Meet Stephanie Ardrey

Meet Power Mom Stephanie Ardrey

TDR: Please give us a brief recap of your career.
Stephanie Ardrey: I am a real estate developer & launched my own firm in 2015; previously directed several multibillion dollar portfolios of commercial real estate development projects. I founded a business accelerator to fund early stage technology companies. I am also an adjunct professor teaching in the graduate and/or undergraduate programs at California State University, Los Angeles, The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, and University of California, Los Angeles. I make several guest appearances at alma mater, University of Southern California's Ross program on real estate. Recently, I received a Commendation from Mayor Garcetti, City of Los Angeles for organizing the first Startup Weekend in south Los Angeles aimed at introducing urban youth to technology, new venture creation and funding.

TDR: Please tell us about your children.
SA: Sterling Ardrey - 18 years old is an amazing young man! He has been a talented SAG-AFTRA actor since he was four-years old and has had guest starring and recurring roles on television, film, commercials and voice over projects. He is a freshman at St. John's University and pursuing studies in sports management with the goal of becoming an attorney/sports agent. He has volunteered for many causes, supported Stevie Wonder's House of Toys, Living Advantage Foster Youth and more with love, joy and grace.

TDR: How are you juggling your passion with the responsibilities of parenthood?
SA: Prayer and focus on the vision. We’ve juggled so many life challenges while moving forward and in the end, the passion along with a clear purpose has contributed to how we continue to push forward. As a parent I made a point of always being present with my son and not having my work cause him to be needy. In practice when he was younger, I would pick him up from school and if I was on the phone he knew that once that call ended, which would be less than five minutes, that he would be the full attention until I put him to bed each night. We would discuss his day, or have to race to an audition and discuss the script en route, and then once home we enjoyed a sit down dinner with conversation. We didn't watch a lot of television, so we developed a great relationship built upon trust and communication. Once dinner was completed when he was younger, he would have a bath and get a full body massage and we'd read a book before he went to sleep. I would then return any late business calls or check emails before finally retiring myself. 
In the mornings, I would check in with my staff while getting him ready for school. We would walk to school and then I would come home and dress myself and head to my office. This allowed him to drive his toy car to school or skate, etc. as we walked in the morning. Again, our time before the rest of the business demands required my attention. 
Before my son left for college, he gave me a talk where he shared how much he feels I deserve love and that he has been loved completely, never harmed in any way and that I have been an amazing mom. He encouraged me that I have so much love to share and he felt that I too deserve to receive love.

TDR: What are some of your struggles and how do you work to overcome them?
SA: My mother passed at 48-years of age just prior to my becoming pregnant with my son. His father was diagnosed with cancer and his medical treatments were ongoing for the first four years of my son's life. All of this while I was in litigation dissolving my then $250M joint venture advertising agency. When I think back it has always been my faith and belief, to keep me motivated and encouraged to overcome. I feel as if God has wanted me to one day share my story and that for those reasons, I had to not just survive, but thrive irrespective of the challenges. I eventually married, which ended in divorce, and suffered the challenges associated with dissolving business interests and experienced financial setbacks as a result of the Great Recession and the dissolution of many of the organizations that I had either contracts with or ongoing projects. Again, it took a lot to be willing to watch everything I had built crash and burn, and still remain loving, positive and optimistic that "this too shall pass". My son has remained a positive spirit, and source of such encouragement. I'm often told by others how much he loves and respects me as not only his mom, but an entrepreneur.

TDR: What are 2 resources you use to help you stay motivated?
SA: My faith in God and that my life has a purpose are the rudders guiding my actions.
I read a lot of books and listen to motivational messages. I am constantly seeking opportunities for new learning and evolution.

TDR: What is your favorite way to pause?
SA: I love sports and am a great football and basketball spectator. So catching a game, curling up with one of my books, taking a trek to the spa or a walk in the park are ways to pause and reflect. My favorite is sitting by the water - so grateful to have an office on the water - as this is a way that I energize my spirit.

TDR: What has been the scariest moment or crossroad in your journey?
SA: When my mom died suddenly I experienced a pain so deep that I didn't know how I would overcome that feeling of loss. She was really my best friend, biggest supporter, and confidante. In my immediate circles, I was considered "weird" for being so driven at an early age and to have built the joint venture at the time with $250M in capitalized billings, eight-offices, 400 employees - in advertising, where diversity did not exist, at 26-years old was a pretty significant accomplishment. It placed me in a very different space from many of my peers, therefore, I trusted all of my thoughts with my mom. 
I was so alone when she passed, and being both an only child and not having the immediate loving or emotional support of family members, this crossroad caused me to lean on God and I'm certain it's when he first started really carrying me - think of the poem, "Footprints." 
God blessed me with Sterling who was born on the night before the one-year anniversary of my mom's passing. My desire to be the best mom that I could be and to have a clear vision for the type of child I wanted to nurture became the focus of my next career decisions and really the guidepost to what was going to be next.

TDR: What would be your greatest advice to other "Power Moms" wanting to pursue their dreams?
SA: Create a clear vision and take actions daily to execute the plans necessary to accomplish your goals. Remember, you don't eat an elephant in one bite! A clear vision of where you are headed is essential, as when life challenges take you off course, remember like the GPS in your car, it will recalculate, recalculate and still direct you to that destination. I consider my GPS (God's Purpose System) - aimed at getting me to the destination irrespective of the bumps in the road, harsh weather conditions or life challenges.

TDR: What word best describes the legacy you want to leave for your children and why?
SA: It is my goal to leave a wealth legacy for great-great grand kids, built upon the idea that they each are blessed with talents which must be developed and delivered for humanity to advance. I have raised my son to believe that he has a significant gift and is charged with presenting his talents to make the world a better place.

TDR: How can others collaborate and support your mission?
SA: I'm leading an initiative "Women of means doing meaningful things" - aimed at helping women to monetize their mission by embracing their talents, use planned giving strategies, and creating legacy based ventures that can change the course of their family’s lives.

Connect with Stephanie:

Twitter:@stephdione

 Instagram:  @iventlabs

Facebook: Stephanie.Ardrey

LinkedIn: Stephanie Ardrey

Did this inspire you? What are your thoughts? Please share feedback for this Power Mom below. Sometimes your words can trigger a thought that could change a life. We love hearing from you. Please share this with others if it helped you or could help someone else. Be sure to connect with this Power Mom below. We will check the comments box often. :) 

MEET STACEY FERGUSON

TDR:  What issues are you most passionate about in your community?

Stacey:  Empowering bloggers to use their platforms to gain financial and creative freedom.  Equalizing the brand budget playing field for influencers of color.  Creating a platform for sisterhood and support for women of color in social media.

TDR: What are most of your philanthropy efforts typically directed towards serving?

Stacey:  Want-raprenuers who desire to start businesses following their passions. I also have a heart for the hungry and the homeless.

TDR:  How do you define leadership?

Stacey:  I define leadership as a divine responsibility! It's a role that I take very seriously. Leadership means that you've been gifted with the ability to lead others to a higher ground, whether it's in business, relationships, or any number of things.

TDR:  How would you define your leadership style?

Stacey:  This I know for sure - I'm a Democratic Leader. I learned this from reading T.D. Jakes' "Instinct". This means I like everyone to participate, weigh-in and engage in open discussion.

TDR:  What would be the most painful lesson that you've learned in life that has helped you become who you are today?

Stacey:  Not to underestimate the damage that egos can do. They can end relationships, undermine business opportunities, and derail your aspirations. I've learned to be mindful of people's egos and how to manage them. It sounds silly, but I've learned the hard way that they are what make this world go 'round!

TDR:  What would people be surprised to know that you had to overcome?  

Stacey:  Health issues stemming from stress, depression and anxiety. Self-care is a REQUIREMENT for everyone, but especially high-achievers from whom much is expected.

TDR:  What is your advice for emerging leaders?

Stacey:  Know your lane and be clear about your moral compass. Be kind to everyone and give, give, give.

TDR:  Name 3 leaders that you look up to. 

Stacey:  President Obama, Oprah, and Malala Yousafzai.

TDR:  Name 3 of your favorite books.

Stacey:  The Help, The $100 Startup, and anything by Emily Giffin!

TDR:  Complete this sentence…5 years ago I was…

Stacey:  Working full-time as an attorney for the federal government while working my business on the side AND raising a 2 year old, a 4 year old, and a 7 year old.

TDR:  Complete this sentence…5 years from now I hope to be…

Stacey: Thriving with my family and walking in my purpose.

TDR:  If you could describe yourself in one word, what would it be and why?

Stacey:  Genuine. I strive to be genuine in everything that I do; I believe that it sets me apart of many.

TDR:  What are some of your current initiatives people can help you with?

Stacey: Great question - I have several things in the works....stay tuned!

Connect with Stacey:

www.JusticeFergie.com
www.BeBlogalicious.com

Twitter: @justicefergie
Instagram: @beblogalicious

Did this inspire you? What are your thoughts? Please share feedback for this Servant Leader below. Sometimes your words can trigger a thought that could change a life. We love hearing from you. Please share this with others if it helped you or could help someone else. Be sure to connect with this Servant Leader below. We will check the comments box often. :) 

Oprah Winfrey Blew My Mind

What do you believe?

The holidays are one of my favorite times of the year. The lights, the cozy fireplace, food, friends, family and memories…Yeah! It seems that the memories created this time of the year seem to carry so much substance. I guess the gathering around with food without the need to rush back to work the next morning, allows this time to strengthen bonds that may have weakened throughout the year.

During Oprah’s BELIEF series last month, many people held ‘Breaking Bread’ watch parties. Food is a universal connector. After sharing that special moment with Oprah here in Atlanta for her premier, I sat and reflected on it. It’s taken quite some time to process. I mean only the power of God could put me in a living room off of Capital Avenue with Oprah Winfrey and new friends that welcomed me like family. Everyone was so open, joyous, and eager to share the experience of BELIEF. Even with our differences, we still asked ourselves, what do I believe?

The episode explored different dynamics of BELIEF systems and included stories of those seeking to define their faith, those in the midst of life changes and spiritual belief changes, and also reveals inspirational stories of how different cultures actually practice the faith they profess.

During the week of the documentary, I was invited to host two local screenings; one at Georgia State University and the other at Georgia Perimeter College, both in conjunction with the Outlet College Ministry. The dialogue from the students and the community were riveting and full of passion. The conversation became emotional at times, as viewers expressed a feeling of deep conviction and others an overwhelming love for their faith. The stories ignited several pockets of mental, spiritual, and emotional moments of transformation and connection.
 
This year, as I intentionally took time away from the rush of the holiday to reflect on new levels and have a moment of gratitude, BELIEF came to my heart. I have always looked up to Oprah, but I never imagined that we would share moments like this…NEVER EVER. To be honest, it was simply my dream to thank her in person. However, God has had a much bigger plan in store and I see that God can dream a bigger dream. Gratitude allows us to truly transform our mind from what may be going wrong or may be disappointing in our lives, to the power of our process. To surrender full control to the journey and trust that moments of pure bliss and serenity are possible, is a powerful mental state of mind. Before Oprah showed up on October 18th to surprise us for the premier, I used to say ‘OMG THIS FEELS TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE’. I never really understood the power of those words; it’s like saying that if things exceed a certain level of goodness, then it felt unreal, as if reality is supposed to be “average” or full of disappointments.
 
What’s really crazy is that EXACTLY three years ago at the EXACT same time, I was with Oprah in L.A. at a GRATITUDE luncheon she hosted for OWN Ambassadors. I remember thinking constantly, this is too good to be true. When she came and sat next to me, all I could do was beam from ear-to-ear and pray I didn’t embarrass myself. While I have been blessed to share moments with her since then; at the SELMA MOVIE and MARCH in Selma (a sacred space and place, that can’t be described) and at the BELIEF premier actually laughing, dancing, and taking selfies with her. To experience the power of BELIEF, to hear the stories of each person and family that was so gracious to share during the series; with OPRAH herself who self-funded this project and spent the last three years nurturing, BLEW MY MIND! 
I guess you would truly have to understand all that was relinquished during my personal surrendering over the last three years. It was like complete alignment and DIVINE timing. It was bigger than all of us. It was a GOD WINK! OMG! How can we NOT BELIEVE?
If you missed the series, which is super powerful and liberating, OWN has decided to sell it on DVD. I think it’s an awesome gift for someone you love or for yourself. In the meantime, I hope that you too will consider shifting from ‘TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE’, to embracing and expecting miracles. I feel like I am in a supernatural chapter of my life, and I know these experiences begin in the mind.
 
We can only embrace and live the life we expect and feel we are worthy of living, or we will find a way to ruin it or push it away.
 
Embrace your worth, your essence, your value, and honor whatever you believe in your heart; then watch more of it come rushing your way.
 
With love, honor, and gratitude…

Happy Holidays
TDR

Leadership Summit Thoughts From The Heart Day Seven

DAY SEVEN: SUCCESS

Success
Where did this word originate and how in the world can there possibly a definition for it? Is it an image or a state of being? I mean, how do you measure it? Things, people, and opportunities can appear successful and be a complete façade and likewise something can appear to be ho-hum yet be so full of beauty and substance. Take a great book for instance, with a not so great cover. It’s interesting how the word success is so widely used but the perception of success to the viewer and how they define success can create an entirely different perspective all together.
Where in the world and I going with this?
To the drawing board, to the main nucleus and root of this entire series. Success begins in our mind. It starts with a thought and then transforms into a belief. The belief becomes so strong we begin to act or abandon the urge. As we act, we move down a new path. A new path yields a new view. A new view gives new insight and so on and so forth.
Imagine taking out a blank sheet of paper right now, and asking yourself what you are being told to do in your spirit over the next few months. Well, that was me three months ago. There was no Summit and it wasn’t part of a plan or marketing strategy. In fact, it scared me a bit because I questioned if people would invest in a general topic of “Intentional Leadership”.
How many of us get brilliant ideas everyday only to daydream, smile, and get excited for a few hours or a few days and then sit on it? Part of success, from the perspective of let’s just stay moving beyond procrastination to completion, is comprised of a few things I witness from the leaders at our summit.
1.     Belief.  Belief that they were worthy of the experience.
2.     Sacrifice. They were willing to be uncomfortable and give up something to experience something new.
3.     Follow Through. When distractions and obstacles arose, some shrunk back while others pushed forward.
4.     Intention. Each leader understood that this was an intentional decision to connect and tap into something greater for themselves and their vision.
5.     Vulnerability. The courage to share allowed others to see them for who they were not what they may have appeared to be. Being courageous meant being open. Each person chose to trust us with their vulnerability.
6.     Excellence. Each speaker provided such substance, actual websites, documents, and potential pitfalls to avoid. Operating in excellence does not mean perfection. It means doing the best that you can at that moment, which could look a bit different from day to day.
7.     Accountability. At various moments when someone wanted to quit, shrink back, or stand behind, there was a leader within arm’s reach or voice reach that became proactive in standing behind the other person in doubt. When Lorea Sample questioned the power of her message, or when leaders wanted to give up in barre class, or stand behind as we boarded the Ferris wheel, there was always someone saying, ‘I will help you’. We can’t be our best alone. Make sure you have someone in your corner.
8.     Trust. Trusting that all things and lessons, including disappointments are preparing you for the next chapter, is critical and requires a commitment to a healthy thought process. As Rose taught us, the Power of First Thought, is beyond measure. Life is reflecting your thoughts back to you, THINK OF YOUR POWER, ESSENCE, and GREATNESS. Prune anything else that tries to rear its ugly head. You have that control.
9.     Gratitude. Being grateful for the people, lessons, and opportunities as you flow, allows you to experience the journey without missing the essence of it, as you work towards the goal. Maria Proctor professed her gratitude the entire weekend. As she went to get in the car to be escorted back to the hotel for departure, I stopped the car and handed her 3 tall sunflowers. It was an unspoken gesture of my admiration for her. She’s a longtime client that I have watched embrace her next chapter. 3 symbolizes Past, Present, and Future; and Gratitude allows us to see the sunshine in each phase, no matter what it may look like.
10.  Service. As we rise, we must lift others. As we learn, we must share. As we grow, we must serve. The climb or road of success is all about the difference we are making in the world. Many times people are searching for their purpose, never acknowledging that the conversations and their mere existence is serving someone daily. It’s up to us to recognize it and become even more intentional about the level in which we serve. Giving from a healthy place takes time as well, but the beauty of success is that it is up to each of us and only us, to decide what that truly is within.
Servant Leader, Lisa Price, Founder of Carol’s Daughter, once posted the question, “ARE YOU YOUR OWN TOXIN”? It stopped me in my tracks. Many times it’s not the people or jobs in our lives that are delaying success. It’s our decision or lack of courage to make a new one, which creates toxin and mistrust within ourselves. This is because ignoring our truth and allowing ourselves to suffer in silence breaks trust in ourselves to do what is best for ourselves, so we leave it up to other people and become resentful of the toxin in which we are creating within. Once we are willing to admit this truth, we can embrace our next chapter which in itself is a form of success, inner growth, peace, and transformation.
I challenge you to ask yourself how you define success and how you display this within yourself. Servant Leadership isn’t about leading without a title but through how we serve the world. It isn’t measured by the number of lives we impact, but yet the intention to share something that will help move someone else closer to their goals and purpose.
As I conclude this seven day series on the Leadership Summit, Delmar Johnson comes to mind. During one of our consulting sessions or phone calls, I remember asking Delmar why she was so overwhelmed with frustration. She said, “I want to be a finisher. I want to finish my book”. It may seem light as you read those words, but they were so heavy and full of passion it was if I could feel all of her frustration rushing through the phone. I said, “Delmar, send everything you have already journaled to an editor or writer that you know and trust and ask them to begin organizing what you have into chapters. Once you have an accountability partner to pass the torch to, so to speak, you will be sure to complete your book”. She did and for that reason I smile when I think of Delmar.
Not only does she exemplify success in my heart because she is a true servant of people and one of the best HR Recruiters I have met, but over the last five years she has displayed every trait that came to my heart writing this post. It is my hope that you will also define success on your terms and decide that you are worthy of finishing because your light will surely inspire someone else, just as I hope my light has inspired you. Do it less than perfect. The price of procrastination is not worth the lives waiting for your gift.
 
With love and gratitude,
TDR

Day One: Sacrifice
Day Two: Enough
Day Three: Trust
Day Four: Faith
Day Five: Power of Knowledge
Day Six: Fear

Day Seven: Success

Leadership Summit Thoughts From The Heart Day Six

DAY SIX: FEAR

Day two of the Leadership Summit kicked off with an intense core barre fitness class at Exhale Spa and a group excursion to SkyView Atlanta. We thought this was the perfect experience to cap off our NEW VIEW 2016 theme for Intentional Leadership and Intentional Living.
 
SkyView Atlanta gives you a one-of-a-kind, thrilling look at Atlanta from atop a 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel in luxurious, climate-controlled gondolas circling high above Centennial Olympic Park. Many of the leaders were excited UNTIL we arrived and they were standing face to face with the Ferris wheel.
“I’ve never ridden a Ferris wheel before”, stated Maria.  “OMG, I’m afraid of heights”, “What if we get stuck?”, and “I may just stand here and watch”; were a few of thoughts expressed amongst the group. FEAR of what could go wrong overtook their thoughts. The confidence of those who responded just as strongly with, “OMG, you will love the view!”; “It’s going to be so much fun!”, “The view is priceless”; seemed to balance out the anxiety a bit.
As we waited to board, we each shared revelations from the weekend and personal commitments to our journey. As each person shared their heart, we were slowly but surely becoming one. No one would be left behind because the ride was symbolic of our weekend together. Those who were a bit hesitant coupled up with a leader who reassured them and was eager to ride.
This thought and observation made me think of the power of accountability. How many times are we afraid of the unknown? Yet, if only someone was willing to say, “Hey you will be fine”, “Give it a shot”, “You will do great”…we would all be able to overcome that fear.
I’ve been that cheerleader for friends, family, clients and strangers many times and have had the pleasure of seeing many birds fly out of the nest, so to speak. What made this so powerful is that each leader did this for each other, effortlessly…because we were one. It wasn’t just about a few of us experiencing the view. It was about all of us rising together, and supporting each other. If one was going down, we were all going down.
The fear factor did not GO AWAY, its power was simply overshadowed by the strength and COURAGE from the group. Many times we hear the phrase, ‘do it afraid’. I love this particular phrase better than ‘fear is false’. I believe that people truly do experience FEAR. I just feel that we must know and train ourselves to shift our minds and tap into something GREATER. Many times the people around us can play a huge role in our courage and what is reflected back to us. It is our responsibility to be intentional about that circle of support and influence. FEAR can shrink and again be overshadowed with the right words, thoughts, and BELIEF that you deserve the experience more than regret.
As we slowly rose to the top of the SkyView, Varian and I smiled at the view. We happened to be placed in the same car together alone and enjoyed every bit of it. As two leaders who were not afraid, it was funny that we still got a few butterflies when we looked down. The view from that level made everything look so much smaller, yet the potential fall seemed so great. Varian said, “Tierra the trick is not to look down”. I felt that if I didn’t look down I would be missing part of the experience in the view. I knew we were in the air, and I wanted to see it all, so I consciously took a deep breath and pushed past the butterflies. Before I knew it we were headed back down and still smiling and enjoying our conversation.
 
How many times does fear rob us of the moment once we have already taken the second step? How many times does fear rob us of the moment once we have decided to trust again? How many times does fear shrink the experience after we have sacrificed for years and our blessings are literally staring us in the face? How many times will FEAR overshadow our worth, when we look in the mirror and constantly ask, ‘AM I ENOUGH’?
The Leadership Summit was like an onion with many layers of emotions, revelations, breakthroughs, and divine connections that simply couldn’t be expressed in one post. Many times fear will tell us to follow the crowd, rush the moment, move on to the next thing; but this time FEAR is taking a back seat to INTENTIONAL EXCELLENCE. I hope those of you who are following this series will have the courage to embrace your NEW VIEW and dig deep within to rise into your greater purpose. Don’t get caught up in the quantity but rather the quality of the experiences that you can create in your journey for yourself and others around you. For the first time, I am embracing an intentional pause to truly birth thoughts and spiritual lessons that will hopefully bless someone who could not join us this time around.
Fear only has the power we give it. It starts in the mind. Imagine life where we were brave enough to ask ‘WHY’ at least 5 times. It’s amazing what we would get to.
For those who have never done this, here is a little trick that the over thinkers and curious cats like to do…
 
I am procrastinating.
WHY?
Because I’m afraid.
WHY?
Because I don’t want to change careers.
WHY?
Because I will have to start over.
WHY?
Because my current job has nothing to do with what I wish I was doing.
WHY?
Because I wanted security.
WHY?
Because I was taught growing up that I needed to get a good job.
Etc…etc…etc.
This exercise leads you to your truth. Once you begin to dismantle FEAR and get to the root, you are now equipped to make a new decision. You are NOW in control of today instead of making decisions based on your past.
With Love,

TDR

Reply now to share your thoughts with me.

Day One: Sacrifice
Day Two: Enough
Day Three: Trust
Day Four: Faith
Day Five: Power of Knowledge
Day Six: Fear
Day Seven: Success

Leadership Summit Thoughts From The Heart Day Five

DAY FIVE: THE POWER OF KNOWLEDGE

Part two of our training was jam-packed with solid resources and tools to assist the leaders with expanding their visions and platforms with global e-commerce, government contracting, certifications, team building, and media relations. The information presented took each of the women presenting years of commitment to learn, but was readily shared and distributed to those present. It was as if each woman was sharing her private arsenal to assist and equip another leader for her climb.

What makes this so powerful is that many times once we have made a NEW decision and begin reaching and searching for the proper tools and support, we can become frustrated and discouraged as we face trial after trial. We take two steps forward and then…bam, a setback occurs and we feel like we are headed in the wrong direction yet again. When someone takes the time to share solid information with us, whether it be a new website, software, application, or opportunity; we are able to expand not only our minds, but also our hearts to allow for a new experience and a new level of growth within.

Tanika Gray, a special friend and producer for CNN, and also the co-founder of The WHITE Dress Project; generously shared the power of your story and how to align with the media for expanded reach and exposure.  While many professionals desire to partner with media outlets to garner support for a cause near and dear to their hearts; without the proper protocol and elements in place, it can feel like you are climbing an uphill battle. When experienced veterans are willing to share exact steps and procedures that should be considered to save you time, money, and frustration…that is beyond powerful, it’s truly a gift.

It is my hope and desire that each of us will be further empowered to share the knowledge that we have with others. Many times people in the consulting industry are turned off when someone asks, “CAN I PICK YOUR BRAIN”, because it has literally taken years to acquire the knowledge. However, as a servant leader, I am no longer turned off by it and rely solely on my intuition and know-how to draw on healthy boundaries that allow me to share, heal, and serve others, without a feeling of obligation or resentment. It is important that each of us first understand the VALUE of the knowledge in which we possess, and secondly know how and when to use it. Choosing to share, give, and serve, when done from a place of obedience and genuine concern can open doors so wide that they cannot be measured.

I encourage each of you to celebrate the knowledge that you have inside of your heart and mind and ask if you are truly maximizing your potential and embracing the power that it carries within. When we pass away and leave this earth, we take everything that is within us to no longer be shared with others. What would life be like if we were intentional about living in such a way that we would try to empty our minds constantly in order to be renewed and refilled with a new experience by passing it along to someone else? Whether you choose to package your information within your platform, become a spokesperson for a cause you so passionately believe in, or start your own blog or website; you have the power to become a vessel. I once heard a quote that stated, “We are rewarded on the level of the difference we make in the world.” What is so beautiful about this quote is that the choice to serve is literally in our hands.

Day One: Sacrifice
Day Two: Enough
Day Three: Trust
Day Four: Faith
Day Five: Power of Knowledge
Day Six: Fear
Day Seven: Success

Leadership Summit Thoughts From The Heart Day Four

DAY FOUR: FAITH

Ask every leader in the room what faith is and you will get a different response. Faith cannot be defined; yet it can determine how we flow, trust, and move along the journey of life. As we sat and listened to each speaker at the Summit, we heard countless examples of living and moving by faith while trusting that the outcome would be worth the sacrifice.
 
After reflecting on the Summit and the power that was witnessed in the room, my wish for many of them was simply MORE FAITH. Not just faith alone, but faith with works. Faith with the same level of action and commitment that we have given to others for years. Faith and works that our dreams and our desires are worthy of the unwavering ability to show up day after day and year after year. Why do we disregard or delay our precious instructions, yet remain resilient in the day to day routine of survival? Faith requires us to trust that a new decision will lead to a new path. When I was laid off in 2009 and offered a relocation package, it was faith that told me to give myself a shot for once. An “all-in with both feet” type of shot was what was required. Faith was a knowing within, without a tangible promise to measure or hold.

Many times we hear people profess their faith yet remain stuck in fear. Can the two coexist? Is it that we have faith that all things will work for our good, but are too fearful to push past what we can see? Is that faith or comfort? Is that truly faith or simply positive thinking? What truly separates optimism from faith? Is it our actions? If so, do our actions truly exemplify our faith? Could those around us see an example of our level of faith based on the decisions we make and actions we take daily? If we never expressed our faith verbally, would your faith be evident?

As I reflected on the intimate conversations that I had with the leaders, many were afraid to try. Yet, would be the first to defend a cause or support someone else’s project. These qualities are quite admirable in my book, but my question is, how can we be true servant leaders with the courage to display our faith through our actions on a level that very few words are necessary? Who are others to follow without bold leaders who are willing to rise imperfectly, yet obediently?
 
As we give thanks to those we love and celebrate our faith, it is my hope that our faith will be more deeply displayed in our actions and our decisions to inspire others to do the same. 

Continue reading more about NEW VIEW for the next seven days as our CEO, Tierra Destiny Reid, shares thoughts from the heart on what it felt like to experience such magic and power.
 
Day One: Sacrifice
Day Two: Enough
Day Three: Trust
Day Four: Faith
Day Five: Power of Knowledge
Day Six: Fear
Day Seven: Success

Leadership Summit Thoughts From The Heart Day Three

DAY THREE: TRUST AGAIN

When I think of TRUST, I think of an invisible cord that is so powerful it can anchor a huge cruise ship during a raging storm, yet so delicate it can be shattered as easily as a raw egg. Think about it…what is a relationship without trust? Trust far exceeds any titles. Do you trust all of your family members because they are your family? Have you trusted every boss, even though they are paid to protect the team and vision of the organization at all times? Have you trusted all friends in all seasons of life; or were there times that trust shifted, trust was broken, fractured, and caused pain?

Over the years I have personally struggled with trust. Immensely. Why? First, because it starts in our childhood. Secondly, because as we are trying to figure out life, we experience times of betrayal, pain, and unmet needs and expectations. Thankfully, the time during my pause led me to another layer of personal power. I gained the power of compassion towards that pain, the power of compassion towards my mistakes and other’s mistakes, and the grace to flow into the future and cut that anchor from the past. What this means is that when those moments of doubt, fear, and pain rear their ugly heads, I have been equipped with the power of mental shifting. I am able to recognize fear and recognize those ugly critters that can prevent all of us from trusting again.
As each leader arrived at the Leadership Summit, I saw that although some of us had heavy hearts, self-doubt, or even doubt in their faith at that time; we all were willing to trust.  We all were willing to trust this process, the moment, and to trust that each of us was meant to come together for something greater. GREATER was indeed the outcome! Rose, so bravely spoke of her anger towards God for the death of Madison. Maria so bravely shared intimate stories of being the wife of a recovered addict, who is now the love of her life, despite the trials they faced. Lorea so courageously shared publicly her struggle with unworthiness from time to time, although she is the chief creator of the growing movement “Unlearning Unworthiness”. I shared with her that we are given the messages that God needs us to never forget for ourselves as we share it with others. Take me for instance…”The Power of Peace in a Pause”, was my first book with a message that I know for a fact, I will continue to draw from for the rest of my life. When you are a visionary in the trenches, you are always in motion, always building, always creating, and constantly growing by leaps and bounds. Unfortunately, if you aren’t equipped with the wisdom to remain conscious of the indicators of when to pause; the vision can’t continue. Divinely, the book will appear in my trunk, I’ll notice it on my end table, it’s a part of the work I look at daily, so guess what?...I can NEVER forget to pay attention and ask myself repeatedly if I need to pause.

Pausing after the Leadership Summit is what birthed this seven day series. It was the decision to not jump right on Periscope, Facebook, and IG to blast, blast, blast; but to sit, to reflect, to embrace, and to honor the sacredness of what had just taken place.
Sometimes, trusting the process is being willing to go left when everyone else is going right. It means sacrificing when you can’t see or guarantee the outcome. Trust is courage. It takes faith to trust again after being hurt. I have navigated the waters of divorce and separation while actively transforming myself and while many would be too broken to love, let alone, trust again. I have truly embraced the entire process and TRUSTING that God has lead me to more of the truth! The essence of my core is as a child of God who will continue to attract Godly things and experiences. If I can trust again, so can you. What I admire about so many of the women who shared the Summit with us, is that even in our transitions, we were able to share how we navigated a similar bridge while reaching for new tools to cross the current bridge we are on.
Everyone could have shown up as if life was perfect, but instead we fought to get in the room and were vulnerable enough to share our trials and resources to help another leader rise into her essence.

Trusting is one of the hardest things for me to do. I give from such a deep place; but I had to realize that there is power in that, and we don’t have to worry about protecting ourselves because GOD is our protector. Had I not trusted God, there would not have been a Summit because for the first time, I couldn’t do it MY WAY. It was either going to be God’s way, in the short time given to execute with instruction to my spirit, or not at all. At first I noticed all the things I wished was different, like more branding collateral for instance, but as each leader arrived, and shared her essence, I felt somewhat embarrassed with the level of priority I had placed on the tangible “logistics”. Focusing on the power of obedience and trusting that God simply needed me to create the platform and appointment for the meeting of great hearts, allowed me to RISE into yet a deeper level of trust. There is no telling what I’ll try now! It’s a powerful thing to love again, to trust again, to try again, to forge ahead again, to rise again, to believe again, and to reach for help again…because one thing is for sure….today is not the same as yesterday and it definitely can’t define tomorrow, so choosing to trust today could be the path that leads to your greater because with each new day comes new conversations, new thoughts, new experiences, and a new life. Are you willing to trust on a radical level and choose a NEW VIEW?
 
Share your thoughts with me below. I will be waiting to see if anyone is actually reading this because for the first time, I am moving on a deeper level of obedience and being still long enough to share the thoughts that I have buried deep inside for years, in hopes that your words could encourage me as well. I’m trusting the process and thankfully you are a part of mine as well. 

With Love,

TDR

Continue reading more about NEW VIEW for the next seven days as our CEO, Tierra Destiny Reid, shares thoughts from the heart on what it felt like to experience such magic and power.
 
Day One: Sacrifice
Day Two: Enough
Day Three: Trust
Day Four: Faith
Day Five: Power of Knowledge
Day Six: Fear
Day Seven: Success

Meet Katrina Waddy Parker

Meet Power Mom Katrina Waddy Parker

"Thankfully, my faith (even when it is literally the size of a mustard seed) helps me work through and move past that doubt. And, perhaps my biggest struggle is truly letting go and letting God."

TDR: Please give us a brief recap of your career.

Katrina Waddy Parker:  I have nearly 25 years of communications and media/public relations experience in the PR agency, city government, and national nonprofit and global corporate sectors. I'm grateful to have started my career at two leading black-owned agencies which laid the foundation for my ‘get-the-job-done-no-matter-what’ work ethic. That and other key learnings from my experiences at Burrell Communications Group and Flowers Communications Group carried over into growth opportunities at the Chicago Park District, KaBOOM!, and CNA.

TDR: Please tell us about your children. 

KWP: I'm the proud mom of two daughters who I refer to as my kittens: one who looks like me, Daynah (17); and one who acts like me, Jadah (16). (Actually, they both act like me; but, the phrase flows better as stated.) They are both smart, beautiful, strong-minded, outspoken young ladies. I love that they aren't afraid to stand up for something they deem right, and alone in instances where something is wrong. They have a very strong sense of perception (which they get from their dad) and they do not let people walk over or attempt to get over on them. They are very well-rounded academically, socially, and spiritually. I absolutely love their relationship... and can almost envision how they will interact with each other well into their golden years.

TDR:  How are you juggling your passion with the responsibilities of parenthood?

KWP: Now that my daughters are in the second half of their high school years, my passion juggle isn't as hectic as it was when I was managing media relations for CNA. Today, I'm enjoying a lot more freedom (personally and professionally) because my girls are responsible, trustworthy, and independent.
    
TDR:  What are some of your struggles and how do you work to overcome them?

KWP: Comfort in articulating what I want. I think that I'm like many other women (esp. mothers and wives) with wants and needs that are directly correlated to those that are beneficial to our children/husband/families. However, as a 46-year-old divorcee and empty-nester-to-be, I'm having more honest conversations with myself to discover, then comfortably and openly state exactly what Katrina wants. Additionally, I'm in the middle of a job search -- something I haven't had to do since the early-90s after college. So, 20-plus years later, I struggle against the urge to doubt my expertise and value that I bring to a potential employer. Thankfully, my faith (even when it is literally the size of a mustard seed) helps me work through and move past that doubt. And, perhaps my biggest struggle is truly letting go and letting God. In my mind, my job search would last a few months and I would land a new job by summer's end. I had it all worked out. So, when three months and very slow progress turned into four and counting, fear and doubt began to creep in...until my pastor shared a word with me that God wanted me to take my hand off of the gearshift (apparently, He still sees me in my first car! lol). It took a change in thought patterns and daily reminding that He (not me) is in control; but, I do appreciate the peace that comes from throwing my hands up and relinquishing the clutch. Of course, I'm not always in agreement regarding His timing (I want what He has for me... yesterday!); but, I just do my part (searching, applying, networking, etc.) and trust that He already has it worked out.

TDR:  What are 2 resources you use to help you stay motivated?

KWP: I know that many people are still skeptical about social media, especially, Facebook; but, my Facebook network has been my biggest motivator and source of encouragement via uplifting posts, comments and images. This is why I'm very selective about which friend requests I accept or who I request as a friend because I absolutely do not do negativity or pessimism. 
My faith is another huge motivation resource. I consider myself very fortunate for the opportunity to tap into God whenever I need to; and to receive encouragement and support from my pastor, church family, family, sister-friends and more than a few good men.

TDR: What is your favorite way to pause?

KWP: DANCING. I absolutely love music -- ol' school, House, R&B, Hip Hop and rap, blue-eyed soul, steppers, gospel, disco. For some, movement might be the antithesis to a pause; but, for me, it releases stress and is a lot of fun. 
And, LAUGHTER... I absolutely love to laugh and to make others laugh. I can pretty much find the funny in almost any situation. My sense of humor helps me not take myself or everything in life so seriously, and helps me get beyond some challenging situations which can sometimes make you forget to pause.

TDR: What has been the scariest moment or crossroad in your journey?

KWP: One Christmas, a few years before my divorce, I reached an extremely low point where I seriously mapped out my "life's exit strategy." Luckily, God talked me out of it; and, after a day of being in a state of depression, I asked myself, "So, is this it? Is this how you're going to spend the rest of your life?" I realized that, having survived a number of misfortunes (a horrible-yet-non-fatal car accident, my mom's death, two miscarriages, and the death of my firstborn), I should at least attempt to get through the valley I was in. I pulled myself out of bed and made a promise to myself to never go back to that low place; and, I haven't.

TDR: What would be your greatest advice to other "Power Moms" wanting to pursue their dreams?

KWP: Always carve out something (time, a special purchase, a night with the girls, manicure/pedicure/massage) that is significant for YOU. In other words, don't let your intention to nurture and support your children/family; cause you to pour your all into them while neglecting yourself and those things you used to do/enjoy for you. After the birth of my firstborn (who was born with major medical challenges), I found myself on the phone several hours each day providing updates on my baby's progress as well as updates on girlfriends to other girlfriends I'd talked with on previous calls. One of my friends organized a girlfriends group, SASS (Sharing and Supporting Sisters), which enables us to get together to talk, laugh, cry, vent, counsel, course-correct, etc. We used to get together quarterly; but, these days, it's once or twice a year -- and, it's always a no-husband, no-kids environment. I mention SASS as an example of women doing something for themselves to keep their own oxygen tanks filled before sharing that oxygen with kids/husband/family. I notice the added stress in women who don't make this kind of allowance for themselves.

TDR:  What word best describes the legacy you want to leave for your children and why?

KWP:  Love. Because love encompasses so many other attributes (compassion, respect, dignity, commitment, charity, etc.). I hope I've taught and shown my girls how to love God and themselves; then, reflect that love in their interactions with family, friends, and others.

TDR:  How can others collaborate and support your mission? 

KWP: Currently, I'm accepting prayers, referrals, warm thoughts and well wishes as I continue my search to land my next professional opportunity.

Connect with Katrina:

Facebook – Katrina Waddy Parker
Twitter – FlowerKat
Instagram - MommKat

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