One-On-One with Actress/Content Creator Nadege August

by Cyrus Webb

Nadege, people have gotten to know you most recently because of the Tyler Perry hit show RUTHLESS, but you've been able to do some great work even before this. What has it been like for you, especially over the past five years to be able to reflect on your work and how you got to where you are today?

I must say it's a little surreal. You get into this work because it's something that you love. You must've heard people say quite often when you're starting out, if there's something else you can do, please go do that instead. It is a very, very challenging life. But when you are driven and you know your why, and you stick to it, the work speaks for itself. 

I've done everything from stage work, and I still do that, television series where I've been a guest quite often, pilots that didn't get picked up... And now seeing this, where it came from of all places, it's just amazing. I'm still a little bit shocked. You mentioned the show RUTHLESS, that's where I'm seeing a response that's outrageous.

I love the fact that you have not been afraid to trust your own voice. When did you realize that you had something that you wanted to share?

I think I got a few glimpses of it when I was 14 and realized this is something I wanted to do. I just didn't have a name for it. Just seeing the impact your performance has on an audience. Their reaction is usually genuine, because people are pretty honest in their nonverbal cues. I also have a podcast . That is where I started to realize that I do have opinions, what I say matters, and I have a responsibility. It's a part of my plan to use my platform that I'm gifted with and to have it be impactful in a way that is about compassion and empathy. 

I'm curious, Nadege, what was that like for you to not only be able to find some fulfillment for yourself, but to find that other people were also enjoying what you were doing?

You know what's funny for me is that you never quite know when you're in the work, After you do the work and you see the feedback, the results, the stranger who takes the time to either leave a review or find your email and send you an email. It takes my breath away. 

Sometimes I pause and I go wow. Those small gestures somehow keeps you going. I'm not going to lie. I don't wake up every day gung-ho and ready to take on the world. I have my highs and my lows, and there are times where I've thought of giving up. During those times I kid you not, I get a whisper from an angel in the form of a human who says something that is so encouraging and completely genuine that gives me this perk that I need to keep going. And it also is a cautionary tale as to when you think to say something nice to someone, you have to say it. It's always so easy for us to criticize and to point out what doesn't work, when in fact, when something does work, take the time and let someone know. You never know what that might mean to them.

Stay connected with Nadege on Instagram at www.instagram.com/bougiedilemma and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/nadegeaugust. 

Actor/Producer Reggie Currelley: Enjoying the Marathon Towards His Goals and Dreams

 by Cyrus Webb

No matter what your career true success only comes with hard work, dedication and faith. Just ask actor/producer Reggie Currelley. I caught up with him earlier this year as we were celebrating our 10,000th guest on Conversations LIVE radio show. He was also celebrating being a part of a commercial that was broadcast around the world thanks to the Super Bowl. 

Many have gotten to know Reggie as Victor from the famed State Farm commercial, but one thing is for sure: that was only another milestone on his journey towards personal and professional success.

We talked about the journey and the focus it takes to make it in this inspiring conversation. 

Reggie, you've been on quite a journey for yourself.  Teamwork is very important, but bringing your own personal best is also important. How do you feel like bringing your best to everything that you do has helped your career?

Thank you for that. I think for me if I don't bring my best, I won't put out the best product; and I'll be cheating the world of the gifts that God gives me. So what I do is I put my best foot forward, everything else is going to fall into place. And when you do the work before you actually get the job, the job becomes easier. So that's the work that I do. I try to put in as much work as possible before I even get to set or wherever I'm going.

Have you gotten used to the, 'Hey you are that guy'? 

It's still fun and it's still amazing. You walk into a supermarket and someone goes, 'Hey, are you Victor from the she-shed commercial?'  And I say 'Yes, that's me.' It's still weird to get used to, but it's fun because people tell me I make their day. I'll keep going for the rest of my life if that's the case. I love it.

Did you always know it was going to be a marathon and not a sprint that this was not a, a success story that was going to happen overnight? 

I had an idea. I remember when I decided to come to Los Angeles to become an actor, some people in my neighborhood were like 'You're not going to get a job for 10 years.' So I prepared myself for that. When I got here, I noticed that it didn't come easy. I prepared myself for marathon. I was a sprinter in high school, so I'm used to running. So I just said to myself, 'You know what? I'm in it for the long haul.' I got some good shoes, and I was ready to go. 

Keep up with Reggie on Instagram at www.instagram.com/rcurrelley. 

* Photo by Cameron Radice Photography

12 Social Media Tips to Help Build Your Business and Brand

 

by Cyrus Webb

In 2021 it is impossible to NOT to see the impact and influence that social media has in connecting audiences and for networking. However, if you find it difficult to reach your potential customers or those in your niche it might be time to reevaluate your strategy for using social media. 

Over the past year I have hosted several classes where I have addressed my own social media strategy and success and how I have been able to grow my customer base as well as my rolodex throughout the pandemic. You can do the same!  

Here are 12 tips for building your brand and your business using social media to keep in mind: 

1. Strategize. What is your goal? Is it to grow your audience and find potential clients and customers or to just establish yourself as an authority in your industry. Being clear of your plan will help you realize the best way to approach social media. 
   
   
2. Who is your audience? This is connected closely to #1. In order for you to get the desired result you have to make sure you are speaking to your preferred audience. As an example, for authors you want to reach readers not necessarily fill your page with other authors who are also trying to get the word out about their books and programs. Unless your goal is just to use social media for networking, you have to be clear about who you are trying to attract with your posts.
   
   
3. Decide on the right platforms for you. This is definitely a tip that has to be personal for you as an individual---and should be based on your comfort level. Depending on what kind of content you plan on sharing, make sure the platform is right for that and you can best use your strengths there. That will make sure that you don't see it as a burden to post. It will come more naturally. Which leads to the next couple of steps that are interconnected. 
   
   
4. Stay updated and informed. Over the past year the main platforms that I use (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Youtube) have all gone through updates. Staying informed of the changes, tweaks and new features will allow you to maximize your time and get the best results. Make sure you keep your apps updated and following their social media pages so you stay in the loop.
   
   
5. Provide value. Become a resource. Of course you want to sell whatever your product or service is. I get that. However, social media is meant to be SOCIAL. That means you have to have more to say then "buy my product", "click here to sign up for my newsletter," etc. Share what your know. That will let your audience know who you are, what you do and want to come back for me. 
   
   
6. Consistency. It's great to start your journey to introducing yourself and connecting, but the mistake lots of individuals make is they don't continue! Yes, social media is something that takes time, especially if you're being thoughtful about the other steps. This doesn't mean, however, it has to be overwhelming. The important thing is to pick a general schedule that works for you and stick with it! Not only will your followers appreciate it, but new ones who might stumble over your page will know that you're someone who shows up on a regular basis. 
   
   
7. Communicate. On social media the like, know and trust factors are even more important. That means the communication can't be one-sided. If someone leaves you a comment on your posts, acknowledge. Check your messages daily on your social media, including the spam folders just to make sure you don't miss anything. As you are trying to connect and grow you want to make sure your followers don't feel as though you are just talking at them and not to them. 
   
   
8. Repurpose content. Wondering what to share on social media? Take advantage of the opportunity to repurpose your content. That means sharing posts across other platforms and shortening videos so that certain points or messages are made to stand out. Also just re-sharing content through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and help it get fresh eyes and more engagement. 
   
   
9. Sale without being salesy. This one might seen difficult and even counter-productive, but it is so important. Do we want others to know what products and services we offer? Yes. Do we want to take advantage of opportunities to share discounts and opportunities we're offering? Of course. The important thing is to use that like, know and trust factor to connect with your audience and the benefit to THEM for what you have to offer.
   
   
10. Don't leave the room: This tip is one that you really have to work on daily and is tied to consistency. You are building an audience. You are providing value. You are doing all the right things. The key, however, is to make sure you don't leave those who are following you stranded. I liken it to inviting people into your home and then leaving. Pretty soon they will stop relying on you, and you have lost the trust you worked hard to build. As you are navigating social media make sure you stay in the room and take care of those who have joined you. 
    
    
11. Build (don't burn) bridges. I can't tell you how many times I have ran across some posts on social media and thought to myself the person was going to regret what they said or shared later. We have to remember the internet is written in INK, not pencil. Even if you delete a post there is no guarantee what you said hasn't been screenshot and shared already. The lesson is to realize that social media is for you to build bridges with your brand, not burn bridges. Be mindful of what you say and how you say it. 
    
    
12. Be yourself. Of all the tips this one is the most important. Authenticity is key to your success, both online and offline. If you are able to let your audience see you and get to know you then I know you are going to win. 

Wendy Watkins: Celebrate You's WOMAN OF THE YEAR

by Cyrus Webb

With everything going on in the world we all need something to celebrate. The organization Celebrate You decided in 2020 to honor a women who were making a difference with their platforms and shining a light for all of us. In 2021 they crowned their Woman of the Year: Wendy Watkins. 

As part of the recognition Conversations had a chance to talk with Wendy on all of its platforms including now the magazine. After a delay due to the magazine's uncertain direction we are excited to share my one-on-one with Celebrate You's Woman of the Year Wendy Watkins. 

Wendy, 2021 started off pretty good for you, being recognized as Celebrate You’s Woman of the Year. How does it feel to have your work being noticed and appreciated?

I feel like a 20-year overnight success, and that is amazing! My life’s work is ‘to be the spark that lights your fire for positive impact’, so to be recognized by my peers for contributions in the area of mental wellness is over the top exciting. This experience has fired up my passion to share the importance of mental wellness, even if you do not have a mental illness. 

 The timing is ideal to step through the doors this opportunity is opening up to create more awareness  and  eradicate the stigma of mental illness, particularly depression and anxiety.  I feel honored, grateful and blessed to be on this path.

Have you always known that you had something that was meant to be shared?

That could be the only reason I’ve lived a life of extreme highs and lows. These experiences made me the woman I am today, and the ideal person to share this message. 

I’ve always wanted to be a ‘rock star’. When I was a young girl and my family was together for the holidays, I’d want to be put on a talent show for the adults. I have never met a camera or microphone I do not like. 

 Unfortunately, my grandparent’s belief was that children should be seen and not heard. That stifled my desire, but my passion and commitment never went away.

How did you get to a place where fear didn’t stop you when it came to pursuing your goals and dreams?

Who said that fear did not stop me? Fear has stopped me in my tracks a multitude of times. It is having resilience and tenacity that allowed me to embrace faith and desire to make a positive impact for others. This allowed me to put fear to the side and get on with my purpose and passion. I see fear as Fantasized Experiences Appearing Real.  Our thoughts are all made up. I have an MSU, and so do you.  We all Make Stuff Up, so why not make up the good stuff?

The first large event I hosted in Atlanta, I was terrified that no one would attend. When those thoughts appeared, I would reach out to my coach or mentor to remind me of what I forgot; that I did not have to be perfect to make a positive impact. I forgot that if I mess up on stage, no one but me knows. I forgot that when I come from my heart with pure intention to inspire people to create their best life, there is less room for fear to show up. 

When I remember that it is not about me, that I am the spark that lights people’s fire and that they will take the information and use it accordingly, the fear subsides and resilience kicks into overdrive. 

Remembering that pursuing ones goals and dreams is a marathon and not a sprint is essential to  staying focused on the impact.  

I love that! As a speaker, coach and author you are continually pouring into others. Where do you go to be refreshed?

Upstairs and outside! My day begins with Wendy time to increase mindfulness.  This includes yoga, meditation and journaling – some days just one of those rituals, other days all three.

 I walk my dog, Eli daily and we enjoy the beauty and promise that being in nature provides. When the weather is good, I move my office outside. I just purchased an electric bike, so I can ride these hills in Atlanta, with a lot more ease! When I’m in nature, I am replenished. 

Another essential piece of my self-care is talking and laughing with my girlfriends regularly.

I mentioned Celebrate You in the beginning of this conversation. How did you find out about the online group, and what has been the benefits for you?

I met LaWanna Bradford when she was the chapter leader at the Womens Prosperity Network.  I walked into that room and felt like I was with family. The CY’s group and their message of women celebrating women and wellness so resonated with me, especially because it was not just about physical health and financial success. That was refreshing.  CY is a holistic and diverse group that is aligned with my values, so being with these ladies brings me joy and fulfillment. 

Each month I have the opportunity to share information to support  mental wellness on a panel with LaWanna and other CY ladies. The variety of information that is available for all of us to be our best selves, is priceless. And, who does not love being a Queen amongst other Queens?

As someone who has found success herself, what advice do you have for others about pursuing their own goals?

Your first step is to gain clarify your definition of success. Once you know where you’re going, it’s essential to find ways to enjoy and celebrate the experiences you have on your way to your destination. We love to travel, and I’ve found that talking and dreaming about the trip is often as fun as the trip itself. 

Along this journey, you’ll get to make many decisions. Having a Values Compass to guide you is most beneficial.  When you honor your values, you’ll experience the most fulfillment. It is that satisfaction that’s the fuel in your tank. You may get lost, i.e., experience setbacks and perceived failures. These can be deeply disappointing. Once you get pass the disappointment, you can use this fertile time to uncover the lesson learned. Failures are opportunities for us to grow and shift something on our journey. 

Be easy on yourself , especially with your self-talk. Instead of beating yourself up for not getting it “right”, talk to yourself as you would your best friend or child. The way you explain things to yourself matters!

 Life is more than just making money. Yes, money does provide safety and security, but it does not provide sustainable happiness. Surround yourself with people that are smarter than you. Ask for help! Hire a coach (shameless plug) and other professionals that are good at the things you are not proficient in. increase your Success Karma by hiring others to do what they are good at, so more people hire you for what you are good at.  Last but not, least, share your success with others either through your time, money or wisdom. M&M’s are so much more fun to share, so is your sweet success. 

Congratulations again, Wendy. How can our audience stay connected with you?

If you like gifts, visit www.WendyWatkins.com to receive my latest edition of 10 Succes s Hacks for a Flourishing Life. 

As for Social Media:

www.Facebook.com/PeopleGrower 

IG @WendybWatkins

www.linkedin.com/in/coachwendy

[Business Spotlight] Marquis Cooper, author/speaker/educator

Marquis Cooper, Author/Speaker/Educator

Hometown (city/state): Marianna, Arkansas

Accomplishments

* Currently serve as the Senior Pastor of the Otter Creek Community Church in Little Rock, Arkansas

* The JV Educational Leadership Award

* Omega Psi Phi Citizen of the Year Award

* Moton Strong-Lee Hall of Fame Inductee,

* Character Education Partnership as a National Promising Practice in Washington, D.C.

* SRS Community Leader of the Year. 

Who were some of your mentors? 

It is not surprising that all of my mentors were positive male role models in their respective communities. They are Robert Sims, James McCoy, Michael Rodriguez, James Banks, Dr. William Bill Thomas, and Donnelle Parker.

How does it feel to now be looked up to as a mentor to others? 

It is an honor to be considered a mentor. It feels good to be able to pour back into others in the same manner that others poured into me. It is so encouraging to watch individuals grow and blossom right before your eyes. The greatest joy of mentoring is when someone approaches me and says, “Mr. Cooper, thank you for never giving up on me.” These words give me the reassurance that my labor was not in vain.    

When did you know that you wanted to go into business or build a brand? 

As a growing young adult, it was my dream to build my very own brand. In fact, I had enough faith to believe that I would build my brand. In 2007, God revealed the vision for me to write my first book. By 2008 that vision had become a reality. The publication of my first book led me on the journey to becoming a nationally renowned motivational speaker. My goal in life is to leave a legacy that my family will be proud of.    

How did you identify your audience? 

I am an educator. I interact with many teachers, administrators, counselors, parents, and K-12 students. All of those relationships and connections have helped me to be an approachable Pastor. It has allowed me to gain tools and resources to help me to relate to a vast majority of people.

What role has social media played in your marketing and networking? 

Social Media has given me the opportunity to network and meet people from all walks of life and from different parts of the world. I feel that it played a huge factor in my notoriety and success.  

Offline life has changed due to Covid-19. How have you adapted? 

This has not been an easy transition, but it has forced me to become a better individual on so many different levels. I was forced to enhance my method of communicating with people. I had to find creative ways to share the word of God with the members of my church. In addition, I had to change my strategy of providing counseling services to the students I work with every day. Covid-19 allowed me the opportunity to expand my knowledge of using all forms of technology more efficiently and effectively.  I have built a website, utilized Zoom, Facebook Live, Instagram, and started a YouTube channel to stream my church services. As a church, we have been forced to make the necessary changes to keep up with our ever changing “new normal”.

Challenges come to us all. What helps you to fight through them and keep moving forward through the challenges? 

My faith in God is what allows me to face difficult seasons in life when they arise. My family experienced great losses in 2020. We lost two brothers and a nephew was murdered all in the span of six months. Our faith in God is what sustained us through all of 2020.  Even through the challenges, God’s grace kept us. He still blessed our family. My wife and I purchased a new home. We started new jobs during the pandemic. I believe our faithfulness and willingness to continue serving others kept us going. We had to remember that just because the world stopped, we did not have to. All of those factors allowed me to keep moving. 

What are you excited about moving forward? 

I am excited about all the new opportunities God has in store for my family. I am excited about growing in all arenas of my life, both professionally and personally. I am looking forward to meeting new people and walking into unchartered territory.   

What advice you want to share with other entrepreneurs? 

The only advice I would share with other entrepreneurs is to stay humble, stay teachable, and stay focused on the plan for your life.  Do not give up. Do not give up. DO NOT GIVE UP. Keep going and trust the process.

Thank you, Marquis. How can readers stay connected with you and follow the journey?

www.itsdaytime.org 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=882975150 

[ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT] Nancy Matthews, Author/Speaker/Coach

by Cyrus Webb

Over the past few years it's been great to watch the way that Author/Speaker and Coach Nancy Matthews has been able to build her impact and inspire her audience. 

This year she released the new edition of her book THE ONE PHILOSOPHY. We talked about that and what's to come in this profile. 

Nancy, it was great to catch up with you on Conversations LIVE the radio show. I’m glad we can continue our conversation in Conversations Magazine. Looking back over your professional career, what has it been like for you to find something you love and pursue it?

Thank you, Cyrus. Having a career that’s built upon what I love is pure joy! We often hear, “Do what you love, and the money will follow,” and I believe that is the true secret to a successful, fulfilling, and happy life. The key is to be able to trust the process and move through fears and obstacles with fervor and faith – which, isn’t always easy.

We met through a mutual friend and entrepreneur, LaWanna Bradford. How have friendships like that helped to keep you encouraged and motivated on your journey?

Friendships, in fact all relationships, give us the opportunity to see and express ourselves through those relationships. Whether as a daughter, mother, sister, or friend our relationships form the fabric of our lives. The beauty of having close friends, like LaWanna, is that in a relationship built on trust, love, and mutual respect there is freedom for those friends to see the best in you, during times of celebration as well as challenge and provide insight and encouragement. We are not meant to do this journey alone and having trusted friends and mentors is essential. 

Speaking of journey, that was a great part of our radio conversation. When did you know that being an entrepreneur was something you wanted to do?

I’ve actually been an entrepreneur since I was six years old when my best friend and I made perfume from her mother’s rose garden. (Her Mom wasn’t too happy about it!) I didn’t know it at the time, but that entrepreneurial spirit has always been a driving force for me. Throughout my life I’ve always had a job as well as some kind of side-gig both to earn additional money and as an outlet for my creativity and fulfillment. Being an entrepreneur is about taking ownership of the work you’re doing, whether in a job working for someone else or in your own business.

Challenges come to us in different ways. How have your own challenges helped you get to where you are today?

Each of the challenges I’ve experienced have molded me into the woman I am today. For example, when I was 24 and found myself single and pregnant – that was a challenge that turned into a huge turning point for me. At the time I was on a path of way too much partying and reckless behavior. In the face of that challenge, I was given a choice, do I have this baby or not? As I struggled with what to do, a clear message came through, “Nancy, you can give this child a good life.” I know that this challenge saved my life, as I gave life to another. 

You are part of the Celebrate You community. What has that experience been like to be with other like-minded entrepreneurs?

Community is key! As I shared earlier, we are not meant to do this journey alone. What I love about the Celebrate You community is the blend of celebrating others and being reminded to also celebrate myself. This community is filled with ordinary women being extraordinary and each of their stories inspires and encourages me on my journey.  

Your book THE ONE PHILOSOPHY has been impacting the lives of others, but it began with you. You’re celebrating the 3rd edition this year. What has it been like to see the way the message has resonated with so many?

Actually, Cyrus, it’s because of the way this message has resonated with so many that keeps me inspired to do the work and share it even more. This little message with a big impact has brought families closer, has helped people grow in their careers and businesses and has saved lives. As people share their stories of how THE ONE PHILOSOPHY has changed and shaped their lives, I know that this is my work to do as this is the path to a better life for each of us and for humanity.

Finding success for yourself is great, but why is it so important to make sure that we are doing something that benefits others?

I can think of lots of reasons for that one, Cyrus, and I’ve talked about some of this earlier when I said we’re not meant to do this journey alone. We are here to work, grow and play together in this human family. Plus, it feels good to benefit others and celebrate successes together.

Other than spreading the message of THE ONE PHILOSOPHY, what are you looking forward to this year?

My sisters and I, (yes, real blood sisters), founded Women’s Prosperity Network in 2008 as a continuing community of support, resources, and connections for impact-focused women. I am looking forward to bringing more women together so that our combined gifts, talents, and skills contribute to making a positive difference in the world.

You have such an amazing resume. Based on your experiences what would you say to our readers about the importance of staying focused on the road to their goals and dreams?

Remember that a seed of greatness was placed in you upon birth and staying focused on your goals and dreams is the way to have that seed fully blossom. As you blossom you will produce seeds that are meant to be sprinkled into the lives of others which then supports them in blossoming. The best way to move beyond your fears and obstacles is to surround yourself with a community of like-spirited people who will believe in and encourage you at those times you may feel like giving up. We are #better together.

Thanks again for the time, Nancy, and congrats on all the great things coming your way. How can our readers stay connected with you? 

Thank you, Cyrus. You can find me on social media or email Nancy@NancyMatthews.com. 

[To You, From Me] Navigating the New Normal

If  the last 18 months have taught us anything it is to expect the unexpected. 

For many people it's included a loss in employment and security. For others even a loss in life. We all know someone who has been impacted by the events of this year, but the question remains: What will it all mean?

There are those who are using this as a reset for themselves, an opportunity to realize what they want to do and may be able to do moving forward. For others they are picking up the pieces and trying to make sense of where they are and what to do next. This is even true for myself. 

Believe it or not, I actually thought this might be my last letter to you as Editor-In-Chief. After being presented with an offer to sell the magazine I began in my mother's living room in 2006, I eventually made the decision that I could not give up something that meant so much to me. Even in the face of uncertainty I knew I had to continue to guide this ship. 

In this issue of Conversations Magazine we wanted to remind you of one thing: No matter what this 'new normal' has done to you don't allow it to stop you! Those profiled in this issue could have allowed their lives to be paralyzed by the uncertainty of it all. The truth is, though, they have realized how to use what is at their disposal and keep going.

Whether we are talking about the Coronavirus pandemic or the racial unrest and conversations about inequality, what all of us have in common is the ability to put one foot in front of the other and keep making strides in the right direction. It doesn't mean you are going to move as quickly as you would like or even in the direction you initially thought was right for you. What it does mean is that you are determined to figure it out.

Want to share with me how you are navigating the new normal? Feel free to reach out to me at cawebb4@juno.com. Would love to hear your stories.

Until next time, Happy Reading!





Cyrus Webb, Editor-In-Chief
Conversations Magazine