AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: Author/Speaker Melanie D. Phillips

by Cyrus Webb

Melanie, first of all let me say I’m excited to be working with you this year. What has it been like to reflect on your journey as an author and speaker?

Reflecting on my journey as an author and speaker, I’m amazed by how far I’ve come. Writing has been my way of processing life’s challenges, transforming personal growth into powerful stories that inspire others and myself. As a speaker, I’ve seen firsthand how sharing my experiences can spark healing and change. Every book and every speech have reaffirmed my belief in the strength of the human spirit and the power of transformation. It’s a blessing to help others turn their struggles into strength, and that is what drives my passion every day.

When did you know that you had a gift that you were meant to share?

I first recognized my gift during my divorce, a time of pain and confusion. As I navigated that overwhelming period, I realized I could turn my struggles into something meaningful. Sharing my story helped me find strength in vulnerability, and I knew then that I was meant to help others facing similar challenges.

Whether speaking to a youth group or CEOs, or writing, I discovered the core message remained the same: we all face challenges, but with the right mindset, we can turn them into opportunities for growth. Each speaking opportunity reinforced my belief that we all have the power to overcome, rebuild, and thrive. My goal is always the same—to ignite that spark of possibility in others and show them that transformation is within their reach.

Believing in yourself is not easy. What has helped you to do it?

Believing in yourself is not always easy, but my faith and family have helped me do it. My strength comes from God, and I rely on the scripture, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," to remind me that I am never alone. Through every challenge, my faith empowers me to keep going, knowing that God provides the strength I need. My family has also been a constant source of love and encouragement, helping me believe in myself even when I falter. Together, my faith and family have given me the courage to trust in my purpose and abilities.

 I noticed when I was prepping for this chat with you that you have been connecting with organizations both online and offline. How does it feel to know that people are benefiting from your gifts?

It feels incredibly fulfilling to know that people are benefiting from the gifts I’ve been given. Whether connecting with organizations online or offline, it’s rewarding to see how my experiences, words, and guidance can help others find strength, healing, and clarity. There’s a deep sense of purpose in knowing that my journey—my faith, my lessons, and my stories—can make a difference in someone else’s life.

It’s humbling to witness the positive impact, especially when I see individuals or organizations shift their mindsets, overcome challenges, or rediscover their inner strength. The fact that my work resonates with people, helping them navigate their own journeys, confirms that I am exactly where I’m meant to be. This connection with others is what truly fuels my passion and reinforces my belief in the power of sharing one’s gifts with the world.

How does it feel to connect with like-minded individuals from around the world who are looking to motivate others like you do?

Connecting with like-minded individuals from around the world who are also passionate about

motivating others feels incredibly energizing and inspiring. It’s a reminder that we are all part of

a larger community with shared goals—helping others heal, grow, and thrive. These connections

affirm that the work I’m doing isn’t isolated; it’s part of a global movement of people committed to making a difference.

When we come together, exchanging ideas, experiences, and strategies, it’s not just motivating; it’s empowering. I feel a deep sense of camaraderie and purpose knowing that others are out there, just as dedicated to inspiring change and uplifting others. These interactions fuel my own passion, reinforcing the belief that we can all be catalysts for transformation, no matter where we are in the world. It’s a beautiful reminder that our impact can ripple out far beyond what we see.

6. The book you and I connected with was And Your God Shall Be My God. What inspired it?

Mothers and daughters don't always see eye to eye, and at times, they may even become estranged. But despite these challenges, their bond should remain unbreakable. Even in moments of disagreement or distance, the foundation of love and shared history endures. This book And Your God Shall Be My God, was born from the understanding that mothers and daughters, while different in many ways, are still deeply connected by faith, love, and the desire to try and understand one another.

We may not always agree or understand each other’s paths, but we are each other’s keepers. In times of struggle or separation, it’s the prayer, the heartfelt moments of connection, and the faith we share that brings us back together. This book reflects that dynamic—how, even through adversity, the bond between mothers and daughters can be a source of strength, healing, and renewal. Through poems and prayers, it celebrates the love, wisdom, and support that continue to flow, even when life challenges us to grow and change. It’s a reminder that no matter how far apart we may feel, we are always bound by love, faith, and the willingness to grow together.

As we are starting a new year people set goals for themselves. What are you looking forward to in 2025?

In 2025, I’m excited to continue expanding my work through speaking engagements, which allow me to connect with others and inspire them in powerful ways. Whether I’m empowering mothers and daughters or sharing stories of resilience and growth, speaking allows me to touch lives and offer hope. Each speaking engagement is an opportunity to help others overcome their struggles and embrace their transformation.

Alongside my speaking efforts, I’m focused on growing Strengthen The Bond, creating the Bonding Box, and making progress on my trilogy All Suga Ain’t Sweet. I’m also committed to finishing other manuscripts that are close to my heart. Together, these initiatives align with my mission to help people heal, grow, and strengthen their connections, and I can’t wait to see where these efforts take me in 2025.

Any advice you want to share with our audience about the importance of believing in themselves?

Believing in yourself is the first step toward unlocking your true potential. It’s easy to get caught up in doubts, fears, and the opinions of others, but the truth is, your belief in yourself is what drives you to act, face challenges, and grow. When you trust in your abilities, even in uncertainty, you create space for opportunities, healing, and transformation.

Remember, your journey is unique, and there will be obstacles, but those obstacles are not roadblocks—they’re stepping stones. Each challenge you overcome builds your confidence and resilience. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, seek wisdom when needed, and always stay connected to your faith and purpose.

Believing in yourself doesn’t mean you won’t face setbacks; it means you’ll rise from them stronger and more determined. The most important thing is to keep moving forward, one step at a time, with faith in your strength and the knowledge that you are capable of more than you realize. Embrace your worth, your power, and your purpose—you have everything within you to achieve your dreams.

Thank you for your time, Melanie. How can our readers stay connected with you?

Thank you for having me! Readers can stay connected with me through my website,

MelanieDPhillips.com, where you can find out more about my work and upcoming projects. You can also connect with me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/strengthenthebond, and on Facebook at Melanie RichardsonPhillips (no hyphen). If you prefer email, feel free to reach out to me at MelanieDPhillips1@gmail.com. I look forward to staying connected and continuing this journey together!

Dr. Anissa Short: Building Platforms and Raising the Bar for Herself and Others

by Cyrus Webb

The great thing about being individuals is that we can each shine brightly no matter where we are. 

For Dr. Anissa Short, this is something she is aware of for herself, and she also reminds those around her of the same thing. 

We met for the first time in Fayetteville, NC in 2024 during Chosen Pen Publishing's Gala, however, I have been watching her work with Chosen Pen and her own platform before that. As I was gearing up for the first official release of Conversations Magazine for 2025 I was glad to talk with her about the path that has led to where she is---and where she's going from here. 

Thanks for being a part of this special issue, Dr. Anissa. Looking at 2024, what were some of the highlights for you?

There are three things that come to mind:

1) The launch of 2 Amazon Best Sellers: The Titus 2 Principle: Reach, Teach, Lead & Becoming the Shero: The Motherhood Mantle
2) Launch of my personal platform, Anissa Short Consulting
3) Serving as the Emcee/Moderator at 4 events for women or entrepreneurs  

Challenges come to us all. What helped you not to be defined by the things that didn’t go your way? 

My faith and confidence in the process is the foundation of what pulls me through challenges. This, in addition to the fact that I am committed to the "bounce back", and I am blessed to have a strong circle around me was also key.  

Part of your platform is to motivate and inspire others. What was it like for you to see how your work has had an impact on the lives of others? 

For others to share how my words or my works served them in a great way brings me joy. It has reassured me time and time again that what I am doing matters. I am making a difference. 

You use words to convey your thoughts. When did you realize the power of words for yourself?

  Public speaking, mentoring and training started for me in 1998, but I never saw myself in the same light as others. What I had been doing came easy for me, so I didn't see it as anything remarkable or powerful. 

After moving to North Carolina and becoming a part of a new community, the light came on. Between the encouragement of my husband, the guidance of my mentor, invitations to partner within the business community, and my first publishing project, things shifted. I knew that God had gifted me with a voice, but through others, He revealed to me that my voice is valuable.

I am under the belief that we all have a voice that needs to be heard. What has helped you to share your voice with the world?

Initially, my voice was limited to the world of my employer and the direct sales company that I joined in 1999. After publishing my first book to help home-based entrepreneurs, my world began to expand.  In each situation, I used my voice  to help others. Helping others has always been my objective and I believe it is the key that opened doors for me.

Social media is something all of us use. How has it helped you to reach your audience? 
Hosting and participating with Virtual events afforded an opportunity to meet others, build relationships, and establish great collaborations. While I may not have always maximized all that social media offers, I have benefited greatly from its use in building connections. 

Many people finished 2024 with uncertainty and even fear. What advice would you give them about keeping optimism with the new year? 

My reminder to others and myself is (1) Attitude determines altitude, (2) what you think about you will bring about and (3) creating community is important. Protecting your mental space is vital to creating success; therefore, we must do our part to fight fear.  We can successfully accomplish this by controlling our thoughts and through corresponding action. This, in addition to the right community, will serve to keep us all on the success track.

What are you looking forward to when it comes to 2025?

My theme for 2025 is THRIVE, and I look forward to thriving in all areas of life. My primary focus is thriving in my health and wealth.  I am excited about the launch of my podcast, Success from Home and using it to expand my reach. This, in addition to operating more strategically on social media, are key for me in 2025.

Thanks for all you do, Anissa. How can our audience stay connected with you? 

Connect With Me Here: https://bit.ly/TheSuccessStrategist

BUSINESS PROFILE: James Boyd and Ron Flemister, Founders of No Hair Club Leisure Wear

 ·No Hair Club founders: James Boyd, President and Ron Flemister, Vice-President

·What year was No Hair Club created: February of 2010

·What was the inspiration for No Hair Club? Hair loss is one of the main measurements of how we feel about our appearance. The mission of the NO HAIR CLUB Leisure Wear is to empower and celebrate men & women of the bald community, to display their beauty, empowerment and positivity.

·What has it been like for you to see the response? The response to No Hair Club has been phenomenal and positive. Those in the bald community have expressed their joy in having a brand that represents them, and offers clothing that is cool, comfortable, and affordable.

Seeing the response has made everything we have done worth it, and made us even more determined to spread the message of No Hair Club.

·Who would you say the No Hair Club is for? No Hair Club is for those that are smooth, bold, and bald! Our brand is all about lifting up and celebrating all that is bald and beautiful. 

·When it comes to entrepreneurs, what do you hope they realize about the importance of pursuing their goals and dreams? We hope they realize it's not just about personal success but also about creating value, inspiring others, and driving positive change in the world. Their passion and persistence can turn ideas into impactful realities.

Visit NO HAIR CLUB on their website at www.nohairclub.com and follow their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/nohairclubofficial/. 

Stay connected with James Boyd at 704.617.0044 or email- jamesboyd1955@outlook.com and Ronald Flemister at ron@uniqueexperience1.com. 

[BOOK REVIEW] Using life lessons as a guide, Ally Dalsimer reminds us IT'S OKAY NOT TO BE FABULOUS EVERY DAY!

by Cyrus Webb

There is so much pressure on us at times to get everything "right". In IT'S OKAY NOT TO BE FABULOUS EVERY DAY! author Ally Dalsimer is giving us permission to re-evaluable what we are doing, what we are doing and what we really want as a result.

I love this book because it is full of messages that we can just pick up, digest, think about and then try to take action on. Ally uses some of her own experiences as a guide, but there is also the reminder that everyone has a different path. In fact, sometimes the reason why things aren't working out for us is because we have stopped listening to that inner voice and exchanged it for that of someone else.

When we're able to be honest about what we want and make a concerted effort to do it, we can be a lot more fulfilled and less judgmental when it comes to ourselves. That means we have to give ourselves some grace and remember that as the title of the book alludes to not every day is going to be a slam dunk.

Authentic, bold and presented in love, Ally Dalsimer was the perfect author for this book---and you will do well to pick it up for yourself. 

Get your copy on Amazon. 

[BOOK REVIEW] Earl Hall's MIND YOUR BUSINESS

Having an idea for a business is great. Starting a business is commendable. Running a business---especially one that is going to last---is a process. That is why it is important to take steps that ensure you are set up for the long haul. Enter the resource that is MIND YOUR BUSINESS by Earl Hall. 

I've known Earl for over a decade, and it's been great seeing him navigate the world of business and share the process. That is continued in MIND YOUR BUSINESS where he not just shares "10 Simple Insights to Business Success" but the challenges you have to watch out for and overcome to get there. 

Everything from finding your space to run your business and setting the boundaries to do so as well as realizing what tools you need to utilize to make what you want to do work---these and more are explored in the book. It stresses the importance of being audience and customer focused while not leaving yourself behind, something that is not always easy. 

For those looking for the tools and push to not give up on what you are building, MIND YOUR BUSINESS by Earl Hall delivers just that. 

Get your copy on Amazon. 

DOLLY PARTON: Changing the World by Changing Minds about Music and Life

 by Cyrus Webb

I think it's safe to say that in 2024 Dolly Parton was everywhere. From new music to new business partnerships, she has continued to show us that when you love what you do there are no limits. That is a message that is not accepted by all, but anyone who has followed Dolly Parton's career knows that she is not one to color safely inside the lines. She loves to stir things up.

Whether you know Ms. Parton from acting, singing or her business dealings, you are well aware that everything comes from her heart---and she doesn't care too much what you have to say about it. At a time where so many people want you to just fall in line, she goes where she feels led, and that has empowered others as well. 

I haven't had the chance to interview Ms. Parton (yet), but I have to say one thing I am looking forward to discussing with her is not the why but the HOW. She has been a part of the music landscape for DECADES, and still manages to surprise us with new collaborations. That takes a lot of courage as well as believe in oneself. That is also a great reminder for us all.

No matter what others say or do, Ms. Parton is proof that you have to dance to the beat of your own drum, trusting that those who are supposed to join you on the dance floor will find their way to you eventually. 

One-On-One with Chris Collier, host of Conquer with Chris

by Cyrus Webb

I've said before in the pages of Conversations Magazine that your gifts will make room for you. Someone who has seen that to be true is author/speaker/media personality Chris Collier. I have known him for several years, and he has used his platform to not just amplify his own messages but help others to do amazing things when it comes to their goals and dreams online and offline. 

This year Chris continues to share through his show Conquer with Chris, speaking engagements and his new series of books geared to lead you towards success on Youtube. 

Chris is sure to inspire you to decide what you want and then do the work to make it a reality. 

Chris, glad we have a chance to share your work with our Conversations audience. You have been able to provide inspiration and information to people around the world. How does it feel to be of service to others?

It is really my pleasure, Cyrus. My goal is to serve others, helping them reach their greatest potential by creating, growing, and maximizing their personal brand!

You are definitely doing that. What has it been like for you to see how what you have shared benefited others?

I have been so blessed to have helped others realize their visions, and some of them have exceeded them and created new ones. 

Service in itself is a gift. Have you always known that you were meant to be of assistance to others?

Yes! As long as I can remember. My parents engrained it into me, along with mentors and others have as well. Life has also taught this to me.

Many people are afraid to share their thoughts and their work in public. How did you develop the courage to not just decide what you want to do but let others know about it?

Everyone is afraid, but at some point you either overcome the fear or you will be overcome by it. I have a few friends that served this country; one of them in particular had to jump out of planes. He said that he was afraid, but every time he went to jump he said to fear: "I am glad you are here, fear. Since I have to jump, You are going to jump with me!” 

When fear attacks you, you must retaliate by punching fear in the face! That being said, the more you practice the easier it gets.

Social media is one of those tools that we all have gotten used to being around. How have you used it to grow your business?

I use it as a syndication network for my brand and my content. There are so many platforms (and people) to reach. Every platform has its own type of potential customer.

To that point you are known as The Social Media Icon. Where did that title come from, and what does it represent for you when it comes to the work you do?

I created that moniker because it fits in with what we do. We help people overcome the internet using Social Media to brand themselves.

For those dealing with setbacks in their lives, what would you tell them about how they can start the process of getting on a better footing with their business?

Four things. 1) Make a decision to be and do better. 2) Work on you. Jim Rohn said that if you work on your business you will make a living, but when you work on yourself you will make a fortune. 3) While working on yourself find a way to help others in some type of need. 4) Find a way, if possible, to monetize that service.

Any advice you want to share to those who are still trying to figure out what they want to do and how to do it?

Yes! Whether you do affiliate marketing, network marketing, sales, service, teaching, podcasting, vlogging, training, or coaching you have your own way of doing it, and we can create that into a brand! With the right guidance we can help you go farther, faster and create the desired success.

Great to share your work here, Chris. How can our audience stay connected with you?

It's my pleasure. My Website is www.conquerwithchris.com/blog