Just Stuff …

S T U F F

Stuff. Just stuff. Oh how we accumulate stuff. Meryl Streete in the movie “The Devil Wears Prada“, went on a tirade lecturing fellow actress Anne Hathaway when she snickered that the colors were the same. Naturally they weren’t.

As I reflected, I met a woman who per chance argued that we spend so much time in our lives acquiring ‘stuff’. I smiled.

As life transitions, we even pay for the stuff that we accumulate and don’t have room for. Whether it’s downsizing, relocating elsewhere with less space, we end up storing more and more of our ‘stuff’. Storage spaces make thousands of dollars annually storing our stuff while increasing costs intermittently through the year. We complain, object but still grudgingly pay because our stuff is important to us.

Goodwill, the Salvation Army and other places exist for us to give away our stuff. Our precious stuff. Is there an end in sight? Why not create a journal with ideas on how to really downsize. Then use bags to purge, donate or keep.

What are your thoughts on accumulating things, then paying to store them. Do share, we would love to hear.

Cheers!

Vibrant Perspective

Crowded Airport when a woman exclaimed “I love your colors”. Adorned in summer colors, I replied crazy, right? Ahhh vibrancy she chirped. Vibrancy.

I leaned over and whispered back with a smile “vibrancy” and walked on.

I thought of that interface with a complete stranger. Such simple passerby exchange yet amicable. It left me thinking about perspective. It’s late evening and I’m taking the last flight out. I Only wanted to take a carryon to my out of state meeting so I placed the hot yellow necklace around my neck. Added the orange shoes with a red pants. But I’m known for that. I do things others are afraid to do, all with a purpose… my purpose to take one bag (smile)

How about you? Do you do things that perturb others leaving them wondering… could that be me? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Photo by Rachel Claire on Pexels.com

What Are You Doing With The Rest of Your Life?

Photo by Anna Shvets on Pexels.com

Are you content with simply sitting on the sidelines and shaking your head, wringing your hands, because you know that this world could be a better one. ~Dr. Delores Smiley

What if you are no longer in the midst of corporate America because you have earned the opportunity to retire from the 9:00 to 5:00 daily work routine and you are still adjusting to time on hand?

What if you have discovered that you now have the time to pull out and work on those projects that you wanted to develop but just could never quite eek out that extra time to devote to them?

What if you are no longer needed to babysit the grandkids because along the way they have become adults and are busy with their own lives?

What if you have lost your companion and you are still making the adjustment of life without that special someone that completed your being for so many years?

What if you are not so settled that you have become complacent about the world that’s spinning around you?

What if you want to still make a contribution of service in whatever form but just don’t know how to go about doing that?

What if you could affect a positive change to make the tomorrows for society more pleasant, peaceful, and loveable?

Are you content with simply sitting on the sidelines and shaking your head, wringing your hands, because you know that this world could be a better one?

Are you concerned about the legacy that you are leaving to your family, to your community, to your world?

Are you afraid of the unknown or will you be a brave soul to believe and act on the fact that you have what it takes to make change?

I believe that you are out there and you would like nothing better than to discuss and develop a world that addresses hate, lack of leadership, the activation of moral and ethical behavior and saying to the world—we can be better.

This platform is a perfect way to get this started. I am willing to hear you, to grow with you and to look for that better tomorrow—together. I would love to hear your thoughts.

Written by Dr. Delores Smiley

Subscribe to her channel on substack

Life Or Lipstick?

You are just one decision from a totally different life. ~Wilfred A. Peterson

Life or lipstick? Silly question. I was driving when I looked in the mirror and saw ‘dry lips’. If you know me well, I don’t like to go anywhere without my lipstick or some color on my lips.

Immediately I began rummaging in my handbag. One hand on the steering wheel and the other attempting to do a deep dive (women’s handbag).

Suddenly I realized my foolery and said to myself life or lipstick? That immediately put things in perspective.

Haven’t we all made some decisions that when we look back at the short term benefits did not make any sense?

Sometimes you make the right decision. Sometimes you make the decision, right. ~ Phillip C. McGraw

Life Choices

  • Why would I choose lipstick over my life?
  • Why would you quit a job without having another source of income?
  • Why would you stay in a relationship that’s harmful? After all you’re not even married?
  • Why would you start a business without a plan? Without capital?
  • Why would your health not be considered during food consumption

We could go on and on. Let’s choose to be wise about the decisions we make and their effect on life.

The quality of your life is built on the quality of your decisions

Have an important decision to make? Think it over closely. Weigh the pros and cons. Talk it over with a confidante or leadership coach.

Cheers!

The Power of the In-Between: Leading Through Life’s Transitions

Sometimes God brings times of transition to create transformation. ~Lynn Cowell

Transition is not a sign that something’s gone wrong.
It’s often a sign that something deeply right is trying to emerge.

Whether you’re navigating a career pivot, stepping into leadership, returning to yourself after raising children, grieving a loss, starting over, or simply outgrowing who you used to be — you are not lost.

You are in motion.
And motion is sacred.

Transitions Aren’t Detours

So many of us have been taught to treat transitions like detours. Inconveniences. Delays.
But in my experience — and maybe in yours too — transitions are not detours. They are invitations.
Invitations to pause.
To listen.
To lead our lives more deliberately.

There’s a quote I love:

Sometimes when you’re in a dark place, you think you’ve been buried but actually you’ve been planted

So if you’re feeling buried right now — by uncertainty, or fear, or change — know this:
You’re not stuck.
You’re becoming.

Whether it’s career change, motherhood, empty nesting, loss, or reinvention — transitions are not delays. They’re sacred invitations to pause, realign, and step into something deeper.

Who You Are Becoming is Just as Important as What You’re Doing

Our default in transition is to rush into action.
Update the resume. Apply for roles. Rebrand the business. Hustle harder.
But what if the first step wasn’t “What should I do?”
What if it was: “Who am I becoming?”

Because clarity doesn’t come from more motion.
It comes from alignment. From asking:

  • What do I no longer want to carry?
  • What am I being called to step into?
  • What version of me is ready to emerge?

This is your opportunity to shape your next self, not just your next job title, or business pivot, or life chapter.

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

One of the hardest things about transitions? They can feel so lonely.
Especially for women who are used to being the strong ones, the fixers, the go-to for everyone else.

But here’s what I want to say to you today:
You are not alone. And you’re not the only one feeling “in between.”

Let this season be one where you ask for help.
Where you find community.
Where you give yourself permission to rebuild — slowly, honestly, bravely.

Because you don’t have to have it all figured out to move forward.
You just have to decide you’re worth the becoming.

Wrapping it Up

So if you’re in transition today — good.
It means you’re alive.
It means something inside you is shifting. Growing. Healing.
Honor that.

You don’t need to go back to who you were.
You are being invited to rise into who you’re becoming.

And I promise — she is worth the wait.

Going through a transition and feeling confused? Let’s connect

Cheers!

Thriving After Graduation: How To Launch Your Career In An Uncertain World

I have found that nothing in life is worthwhile unless you take risks. Fall forward… never be discouraged. Never look back. Give everything you’ve got. And when you fall throughout life, fall forward.

Denzel Washington

Just graduated and feeling unsure about your next steps? You’re not alone. In a world of economic shifts, global challenges, and evolving job markets, launching your career can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be.

In this video titled Thriving After Graduation: How to Launch Your Career in an Uncertain World, you’ll learn:

✅ How to clarify your purpose and career direction

✅ Practical strategies to stand out in a competitive job market

✅ Mindset shifts to build resilience and confidence

✅ Tips to navigate uncertainty and still move forward with clarity

Whether you’re still job hunting, considering grad school, or feeling stuck, this video will give you actionable steps to take control of your future.

💡 Don’t just survive — thrive after graduation.

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From Manuscript to Bestseller: Unleash Your Publishing Potential

If you want to change the world, pick up your pen and write.

Martin Luther

Listen to the recording here

Are you a writer with a story burning to be told, but feeling overwhelmed by the traditional publishing maze? Listen to this electrifying workshop facilitated by Dr. Shelly Cameron on behalf of Nova Southeastern University’s Alvin Sherman Library. The tips and tricks will transform your publishing dreams from wishful thinking to strategic action.

In this game-changing discussion, you’ll discover the exact blueprint successful self-published authors use to launch their books, build their audience, and generate real income. We’ll pull back the curtain on the traditional vs self-publishing industry, revealing insider strategies that most writers never learn—from choosing the right platforms and mastering digital formatting to marketing techniques that actually sell books. Whether you’re a first-time author or a seasoned writer looking to take control of your publishing journey, this session promises to equip you with practical, immediately actionable insights. Stop waiting for someone else to validate your story. Listen and Learn how to become the author you’ve always dreamed of being—on your own terms, with your own power. Don’t miss your chance to revolutionize your writing career.

Key Insights: Publishing Questions from Authors You Must Know

Many questions were asked throughout the presentation. Here are a 14.

  1. Should you use Ai for Book cover designs?
  2. Are authors required to let readers know that you used Ai?
  3. What is the full marketing potential for a book?
  4. How do you translate a book into another language?
  5. How do you negotiate speaking fees for your book?
  6. Are there any supporting groups to guide on how to format books on KDP?
  7. How can you hire someone to help with publishing?
  8. I’m doing away with writing the Foreword or comments on back of book. What’s the trend?
  9. Do you have resources to look for the audiobooks?
  10. How much can editors charge for beginner writers?
  11. How do you copyright a book?
  12. How do you find someone to edit your work?
  13. How can I get more exposure for sales other than amazon?
  14. Do I have to be a published author to be an editor?

If you’re interested in publishing your book, listen to the presentation and accompanying responses. If you need help, we are passionate about publishing. Reach out for help today and realize your publishing dream!

Happy Writing!

Monetize Your Writing Skills: 10 Proven Methods

Before you speak, listen. Before you write, think. Before you spend, earn. Before you invest, investigate. Before you criticize, wait. Before you pray, forgive. Before you quit, try. Before you retire, save. Before you die, give. ~William Arthur Ward

Are you a writer living from paycheck to paycheck? Do you want to take that dream vacation but your pocket dictates otherwise? You may just want to purchase that long desired goal but can’t seem to come up with the funds. Well, why not try to boost your income creatively? Here are 10 methods that can turn your talent into money in a flash (legally of course – yikes)!

1.Freelance Writing Platforms

Sign up for sites like:

  • Upwork
  • Fiverr
  • Freelancer
  • PeoplePerHour
    Start with blog posts, bios, product descriptions, or email copy. Quick turnaround = faster pay.

2. Offer Resume & Cover Letter Services

Tons of people need help polishing their resumes. You can charge $50–$200+ depending on your expertise.

3. Sell Digital Products

  • Create and sell templates (journals, planners, ebook templates) on Etsy or Gumroad.
  • If you’ve already written a book, turn it into a workbook or checklist.

4. Pitch Articles

Submit articles to platforms that pay per piece:

  • Medium (via Partner Program)
  • Narratively
  • The Bold Italic
  • Listverse
  • Cracked Some pay $100+ for accepted content.

5. GHOSTWRITING

Offer ghostwriting for blog posts, social media captions, or even eBooks. It’s in high demand, especially for coaches and small businesses.

6. Edit or Proofread

Writers are great editors! Offer fast-turnaround proofreading on Fiverr or Facebook groups.

7. Write LinkedIn Profiles or Bios

Professionals always need help optimizing their online presence.

8. Transcribe Audio for Creators or Podcasters

Great for fast typers. Websites like Rev or TranscribeMe pay per audio minute.

9. Offer Email Newsletter Setup / Writing

Many small biz owners want to start newsletters but don’t know where to begin.

10. Monetize a Blog or Substack Fast

Offer a mix of free content and a paid tier with extra goodies (writing tips, coaching, behind-the-scenes, etc.).

Did any of the above spark your interest to boost your earning potential? Any missing that you would like to add? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!

Top 8 Audiobook Publishers You Should Know

Listening to the dulcet tones of a familiar voice is an appealing way to work our way through those books we’ve always meant to get around to, but haven’t.– Clare Thorp

You have written your book! Took it a step further and did the audiobook. Now what do you do? How do you get it into the hands of listeners? The options listed may help.

1. Audible (an Amazon company)

  • What they do: Industry leader in audiobook publishing and distribution.
  • Also produces: Audible Originals (exclusive content).
  • Website: audible.com

2. Tantor Media

  • What they do: Full-service audiobook publisher with a wide range of genres.
  • Known for: High-quality production and professional narration.
  • Website: tantor.com

3. Podium Audio

  • Focus: Sci-fi, fantasy, and thriller genres.
  • Notable for: Discovering and promoting indie authors with huge success (e.g., The Martian by Andy Weir).
  • Website: podiumaudio.com

4. RBmedia

  • What they do: One of the largest audiobook publishers globally.
  • Imprints include: Recorded Books, HighBridge Audio, Tantor Media, and more.
  • Website: rbmediaglobal.com

5. Dreamscape Media

  • What they do: Audiobook production and publishing for libraries, retail, and direct sales.
  • Also handles: Distribution to major platforms like Audible, Hoopla, OverDrive.
  • Website: dreamscapepublishing.com

🧰 Self-Publishing & Hybrid Options

6. ACX (Audiobook Creation Exchange)

  • Owned by: Amazon (works with Audible and iTunes).
  • For: Authors and publishers to create and distribute audiobooks.
  • Website: acx.com

7. Findaway Voices (by Spotify)

  • What they do: Allows authors to produce and distribute audiobooks across 40+ platforms (including Audible, Apple Books, Google, etc.).
  • Website: findawayvoices.com

8. Author’s Republic

  • What they do: Distribute audiobooks globally with easy access for self-published authors.
  • Website: authorsrepublic.com

Questions to Consider

Consider these questions before you make your selection.

  • Is the audiobook already recorded, or do you need help with narration/production? (e.g., voice talent, editing, mastering, etc.)
  • Are you looking to self-publish, or are you open to working with a publisher?
  • What is your target audience and platform preference? e.g., Audible, Spotify, Apple Books, libraries, global reach, etc.)
  • Do you want control over pricing and rights, or are you okay with royalty splits?
  • What’s the genre or focus of the content?
  • (e.g., business, leadership, fiction, memoir, etc.)

Understanding Publishing: Pros and Cons for Aspiring Authors

To write is human, to edit is divine.

Stephen King

New and aspiring writers are curious about the publishing process. As a foundation, it is important to understand the basic advantages and disadvantages of each. These two infographics were prepared as a comparative analysis to help writers understand each especially when navigating the agent-publisher-author relationship.

Here’s hoping it will clarify any confusion associated with the process and help new authors make informed decisions.

Which have you used? Traditional, Self-Publishing, or a combination of both. Do share, we would love to hear.

Cheers!

Success Stories: 15 Women of Color Who Self-Published

“A word after a word after a word is power.”

Margaret Atwood

The publishing process can be intimidating for an unknown writer. The traditional Agent-Publisher-Author relationship is hard. Rejection after rejection is common as Agents say ‘no’. Writers become discouraged and often give up. Manuscripts stay in the darkness of desk drawers for years.

As time has involved, so has the advent of self-publishing. Writers become bold and take advantage of their publishing plight. They make bold moves; step ahead, take the reins to achieve their publishing goal of becoming an author. With low budget and unplanned expenses, some cut corners and quality becomes compromised. Book covers are mediocre. Titles lack depth. Formatting is non-existent, which leads to the demise of some great manuscripts.

On the other hand, some writers step out, work hard, invest, learn the process, and viola! Success follows!

Self-Publishing Success

Here are 15 Authors of color who achieved significant success through self-publishing:

  1. Toni Morrison – While primarily known for her traditionally published works, she self-published her first novel “The Bluest Eye” before gaining wider recognition
  2. Terry McMillan – Initially self-published her debut novel “Mama” before securing a publisher for subsequent works
  3. N.K. Jemisin – First self-published some of her fantasy work before becoming the first author to win the Hugo Award for Best Novel three years in a row
  4. Alexandria House – Found success self-publishing contemporary romance novels featuring Black characters
  5. Kristen Ashley – Built a dedicated following through self-publishing her romance novels before signing with traditional publishers
  6. Brenda Jackson – Pioneer in African American romance who began with self-publishing before becoming a New York Times bestseller
  7. Alyssa Cole – Initially self-published her diverse romance novels before becoming an award-winning author
  8. K.M. Jackson – Self-published romance author who found success writing diverse contemporary stories
  9. Nikki Turner – Self-published her first urban fiction novel before becoming known as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Fiction”
  10. Beverly Jenkins – Started self-publishing historical romances featuring Black characters when traditional publishers showed little interest
  11. Sister Souljah – Self-published “The Coldest Winter Ever” which became a groundbreaking street lit phenomenon
  12. Nnedi Okorafor – Self-published some of her early Africanfuturist works before winning multiple prestigious awards
  13. Kiini Ibura Salaam – Award-winning speculative fiction writer who self-published collections of her short stories
  14. Octavia Butler – Though mostly known for her traditionally published works, she self-published some early stories
  15. Zane – Built an erotic fiction empire beginning with self-published works before launching her own publishing company

These authors demonstrated outstanding entrepreneurial spirit and literary talent often creating space for Black women’s voices. This occurred at a time when traditional publishing wasn’t receptive to their work. Many of these women went on to sign traditional deals. Suffice it to say they proved their commercial viability through self-publishing. Others maintained independence throughout their careers.

Need help to get over your fear to make the leap? Let these women inspire your journey. Thoughts about any of these or other women of color who have experienced success? Do share. We would love to hear.

Cheers!


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