podcast on Facebook and Instagram by putting This Is Who I Am in your search box. To be a part of this podcast or to advertise in Huami Magazine, please send a detailed email to You may also contact us directly at 336-340-7844 /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/25902372

Episode 59: Stephanie Hobbs and Style Me Stephanie 02/08/2023

Episode 59: Stephanie Hobbs and Style Me Stephanie According to Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary, one definition of fashion is to give shape or form to make, construct, or create (something), usually with careful attention or by using imagination and ingenuity. In so many words, this clearly defines who Stephanie Hobbs is. The talented fashion designer developed a passion for fashion as a young girl. Stephanie was born and raised in the small town of Morrow, AR, and learned early on about the importance of looking appropriate for every moment. “As a little girl, I would walk around in my mother’s high heels and model myself by what she showed me,” she says. “I inherited my mother’s style and sense of fashion, and it showed.” She was known as the stylish one amongst her friends. She loved helping others arrange outfits for any event, big or small. When they would go out, others would notice their unique style and ask who created such a look. Stephanie says she wasn’t thinking of making a business out of her craft during that time, but after so many suggestions, praying about it, and speaking with friends, she decided to give it a chance. On June 16, 2018, Style Me Stephanie was launched in Hot Springs, AR. Stephanie’s business doesn’t stop at fashion shows and styling. She has a long list of services, including personal/fashion styling and wardrobe, personal shopping, virtual styling, photoshoot consultations, closet revamps, and fashion show coordination. She also has her product line on her website. Additionally, she is a brand ambassador for Bag It Up Boutique in Arkansas, SBDNC Apparel in Georgia, and a Lead Wardrobe Stylist for Chrissy Bryant Photograph, an independent contractor with Q Clothier. Stephanie’s clients’ transformation and the development of their confidence are what drive her. She also shares it’s the positive feedback and testimonies that help her look forward to working with the following new client. Moving forward, she plans to become more involved with philanthropy and give back to her community. She plans to give back financially and by educating teenage girls in fashion and etiquette. To learn more about Stephanie Hobbs, please follow her on Facebook by putting her name in your search box. You may also follow her on Instagram by putting in our search box. You may also visit her website at www.stylemestephaniear.com To learn more about Huami Magazine, please visit our website at You may also follow Huami Magazine on Facebook and Instagram. You may also follow this podcast on Facebook and Instagram by putting This Is Who I Am in your search box. /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/25864527

Episode 58: Joseph Wallace (YMA-Young Millionaires Association) 12/27/2022

Episode 58: Joseph Wallace (YMA-Young Millionaires Association) Joseph Wallace is the founder and CEO of YMA (Young Millionaires Association) Wealth Management Group in Spartanburg, South Carolina. If you are looking for business solutions, Joseph and his team are your “problem solvers.” “I solve problems. Think about it for a moment. You want to start a business but don’t have a business plan. That’s a problem. You need capital for your start-up, and you don’t have it. That’s a problem. Your credit needs attention. That’s a problem. All of these issues are roadblocks to entrepreneurs. My job is to help navigate and eliminate these roadblocks so business owners can grow and succeed.” Born and raised in Miami, Florida, Joseph didn’t always have the focus he needed to envision his future. “I grew up in a two-parent household, but there wasn’t always a lot of money. My parents struggled to make ends meet, and sometimes that struggle made for a stressful home environment,” Joseph explained. Like many youths, I was seduced by the culture that specific music and movies glorified. He knew the path he was on would lead him to a bad end but not understanding his purpose; he chose to live in the moment. “Like most kids in my neighborhood, I fell in with the wrong sort of people. My parents and grandmother tried to point me in the right direction, but when you’re young and think you know it all, you don’t listen.” At twenty-one, Joseph says he took his first steps toward purpose. He joined the US Navy. The Navy didn’t give Joseph purpose, but it gave him the tools he needed to pursue the purpose of his life. “To this day, I am grateful for what I gained in my seven years in the US Navy. I learned fortitude, self-discipline, and a new understanding of respect. These were all of the things I was missing. Most importantly, as a search and rescue team member, I learned to push myself beyond my personal limitations.” In 2009 Joseph felt that he had exhausted all of his resources in San Diego and was considering moving back to Miami. His mother had recently moved to Greenville, SC, and suggested he come there. “I knew I needed a fresh start, but I didn’t want to go backward. The thing about understanding problem solving is that even if you are the problem, you have to be willing to get out of your own way. I had to learn the difference between my voice and the voice of God. Moving to Greenville was God putting me back on the path to my purpose, and I have never looked back.” Joseph has grown and expanded his business while helping others realize their dreams of successful business owners and entrepreneurs. Joseph and his wife and business partner Rebecca are taking YMA Wealth Management Group to new heights. Their goal is to create a one-stop-shop for all things relating to building or growing your business on a firm foundation. To learn more about Joseph Wallace and YMA (Young Millionaires Association) please follow him on Facebook by putting Joseph Wallace in your search box. You may also follow him on Instagram by putting YMA (Young Millionaires Association) in your search box. You may also visit their website at To learn more about Huami Magazine, you may follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine in your search box. You may also visit our website at www.huamimagazine.com You may follow This Is Who I Am Podcast on Facebook and Instagram by putting This Is Who I Am in your search box. To be a part of this podcast or to advertise in Huami Magazine, please send a detailed email to You may also contact us directly at 336-340-7844 /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/25438071

Episode 57: Richard Steadwell (Kingzi Royal Skincare Collection) 12/11/2022

Episode 57: Richard Steadwell (Kingzi Royal Skincare Collection) Richard Steadwell is living his dream of being a self-employed entrepreneur. He is the owner and operator of Kingzi Barbers Lounge in Charlotte, N.C., and the Kingzi Royal Skincare Collection. Although Richard has always possessed the creative spirit of an entrepreneur, there were limitations he says he had to overcome before he could realize his dream. “I’ve always been good with my hands. I love being creative and using my imagination. I always knew that using those natural talents would make me happy.” Richard called himself a kitchen barber because he’s been cutting hair since he was a teenager, but he never thought of it as a career. Richard was born in North Carolina but was raised in California. In the tenth grade, he decided school wasn’t for him. “I was struggling and getting into trouble a lot. I had convinced myself that they were teaching me the things I wanted to know. Deep down, part of my reasoning was I felt like I was an embarrassment to my mother, and I didn’t want to keep putting her through that, so I quit.” Richard explained. “My mother wasn’t happy about it, but my mind was made up.” Richard’s mother gave him two options, the military or trade school. Due to health issues, the military wasn’t a good fit, so Richard went to the Earl C. Clemmons Job Corps center in Morganfield, Ky. “My mother drove me to the center because she was serious about me not sitting up in her house without a job or trade of any kind. She said if I was going to be grown, I had to make a way for myself.” While in Job Corp, Richard took several certification classes, including a business course. The one thing he stayed away from was getting his G.E.D. “If I had been wise and not so worried about failing, I would have just gotten my G.E.D. while in Job Corps. Things would have been a lot easier for me, and I would be farther than I am today. But, what can I say? I was young and didn’t want to listen to anybody." In his lifetime, Richard has done just about every laborious job there is. He was a self-proclaimed jack of all trades and master of none. After years of going from one unfulfilling job to another, Richard decided he wanted something more. One day, not long after his fortieth birthday, Richard was sitting in his barber’s chair and shared his idea of going to barber college. Immediately Richard looked into starting barber college at Park West Barber College in Greensboro, N.C. As he read the requirements, the first thing that stopped him I his tracks was the requirement of a high school diploma or equivalent. “There I was again. Every time I tried to move forward, I found myself coming back to the same roadblock. All these years later, my decision to drop out of high school was still haunting me. I sat there thinking about what I wanted and the time I had wasted. I have to admit I was terrified of going back to school, but I decided I couldn’t spend one more day letting fear hold me back.” Richard enrolled at Gilford Technical Community College, Jamestown, N.C., and started working towards his G.E.D. He transferred and finished the program at Alamance Community College in Graham, NC. After receiving his G.E.D, Richard started at Park West Barber College in Greensboro, N.C. From there, he became an apprentice barber. Richard was an apprentice barber at Bennett’s Barber Shop in Charlotte for four years. As Richard worked as an apprentice barber, he was free to explore his creativity. Richard noticed a small selection of beard and skin grooming products for men. The scents were basic and didn’t represent all men, especially black men. That is how Kingzi Men’s Skincare Collection was born. Putting what he learned about sales and marketing in Job Corps, Richard is preparing to put the Kingzi Royal Skincare Collection on the shelves of major shopping centers all over the country. But for now, the skincare line can be purchased locally at Kingzi Barber’s Lounge. To learn more about Richard Steadwell and The Kingzi Royal Skincare Collection, please send him an email to You may also follow Richard Steadwell on Facebook and Instagram by putting Richard Steadwell in your search box. To learn more about Huami Magazine, you may follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine in your search box. You may also visit our website at www.huamimagazine.com You may follow This Is Who I Am Podcast on Facebook and Instagram by putting This Is Who I Am in your search box. /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/25292130

Episode 56: Michael and Shelice Tolbert (Tolbert & Tolbert Law) 12/03/2022

Episode 56: Michael and Shelice Tolbert (Tolbert & Tolbert Law) Like most urban communities around the United States, Gary, IN is rich in culture and diversity. According to a recent count, Gary’s population consists of nearly 76,000 citizens, with African Americans representing the highest ethnicity at 78%. Having such a decisive edge compared to other races, the Black experience in Gary is defined by hard work, resilience, and durability. Like most urban communities, Gary has seen its share of crime and violence, and during the 1990s, it was once labeled as one of Indiana’s most dangerous places to live. Fast forward to 2022, that stigma has faded away, and Gary’s identity is being rebuilt by those who believe that its greatest days are within distance. That is the story of Michael and Shelice Tolbert of Tolbert & Tolbert Attorneys at Law. True to their roots, they are building one of Indiana’s top law firms in the heart of Gary. Having their practice based in Gary, Indiana, is critically important to this power couple. Michael and Shelice have enjoyed 15 years of marriage. Their union appears to be almost purposeful. They both pursued careers to practice law. Michael received his formal education in the Gary, IN, public school system. He later attended and graduated from Valparaiso University as an undergraduate and Valparaiso University School of Law. He is a believer and faith-based individual and professes that nothing in his life would be possible without God. Shelice was also formally educated in the Gary public school system and later attended Wittenberg University in Springfield, OH. After graduating from there, she came back to Gary and “followed” Michael to Valparaiso School of Law. She describes herself as a family-oriented, homebody, down-to-earth type of person who desires to help others. Tolbert & Tolbert Attorneys at Law opened their doors to the public on January 26, 2015. However, Shelice says the idea to open the firm was conceptualized many years before that. Michael says they like to describe themselves as a litigation boutique, meaning they do complex litigation for individuals, cities, towns, municipalities, and higher exposure litigation matters, involving millions of dollars hanging in the balance. Often, companies engaged in complex litigation matters will hire them to help guide them through the process. However, they do not do any family law or criminal cases. Additionally, Michael is a certified mediator, a resource their firm utilizes for Alternative Dispute Resolutions. Michael and Shelice are proud to share that Tolbert & Tolbert is a Christian-based firm. “We openly pray in our office. We have scripture everywhere,” he says. Their mission statement is Christian-based as well. “Our mission is to honor God by rendering compassionate litigation services to businesses, organizations, and individuals”. Michael says their mission statement is placed in two strategic places in their office; one at the front of the office and the other at the back door. “It’s the first thing you see in the morning and the last thing you see before you leave. It’s a constant reminder of who your source is, which is God and not man. That inspires me, knowing that I have a God who has blessed me enough to have a wife and family who cares about me and be able to have a successful business and help people in our community. We are doing what we love in a community that we love and loves us back. For those who may follow in their footsteps, the Tolberts offer some advice. “Always believe in something. Pray to God for what you want and speak what you want. Be positive and stay encouraged. Just because there is a bump in the road, or things are not happening the way you would like for them to, “it doesn’t mean that it’s not meant for you. Stay the course and persevere. Things will get hard sometimes, but if they weren’t hard, everyone would be doing it,” they shared. To learn more about Tolbert & Tolbert Attorneys At Law, please visit their website at To learn more about Huami Magazine, you may follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine in your search box. You may also visit our website at www.huamimagazine.com You may follow This Is Who I Am Podcast on Facebook and Instagram by putting This Is Who I Am in your search box,. /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/25209723

Episode 55: Ava Smith (Flat Fee Recruiting) 09/29/2022

Episode 55: Ava Smith (Flat Fee Recruiting) She is known for her unceasing devotion to serving others, an attribute the Upstate area of South Carolina has grown to cherish and appreciate. Without hesitancy, she eagerly answers the call to assist in any way, whether in business or from a personal perspective. In addition to leading and serving, Ava Smith is also an accomplished entrepreneur. She is the owner of Flat Fee Recruiting and Ava Smith & Associates. Flat Fee Recruiting is a permanent placement recruiting firm that provides quality employees at affordable rates. It also assists companies in various industries and with all types of vacancies. Ava Smith & Associates is a full-cycle HR Consulting firm that operates as an outsourced HR Manager or Director for small businesses, non-profits, and ministries throughout the United States. Some offered services include onboarding, compliance, benefits, risk management, wellness, and training. The New Jersey native holds a Bachelors of Science Degree in Human Resource Management from Limestone University and is a Lifetime Member of the Sigma Beta Delta Honor Society. She has over 25 years of experience as a Human Resources Professional. That includes employee relations, compliance, recruitment, retention, and training. Ava began her career in the non-profit sector and shifted into manufacturing, the corporate arena, and staffing. Throughout her career, Ava progressively moved upward in her positions, serving in various roles from HR Assistant to HR Director. In August 2002, Ava began her own firm, HR Specialties, which specialized in providing HR services, training, and recruiting. She later expanded this firm by adding additional experts and rebranded it into what is now widely known as Ava Smith & Associates. In 2010, she formed a permanent placement agency called Flat Fee Recruiting. Her agency received the Minority Business of the Year Award in 2013 through the Greenville Chamber of Commerce. Ava is also a noted Diversity Trainer and has delivered hundreds of sessions throughout the Southeast since 2005. Her clientele involves corporations, manufacturers, non-profits, service organizations, government officials, municipalities, universities, hospital systems, local chambers, and faith-based organizations. When asked what she loves most about what she does, Ava shares how she loves bringing solutions. “I am a problem solver for businesses that need HR support without having the workload that requires a full-time position. I also love being a part of their business strategy team. My clients include me in their vision and long-term plans, and I assist them with walking it out. To learn more about Ava Smith and Associates, please call them at 864-448-0939. To learn more about Flat Fee Recruiting, please give them a call directly at 864-326-4211 or visit their website at To learn more about the Huami For Kids Magazine KidPreneur Business and Talent Showcase that is taking place on 11/19/2022, please call 336-340-7844, or send a detailed email to [email protected] To learn more about Huami Magazine, you may visit our website at You may also follow us on Instagram and Facebook by putting Huami Magazine in your search box. You may also follow this podcast on Facebook and Instagram by putting This Is Who I Am in your search box. To purchase your copy of It's My Turn Now: Caregiving 101, please visit or call 336-895-8995 /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/24531645

Episode 54: Daymain Smith - Synergy Hospitality Group 09/27/2022

Episode 54: Daymain Smith - Synergy Hospitality Group Synergy is an interaction or cooperation giving rise to a whole that is greater than the simple sum of its parts. The term synergy comes from the Attic Greek word συνεργία synergia from synergos, συνεργός, meaning “working together.” Wikipedia Daymain Smith is the founder and CEO of Synergy Hospitality Group, based out of Atlanta, Georgia. His mission is to help African Americans conceive and receive the wealth and authority that comes with not just living their dreams but owning them. Daymain is a living example of the adage, “the only time you see success before work is in the dictionary.” Daymain grew up in a small urban community in Mobile, Alabama. He admits that there are many layers to the path that led him to where he is today. “I didn’t grow up with a lot of money. My parents split shortly after I was born, and my grandparents primarily raised me. So, for the most part, my story is a lot like most kids who live where I lived,” Daymain explains. “My father was a pastor, but my mother struggled with addiction. So I had a wide range of influences in my life, and from all of it, I learned that there isn’t anything I can’t have if I was willing to work for it.” Synergy Hospitality Group is a faith-based company. Its business practices and principles are rooted in Daymain’s Christian beliefs. “I’m not perfect, nobody is, but I don’t shy away from the fact that who I am in my faith is who I am in my company. I strive to do things the right way and make good choices when it comes to how I deal with my investments and investors. I am happy to say that my partners and I are like-minded when it comes to that.” “I want to help anyone ready to believe they are built for more. I had to learn the ownership side of hospitality," he says. “The greatest compliment I’ve ever received was when a young black high school student told me he wanted to be a business and hotel owner like me when he grew up. I knew then that he could see himself as more than what society wanted to label him. I felt like he was waking up to the knowledge that he was built for more." To learn more about Daymain Smith and Synergy Hospitality Group and Synergy Financial Partners, please visit their websites at and www.synergyfinancialpartnersinc.com You may also contact Daymain Smith directly at 202-350-1151 To learn more about the Huami For Kids Magazine KidPreneur Business and Talent Showcase that is taking place on 11/19/2022, please call 336-340-7844, or send a detailed email to [email protected] To learn more about Huami Magazine, you may visit our website at You may also follow us on Instagram and Facebook by putting Huami Magazine in your search box. You may also follow this podcast on Facebook and Instagram by putting This Is Who I Am in your search box. To purchase your copy of It's My Turn Now: Caregiving 101, please visit or call 336-895-8995 /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/24503277

Episode 53: Sawand Belcher (This Is Me Taking Action) 08/29/2022

Episode 53: Sawand Belcher (This Is Me Taking Action) Sawand L. Belcher is the founder of Belcher & Belcher Properties, LLC, also known as Buy Triad Homes. Sawand and his wife LaMicah have five children, with number six on the way. Don’t be fooled by his easy-going casual demeanor; Sawand is serious about leveling the real estate field. He makes buying and selling real estate look easy. After building his company from the ground up, Sawand is ready to show just how easy it is to own our future. His real estate coaching services, This Is Me Taking Action, will show you step by step how to navigate the world of real estate, and you’ll be making a profit in no time. Sawand learned early in life that anything worth having is worth working for. “I’ve always been a great salesman. I remember when I was in sixth grade, my dad told me I couldn’t have something. But he said I could have whatever I wanted if I had my own money. So, I went over to his computer and came up with the catchy phrase, Wan’s Lawn & Dog Sitting Service. I made some flyers and started cutting people’s grass. I did that all the way through high school.” Sawand went to college at North Carolina A&T, where he studied political science, but in his senior year, his life took a new direction. “I loved my time at A&T. I studied political science not because it was my passion but because my parents wanted me to. My aunt, Hon. Romonda Belcher was the first African American female judge in Iowa. My parents wanted me to follow in her footsteps. But in my senior year, I found out I was going to be a father. That changed everything.” Sawand, always the entrepreneur, bought his first car by buying auto parts online and selling them locally. With him and his partner expecting their first child he had to shift things into high gear. To learn more about Sawand Belcher you may visit his website at You may also follow him on Instagram by putting This Is Me Taking Action in your search box. To learn more about Huami Magazine, you may visit our website at You may also follow us on Instagram and Facebook by putting Huami Magazine in your search box. You may also follow this podcast on Facebook and Instagram by putting This Is Who I Am in your search box. To purchase your copy of It's My Turn Now: Caregiving 101, please visit or call 336-895-8995 /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/24204489

Episode 52: Nicole Walker and Princess Johnson - Arts Legacy Awards 2022 08/01/2022

Episode 51: Ukwensi Chappell - Gallerie Ukwensi at Ghents 07/28/2022

Episode 51: Ukwensi Chappell - Gallerie Ukwensi at Ghents Black artists and their work have long been marginalized as untrained, uneducated, and lesser than their White counterparts. The terms “Black art” and “Black artists” by definition prove this marginalization. The artist is seen as Black first, and then through a less than approving lens, their work is viewed in its own little box, unworthy of comparison to the likes of a Rembrandt, a Van Gogh, a Picasso, or a Warhol. They aren’t seen as impressionists, abstractists, sculptors, cubists, expressionists, or realists. They are merely Black artists that make Black art that only Black people could understand and appreciate. Ukwensi Chappel sees art as art. In 2018, Ukwensi Chappell opened Gallerie Ukwensi, located in the Ghent District of Norfolk. Ukwensi opened Gallerie Ukwensi to do what other gallery’s wouldn’t: expose and educate people to the beauty of art crafted by Black artists. A tour through his gallery reveals something deeper, something powerful and beautiful, rooted in centuries of exclusion. Ukwensi takes the time to greet every customer, young or old, Black, White or purple, rich or poor. He doesn’t just greet people; he engages with them. When asked why he knows so much about not only a particular piece, but the artists themselves, he says “Most galleries in the area didn’t greet me when I came in, and if they did, they didn’t tell me about the art. But every piece has a story, and every story was an experience by the artist.” Ukwensi’s art, rich abstracts made of layers of crushed glass and pigments suspended in clear enamel that form 3-dimensional kaleidoscopes, line the main wall. He calls his work “My windows to your imagination.” No matter what you think you see in his work, its correct. To learn more about Gallerie Ukwensi at Ghents, please follow them on Facebook and Instagram by putting Gallerie Ukwensi at Ghents in your search box. You may also visit their website at To learn more about Huami Magazine, please follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine in your search box. You may also visit our website at To follow this podcast on Facebook and Instagram, simply put This Is Who I Am in your search box. To purchase your copy of Is My Time Now: Caregiving 101, please visit . You may also contact Odell Cleveland directly at 336-895-8995 /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/23885682

Episode 50: Delvin Sullivan and The Wealthy Child 06/25/2022

Episode 50: Delvin Sullivan and The Wealthy Child Delvin Sullivan is a Dave Ramsey-certified Financial Coach who believes that “The earlier money can make sense to a child, the better chance they have at being financially responsible adults.” A native of Huntsville, AL, Delvin is the author of The Wealthy Child, a book designed to teach youth about money and the world’s economic process. As someone who grew up in public housing, Delvin’s passion always led him to mentoring youth and posing as a positive role model for kids, particularly young men. Using the basic principles of wealth, he published his book to level the playing field and offer all children the opportunity to become wealthy through knowledge. Some of the topics discussed in the Wealthy Child production are budgeting, banking, investing, credit, income, and assets. “I am introducing children to the basics of financial literacy in a fun and engaging way and teaching kids about the importance of earning, saving, and spending responsibly. My goal is to ensure they understand the importance of earning, saving, and spending responsibly,” Delvin says. The vision for The Wealthy Child is connected to Delvin's awareness of the many challenges that youth face, especially within his community. “Studies show 80% of crimes that send people to prison have something to do with money. Growing up in similar situations that many of the young individuals he’s helping are, Delving feels that he has a sincere responsibility to create realistic opportunities for them. In addition to being an author, personal finance coach, and entrepreneur, Delvin is also a US Army veteran and recipient of the Unsung Hero Award. He holds degrees from Alabama A&M University and Murray State University. He is married to Felichia, and they have two children, Tierra and Jordan, along with three grandchildren. Delvin’s future goal is to continue to change the lives of millions of children by introducing them to the world’s economic process. To learn more about The Wealthy Child, please visit their website at . You may also follow Delvin Sullivan on Facebook and Instagram by putting The Wealthy Child in your search box. To learn more about Huami Magazine, please follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine in your search box. You may also visit our website at To follow This Is Who I Am Podcast on Facebook and Instagram, simply put our name in your search box. To purchase your copy of It's My Turn Now: Caregiving 101 by Odell Cleveland, please call 336-895-8995 or visit his website at /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/23537051

Episode 49: Tarolyn Street - Delectable Delights By Tarolyn 06/13/2022

Episode 49: Tarolyn Street - Delectable Delights By Tarolyn It’s one thing to have a sweet tooth, but to have it satisfied is where the real pleasure comes in. If you happen to be in the Pensacola community of Florida, there is one company that is sure to meet your delight. That company is Delectable Delights by Tarolyn Inc., a home-based cottage bakery. Delectable Delights offers both traditional and custom cakes, as well as a wide variety of treats. Owned and founded by Tarolyn Street, they can create anything for such occasions as baby showers, birthday parties, weddings, and more. Tarolyn is the true definition of a savvy businesswoman. She launched her company with a determination to succeed and set an example to her children of what hard work will do for them. She has been married for 12 years to her husband, David, who she describes as her business partner, prayer warrior, best friend, and counselor. Together they shepherd a blended family of six children and seven Godchildren. Tarolyn says the truth is she did not want to launch her business. “I enrolled into culinary arts school right out of high school, but I had so much going on in my life, including being homeless, that I did not finish. I would make cakes for family and friends, but I wasn’t interested in making cakes and treats full-time. My focus changed, and I enrolled in school to become a licensed massage therapist. I was running from my calling. I was scared. Scared of failure and scared of not being accepted. I was also scared of not knowing what to do. I had these emotions even after winning third place in the state of Florida VICA Commercial Baking and Pastries Competition. However, things changed one day when I heard God say, “I gave you a talent, so what are you going to do with it?” I told God if He’s pushing me out here, I know I have no choice but to move with His plan, and so I did." Tarolyn says what she loves most about her business is being able to touch the lives of others with something as simple as a cake or treat. As the future continues to look bright for her and Delectable Delights by Tarolyn, she hopes to become more involved in her community by giving back and serving. One way Tarolyn plans to accomplish this is to shine a light on more small businesses and help them grow and become more successful. That is what love looks like. To learn more about Delectable Delights by Tarolyn please visit her on Facebook and Instagram by putting Delectable Delights in your search box. To learn more about Huami Magazine, please follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine in your search box. You may also visit our website at To follow This Is Who I Am Podcast on Facebook and Instagram, simply put our name in your search box. To purchase your copy of It's My Turn Now: Caregiving 101 by Odell Cleveland, please call 336-895-8995 or visit his website at www.revodellcleveland.com /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/23415206

Episode 48: Rafeala Thomas and Cara Beautiful 06/12/2022

Episode 48: Rafeala Thomas and Cara Beautiful Rafaela Thomas said her father always told her that education could take her anywhere she wanted to go. And he was right. Her education helped her travel the world, become a high ranking officer in the Army, a licensed Family Nurse Practitioner and the owner of her own business, CaraBeautiful, a cosmetic dermatology salon in Greensboro. Born in Panama, Thomas recalls her family moved to Brooklyn, New York when she was 10 years old and they didn’t speak any English. The seventh of eight children, she noted that her parents stressed the importance of education and the need for them to learn the language. “I come from parents with third and fourth-grade education, but they instilled in us that it was necessary to get an education. We all graduated from high school and went on to be successful in our career paths. So when you come from such a strong family unit, it inspires you to strive for more,” said Thomas. She first established her business in 2016, and in February 2019 she was ready to move CaraBeautiful into Sola Salon, Suite 110 in the Friendly Shopping Center on Pembroke Road. “Coming here from another country, I learned that the world has so much to offer. All you have to do is strive hard and do the best you can. My father always said, ‘No matter what you end up doing in life, you do the best you can and you be the best at it.’ So that is how I’ve always lived my life,” said Thomas. Thomas graduated from the High School of Fashion Industries in NYC, and joined the Navy in 1978, and worked as a dental hygienist and assistant. She explained how she noticed that a simple procedure, like applying braces, changed a person’s whole outlook about themselves. “For me, teeth and smiles and faces have always been a part of medicine that I enjoyed. Seeing the smile on a patient’s face in reaction to the change they saw would make me so happy. I knew back then that I wanted to work with faces,” she said. At CaraBeautiful, Thomas provides Botox and dermal fillers. Each product requires a different procedure that is placed in different areas of the face, and both are temporary results. Thomas ensures she provides detailed information to each client about the procedures and what to expect. While about 75 percent of her clientele has been women, Thomas noted that she is slowly starting to encounter more male clients who are interested in facial treatments. Rafeala says, "My greatest accomplishments have been serving this country, reaching the rank of a Major Medical Officer, being a nurse practitioner and finding my greatest passion in life, which is CaraBeautiful. Coming to CaraBeautiful is not work. It’s a passion to do what I do and I love it. To learn more about Odell Cleveland and It's My Turn Now: Care Giving 101, please call 336-895-8995 or visit his website at www.revodellcleveland.com To learn more about Huami Magazine please visit our website at You may also follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine in your search box. You may also follow this podcast on Facebook and Instagram by putting This Is Who I am in your search box. /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/23402789

Episode 47: District Attorney Avery Crump 04/28/2022

Episode 47: District Attorney Avery Crump District Attorney Avery Crump was elected as the first African American and female District Attorney in Guilford County in 2018. She was sworn in to office on January 1, 2019. Prior to her election as District Attorney, Avery served as a District Court Judge in Guilford County from 2009 until she stepped down to run for District Attorney. Avery worked as an assistant district attorney here in Guilford County for nine years where she worked in all criminal courts, both district and superior, in both Greensboro and High Point. Her experience includes prosecuting serious felonies in Superior Court, such as: murder, rape, sex offenses against women and children, kidnapping, child pornography, and felony assaults. During this time, she also worked in juvenile court for over five years in High Point, North Carolina. In 2008, Avery was elected as a District Court Judge here in Guilford County. She served nine years as a judge prior to seeking the office of District Attorney. As a District Court Judge, she presided in all district courts in both Greensboro and High Point. She also continued her love of working with juveniles by becoming a Certified Juvenile Court Judge. Prior to resigning to run for District Attorney, she was the most senior District Court Judge presiding in juvenile court. Avery also conducted yearly juvenile training for other District Court Judges. She served as the judicial fellow for Reclaiming Futures and Juvenile Justice Substance Abuse and Mental Health Partnership (JJSAMHP), two juvenile initiatives here in Guilford County. In addition, she presided over Juvenile Drug Treatment Court, a specialty court in Greensboro, which helps juveniles overcome their addiction to drugs and alcohol. Avery Crump, was born in Statesville, NC and graduated from Statesville Senior High School. In 1994, Avery graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science. She also studied abroad at the University of Sheffield, England from 1992-1993. Avery graduated from North Carolina Central University School of Law in 1997. After graduation, she worked as an assistant district attorney in Bronx County, New York from 1997 to 1999, where she prosecuted various criminal charges. In 1999, she moved back to North Carolina to marry her husband Jason. They have been blessed with two sons, Jason Jr and Xavier. Avery loves spending time with her family. (Information provided by m) To learn more about District Attorney Avery Michelle Crump, please visit her website at To learn more about Huami Magazine please visit our website at You may also follow us on Facebook and Instagram by putting Huami Magazine in your search box. You may also follow this podcast on Facebook and Instagram by putting This Is Who I am in your search box. /episode/index/show/thisiswhoiam/id/22939508

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