Huami Magazine Greenville/Spartanburg September 2020

The Lessons of Life Do Have A Purpose

A Letter From The Editor

There Are No If, Ands, Or Buts About It!

I am not a spring chicken, and what that clearly means is that I have been around the track a few times. That also indicates that I have seen a few things, some good and some bad. My decisions haven’t always been correct, and there have been moments of difficulty where my actions didn’t make any sense to me. But through it all, there is one constant that has never changed; the lessons that only life can provide.

A Letter from the Editor

What if tomorrow didn’t arrive? All of your plans, hopes and dreams wouldn’t have a street to park on. What if everything that you decided to put off until tomorrow never happened? There would be no reason to save for a rainy day, and you could spare someone the trouble of making promises. What if your last opportunity seemingly expired today? What would you do?

Though I have been battered and bruised along the way, because I am still here, it proves that God has a purpose for my adversity and a reason for my existence. Though it may be hard at times, I have realized that my purpose is attached to those lessons.

I’ve been told that I often seem like I do too much. Honestly, I feel like I am not doing enough and I’m a firm believer in knowing that God wouldn’t put anything on me that I couldn’t handle. I sometimes wonder how life would be if I chose to sit idle and accept what it presented to me. I have found that to be very boring. In my opinion, opportunity is a blessing that isn’t afforded to everyone. A challenge to me is an adventure. What is the worst that can happen? If I do nothing, I fail, and if I try I don’t, but instead learn something new about myself. Relinquish your pride and in return acquire life.

There is comfort in taking the easy road in life, but the easy way out doesn’t offer growth. One of the biggest misconceptions is that silence means that everything is alright. That is not always correct because silence can mask hurt, disappointment, confusion, and disconnection. Just because someone doesn’t voice their feelings and opinions, it doesn’t mean they do not have any to say. It could possibly indicate the exact opposite. They could have a whole circus going on the inside and never show it because it has become easier to remain silent and emotionless. However, God desires for us to speak.

In the holy bible, in the book of Psalms 34:1 NLT, it says “I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak His praises.” This verse offers clear instructions from God on what our responsibilities are as Christians. We can’t stay silent when faced with adversity; we must speak out. Even during difficulties, there is resolve and promise when we call on God.

The best advice ever given to me happened when someone told me to make my tomorrow happen today. In doing so I have pressed my way through doors with a key that only hope provided. I have also learned the difference between what God blesses me with and what life can burden me with as well. I compare it to knowing when to be confident and when to be quiet, because someone may get it confused with being arrogant.

Living in a world that is filled with so much chaos and misunderstanding, being silent only fuels the problem. When you have an opportunity to speak, you must do so with the love of God in your heart, and on your lips. Though your pain may seem endless, love has the ability to fix a lifetime of brokenness.

Make you tomorrow happen today, but most importantly make it count. Life is but a whisper and we must put ourselves in a position to hear what it is telling us.

Terry L. Watson

Terry L. Watson Editor/Founder

huami.greenville@gmail.com (336)340-7844

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A Love For Real Estate

By Dawn Cauthen Thornton

Aleta Danielle has always been interested in helping people. Encouraging others through tough decisions and supporting them in achieving their dreams is constantly on Danielle’s heart.

“I’ve had the opportunity to gain knowledge, skills and experience, from various positions which have assisted in my development as a Realtor,” says Danielle.

She worked in Corporate America for over 20 years in various roles and gained the experience from each of those positions and applied them in serving her clients. When she assisted customers in the past, she wasn’t sure what the end goal would be. She was only a small part of the process and oftentimes left unfulfilled. Choosing real estate has been one of the best decisions she’s made.

In upstate South Carolina the housing market is red hot. The area has been booming within the last few years and Danielle is taking advantage of the opportunities. “With real estate, I’m involved beginning to end. That fulfillment is there because I’ve helped them attain a home,” Danielle explains.

In the Greenville/Spartanburg area, several Fortune 500 companies have relocated there due to the growth which has allowed homebuilders to increase their construction exponentially. With these large companies hiring, college students who have traveled here to attend one of the many colleges, stay and vie for those jobs upon graduation. Those same new grads will soon be in the market to purchase a new home and Danielle is ready to serve them.

“I’ve had the opportunity to gain knowledge, skills and experience, from various positions which have assisted in my development as a Realtor.”

Aleta Danielle Realtor

The state of South Carolina also boasts 12 beaches. With this new pandemic that has confined families to their homes while working and schooling, living in a vacation home with warm sand at your feet has become a desire.

“As a Realtor, there are so many avenues to this position that I want to be able to accentuate about myself and the services I offer.”

Though it’s an interesting time, business is still flourishing. It’s certainly a seller’s market, as Agents have seen multiple offers on the same home and even homes selling within hours of going live. Neighborhoods are being built on every livable space one can think of which means the population is also increasing in record numbers.

When Danielle isn’t making dreams come true, she works from home as an Account Manager for UPS. The University of South Carolina Alum has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a focus on Management and is taking steps to grow her brand using what she learned in college. The ability to work from home as well as set her own hours is quite beneficial to this mother of two.

“My three year old daughter can feel that I’m home more now. She and my 14 year old son love that we get to spend so much time together,” says Danielle.

Since venturing into a new arena she has learned that knowing how to manage yourself, having a solid plan, and pursuing your interests are the first things to consider. Most importantly, having strong faith has gotten her further than she could’ve ever imagined.

“Live your dreams, is my motto, because it’s never too late to do that. But use wisdom when making decisions. Be ready to think out of the box and then get out there and make things happen.”

A quote that Danielle admires is “Just as the Caterpillar thought the world was ending, she became a Butterfly.” -Barbara Haines

h

Blackstock Rodney

By Terry L. Watson

by Rodney Blackstock

If you are living in the Atlanta Metro area, and in need of insurance, there is coverage available for you.

Rodney Blackstock is the owner of Blackstock Insurance Agency located 2951 Piedmont Road in Atlanta, GA.

Originally from Greensboro, North Carolina, Rodney has lived in several different places throughout his life. That experience he says has given him a better perspective on the world, and an innate ability to connect with people of all different backgrounds.

“I’m a kid who grew up in a foster home. I bounced around and lived with different people growing up. I lost my mom at the age of 12, after only seeing her three times. To say my childhood was rocky, is an understatement. Losing my mom gave me so much drive. I wanted to be successful and establish myself, and my family where she wasn’t able to. And what better tool to use, basketball. Basketball was my saving grace. Because of it, I was able to play sports collegiately and professionally. When I was finished, I pivoted into entrepreneurship. I did all this without having the stability of a two-parent household. I had to create the change I wanted to be. I had to work for everything I have, and because of that, I don’t like excuses,” he shares.

Basketball is his first love. First as a player, and then as a sports agent, basketball took Rodney around the globe and exposed him to different people and various life experiences. After six years in the game, Rodney decided to pivot to a career where I could have an even greater impact on his people. That was insurance.

Rodney is a brother, friend, son, athlete, speaker, agent, and connector. As a Principal within the AAA network, he’s able to provide a number of products that can be tailored to fit the needs of any individual or family. These include auto insurance, home/condo insurance, renter’s insurance, and perhaps the most important one of them all, life insurance. They also provide umbrella liability coverage and RV, motorcycle, and boat insurance.

“Basketball was my saving grace. Because of it, I was able to play sports collegiately and professionally. When I was finished, I pivoted into entrepreneurship. I did all this without having the stability of a twoparent household. I had to create the change I wanted to be.”

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Blackstock Insurance Agency opened in August 2020. Though the location of Rodney’s business is fairly new, he has been in the insurance industry for four years. “I began with the State Farm Agency to perfect my craft. I learned everything there is to know about the industry and obtained both my property and casualty, and my life and health licenses. It was a years’ long grind, which, at times, was quite humbling. Yet, it was a strategic move and I realized I needed that step to get started and help me to arrive at where I am today,” he shares.

Rodney has a genuine care and love for people and for helping others. He shares why he decided to open an insurance agency in the first place. “It was to help people build and maintain the lifestyle they desired. When I discovered that I could make money by helping others, it was a no-brainer. I was also inspired by the idea that insurance is a recession proof business, and an essential product and service that people will always be in need of. However, the most important reason for me to start my agency was to create a stable business for my family and establish something that could be around for generations to come,” he says.

Rodney also uses his platform to educate others about the importance of being insured. “Miseducation can be a huge challenge for me as an agent. Some people don’t understand the value that insurance brings to their lives. As a black man, I’ve seen first-hand how many of our people in particular, have been taught to believe that insurance is a waste of money, or that it’s not necessary. In actuality, wealthy people view insurance as a risk management tool to make sure they maintain their wealth. My job is to educate as many people as possible while I bring them along on this journey toward peace of mind and wealth generation,” he says.

Educating people about the importance of being insured is one of the top priorities for Rodney. In the future he plans to get the Blackstock Insurance Agency name out there and reach people, save people money, and help to protect families.

His advice to others who may follow in his footsteps is to hustle. “With respect to my career success, hustle has been the number one differentiator. Lots of people are talented, but few are driven enough to show up early and leave late. Few are willing to come in on Saturdays or Sundays to perfect their craft. The hustler mentality helped me in basketball and in business. No one will out-work me. I’d tell anyone who wants to follow in my footsteps to trust the process and to put the work in,” he says.

Demetrius Battle Only Intentional Living

Air Max 95’s, Jordans, and Wheat Timberland boots.

By Terry L. Watson

Demetrius Battle is a country boy at heart. The self described mama’s boy is a lover of Christ, and a lover of people. He is a motivator and role model. Furthermore, the Clinton, NC native is a lover of family at heart. He is a grandson, son, brother, nephew, uncle, cousin, husband, and father.

This budding entrepreneur is also driven by purpose and goals. He was born in Fort Campbell, KY to Gloria and Michael Battle. Things haven’t always been easy for him. He once walked with Christ and lost his footing at one time, but would eventually find his way back. He rededicated his life back to Christ in 2017. “I came from a background that was very inspiring to me now that I can take time to look back on it. A single mother of four who was abandoned by my dad. My grandparents, uncles, and aunts (on my mother’s side) helped to raise me. I had my hoop dreams deflated after a few years in college. To some, that can be too much to handle, but for me it let me know that God trusted me to make it through those trials and tribulations in order for Him to get the glory for my story, which isn’t done yet. He has a lot more to show the world through me and I am so glad he chose me to steward this vision,” he says.

“I’ve always loved fashion ever since I can remember,” he says. “My mom’s side of the family is from Clinton, North Carolina and my dad is from Bastrop, Louisiana. I grew up in a single parent household with three other siblings, with my oldest sister Kenyatta having a huge influence on me when it came to fashion once I became old enough to dress. At an early age she gave me a passion for fashion that will be with me until the day God decides to call me home,” he says.

That was sometime in the 90’s. Back then Demetrius says the colors were so vibrant and his sister had all the kicks to match. This was around the time when female artists such as Alyiah, MC Lyte, and others were dressing like the fellas with sweat suits, windbreakers,

Demetrius is also the owner and founder of Only Intentional Living, an online clothing apparel store. They offer inspirational and motivational phrases on tee shirts, hats, jackets, wristbands, and more. One unique service offered is a monthly membership. “When a customer downloads the wix app and adds our store using a custom code, they can then choose from two plans to receive discounts via emails, and a surprise item per month for free,” he says. Another service is on their apparel that gives customers a chance to show their true colors by allowing them to customize embroidered designs in the colors they choose.

Only Intentional Living was launched in July of this year, though its origin dates back to the summer of 2013. “I started an apparel line for barbers called “In Fresh We Trust Clothing LLC”. It didn’t go so well because I was doing things alone and thought I didn’t need any help. As a result it lasted for only a year. Before I dissolved the company, I started another company called “Tip Your Barber LLC” that was created to help barbers who didn’t have the confidence to promote themselves. That one lasted for about two years before I decided to pull it off the shelf and keep it for myself and my business. I thought I was done with the clothing industry until I started seeking God’s face, asking Him to reveal the purpose He had for my life here on earth. It was around September of 2019 when He started

to drill the word “OIL” into my brain. I couldn’t figure out why, so I just wrote the word down and continued living my life. With every encounter I had with God after that, He started revealing more and more until finally the acronym was revealed, O.I.L., and Only Intentional Living was born” he says.

Demetrius says that change happened when he changed his mindset. With his other brands he was doing those for monetary gain. With O.I.L. he allowed God to lead the way and just be a true vessel for what He requires him to do and promote His message. “The lessons I learned from my two prior businesses helped me understand that the only business partner I need is God and whoever He sends along the journey will be fit to take guidance from Him as well.”

Demetrius shares that what he loves most about being an entrepreneur is the opportunity to inspire future entrepreneurs, community leaders, philanthropists, and law abiding citizens. “I also love the partnerships that have been established and those that will be formed in the future. I love the smiles of our customers that we’ve been fortunate to acquire in a short amount of time. I am equally excited about the funds we will raise for future community projects and scholarships for young adults, for the purpose of furthering their education,” he says.

In the future, Demetrius hopes to open up a brick and mortar location in Greensboro, NC. There are plans to open a few more in other popular cities such as Charlotte and Raleigh. He also hopes to partner with local non profit organizations and assist them with fundraising. He is also in the process of starting his own non profit that will focus on providing trades for students who may not have an interest in going to college upon graduating high school. There are other plans that Demetrius has in the works, but he asks everyone to visit his company’s website to learn more.

www.onlyintentional.com onlyintentional@gmail.com

www.onlyintentional.com/leave-a-gift

www.onlyintentional.com/back-story

For all first time visitors to our site apply code OIL at checkout to receive 10% off of your first order. Free shipping is included with orders of $75 or more.

Danielle Bertrand Girl, It’s Go Time

By Terry L. Watson

Danielle Bertrand is a native of Baton Rouge, LA, but now resides with her husband, Lance in Dallas, TX. “I am the daughter of the King of Kings. I know my purpose is to manifest Heaven on Earth,” she says.

She is also the daughter of Kelvin and Sharon Duncan. Danielle graduated from Scotlandville Magnet High School in Baton Rouge and earned her B.A. in Business Management with a concentration in Small Business and Entrepreneurship from Southeastern Louisiana University. Additionally, she earned her Master’s in the Art of Teaching from Grand Canyon University and is a certified business educator in the states of Louisiana and Texas. She has served as a high school teacher for seven years, teaching various business courses. Yet, Danielle’s most impressive feat is having authored and being the founder of “Girl, It’s Go Time”.

The purpose of the book Danielle says is to empower women to get off the sideline and pursue their dreams boldly. The theme of the book is traveling from your current routine to the life you were designed to live. The business component for “Girl, It’s Go Time” serves as a platform that she uses to coach and speak. “This originally was just the title of my first book, but has now turned into a national brand,” she says.

Danielle shares that her writing journey began by journaling daily. “It was a release for me and a chance to get my thoughts down on paper. When the idea of writing a book came about, I rejected it. That is not what I wanted to do. However, the Holy Spirit continued to say that was my next assignment. I would start writing and then stop. This happened multiple times. One day, I asked God what my next assignment was? He said, “Finish the book”. At that point I knew what I had to do and got serious about completing the book. In July of 2019, it was published and available for purchase,” she says.

“Girl, It’s Go Time” is available in autographed paperback and digital download. The book also includes a 21 Day Devotional.

Danielle also serves as a start-up business coach for female entrepreneurs. While doing so she has merged her degree in business, her Master’s in teaching, and her relationship with God to give her clients a unique growth experience in their businesses. She shares, “I help my clients eliminate fear and create a strategy for success to win in the marketplace. Female entrepreneurs can connect with me through consultations, coaching sessions, and coaching packages and are invited to share more about their businesses and current struggles. I help them get clarity and provide guidance on what their next steps should be.”

As a speaker, Danielle makes herself available for conferences, brunches, virtual webinars, and more. She speaks on the topics of purpose, not settling, empowerment, business start-ups, and self-confidence. Even more, she designs inspirational apparel including t-shirts, masks, and mugs that encourage others to take their lives to the next level. All her products and services are available on her website.

Danielle has a genuine love for what she does. “I love helping female entrepreneurs win in the marketplace. Many women have amazing products and services, but they need a coach to help them position themselves for success. When the light goes off in my client’s head, I know that I am making a difference,” she says.

As a child of God, and a believer in His mighty works, Danielle says it has been her relationship with God that has impacted her life the most. “I was introduced to Christ at an early age, and through the years, that relationship has grown stronger. My mom always was praying over me and my brother, and now my husband leads us in prayer daily. My pastors have always guided me into a deeper relationship with God and have taught me how to use my words to manifest my future,” she says.

She finds inspiration in any woman who is living for Christ and making a positive impact on the marketplace. She describes these as women who have multiple businesses and acknowledge that it was God who got them to that place.

Danielle offers some sound advice to others who may follow in her footsteps “Stay the course. Every day might not look like you are winning. Perhaps, you might just be in training. Above everything else, be sure that you are being led by the Holy Spirit. When you have multiple ideas at once, instead of letting them overwhelm you, write them down and focus on one at a time. Give each idea six months of dedication. Once that is rolling, move on to the next idea. Remember to invest in yourself, and not just your business. You can accomplish this by taking courses, reading books, and utilizing the services of a coach. And try to and attend events. By doing these things, your value will increase overall,” she says.

Moving forward, has plans to increase the amount of clients that she coaches on a monthly basis, and do more speaking engagements. She also plans to expand “Girl, It’s Go Time”to become a household name. There are also plans for her to host a two-day, power packed conference. “The most important plan I have is to live my life as an example of what it means to say ‘yes’ to God when He says, “Girl, It’s Go Time.”

A Better You

By Terry L. Watson

It’s time to get into shape Atlanta. DeAndre Cannon is an ISSA Certified Personal Trainer and owner of Better You ATL, located in Atlanta, GA.

Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, DeAndre holds a Bachelors Degree in Exercise Science from the University of Nebraska, and a Masters degree in Nutrition. Additionally, he is a Men’s IPE Physique Pro + NPC National Qualifier and competes often in bodybuilding competitions.

For almost a decade, DeAndre has worked with a multitude of clients including beginners, athletes, and professional bodybuilders. “Working with and utilizing my skill sets as your personal trainer and nutrition coach will guarantee you transforming results. As the owner of A Better You ATL Fitness, my goal is to help my clients feel their very best, without regard to their fitness level,” he says.

DeAndre shares that for years, the fitness industry has relied on ineffective workouts, unrealistic diets, and do-nothing supplements as quick and temporary solutions. Yet, he offers a different approach. With his education and experience, DeAndre employs a signature training methodology that includes customized workouts and nutrition plans backed by science, as well as trial and error.

DeAndre launched his business 10 years ago. “In college, I trained people in the gyms of apartments, and in parks to save money to open my own gym,” he says. He opened his first gym in Omaha in 2013 and kept the citizens of Omaha fit for five years before moving to Atlanta. Since doing so, he has incorporated a mobile app into his program to better meet the needs of his clients. “With my app, I have gained a broader reach over my current and future clients with my personalized online program,” he says.

DeAndre offers various products and services, mainly because of the diversity that his clientele represents. These include a Personalized Online training program, and habit forming, weekly workouts designed specifically for each individual client that can be purchased separately or together with his personalized meal plans. He also offers Personalized Meal Plans that are specifically for each individual client and can be purchased separately or together with personalized workouts. DeAndre also has training guides designed to address general fitness goals and levels. These guides can assist clients who aren’t ready for personalized training but still want to focus on the importance of having sound fitness and eating habits to optimize their body goals.

DeAndre is naturally driven and he shares his compassion and love with his clients in the form of change. “I love helping my clients go from where they are today, to achieving their body goals, and gain confidence while growing physically and mentally,” he says. He is also inspired by the achievements and accomplishments of his clients.

He offers some advice to those who may follow in his footsteps. “Stay away from fads and gimmicks. Be yourself and focus on helping your clients achieve their goals,” he says.

KatrinaM.Kimble Awaken Wellness Consulting

By Terry L. Watson

Since2007, Katrina McKinney Kimble of Memphis, TN has taken an active role inteaching and leading wellness training programs. She is the founder of AwakenWellness Consulting, a consulting firm whose mission is to advocate, inform,and motivate others to pursue whole-person wellness.

Katrina is a graduate of The University ofMemphis. There she obtained a Bachelorof Business Administration Degree, with a concentration in Human ResourcesManagement and Leadership. She alsoreceived a Health Ministry Certificate from Wesley Theological Seminary. Katrina is the proud mother of two sons andhas three grandchildren. Those are thethings that make her life complete.

The journey that Katrina has traveled inlife hasn’t always been an easy one. Sheknows what it feels like to be hurt. Shealso understands that there is life after being hurt. “After surviving years of emotional andspiritual brokenness, I learned that hurt people will hurt people. However, I learned that a healed person canhelp to heal others. We hear so muchabout mental illness, but the real question is [do you want to be well and doyou know what makes you well]. To becomethe person that I was created to be, I had to let go of unrealisticexpectations that I had of myself and allowed others to put on me. You do not need the permission of others tolive your life. I am determined to dothe work and create the life that I want,” Katrina says.

With Awaken Wellness Consulting, Katrinahas been able to pour her heart into serving others. “There is a deep connection between faith,health, and wellness. Through ourprograms and assessments, we can help individuals to understand how to create aself-care and wellness plan that supports their individual needs,” shesays. Some of their programs includeSpeaker, Trainer, Consultant, and Mental Health Advocate, Mindfulness Training,Self-Care Awareness Training, Whole-Person Wellness Assessment Tools, BuildingHealthy Relations, Lunch and Learn Series for companies/organizations, Healthand Wellness Workshops & Conferences (in-person and virtual), andCoordinate Wellness Event (in-person and virtual).

How did Katrina get started? She shares that in 2016, she had theopportunity to attend her first wellness retreat. “Although I didn’t know what to expect, Iwent anyhow to learn about wholeperson wellness. At the retreat, I did not realize how burnedout and stressed I was. During amediation walk, I was awakened to understand that I am not perfect and didn’thave to be. I am not a superwoman, noram I a victim. As I started speaking atlocal and regional conferences about the importance of whole-person wellness,the foundation for business was created,” she said. Early on, Katrina realized she had anatural love for what she was doing. “When I lead a training session, I love watching people have an “ahamoment”. My greatest joy is supportingan individual on their journey to being well. I love helping others develop tools and strategies that can be used tohelp prevent their past from stealing the hope for their future and their joyof today. As a businesswoman, Iintentionally build collaborative partnerships with diverse individuals, congregations,non-profits, and organizations,” she says.

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“My greatest inspirations are my parents,the late Rev. Grady McKinney and Maggie Gassion McKinney. My parents did not have the opportunity toattend college, but they made sure all nine of their children finishedcollege. Over the years, witnessed myparents, with limited money and resources, make a dramatic impact on theirfamily and in their community. When youare focused on being impactful, instead of being important, your purpose willbecome clear,” she says.

Currently, Awake Wellness Consulting isdeveloping an online e-learning subscription and a self-care resourceguide. They are in conversation tolaunch a podcast in Spring 2021. Additionally, there will be a virtual health and wellness summit in thefall of 2020. Katrina and her team areworking on creating mental health advocacy training and resources to supportthe community during the Covid 19 pandemic. Her advice to others who may share similar dreams such as hers, is simple. “You can’t share your dreams with everyone. Some people will kill, and even steal your dreams. Too often we get disappointed when others donot get excited about our dreams. You must be sure that your purpose, passion, and plans are aligned,” she says.

“Too often we get disappointed when others donot get excited about our dreams.  You must be sure that your purpose, passion, and plans are aligned.”

Amanda

Writing to Amanda Eaddy McKeithan is second nature. She compares it to the blood that flows through her veins. It gives her life.

The wife and mother of two describes herself as someone who is free-spirited, optimistic, and risk-taking storyteller. Originally from Richmond, VA, she is an educator at heart and has been on a lifelong quest to creatively change the world, in many ways. She is a writer, editor, and author with eight books under her belt.

“Whenever I edit, proofread, or ghostwrite for a client, I am using my creative gifts with the goal of making the world a better place, one word at a time. Words are super important to me. I believe that we can either heal or kill with our words. As a ‘wordsmith’, I strive to encourage, inspire, and put some fire under people to go after the life that they deserve,” she says.

Amanda is also a business owner and the face of The Literary Enthusiast Creative Firm. “Originally, the name was A Creative Solution. I started it in 2015 and changed it to The Literary Enthusiast Creative Firm in 2019. I published my first book in 2010 and found that I loved helping others creatively share their stories as well. The more I was asked to write for someone, the more I realized that I had a business in me,” she shares.

The Literary Enthusiast Creative Firm offers editing, proofreading, ghostwriting, and creative assisting services for authors and busy professionals. If it needs to be written, it can be done by them. Whether it be manuscripts to creating slogans, to contracts, Amanda can do it all. She also provides tutoring services (on site and virtual) for elementary and secondary students. She has also incorporated another component into her business, StoryTime with Amanda that is geared for young authors who need reviews and exposure for their new titles.

Amanda has a genuine love for writing and helping others. With writing, she shares how she enjoys seeing someone’s story or idea come to life through her storytelling abilities. “Storytelling is my superpower. Ghostwriting is everything. It is a lot of work, but when I can get to the end of a project, and my clients are pleased, it’s so fulfilling. Every time I get positive feedback, it encourages me to keep walking towards my purpose. There is nothing greater than knowing why you were created.”

As a author and businesswoman, Amanda has faced her share of challenges. With most writes, there is a constant battle of “writers block”. And for Amanda, it hits her from time to time. “I struggle with procrastination. Though I have great vision, sometimes, I have poor follow through, mainly because I am a low-key perfectionist who desires to make everyone happy. That approach has proven to be sort of a downfall. “I struggle with rejection, and as a result it keeps me from taking even bigger risks and reaching for higher opportunities for my writing career and business,” she says.

Though Amanda’s journey has faced its share of pitfalls and stumbling blocks, she remains optimistic and always seeks to encourage others. Her advice to aspiring writers and authors and writers is authentic and very clear. “Go for it. You must stop over thinking and write that book because your story matters. Someone is waiting on your truth and your transparency will save their life. Your story will offer them hope and encouragement; two vitally important tools that will show them to press through the hard stuff. Life will continuously present tough and rigorous challenges. Through my story and determination to succeed, I hope to show someone that no matter how traumatic things may get, you must not quit. Lastly, set an intention and stick with it. You must rid yourself of distractions and not be affected by the opinions of others. The vision is yours, and they might not be able to see it, and that is okay. Do it anyway,” she says.

Moving forward, Amanda plans for The Literary Enthusiast Creative Firm to launch a creative arts preschool. She will also launch Just Amanda Productions and StoryTelling in RVA Films. At the end of the day, Amanda wants to create “dope stories” that change the way people do life. She says, “In the end, nothing I desire to hear more than for God to say, ““I knew you were the baddest storyteller in the land. You survived all that earthly mess, with a pen in your hand”.

Amanda graciously shares who gave her the opportunity to walk in her purpose. “God, of course. I am thankful for this gift that I have been given. God has been the best brainstormer and vision giver. Every life experience I’ve had, I can write about. They’ve impacted me personally and professionally. Each experience has made me a better storyteller and provoked the release of my creativity,” she says.

Stay Networking And Grinding Zestfully

By Terry L. Watson - Photos by JLG Photography

LaRont’e Watson Ellerbee, aka Ja’Natis, is an achiever, a believer, an entrepreneur. His colorful personality compliments a style that exudes confidence, sophistication, and loyalty.

A native of Greensboro, NC LaRont’e is equipped with an equal share of street smarts and common sense. While he has overcome various challenges throughout his life, he has not allowed any of them to stand in the way of him living out his life’s purpose; to be better today than he was yesterday.

LaRont’e is a father, son, brother, and friend to many. He also engaged to his best friend and the love of his life. While there are many ways to describe LaRont’e, the most accurate would be to say that he is an ambitious overcomer. “No matter what people say or do, as long as I don’t give up on myself, I will always win. I’ve had a rough life. I grew up in the Claremont Homes community located on the north side of Greensboro NC. I later moved to Randolph Avenue, and then to Julian Street, near Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. Times were tough and due to the roller coaster of life, I built up internal frustrations from many disappointments. I had a lot of rage and anger deep down on the inside of me. I guess you could say that I suffered. I lost the woman who raised me, and then I lost my birth mother. Things didn’t appear to be getting any better for me. Yet, I still pushed on, and from there, I was able to make a life decision that worked out for me in the end, and things eventually turned out OK,” he says.

Today, LaRont’e is the owner and face of SNAGZ Apparel, a fashion apparel line that encourages others to strive for greatness, and to be consciously aware of their surroundings. SNAGZ is an acronym for (Stay Networking And Grinding Zestfully).

LaRont’e began his fashion line in 2013. Now his vast assortment of items include short sleeve shirts, long sleeve shirts, snapbacks, beanies, sweatshirts, hoodies, onesies, and Covid 19 appropriate face masks.

“I decided to start a clothing line because growing up I didn’t have many clothes, or the nicest clothes, or even name brand clothes. When I was younger, I told myself that I wanted to get rich and start my own clothing line and give other people more options of how to express themselves. My line is for those who couldn’t wear a certain thing even though they like it. They can wear what I have, and don’t have to worry about being judged,” he says. “I love that it’s different, it can stand out and it’s not targeting any one type of customer in particular. It’s designed for anybody, from infants to the elderly. SNAGZ is a ‘Brand For Any Lifestyle’” he says.

In the future, LaRont’e plans to continue to design new items to add to his growing inventory. He also hopes to partner with others for the sole purpose of allowing the SNAGZ Apparel line help to make his community more colorful and expressive. Contact him to learn more about what is on the horizon for SNAGZ Apparel.

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