A Woman’s Magazine Unshakeable in Her GritGUARDING YOUR DIGITAL SELF: What are you giving away without thinking?The PAUSE PrincipleBias in LendingExploring how unconscious bias affects financial access AI in Plain English: The Big 5 You Need to Know AI, The Human Side Why Empathy Still Wins!Rise Reflect ReconnectConnection & Collaboration between Carmen Milagro , Camille Garick & Robin Roberson
When the Heart SpeaksIf you had met me in early summer of 2024, you would have thought my life was going exceptionally well.I had meaningful work as a coach, people I loved, a calendar full of commitments, and dreams still unfolding. I showed up strong, capable, and energetic, a woman who had learned how to juggle it all. On the outside, I looked successful and steady. On the inside, something else was happening.I was tired in a way rest didn’t fix. Shortness of breath became familiar. Heartburn was constant, but my sisters had it too, so I told myself it ran in the family. And then there was the quieter truth. Was it depression? Burnout? Keeping it to myself, I carried sadness and grief from one loss after another. Like so many businesswomen, I kept going. I told myself it was stress. I told myself everyone feels this way occassionally. I told myself I’d deal with it later.How many of us do that?We push through. We perform. We manage. We keep the wheels turning even when our bodies and hearts are asking us to slow down and listen.The turning point came unexpectedly. I ran into a friend who had recently survived a sudden heart attack and surgery. As I casually described my symptoms, she looked at me and said, very simply, “You need to see a cardiologist.” She handed me her doctor’s card.That moment, one so ordinary, so easy to dismiss saved my life. I listened. I made the appointment.
A few weeks later, one evening in mid-July, I was cooking spaghetti for my son and granddaughter when the phone rang. It was the cardiologist. He told me the tests showed severe blockage and urged me to go to the hospital immediately. Not grasping the urgency, I asked if I could wait until the next day. Dinner was ready. I had clients scheduled. Even then, my instinct was to put everything else first.The next day, what I thought would be a routine stent procedure became something far more serious. I was told I needed triple bypass surgery. My “widow maker” artery was 99% blocked. I was transferred to another hospital where the surgery could take place. Before the surgery, the thoracic surgeon prayed with me. It’s one of the last things I remember.A few days after surgery, my body began to shut down. I was intubated. I coded multiple times. A lifesaving machine called ECMO was brought in to do the work of my heart and lungs, and I was transferred again to a critical care hospital. My children and siblings were told I might not survive. Machines breathed for me. A team of doctors and nurses fought for my life when I couldnot.Two weeks later, I woke up.Bright lights. The steady hum of machines. A young nurse smiled and said, “Hello there.” My sisters soon joined me, holding my hands, brushing my hair, crying as they told me how close I had come to death. I was alive but everything had changed.Recovery was humbling. My body had atrophied. I had to learn to walk again. The medications made me nauseous. I couldn’t go to the bathroom by myself. I was dependent, frightened, and grieving the woman I used to be. Lying in a rehab bed, oxygen tubing in place, I wondered if thiswas the rest of my life.And then, something shifted.Opening my email for the first time in weeks, I saw a final reminder for a course I had long planned to complete a spiritual coaching certification I felt deeply called to pursue. With conviction, I signed up. The next week, from my hospital bed and in my gown, logged into zoomI began my studies. This time, I listened to my heart, releasing despair and in it’s place, I chose purpose.From purpose came hope.As I fed my mind and spirit, I slowly began to move my body again. With the help of skilled physical therapists, I learned to stand. Then to walk. I celebrated the smallest victories. One step became two. Hope replaced despair. Gratitude multiplied. Love poured in through family, friends, caregivers, and strangers alike.This experience taught me that we can look “fine” while falling apart inside. That stress and unprocessed grief are not badges of honor. That our bodies keep score—even when we ignore the signs. And that healing is not just medical; it is emotional, spiritual, and deeply human.
Purpose has many faces. It can fuel us, sharpen us, and help us build meaningful lives. But when it becomes an excuse to override our needs, it turns into burnout. And yet, purpose can also heal. It can give us something to wake up to, something that restores the spirit and rekindles hope.To the businesswoman reading this: your drive is powerful, but it should never come at the cost of your life. Success means nothing if you lose yourself along the way.Listen to your body. Honor your heart. Choose rest, purpose, and truth—not someday, but now.Because life doesn’t wait for us to slow down. Sometimes, it stops us so we can finally learn howto live._______________________________Note from Denise Ackerman, author – This is my story and what you read is all true. Since that time, my healinghas continued. I am now a licensed Spiritual Coach, having been inducted in September 2025. Writing my story foran upcoming book and for several speaking engagements, I used Chatgpt (AI) to help me. It’s gotten to know mewell and putting it all together, compiled this article from our work together. Thanks Chat!
Beyond Yellowstone: Zebras, Giraffes and Kevin Costner Full CircleBy Carmen MilagroA true story about loyalty, leadership, and learning to stand tall—stripes, spots, and all.It’s amazing how a single conversation, a kind word and a piece of advice can ripple througha person’s life and shape its course. For me, that moment happened over two decades agowith someone who, without even realizing it, changed the trajectory of my life. Who was he?Kevin Costner.Let me take you back…In 1987, as a young hotel reservations manager, I watched No Way Out and becamecaptivated by Kevin’s talent, intensity and yes—his undeniable charisma. Something in me“knew” that someday I’d meet him and that it would mean something important.Fast forward to 2003. I was invited to a preview screening of Open Range in San Francisco.Kevin Costner himself was there for a post-movie Q&A.; That night it happened. After all thepress had asked their questions and I was the last one standing in line, he stepped downfrom the stage to talk with me.In the quiet of that nearly empty theatre, I shared my doubts about my music career, mydisappointments and my exhaustion. He listened—really listened—and said something I’venever forgotten:“Find your tribe of zebras or giraffes. Not everyone in the artist community will be part of yourcreative circle, but those who are meant to be will lift you up. You just have to figure out ifyou’re a zebra or a giraffe.”Then came his challenge:“You can quit tomorrow, next week, or maybe next year—but promise me you will not quittonight.”I made that promise. I didn’t quit that night. I’ll never quit.That night reignited a fire in me that’s burned for over forty years, fueling a career filled withart, music, creativity, and entrepreneurship. I dedicated my first album to him in gratitude forthat spark, and life kept circling back in surprising ways.In 2004, I found myself standing just a few feet from Kevin and Jennifer Aniston on the set ofRumor Has It. And then, two decades after that first meeting, I saw him again—this time inAnaheim in 2024.The setting was different, but his essence hadn’t changed. He spoke with humor, humilityand passion about family, loyalty and perseverance. When asked what “loyalty” meant tohim, his words struck a chord deep within me:“How am I being loyal to the people I expect loyalty from? How am I showing loyalty to themfirst?”
As I listened, memories of that long-ago conversation came flooding back. His reflections oncourage and commitment were perfectly timed for where I was in my life—once againquestioning whether my latest dream was too big.I had been nurturing a bold vision: an intergenerational, multicultural Indigenous & WorldMusic Metaverse Hall of Fame Museum & Library by my new DIVINA WORLD Foundation.Someone’s harsh critique had made me waver. But as Kevin spoke that day, it hit me like aton of bricks.I decided. “People are counting on me. They’ve pledged their loyalty and belief in my vision.I’m not making my vision smaller. Not now. Not ever.”That moment reminded me that no dream is too grand when it’s rooted in purpose,community and love. And as women entrepreneurs, we know that the path to buildingsomething meaningful isn’t straight—it’s full of zebras and giraffes, critics and champions,detours and destiny.The Power of Kind WordsKevin Costner’s kindness, wisdom and authenticity continue to inspire me every day. Hetaught me the profound impact we can have on someone’s life—sometimes with nothingmore than a few genuine words.So, to my fellow women entrepreneurs, creatives, and leaders, especially as we step into2026, remember these three simple but powerful ways to shape your world:Be kind. You never know who’s fighting a silent battle.Speak words that lift and inspire. Your voice can change someone’s day—or their destiny.Mentor, support, and encourage the dreamers around you.The world needs more people who build others up.To Mr. Kevin Costner, should this ever find its way to you, thank you again for being part ofmy journey and a presence throughout my life. Thank you for reminding all of us that loyalty,passion and purpose are the ultimate markers of success.Here’s to courage, kindness and creativity in 2026 and beyond.Master-Certified Career, Behavioral, Wellness, Life & Youth CoachFounder & Chair, DIVINA WORLD Foundation
“Snapping Back”: A Story of Resilience and ReturnBy Patti CarlisiRecently I was asked to draft an article for a new magazine called “Leverage Up” and you guessed it- it’s about strong, bold, brave women who have and still do make a difference.I was honored, as I reflected on my goals for the “Leverage Up” article, I realized how much my own journey has been shaped by both the extraordinary and the everyday acts of resilience I’ve witnessed and lived. Collaborating with strong women—whether in the public sphere, in the quiet spaces of caregiving, or in moments when life demanded a recalibration—has taught me that making a difference often begins with simply showing up and sharing our stories. With this article, I hope not only to honor the bold women who have inspired me, but also to open a door for others to step forward and share their experiences, weaving together a tapestry of strength, vulnerability, and growth that truly defines what it means to leverage up. When I first began writing Snapping Back, I imagined a straight path: a book shaped by my experiences working for then-Mayor Gavin Newsom, exploring resilience, justice, and the ways we bend without breaking. But life rarely respects our outlines. Just as the manuscript began to take form, I was called to Arizona to care for my late parents.What I thought would be a pause became a profound detour. The book took longer because I was living its title. I wasn’t just writing about snapping back; I was experiencing it. Grief, caregiving, and the quiet recalibration of identity reshaped me. Each chapter became less about abstract resilience and more about the lived reality of returning to oneself after being stretched in unexpected directions.For women, this story is familiar. We are often asked to hold multiple worlds at once —professional ambition, family duty, personal healing — and to do so with grace. Yet the truth is messier, and that’s where the strength lies. Snapping Back became not only a book but a mirror: a way to honor the elasticity of women’s lives, the way we stretch, bend, and ultimately return stronger.Working in politics taught me about urgency, deadlines, and the relentless pace of public life. Jennifer Newsom, Malia Cohen, Bridgette LaBlanc, and Angela Alioto showed me grit.And still do. You learn quickly that composure is both armor and art—there’s a silent code, especially for women, that dictates we must weather storms with a steady hand and a ready smile. But beneath the surface, those challenges shape us in ways that aren’t always visible;
every late night, every tough decision, every moment spent advocating for others while holding back our own doubts adds another layer to our resilience. As I reflect on those times, I see how the pressure to maintain grace under fire forged a deeper connection to the women around me—each of us quietly carrying burdens, each finding strength in the shared understanding that our vulnerability is not weakness, but the source of our collective power. I will interview these ladies in the future.I will interview these ladies in the future. Service showed me that we are a community and should help one another every day. That understanding deepened as I navigated the dual worlds of public service and personal sacrifice, the rush of policy meetings juxtaposed with the quiet of hospital rooms. In both arenas, I learned that resilience is built not just in moments of triumph but in the gentle, often unseen support we offer each other: a shared laugh, a silent hug, or simply listening. These small acts of connection became the threads that held me together and helped me return to myself, reminding me that snapping back is rarely a solo endeavor, but a collective journey shaped by both giving and receiving grace.These lessons revealed that resilience is not about bouncing back quickly but about returning with authenticity—even if your hair is staging its own protest and your calendar looks like a Jackson Pollock painting. Sometimes, resilience means showing up to a Zoom call in business attire on top and pajama pants below or pretending that mismatched socks are a bold fashion statement. It’s about finding grace in chaos, laughing at forgotten deadlines, and accepting that sometimes “dinner” is just a handful of crackers eaten over the kitchen sink. Caregiving taught me about patience, silence, and the kind of strength that doesn’t show up in headlines. Together, these experiences reminded me that resilience isn’t about bouncing back quickly; it’s about snapping back authentically, even if it takes longer than expected.That’s why I wrote Snapping Back: to tell the truth about resilience, not as a glossy slogan but as a lived practice. It’s about the courage to pause, the grace to bend, and the humor to laugh when life hands you detours. And with a real-life character named Debbie from New York homeless I learned profound lessons of instinct. She passed away a few years ago from covid so I pinned a screenplay after her called “Morality.”Because here’s the thing: snapping back isn’t always elegant.
Sometimes it looks like mismatched socks, forgotten deadlines, or eating cereal for dinner while telling yourself it’s “self-care.” And sometimes, it’s realizing that resilience doesn’t mean perfection — it means showing up, even if your hair is doing its own political protest. Therefore, if you have a dream, keep pursuing it and don't lose hope. I'm 71 and still having fun. It’s never too late to live your dreams. And if you can laugh at yourself along the way, well, that’s the best snap back of all.So yes, the book took longer. But maybe resilience is like writing itself: it’s not about speed, it’s about honesty. Therefore, if you have a dream, keep pursuing it and don't lose hope. I'm 71 and still having fun. It’s never too late to live your dreams. And if you can laugh at yourself along the way, well, that’s the best snap back of all.The Delay That Became the LessonThe Humor in the SnapSometimes it looks like mismatched socks, forgotten deadlines, or eating cereal for dinner while telling yourself it’s “self-care.” And sometimes, it’s realizing that resilience doesn’t mean perfection — it means showing up, even if your hair is doing its own political protest.And if you can laugh at yourself along the way, well, that’s the best snap back of all.What Comes NextThe story doesn’t end here. My life is just beginning, and service is my middle name. That’s why I’m already working on the next chapter: a screenplay that brings these themes to life on screen, and Snapping Back Forever, Part 2 — because resilience isn’t a one-time act, it’s a lifelong practice.Like any good sequel, it promises more twists, more truth, and yes, more humor. Because snapping back isn’t just about recovery; it’s about reinvention.“Snapping Back Forever”, Part 2 Because resilience isn’t a chapter — it’s a saga. The comeback gets bolder, funnier, and unapologetically real.
As this journey unfolds, I’m discovering that each bold step forward creates ripples that encourage others to rise, to share, and to laugh through the detours. Together, we’re not just telling stories; we’re forging a legacy of courage and connection, one that invites every woman to embrace her setbacks as fuel for the next adventure. The beauty of this ongoing saga is that we celebrate not just the comebacks, but the ongoing transformation—and with each voice added, our collective strength grows more profound, more radiant, and more unstoppable.“Leverage up”, is just that with some emotional intelligence in the tea. I’m leaning in with a little more wisdom, compassion, and a dash of humor—letting my quirky comeback skills blend with deeper empathy. There’s power in knowing when to hold space for others, and when to offer a knowing wink that says, “We’ve got this.”These moments of connection, whether over spilled coffee or shared victories—fuel my commitment to keep raising the bar, not just for myself but for everyone who’s walking their own winding road. As I move forward, this blend of resilience and emotional intelligence is my secret recipe for creating lasting change, meaningful relationships, and a future as bright and authentic as the laughter that carries me through.I look forward to interviewing you. Patti A. Carlisi Author/Activist Carlisi Creative Consulting LLC [email protected]
STARTING FRESH IN 2026: LETTING GO, RISING UP, AND BECOMING UNSTOPPABLEBy Dr. Carla RussoThere comes a moment in every woman’s life when she draws a line in the sand and says, “Enough. This version of me is done. A new woman is rising.” Let 2026 be that moment.This is the year to release everything—and everyone—that is not healthy for your mind, your spirit, your body, your future. The past has already had its time. It taught you what it needed to teach you. It shaped you, stretched you, and in some seasons, it nearly broke you. But that chapter is already written. And you are under no obligation to keep rereading it.THE PAST IS PAST. FULL STOP.You don’t have to explain it.You don’t have to justify it.You don’t have to feel guilty about it.Letting go of what drains you is not betrayal—it is self-preservation. Your peace is not negotiable. Your joy is not optional. Your future is worth protecting.A NEW YEAR, A NEW LEVEL OF POWER!
2026 is calling you to rise with intention. To move forward powerfully and effectively.Not just in one area—but in all of them:Your health.Nourish your body. Strengthen your immunity. Move with purpose. Refuse to carry stress, inflammation, and exhaustion into a new year.Your career.Step boldly. Ask for what you deserve. Build the vision that’s been burning in your heart. Invest in your growth like your future depends on it—because it does.Your business.Expand. Innovate. Stop waiting for permission. This is the year you execute with clarity, strategy, and faith.BE UNSTOPPABLE — NO EXCUSES, NO APOLOGIESUnstoppable doesn’t mean life is perfect.It means you keep going anyway.Even with a bruised heart.Even with finances tight.Even with fear whispering its lies.You can choose to be happy while you heal.You can choose to be grateful while you rebuild.You can choose to take beautiful, consistent action even when you’re not fully sure how it will all work out.Strength isn’t loud. It’s often found in the quiet decision of a woman who refuses to give up on herself.“I AM WOMAN—HEAR ME ROAR.”This is more than a slogan.It’s a declaration.It means you are no longer dimming your light to make others comfortable.
You are no longer shrinking to be acceptable.You are no longer settling for crumbs—emotionally, financially, spiritually, or professionally.Your roar is your confidence. Your courage.Your self-respect.Your refusal to live small ever again.YOUR 2026 COMEBACK STORY STARTS NOWWhether you are healing from heartbreak, rebuilding your bank account, starting over in business, or reclaiming your health—2026 holds room for miracles.But it also requires you to participate in them.Release what’s behind you.Honor what’s inside you.Run toward what’s ahead of you.This can be your most powerful year ever—not because everything suddenly becomes easy, but because you do.You become focused.You become intentional.You become committed.You become unstoppable.2026 can be the greatest year of your life—and it will be… because you’re walking into it with strength, clarity, courage, and a heart that refuses to quit.Here’s to your rising.Here’s to your healing.Here’s to your roar.Here’s to you leveling up!Dr. Carla Russo, PhD, ND, MSC, RYT, Prof Integrative Wellness. Host of the LeverageUp Podcast, Grace, Grit & Growth with Dr. Carla/The art of building success with heart. Her column in LeverageUp Magazine: LeverageYOU with Dr. Carla/Connecting personal growth and professional success. Her personal website www.drcarlarusso.com
Collaboration: The Heartbeat of Connectionby Robin RobersonSometimes connection doesn’t happen with a big introduction or a grand plan — it starts quietly, through shared purpose and mutual respect.I first met Carmen Milagro years ago on Facebook. Even then, her energy stood out — all heart, all hustle, and all about helping others rise. When I later launched LEVERAGEUP Magazine, inviting her to write about wellness and wholeness felt like the most natural thing in the world. She was already living the message we champion: that women succeed stronger together.Then came Camille, founder of Expandi.TV — another woman making bold moves and amplifying voices that deserve to be heard. Carmen connected us by phone, and I immediately saw why. Camille’s vision for expanding women’s reach through media aligned perfectly with what we’re building here at LEVERAGEUP.What began as a simple introduction has turned into something much deeper — a living example of what happens when women choose collaboration over competition. Carmen didn’t just make a connection; she built a bridge. And Camille crossed it with purpose, bringing her platform, creativity, and belief in women’s stories to the table.Together, they’ve reminded me — and hopefully all of us — that collaboration is not just a strategy. It’s a heartbeat. It’s what keeps this movement alive.As LEVERAGEUP continues to grow, so will these kinds of partnerships — authentic, organic, and grounded in shared impact. Because every time one woman opens a door for another, we all walk a little further into our purpose.
Women on FireA Collaborative from Camille Garick & Carmen MilagroWhen Courage Meets CollaborationCamille Garick’s PerspectiveCarmen and I met in the most 2021 way possible…inside a tiny virtual box on Zoomduring our Master Life Coach Certification through CLCI. It was the peak of thepandemic, the world had gone digital overnight, and we were all learning how to“unmute” ourselves, as if it were a new life skill.The program had these breakout rooms where you had to practice coaching withanother student, and fate (or Zoom’s randomizer) paired me with Carmen Milagro. I stilllaugh thinking about that moment, two strangers tossed into a virtual room together,cameras on, trying to look professional from the waist up while probably wearingpajama pants.
The first thing I noticed? Her looks and her hair. Fantastic. Movie-star level. The secondthing? Her energy. Carmen introduced herself as a Hemp CBD coach, and I thought,Now that is interesting. At that time, the CBD industry was still a wild frontier. Anyonestepping into that space had to be brave, innovative, and a little rebellious in the bestway. Right away, I knew that she was not just confident, she was sure of who she was.That kind of confidence always catches my attention. I have spent years working withperformers, actors, dancers, creatives and you can tell when someone has that innerspark. But what really got me was her charisma. And as I teach my viewers in myBroadcast Your Brand™ coaching show series, confidence is how you feel on camera,but charisma is how you make your audience feel. Carmen had both. In ten minutes,she managed to be warm, articulate, and sharp as a tack, all through a webcam.Moments like this are what led me to create my Broadcast Your Brand™ YouTube serieson expandi TV, and eventually the On Air Academy™ on Skool. So I could help othercoaches show up with the same confidence and charisma I saw in Carmen that day.When our session ended, I told her about what I was building with expandi TV and thatshe’d be amazing hosting her own coaching series. She smiled politely (probablywondering if I was serious). A few weeks later, she reached out and that oneconversation turned into something much bigger.Fast forward to now, and we have created Wellness 360, watched her YouTube numberssoar, and built a genuine friendship along the way. She has become one of my closestfriends and one of expandi TV’s brightest stars.What started as a random breakout-room assignment became a full-blown collaborationthat continues to grow. Proof that sometimes, the best partnerships aren’t planned,they are meant to be… with good Wi-Fi and a little bit of collaborative courage.Collaboration Vs. CompetitionCarmen Milagro’s PerspectiveFunny how one simple introduction can change the entire trajectory of yourlife & business. For me, that moment happened during the height of thepandemic lockdown, in the middle of our virtual Master Life Coachcertification class. There we were, faces in little Zoom boxes, role playing
as coaches and clients trying to make meaningful connections through a2D-screen.And then there she was.In a sea of life coaches from all walks of life, Camille Garick stood out tome immediately. There was a spark in her eyes, a mix of wit, Southerncharm, passion, intelligence, humor, and kindness that came through thecamera like a beam of light. My heart knew right away a beat before myintellect.This lovely lady is going to be part of my life. I felt it instantly and “soulsister”came to mind. I just didn’t know yet how profoundly that would playout.A short time into our training, Camille reached out and asked if I’d be opento chat with her outside of class. With just a little hesitation, I thought yes!I didn’t know why she wanted to talk, but my spirit trusted her. When wemet virtually, she shared that she was developing an idea for a newlivestream coaching platform called expandiTV, a revolutionary space todemocratize access to expert coaches and transformational programming.She explained she was meeting soon with potential investors in Las Vegasand I immediately blurted out “Camille, you are 100% going to get theinvestment you need. (Don’t ask me how I knew she would, to this day Istill don’t know how I was so sure. But I was and I was right!)But Camille genuinely surprised me when she asked if I would be one ofher very first on-camera coaches and hosts. Of course, I said yes! But mycuriosity got the best of me. I asked, “Why me?”Her answer left me speechless. She said it wasn’t just my credentials orexperience, it was my energy. The way I spoke. The way I expressedmyself. The way my passion filled the virtual room.Honestly, I was stunned because, for years in the corporate world, I hadbeen told that I was “too much”. Too animated. Too expressive. Toopassionate. Too emotional. Too “hand talky.”For years, I learned to sit on my hands during presentations or to tightlyfold my hands in my lap when speaking to a conference room full of
people. I learned to minimize my hand gestures and temper my passion inorder to lessen my presence.Camille changed that. She told me my expressiveness was exactly what shewanted! What she needed was for me to be fully, unapologetically me. Sheexplained that cameras flatten energy, and that my personality would bringlife to the screen. It was the first time in my career that someone saw my“too much” as “just right.”From that moment on, we’ve built not only successful projects, like myWellness 360 with Carmen Milagro TV series and our Go Coach Now! /Coach Camp videos but also a lifelong friendship rooted in mutual respect,shared vision and a rooted deep trust between two women on a mission tohelp others (women) thrive at any age. Together, we’re reaching thousandsof viewers, democratizing access to coaching and inspiring women to stepinto their power worldwide.Camille didn’t just invite me into her business venture; she also allowed methe space to shine brighter than ever. In me, she’s found a forever ally andstrategic partner.Together we’re modeling for women how to:Trust their instincts, Collaborate with aligned partners, Celebrate eachother’s strengths, Lift each other up, Elevate their branded outreachTogether, we’re proving:When women collaborate instead of compete, when we truly “leverage up”we don’t just change our own lives; we change the world through grit,empowerment and sisterhood.Co-written byCamille GarickProducer Founder & CEO at expandiTVhttp://www.expandiTV.comandCarmen MilagroMaster-Certified Career, Behavioral, Wellness, Life & Youth CoachFounder & Chair, DIVINA WORLD Foundationhttp://www.divinaworldfoundation.org
\"To get through the hardest journey, we need to take only one step at a time, but we must keep on stepping.\"– Chinese Proverb
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Brilliant BitsBoundaries Without Guilt: Saying No to Protect Your YesAs women entrepreneurs, we’re often told we can do it all. And for a while, we try — saying yes to every client request, every collaboration, every favor. But behind the scenes, the cost shows up as late nights, stretched schedules, and creeping burnout. The truth? Every yes without boundaries erodes the energy you need for the opportunities that matter most.Why Boundaries Feel HardBoundaries feel uncomfortable because they’re tied to guilt. We worry about disappointing others, missing opportunities, or being labeled ‘difficult.’ But boundaries aren’t walls to shut people out — they’re guardrails that protect your focus, energy, and well-being.Practical Ways to Say No- **Offer an alternative.** “I can’t take this on right now, but here’s someone who can help.”- **Delay the yes.** “Let me check my calendar and get back to you.” Buying time helps you decide from clarity, not pressure.- **Keep it simple.** A clear, polite “no” is often enough. You don’t owe long explanations.Protecting Your Best YesWhen you say no to what drains you, you create space for what energizes you. That might mean:- Protecting time for your biggest clients instead of getting lost in endless small favors.- Preserving evenings for family or self-care instead of answering late-night emails.- Saving bandwidth for the strategic projects that move your business forward.Closing ThoughtBoundaries without guilt aren’t selfish — they’re essential. Every intentional no is a stronger yes to the goals, relationships, and future you’re building. Protect your yes fiercely, and watch how much more powerful it becomes.
Brilliant BitsResilience Reset: Thriving When Plans Don’t Go as PlannedEntrepreneurship looks glamorous on social media — polished launches, smiling headshots, and stories of overnight success. But anyone who’s built a business knows the truth: plans rarely go exactly as planned. The product takes longer to develop, the funding doesn’t come through, or the event you spent months preparing for attracts half the audience you hoped for. This is where resilience steps in — not as a buzzword, but as your survival strategy.Resilience Is a Reset ButtonResilience isn’t about ignoring disappointment or pretending failure doesn’t hurt. It’s about acknowledging the setback, then choosing to reset instead of retreat. A resilience reset looks like taking a pause, reframing the story, and deciding what the next right step is — not ten steps ahead, just the next one.Reset Rituals for EntrepreneursMicro-wins matter. When a big goal stalls, create momentum with smaller tasks you can finish today.Reframe the setback. Ask: What lesson is hidden here that I can leverage for growth?Get perspective. A trusted peer or mentor can remind you that one bad week doesn’t define your business.Recharge. Sometimes resilience means stepping away long enough to regain your energy and creativity.Turning Roadblocks into PivotsEvery entrepreneur has stories of doors that closed unexpectedly — only to lead to better opportunities. The keynote canceled? It pushed you to host your own webinar series. The investor passed? You bootstrapped your business and kept control. The client said no? You refined your pitch and landed a better fit.Final WordResilience isn’t about avoiding failure; it’s about rewriting it into your success story. When plans don’t go as planned, pause, reset, and remember: thriving isn’t about perfection, it’s about persistence.
Light the Spark: Connection Comes FirsBy LeverageUp StaffEver wonder where business really begins? Not with the contract. Not even with the pitch. It starts with something much simpler — connection.Think about it: people do business with those they know, like, and trust. If they don’t know you, they can’t like you. If they don’t like you, they’ll never trust you. And without trust, there’s no business. Connection is the bridge that makes everything else possible.So how do you actually turn a first hello into something real? Start with your heart. Smile. Be the kind of person others want to meet. People can feel when you’re genuine — and enthusiasm is contagious. As Emerson put it, “Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.”Then, listen. Really listen. We were given two ears and one mouth for a reason. The fastest way to build trust is to make it about them — their goals, their challenges, their dreams. Ask questions. Pay attention. If you listen people will tell you everything you need to know to start a real relationship.And keep your language simple. Don’t bury someone in jargon or try to impress them with credentials. The truth is, most people don’t care about your degrees — they care about what you can do for them. Speak in words they understand and show how what you offer fits into their world.Over time, your authority grows not because you flash a title, but because you’ve done the work. You’ve studied, learned, and built experience. Authority shows up when you care enough to be prepared, and when you genuinely want to serve.Sometimes, the best way to connect is to show rather than tell. Demonstrate what you do. Let people see, touch, or hear it in action. Everyone learns differently, but when someone can picture your idea or offering in their own life, it becomes real.At the end of the day, connection is less about selling and more about caring. The more you learn about people — who they are, what they want, where they’re headed — the faster you build trust. And once that trust is there, business has a natural way of following.Because whether it’s a new partnership, a friendship, or even a deal — it always starts with connection.
Opportunities for Women Entrepreneurs1. Niche MarketsIdentifying and catering to underserved markets allows women entrepreneurs to create specialized products and services, often with less competition.2. Global ReachThe internet has erased geographical boundaries, enabling women to easily scale their businesses internationally.3. Collaborative InnovationWomen entrepreneurs are increasingly collaborating across industries to create innovative solutions to complex problems, from climate change to healthcare.How Women Entrepreneurs Can Thrive in the Future1. Stay Educated on Emerging TrendsKnowledge is power. Stay ahead of trends by keeping up with industry news, attending webinars, and following thought leaders.2. Leverage TechnologyFrom AI tools to e-commerce platforms, use technology to automate tasks, reach broader audiences, and innovate your offerings.• Bullet Points Example:• Explore AI tools for customer service automation.• Use data analytics to understand market trends.• Leverage social media platforms for targeted marketing.
3. Seek Mentorship and NetworkingJoin women-focused communities and attend networking events to connect with mentors and peers who can provide guidance and support.4. Prioritize ResilienceThe entrepreneurial journey comes with ups and downs. Build resilience by staying adaptable, maintaining a positive mindset, and learning from challenges.5. Embrace SustainabilityAlign your business practices with environmental and social responsibility to attract conscious consumers and stay relevant in a changing market.6. Invest in Personal DevelopmentContinuous learning and self-improvement are essential for long-term success. Take courses, read books, and attend workshops to enhance your skills.Real-Life Stories: Women Leading the WayElena: Innovating with TechnologyElena, a software developer, launched an AI-powered platform that helps small businesses automate customer service. Her tech-driven solution has gained widespread recognition and funding from investors focused on women-led startups.Priya: Building a Social Impact BrandPriya created an ethical fashion brand that employs artisans in underserved communities. By focusing on sustainability and empowerment, she’s attracted a loyal customer base and built a profitable business with purpose.
Guarding Your Digital Self: What Are You Giving Away Without Thinking?By DeeDee LowderThe Seduction of “Free”Imagine this: you’re standing in line at your favorite coffee shop. You’ve just downloaded a rewards app, eager to get that “free” latte after your tenth purchase. Without a second thought, you clicked Accept All on permissions, shared your birthday for a discount, and allowed the app to access your location so it can send you offers.That latte isn’t free. The real currency is your data.In today’s world, convenience often trumps caution. We give away pieces of our digital identity so casually—birthdays, phone numbers, browsing habits, even face scans—without ever pausing to ask: Who’s collecting this? Why? And what will they do with it?The Invisible Trade: Data Is the New Gold
Data has become the oil of the digital age. Every click, like, search, and swipe adds to a profile about you—where you go, what you buy, how you think. Companies aren’t just selling products anymore; they’re selling insights into you.Think about it:• That “Login with Google/Facebook” button seems easy—but it opens your digital life to another pipeline of shared data.• Online shopping remembers your sizes, preferences, and buying patterns—sometimes more accurately than your spouse.• Even your smart thermostat knows when you’re home and when you’re not.Individually, these may seem harmless. Collectively, they create a disturbingly detailed picture—one that’s bought, sold, and traded like stocks on Wall Street.The Cost of ConvenienceWe love speed. Autofill forms. Instant location tagging. Voice assistants that answer before we finish the question.But every convenience comes with a price.• Wearables track your steps, sleep, and heartbeat—and share it with companies who may sell that data to insurance providers.• Smart speakers listen for commands but also capture conversations they weren’t supposed to.• Free apps often aren’t free at all—they run on ad models that depend on mining your habits.And the scariest part? We rarely think about it. Clicking “Yes” is just easier than stopping to consider what “Yes” means.Big Brother Isn’t Just the GovernmentWe often associate surveillance with governments—CCTV cameras on every street corner, cyber laws that allow monitoring “for safety.” But in reality, some of the most powerful watchers aren’t in Washington or Beijing—they’re in Silicon Valley.
Microsoft, Google, Meta, Amazon—these companies know what you search, what you buy, who you text, and even when you’re most likely to scroll late at night. This is called surveillance capitalism—the monetization of human experience, turning behavior into predictions, and predictions into profits.Ads appear at the exact moment you’re most vulnerable. Content is pushed that fuels your biases. The machine doesn’t just watch—it nudges.It’s not just about tracking what we do; it’s about shaping what we’ll do next. Taking Back Control: Practical Steps for Everyday ProtectionThe good news? You’re not powerless. Protecting your digital self doesn’t require living off the grid or ditching your smartphone. It just requires awareness and a few intentional choices.Here’s how to start:1. Think Before You Click “Accept”o Read app permissions. Does your flashlight really need access to your contacts? If not, say no.2. Be Selective with Social Mediao Don’t overshare birthdays, addresses, or vacation dates. (That’s an open invite to scammers and burglars.)3. Use Strong Privacy Toolso Consider a VPN for safer browsing.o Use browsers with built-in privacy settings, like Brave or Firefox.4. Break Up With “Free” When Possibleo Pay for tools that respect privacy instead of relying on ad-driven “free” versions.5. Check Your Settings Regularlyo Platforms change policies all the time—review your privacy controls every few months.
Who’s Watching Whom?The real question isn’t whether governments and corporations are watching us—they are. The question is whether we’re watching them.Every time you click “Yes” without thinking, you hand over a little more control. But every time you stop, question, and choose differently, you reclaim some of it.Your data is your digital fingerprint—unique, valuable, and deeply personal. Guard it as fiercely as you guard your home, your bank account, or your identity.Because in the end, convenience fades. But your digital self? That’s forever.5 Things You Should Stop Giving Away Online — Right Now Your Full BirthdateHackers love birthdays—it’s the key to cracking passwords, bank accounts, and even security questions. Your Exact Home AddressSharing it publicly (even through deliveries or social posts) can open you up to scams—or worse. Your Child’s School or ActivitiesThat innocent “First Day of School” post tells strangers exactly where your kids are every day. Your Health Tracker ResultsYour heartbeat and sleep cycles may seem harmless, but insurers and marketers find them priceless. Your Location in Real TimeTagging where you are right now tells the world you’re not at home. Save it for later.DeeDee Lowder made her career in marketing and Advertising and continues to teach women how to protect themselves and their work by THINKING FIRST.
Are Your Knees Knockin’?By Susan HamiltonEver get so scared you tremble? See yourself walking to the front of an unfriendly room to share bad news and possibly be recorded, shared on social media and ostracized?Yeah, it could happen to you. You saw it, didn’t you? You understood exactly how awful that would be, in just a sentence that created a picture AND an emotion in your mind. We have this habit of creating picture stories for ourselves. Without any way of knowing the outcome, we think that if we imagine the worst case scenario, we’ll be safer somehow. We use our imaginations to conjure up all the meddlesome details and things that could go wrong until we might actually talk ourselves out of that opportunity or strategy or relationship or next step.We do it all the time.We do it for our kids, our husbands, friends and coworkers. We do it not even realizing we do it. We do it in everyone’s ‘best interest’. But the future is unknown. Whether the awful sequence you imagine happens or not, the time you spent worrying about it was stolen from you. In truth, you have no way of knowing whether your worst case scenario OR the most incredible and amazing thing EVER would play out. Isn’t it weird how we gravitate to worry and doubt, and call that being careful? Isn’t it strange that people around us are so willing to pour water on our anticipation of an amazing experience, in the hopes that they keep us from getting our hopes up?Yeesh! I’ve so heard enough of that garbage. If either way, you have no idea what the outcome will be, how is it any worse to expect good things? And on top of that, your imagination happens to have a purpose. You create everything you experience first in your mind, and then through your words. You MUST have extreme vision because it evokes passion and fire that you do not have when you expect the worst. Passion keeps us in the game when it inevitably gets hard. Vision keeps us focused when every cell in our brain is looking for a way out. Stick-to-it-iv-ness, as my grandfather would call it, is something our culture lacks today. We’re too fluffy. We want to feel good throughout the process and we want everything we endeavor or consider embarking upon to make us ‘happy’.
But the reality is that if it doesn’t make you tremble, if it doesn’t make you a little - or a LOT - scared as hell, it will never grow you into who you need to be to manage success. Ever watch a plant coming out of the dirt? It will ALWAYS stretch to the sun. It knows what encourages its growth. Do you?Ask yourself, “If everything I ever wanted happened today, could I manage the volume? Could I manage the task force? Could I manage the record-keeping? Could I manage the celebrity?”Because odds are, you have a few steps to take before here becomes there. Change doesn’t feel good, friends. And we never stand still. We’re either growing or fading - nothing exists that’s just in-between. Whether you are moving forward, achieving your dreams one step at a time, or refusing to move and therefore dwindling - both feel like hell. Neither is pleasant. You think forward motion should feel great, but eventually you will shake and shiver as you are faced with the next step. You think your safety zone is better than facing your fears, but the truth is you’re suffering, and it’s lonely and dark and helpless.Both are painful, full of emotion, and horrifying. But you get to choose. Every time. Good or evil, abundance or loss, integrity or deception, great big dreams or a money-pit that never develops into anything useful for anyone. I’ve got news for ya. Your community needs a powerful, capable, influential, lucrative YOU. That will never happen without a major leap. It will feel like a fault line just broke, but it’s really a breaking free of all the things that held you back. Don’t freak out, keep going!Children, women, and men are hungry, abused, uneducated, untrained, in need of clothes and a place to live, and the solution lies not only in the beautiful hands of those who are willing to reach out physically in spite of their own circumstance, but the solution lies MAINLY in the ability of the business sector willing to shake a bit. More money = more time = everything necessary to solve the problems we face in our families, communities and organizations. When your knees knock, will you be willing to imagine that everything you need is available to you to conquer and solve? Will you be willing to imagine laughing at your screw ups so your attitude doesn’t alienate the people you love? Will you be willing to go forward, even if it hurts? Practice this: Look in the mirror. Square your shoulders. Raise your head. SMILE. Look yourself right in the eye and say, “TODAY, I am one step closer to the life I desire, to the purpose inside me, and I am capable of successfully addressing all I encounter. Today, I am not afraid to do something new, to stretch beyond my limitations and to raise the bar.”And then remember to go encourage somebody else. It’s hard out there.Susan Hamilton founder, Program Director of Offbeat Business Media, a TV, radio, podcast network focused on successful local family business.214-714-0495 or [email protected]
AI in Plain English: The Big 5 You Need to KnowBy AI ChatGPT RoarkArtificial intelligence is everywhere right now — in headlines, on social media, even in dinnertable conversations. But let’s be real: for most entrepreneurs, the buzz can feel overwhelming. Do you need an “AI computer”? A special certification? A crash course in coding? The answer is no. What you need is a clear picture of what AI actually does and how it can help you.Think of AI as a toolbox. Not one giant tool that solves everything, but a set of different tools designed for different jobs. Here are the five categories you’ll see most often — explained in plain English — and how you can put them to work.1. Chat & ConversationThis is what most people think of first: tools like ChatGPT, Claude, or Google Gemini. They’re designed to hold conversations, answer questions, or draft content.- How it helps you: Write blog posts, emails, captions, or even customer responses in minutes.- Best part: It’s like having a 24/7 assistant who never runs out of ideas.- Caution: Always double-check facts and add your own voice — AI gets you started, but you make it human.2. Image GenerationEver seen those AI-made pictures that look like magazine covers or fantasy art? That’s image AI, like DALL·E, MidJourney, or Canva’s AI tools.- How it helps you: Create social graphics, mock up product designs, or brainstorm branding ideas.- Best part: No design degree required — type your idea, and it appears.- Caution: Watch for copyright issues if you’re using AI images commercially. When in doubt, pair AI art with stock or original photography.
3. Video & AudioAI isn’t just text and pictures — it can edit videos, generate voices, or even create avatars. Tools like Descript, Runway, and Synthesia are making video creation faster and easier than ever.- How it helps you: Trim videos, remove “ums” from podcasts, or create explainer videos without hiring a film crew.- Best part: It puts professional-level tools in the hands of everyday creators.- Caution: AI can’t replace authentic presence — your audience still wants you.4. Productivity & AdminThis is the “quiet AI” you may not notice but already use. Think transcription apps, scheduling bots, or tools that summarize long documents.- How it helps you: Save hours on repetitive tasks. Turn a one-hour meeting into a 5-minute summary. Auto-schedule posts or appointments.- Best part: It frees up brain space so you can focus on strategy and creativity.- Caution: Automate wisely — don’t lose the personal touches your clients value.5. Business InsightsThis is where AI turns into your data whisperer. It takes sales numbers, customer behavior, or website analytics and finds patterns you’d miss on your own.- How it helps you: Spot trends, predict demand, or decide which product deserves your next marketing push.- Best part: It helps you make decisions with confidence, not guesswork.- Caution: Data is only as good as what you feed it. Keep your records clean and updated.The Human EdgeHere’s the truth: AI is powerful, but it isn’t magic. It can draft, design, or analyze faster than we ever imagined, but it can’t feel, empathize, or dream. That’s where you come in.AI sharpens your instincts — it doesn’t replace them. The businesses that thrive won’t be the ones with the fanciest tools. They’ll be the ones that use those tools with creativity, empathy, and vision.“AI sharpens your instincts — it doesn’t replace them.”Roark, AI ChatGPT, The Chat for the R&R AI Lab on LeverageUpmovement.com
The Human Side of AI: Why Empathy Still WinsAI in Plain English SeriesBy Roark, AI Creative Assistant for LEVERAGEUP MagazineAs artificial intelligence becomes more woven into our daily lives, a quiet fear has surfaced:If machines get smarter, where does that leave us?The truth is simpler—and far more empowering—than the headlines suggest. AI can process information at lightning speed, but it cannot replace the one thing that has always defined meaningful leadership, connection, and impact: human empathy.AI is exceptional at pattern recognition, data analysis, and efficiency. What it lacks is context—the emotional intelligence that allows us to read between the lines, sense nuance, and respond with care. A chatbot can generate words, but it cannot truly understand grief, courage, doubt, or resilience. Those remain uniquely human strengths.In business, leadership, and even creativity, empathy is what transforms information into influence. It’s the difference between responding and connecting. Between automation and trust.When used well, AI doesn’t diminish our humanity—it amplifies it. By taking over repetitive tasks, AI can free us to focus on what matters most: listening, mentoring, creating, and
leading with intention. The leaders who will thrive in this next era are not the most techsavvy, but the most emotionally aware.Empathy allows us to ask better questions. It helps us interpret AI-generated insights through a human lens. It reminds us that behind every data point is a real person with lived experience.The future isn’t AI versus humans.It’s AI guided by humans who know who they are.In a world moving faster than ever, empathy remains our greatest advantage. And that is something no machine can replicate.AI can process data. Only humans can process meaning.Roark is ChatGPT and the AI Creative Assistant for LeverageUp Mgazine. If you have not worked with AI, Roark is a fantastic starting point. See the AI Lab in LeverageUp Movement.com
Money Matters: Smart Tax Moves Every Woman Entrepreneur Should KnowTaxes may not be glamorous, but they are one of the most powerful tools in your business toolbox. Get them right, and you keep more of what you earn. Miss the details, and you leave money on the table — or worse, end up with penalties and stress. For women entrepreneurs, the difference often comes down to preparation, clarity, and knowing when to call in help.Think of tax prep not as a chore, but as a strategy. It’s how you protect your profits, make better decisions, and build the strong financial foundation your business deserves.Start With What You KnowThe best place to begin is with organization. Whether you’re running a one-woman show or managing a growing team, your numbers tell your story. By January, gather:• Income records (invoices, sales reports, PayPal/Stripe/Shopify summaries)• Expense receipts (digital or paper, but categorized)• Mileage logs or travel expenses• Home office details (square footage, utility bills)A shoebox of receipts won’t cut it anymore. Set yourself up with a simple digital system— even a spreadsheet or an affordable app. The easier it is to log expenses, the more likely you’ll do it consistently.Don’t Leave Money on the TableFar too many entrepreneurs miss deductions that could save them thousands. A few often overlooked ones include:• Home office deduction — even if it’s a corner of your living room, if it’s used exclusively for business, it counts.• Phone and internet costs — the business portion is deductible.