(S5) Episode 7- Things I Wish I Knew Sooner | Hosted by Shunte Gamble
In this episode Sharon and I talk about things we wish we knew sooner. We talk about dealing with disappointments, being authentically ourselves, and being a life long learner.
Episode Highlights -2 Things you wish you knew sooner. -What difference did these lessons make in your business/life? -The important of a healthy mindset.
Website: https://effortlessvitality.now.site/home As a behavioral scientist and retirement coach, Sharon has become the Queen of Courage after working 44 years in the corporate world. She is passionate about her creative expression and helping others live from their joy and essence. Yet, her down to earth sincerity comes from her farm girl roots when she stacked hay and milked cows. That’s when she also started feeling invisible as the middle of 5 kids, but also because it felt safe.
About Let’s Talk Life XL Podcast
Ever wondered if there was more to life? Yep! THAT feeling. Let’s Talk Life XL Show talks about life as it is; the good, the bad, and the funny. Shunte and her guests share their life’s experiences through personal stories of authenticity, success, failure, and the funny. Shunte is on a mission to cheer on those who wear many hats.
Along with podcasting, Shunte also owns and operates Mixed Talk Media, Women Empowering Change INC, and The Blueprint by Shunte Gamble. She is dedicated to empowering today’s leaders.
(S5) Episode 7- Things I Wish I Knew Sooner | Hosted by Shunte Gamble
In this episode Supa Xtra and I talk about things we wish we knew sooner. We talk about getting out and staying outside the box. We talk about the power of authentically being ourselves.
Episode Highlights -2 Things you wish you knew sooner in business or life. -How did these lessons help improve your business/life? -The importance of a healthy mindset. -Latest music & projects.
Ever wondered if there was more to life? Yep! THAT feeling. Let’s Talk Life XL Show talks about life as it is; the good, the bad, and the funny. Shunte and her guests share their life’s experiences through personal stories of authenticity, success, failure, and the funny. Shunte is on a mission to cheer on those who wear many hats.
Along with podcasting, Shunte also owns and operates Mixed Talk Media, Women Empowering Change INC, and The Blueprint by Shunte Gamble. She is dedicated to empowering today’s leaders.
In this episode Ron and I talk about the Bigger Picture. We are honest about our experiences with patience and how those experiences shaped the goals we set. Enjoy!
Episode Highlights -How do you feel about making a new year resolution? -What does it take to reach a goal? -How to stay motivated during the process of reaching your goals. -How to enjoy both the process and journey toward goals.
Ron Naulls is an attorney and technologist with a focus area in Cybersecurity and Privacy serving small, medium, and major corporations through consulting and training. He is the author of The Audacity of Dope and Perseverance, a memoir of his life story. He now lives in CA with his wife and children.
Ever wondered if there was more to life? Yep! THAT feeling. Let’s Talk Life XL Show talks about life as it is; the good, the bad, and the funny. Shunte and her guests share their life’s experiences through personal stories of authenticity, success, failure, and the funny. Shunte is on a mission to cheer on those who wear many hats.
Along with podcasting, Shunte also owns and operates Mixed Talk Media, Women Empowering Change INC, and The Blueprint by Shunte Gamble. She is dedicated to empowering today’s leaders.
Meet Yasmin (Yassy) Brown, a Houston Mogul in the making. Yassy graduated from Eisenhower High School and headed straight to college for Fashion Design. Yassy decided she wanted to be more than just a Fashion Designer, so she started her own Modeling Agency by the name of “Haute Model Management” (HMM) with some of Houston’s Hottest Models, and influencers under the HMM brand. Yassy also won an award for Houston Hottest Modeling Agency.
Yassy has done a plethora of Fashion Shows and has produced and co-produced more than eight Amazing Fashion shows of her own. Yassy has been one of Houston’s Runway Extraordinaire Coaches for the past seven years and counting. She became a Model Teacher at Barbizon USA until she decided to part ways with the company to pay more attention to her brand and family. Although good things came to an end for Yassy Brown in the Modeling Scene. Yassy didn’t stop there, she took time off to spend quality time with her family Omar, Brayden, & Kai.
A New Beginning…
In 2018 Yassy decided to come back in the Fashion Scene to take 2019 by storm, and she did. She has had successful sold-out model Runway Workshops, became a Runway Director for Haute Houston, and produced her fifth Successful Fashion show under the name “Fashion Haus” alongside her team members: Kia Renee & Felicia Eboni.
Now working on her sixth Fashion Haus Show. Outside of Fashion, Yassy also has an organization by the name of “MomsofHTX” that is open for all mothers who are seeking support and friendships. MOMS OF HTX is set around daily activities that appeal to moms and children of all ages. Yassy Brown has made a Platform for Houston’s Fashion Scene since 2010 by giving models, photographers, designers, and interns opportunities to make a name for themselves and to show what Talent Houston has to offer in the industry. She has made a BIG Impact in Houston and does not plan on stopping anytime soon.
Who/What is your source of motivation?
My children are my motivation as far as starting my own company. I also wanted to make changes within the fashion world.
What makes your brand/business stand out?
Haus of Brown stands out because we make something magical. We appease the client in that we make them feel seen and heard and help them bring their vision to life and more.
How do you set new standards for your industry?
We are setting new standards by keeping up with current trends and setting new ones.
Aside from products or a provided service, what intangible things do you hope your clients gain?
Experience, Knowledge, Values, Culture, Communication
Women in Suits Event
Mixed Talk Media had the pleasure of attending Yassy’s recent event, Women In Suits. The enegery was eletric. The fashion was haute.
Women and men both rocked suits as they networked, shopped, and soaked in the vibes from the DJ. Vendors with great finds and valuable resources lined the event.
During the event there were fun games that kept the crowd engaged, an opportunity for entrepreneurs to share about their brands, and an award ceremony to spotlight entrenpreuers who are dedicated to their cause, brand, and community.
Do you have a non-profit, small business, or agency? Could a $5,000 grant help your business?
Women Empowering Change has opened their 2022 Pitch IT! Programpurposed to provide entrepreneurswith recognition, valuable tools to pitch their brand in the marketplace, and financial support.
Who: Open to entrepreneurs of nonprofit organizations, small businesses, and agencies. When: Consists of 3 Rounds Described Below Where: Online & In-Person
Round 1 | 30 Spots
NOW-APRIL
Enter Online (FREE Early Entry)*
Join WEC & Mixed Talk Radio Founder Shunte Gamble LIVE on air! (Entrant Selected Date)
Entrants must purchase a Two Day VIP Summit Pass.
Round 2
MAY-JUNE
Mixed Talk Magazine Cover Contest (Online Voting for ALL Entrants!)
Mixed Talk Magazine Cover Photoshoot (FREE for Contest Winner)
Radio Interview
Round 3
September 23rd Summit Day 1- Pitch IT! Masterclass
September 24thSummit Day 2- Pitch IT! Contest (Each entrant will have 30 seconds to share all about their brand.)
Summit Day 2- Catalyst 4 Change Leadership Award Ceremony & $5,000 Grant Presentation
ALL SELECTED Entrants are entered into the Magazine Cover Contest!
*Entry is free until April 1, 2022. Is it $50 thereafter.All entrants must have a registered business that makes less than $200,000 per year.*All entrants must meet the criteria listed in the 2022 CFC Awards Waiver. Grant size is $5,000 and dependent upon attendance of the summit Masterclass and Pitch IT! Score.
My name is Ebony Robert, born and raised in Orlando, Florida. I recall our family struggling; everything was being foreclosed and repossessed. My mother needed help, so she moved us to Louisiana after my father passed away to be closer to her family.
My father was a member of First Baptist Church of Pine Hills; he was also a member of Greater Orlando Legal Services, National Association for Advancement of Colored People, and Jones High School Alumni Association. He was a civil rights activist and a community worker. He was also an Army veteran of World War II. My mother worked two-three jobs to provide for us. After I completed High School, I started college. I obtained two master’s degrees in Early Childhood Education.
While my husband and I raised our five handsome sons, I taught full-time. Tapping into my love for beauty, I started handcrafting hair and skincare products that helped my sons with their problematic skin issues. I wanted to give my mother the world after she gave us everything she had. She worked so hard and deserved the best.
>>The Brand <<
We are a handcrafted brand that enjoys bringing you and your family products that work. Our products are multicultural and diverse. They are designed for any consumer who desires a natural toxin-free product. We make our products daily and in small batches.
When did you start your business?
I started my business on June 17, 2017.
Entrepreneurship is a journey of many steps. What keeps you motivated?
Our motivation is to help our customers achieve a natural skincare and hair routine free of harmful chemicals and healthy for a beautiful and radiant outlook.
What makes your brand stand out?
We support natural and organic beauty journeys through a unique customer relationship. We are committed to providing quality and safer alternatives for skincare and hair growth. We understand our customer’s needs and beauty goals through outstanding customer service.
For years, many companies have based their mission and standards around making women feel prettier about themselves. I like to tell my consumers to own their natural beauty without looking like the women they see in the magazines.
How do you work to understand your customer’s needs?
Customer service is important because it is a great way to build relationships with clients. By simply listening to a customer, beauty service providers can learn a lot about their needs and preferences. This not only makes the job enjoyable but also shows care and sincerity.
Aside from products or provided services, what intangible things do you hope your clients gain?
I hope that our customers gain trust in our brand.
List your Top 4 Products
Our Turmeric line is one of our best sellers. It’s great for dark spots and acne.
Our Booty scrub kit is another top seller.
Our feminine care products are unique. It’s keeps everything on track.
Our Hair care products provide women with the results they are looking for when it comes to overall hair health.
“Building your dreams takes time. Just remember, never give up on your dreams; when life knocks you down, keep going! Someone is praying for you to make it.”
As a savvy, multifaceted, well-rounded entrepreneur, with a readiness to assist you in living your best life Sabrena established Sabrena Cross Consulting which serves as the brand’s umbrella to her Professional Makeup Artistry business, Certified Lifestyle Coach business, Visual Fashion Stylist business, and Mentorship. Sabrena’s 25 plus years of experience, education, and wealth of knowledge were in part gained from her study of Psychology, multiple certifications, and her tenure at MAC Cosmetics, where she served as a Master Makeup Artist and manager. She also owned and managed her personal beauty salon. Sabrena is prominent in the beauty and fashion industry, along with her other business ventures. Not limited to such, she also applies her expertise to relationship cultivation and life advancement.
In an ever-evolving beauty and fashion industry, Sabrena serves as a Professional Makeup Artist and Stylist with a strong passion for enhancing beauty, creating fashion, and applying the artistry of cosmetics. Possessing a desire to make a total-person impact, Sabrena also serves as an Imagine Consultant and Beauty coach who executes a unisex approach of encouragement and coaching. As a companion to her empowering abilities, Sabrena is a Certified Lifestyle Strategist, Self-Discovery Life Coach, and Inspirational Speaker with a strong belief that life begins with self-love and authenticity. Transformation is encouraged by Sabrena in comparison to a caterpillar morphing into a colorful butterfly.
On the platform of stage productions, photography studios, television series, and social affairs, you will find the finished work of Sabrena’s makeup and fashion creations. Her work has been seen and featured on Bravo TV Network, The Kelly Clarkson Show, Ms. USA Pageant, many commercials, local networks, countless national platforms, magazines and so much more. Over the life of her career, Sabrena has had the opportunity to build a clientele base that includes, but is not limited to, brides, wedding parties, YouTube/social media influencers, Ms. Texas, male and female models, stage production cast members, musicians, actresses/actors, reality show stars, film, fashion shows, and celebrities. Sabrena has also been gifted the opportunity to through her Coaching practice a range to assist individuals in discovering their purpose and how to live their dreams through strategic vision building and self-awareness.
Having an extremely compassionate, selfless, and crafty mother, as well as a talented father who was an entrepreneurial craftsman, carpenter, and cowboy, there was no way Sabrena was going to escape her destiny of being a Creative.
Continuing in what she loves, Sabrena is the CEO of Sabrena Cross Consulting, Owner and CEO of ReTailored Love by Sabrena Boutique, Founder and owner of Butterfly Kiss by Sabrena Cosmetics, Founder of Butterfly Effect Foundation, Founder of Goal Digger Academy, and Founder of The Spotlight Project.
When did you start your business?
I started my career and business journey over 25 years ago as a licensed Cosmetologist doing hair and eventually evolved into makeup. 2021 marked 20 years as a self-taught Professional Makeup Artist and a little over 10 years serving as a Life Coach and Fashion Stylist.
What motivated you to start your entrepreneurial journey?
So many individuals have struggles we are unaware of, self-esteem issues that are layered under superficial things, destructive tendencies, lack of positive body positivity, traumas that are buried, or limited awareness of how to enhance one’s beauty or how to properly do so. We believe that everyone deserves to look their finest, regardless of their shape, size, color, or creed. Your wardrobe should inspire you, bring life and inspiration to your daily lifestyle. So, being able to assist in peeling back some of those layers and helping find the lost confidence, hope, or just simply looking in the mirror and feeling good about oneself is the motivation behind starting the company.
We need the details. Tell us more about your brand.
Sabrena Cross Consulting is the umbrella or Sabrena Cross Beauty (makeup), ReTailored Love by Sabrena (boutique), Bling with Sabrena (jewelry), Goal Digger Academy (coaching and mentoring), and personal shopping. We are one brand with multiple experiences. Our business embodies all things image and beauty. As a collective, we are a brand beyond beauty, centered and focused on body positivity, self-love, and self-care. Our company has been blessed to take on some really big projects and business deals. We change lives one makeover at a time. Just call us the self-esteem booster! Have you had your dose yet?
How does your brand stand out?
This brand/business stands out and is set apart because we are truly a “One Stop Shop…The Beautique”! Establishing a great relationship and connection with each client/customer is of great importance to us. It allows us to cater to the uniqueness of every client/customer. We pride ourselves on having the ability to make every customer/client feel like our number one priority because they are. Our goal is to always deliver first-class service!
How do you set new standards for your industry?
SC sets new standards by making an internal difference as well as an external one. So, we’re not in the business of masking flaws, we wish to help heal trauma, help embrace flaws, help see new possibilities, help explore your uniqueness, heighten confidence, give hope and so much more. For those who may not face certain struggles, we thrive off the push they provide us. When it comes to clothing, we strongly believe just because they sell it in your size, doesn’t mean it’s for you. We encourage our customers to focus on items that fit properly for their body type. Ultimately, we are more than just services; we offer an EXPERIENCE.
How can we support you?
-Makeup: The Beauty Look -Styling: The push to step outside of your comfort zone -Clothing: Our pieces are known for their uniqueness -Coaching: Our Goal Digger Academy -Cosmetics: Our Velvet Lippies (they are amazing)
What do you love the most about working with your clients/customers?
The absolute best part about working with our clients is the energy, joy, and positive vibrations that each client/customer exudes from our services or products. We love tapping into individuality and pushing the boundaries of one’s comfort zone!
Aside from products or provided services, what intangible things do you hope your clients gain?
Sabrena is in Mixed Talk Magazine Vol. 2 Click Cover to Read | Page 8
“Confidence is a superpower, once you start believing in yourself and your brand, the magic starts to happen. Always remain true to yourself, your vision, your assignment, and the success will follow.”
I am a singer-songwriter, best-selling author, actress, and all-around entertainer. I have been performing ever since I can remember. At a young age, I was involved in dancing groups, talent shows, TV Shows, commercials, and youth organizations such as NYA and HYPE. While with NYA (Network for Young Artists), I gained experience throughout San Antonio, Texas performing at local rodeos and festivals.
I moved to California for two years after High School and rubbed elbows in the studio with the likes of Smitty Soul (Credits: Chris Brown, Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj, etc.), Ron Aniello (Credits: EMPIRE, Bruce Springsteen, Shania Twain.), Pusha Rod (Credits: YG, Dreezy.), Rita Wilson. I gained even more experience in songwriting in sessions for artists like Disney Star CoCo Jones.
I became homeless for eleven months while living in California, but that didn’t stop me from working, becoming an extra for more money, and pursuing my dreams. During this same time, I auditioned for Nick Cannon’s #SignMeToNCredible Challenge via Instagram and I WON! Natalie has been a part of Nick Cannon’s Projects “Calling All Models” (The Prequel), “F*** Him” Trilogy, released in early 2018, and a single titled “Simple” with NCredible Ent in 2019.
I have created an Independent label, “Indience Music Group” by the way of United Masters, shortly after working with Nick Cannon. I realized I could cause my buzz, revenue, and own myself 100%.
Through my label, I’ve released iTunes chart-topping singles like “Slide” & “Go Off” along with so many other high streaming records. My discography keeps flourishing. I would like my legacy to be for my storytelling and testimony because I pull from my own life experiences to create and help others in all things I do.
Tell us about your music.
I tell true stories in my music. It’s raw and doesn’t beat around the bush. What you hear is me and my interpretation of my experiences on love, life, heartbreaks, etc.
What message does your work express?
My work expresses authentic/raw experiences in love, make-ups, breakups, and otherwise.
What is the best part about your creative process?
The best part of my creative process is just that I can be fully creative. I step into a zone where there are no limits. I’m completely honest in every song I write and my audience gets to witness that with every finished product
How do you set new standards for your industry?
Stay outside of the box. I don’t shut down my ideas based on “Industry Standards”. I just create and the people that are supposed to listen fly with me.
What humbles us carries the potential to teach us. As I reflect on the things I am grateful for, I cannot fail to include the lessons that humbled me. It is easy for us to set relationship goals, career goals, even self-care goals, but what about practicing humility as a goal?
I love the following quote. “For many of us, humility is one of the hardest traits to develop; because it has to start from a recognition that you are not always right and that you do not have all the answers. It also requires an acceptance of yourself which many of us find challenging.”
Whew! I talk a lot about being 100% transparent with ourselves on my podcast, Let’s Talk Life XL, with my guests. The verdict is always the same. We all concur this is a necessary component of self-discovery, self-acceptance, interpersonal growth, and overall change.
It took many failures to realize there usually are multiple ways to accomplish a goal. When I trust the leading for my journey, I can have a larger perspective of life. I find the time, in-between, is much more satisfying. There are more intangible rewards like joy, self-love, self- grace, and peace. I can receive new opportunities, clarity, and support because I am not clutching my way so tightly.
An open hand is better than a closed fist. Think about it. How can you receive if you’re not in the act of receiving?
Ways to Practice Humility
1. Practice gratitude.
When you find yourself feeling bummed or frustrated, try writing a list of ten people or things you’re grateful for having in your life. Then invite the positive emotions/feelings each brings. Write those feelings or thoughts down along with why you’re grateful for them.
2. Avoid comparison.
Comparison is the number one thief of joy, peace, contentment, love, and the list goes on. Focus on your gratitude list. If you feel you’re lacking in a particular area of your life, set specific goals to heal or grow in that area. For instance, if you feel like everyone around you is getting married or in healthy relationships, make a goal to enjoy your time as a single, meet new people, or partake in things you love to do. If you feel overlooked or unseen, make a goal to practice boldness or to practice self-encouragement (I like affirmations). Remember, you are one-of-a-kind. Your journey is designed specifically for you, the people you will impact, and the experiences you need.
3. Practice vulnerability with yourself and others.
The only way to is through. If we want to make progress and see external change, we have to start inward. When we are honest about where we are emotionally, mentally, or physically, we can take the steps toward personal development. This-takes-time. This-may-hurt. Practicing vulnerability may also require outsourced support, such as counseling. Either way, this is a sure path to the best version of you.
4. Lean into the power of constructive feedback.
I like to describe constructive feedback as feedback that builds you up (like the construction of a building) and does not tear you down (like the demolishing of a building). Constructive feedback carries the power to better us in specific areas of our lives. When we are open to suggestions for improvement, we open ourselves to the opportunity to widen our perspective and apply new strategies to experience better or different outcomes. Remember, feedback should empower you to be your best self.
5. Know that being humble doesn’t make you weak.
A huge misconception is that minimizing ourselves is the way to express humbleness or humility. So not true. The fact is, the opposite is true. When we practice humility, we glow. If you’ve ever turned on a light in a dark room, then you know the power of light. When we glow, we shine. When we shine, we light up rooms we walk in. When we surround ourselves with others who are also glowing, we become a larger beacon of light. In essence, we emit positive energy that can empower and inspire those we meet along our journey.
P.S. Be the light this world needs. Shine! With Love, Sg
Women Empowering Change 2021 Emerge Forward Summit
By: MTM | October 25, 2021
More than 11.6 million firms are owned by women, employing nearly 9 million people, and generating $1.7 trillion in sales as of 2017. Women are emerging into positions of leadership that enable them to achieve new levels of success.
Women Empowering Change believes that change starts within our inner community- self. From there, we can expand our reach and positively impact change around us. Now more than ever, women have opportunities that are within every niche.
On September 25, 2021, WEC hosted our annual WEC Summit. This year’s theme was Emerge Forward. We brought men and women together for an impactful event centered around empowering messages of hope and equipping attendees with the tools to move them to the next level. The summit was filled with knowledge, networking opportunities, fun, and games.
The speakers spoke from passion and experience. There was not a dry eye in the room! Lives were changed on the spot and new goals were set.
Mixed Talk Media 