2020 #152- UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ AUTHOR Nkechi Orabuchi-Fluker

 

Nkechi Orabuchi-Fluker is a first-generation Nigerian-American born in Spokane, Washington, and raised in Texas. Her parents have instilled the importance of reading and education in her life. As a child, she wrote various short stories and created comic illustrations. Nkechi was a creative middle school math teacher for 11 years and has worked with teaching preschool children how to read using phonics. She also has her Ph.D. in Child Development, and currently writes poetry.

She continues to be in the educational field as an advisor to families and as an educational consultant to educators and families. Being in the educational field for over 13 years has helped her support students’ educational needs successfully. In writing this book, she wanted to help Igbo children and those interested in the language to learn Igbo in a fun way while yet preserving the language through generations to come. She continues to write to help children of color be represented in literature but more specifically keeping the Igbo language alive.

Nkechi currently lives in North Carolina with her husband and son.

Abiidii Igbo Alphabet: An Igbo English Learning book is her debut children’s book.

2020 #151-UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W / AUTHOR Dr. Kelvin Smith

Dr. Kelvin Smith is a high school Assistant Principal at Manchester High School located in Manchester, Ga. He has 18 years of experience as an educator as a former English teacher, Athletic Director also he is a former Head Football and Softball Coach.  Dr. Smith born in Chicago Il but was raised in Yazoo City Mississippi by his grandmother (Pauline Smith) and aunt (Barbett). He played college football at Alabama A&M University and received his B.S. He started his career in education after receiving his educational certification from Miles College. He continued his education and received his Masters in Education from Capella University and finally, his Doctrine in Education from Northcentral University. Dr. Smith is an avid creative thinker, reader, and writer. He enjoys working out, spending time, and being with my family. He is blessed to be married (to the most wonderful woman in the world) with five wonderful kids who give him the motivation to be better each day than the day before. Being an 18-year educator has been a great blessing where he has basically assisted in raising some great young men and women, who have become great pillars of society. Dr. Smith's drive has always been his family but his motivation has been to show his students as well as any kid from his hometown of Yazoo City, Mississippi that despite your background or color that if you have an idea you can achieve it if you try. Knowing that many people will be able to relate to the experiences he has gone through will make or inspire people to journal their family experiences daily. Daddy Moments: Volume 1 is the first book of his Daddy Moments series. Daddy Moments: Volume I, “My First Year as a New Dad,” is a literary nonfiction book that follows the journal entries (most were posted on social media) as a new dad and the adventure he went through. The story highlights and positively displays the new dad struggles, growths, and typical day to day adventures from a male perspective. The book is a great motivation piece on how to be a great dad and encourage many more to start journaling their day to day lives with their children for posterity.

 

2020 #150-UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ AUTHOR APOSTLE Victoria Burse

My bio can be found at

 http://www.thearcinternational.org/about-our-founder.html

Website for my new book, orders are placed here:

 http://www.thearcinternational.org/who-moved-my-pulpit--who-moved-my-pew-.html

Facebook page for my new book

https://www.facebook.com/Who-Moved-My-Pulpit-Who-Moved-My-Pew-115024043667058

Connect with me on...

Victoria Burse 

Victoria Burse 

 

2020 #149-UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ AUTHOR LaKeisha Trimm-Green

Mrs. Green is the mother of four beautiful young adults that have blessed her with four beautiful

grandchildren. She is a U.S Army Veteran and still serves her fellow veterans with pride and

dignity. She is a member of Sigma Phi Psi Military Sorority, the first female military sorority.

Mrs. Green has a degree in Health Administration, Business Administration and Technology and

Medical Front Office. In her spare time, she enjoys riding motorcycles, traveling, helping others,

family time, reading and journaling. Mrs. Green has co-authored two international bestselling

books “Finding Joy in The Journey” and Pendulum of a Mother’s Love.

When given the opportunity to take part in “Finding Joy in The Journey”, I was excited. Being

able to write positive quotes (affirmations) to help others it was something special to me, because

I had went through the challenge in life where I did not know how to deal with the death of a

close loved one. I was still holding on to things that were hurting me but now I learned how to let

go.

Taking part in Pendulum of a Mother’s Love was dear to my heart because I love talking about

the relationship that my mother and I had before her death. I wanted others to know that no

matter what the issues are you and your mother have they can be fixed. You will not feel a

mothers’ love from just anyone, you only get one mother so cherish her while she is here.

http://authorlakeishatrimmgreen.strikingly.com/

 

2020 #148-UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ AUTHOR Michelle Rhnea Yisrael

 Michelle Rhnea Yisrael has been honored to empower women and children for over 30 years. She has a master’s degree in English from Chicago State University, A Master's in Online Teaching from the University of Illinois Springfield, a soul degree in love, and possesses a passion for nurturing the human soul. Ms. Yisrael was a district leader for 8 alternative high schools on the Southside of Chicago where she trained and managed principals, teachers, and support staff. Additionally, she was director of an alternative high school and dean of instruction for another. Ms. Yisrael has been an educational leader for 37 years. She founded and operated an independent school for much of that time while managing a budget for two city-funded programs and two federally funded programs simultaneously. Currently, she is an Assistant Professor at Chicago's Kennedy-King College and is one of the education coaches for urbaneducoach.com. She is one of the co-authors of T.R.U.S.T. Classroom Management program. Professor Yisrael is a writer for I AM Media Books and author of The Jeremiah 9 Woman a 52-week prayer journey, The Enemy Within A Survivor’s Story, In Each Moment: An Anthology of Short Stories about Life & Love, and Freedom to Engage: A critical auto-ethnographic analysis of a community college professor.

 

2020 #147-UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ AUTHOR Sherrod J. Tunstall

Sherrod J. Tunstall is a St. Louis, MO native. From a young age, he has always had a big imagination. He started writing short stories at the age of 12, and when his mother saw his writing and she encouraged him to continue in his craft. At the age of 21, Sherrod penned his first  novel, Spicy, which is inspired by his job, family, and friends. Spicy was an Amazon Bestseller for 10 weeks putting him on the map.
His other novels include, You Now Have Entered the World of…., Beating the Odds, and his most release Hardhearted.
Sherrod's goals in life are to see his books on the New York Times Bestsellers and one day see his books turned into films or maybe a tv series.

Contact info

Email: at Sherrodt05@yahoo.com

IG:sherroddaauthor

twitter: @sherroddaauthor

FB: www.facebook.com/sherrodtheauthor

 

PLEASE CAST YOUR VOTE FOR ME COMMUNITY IMPACT LEADER.....ANGELA THOMAS SMITH

please vote for me. as often as you like until OCT 15TH

https://urbanceonetwork.com/poll/community-impact-leader/

ANGELA THOMAS SMITH

 

2020 #146-UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ SINGER & AUTHOR Calandra Gantt

AUDIENCE  This is the 1st book in a series of transparent and divinely inspired words  for all readers from all walks of life. This book has a message for every individual  no matter your background or where are you are in your present. The reader will be  encouraged, empowered, and motivated to live their best life. BRIEF The Inspirational Book Series Volume 1 is a book of divinely inspired words given to author  Calandra Gantt during time of meditation and prayer. This debut book of the series will inspire  you to love, joy, peace, wisdom, and strength. THE BOOK This book was written to inspire the world through daily reflections. Regardless of what your  belief maybe – we all need encouragement. Calandra is excited to get this 30-Day Motivational Book in the hands of all readers through  her online connections, website, on-air interviews as well as speaking and music engagements. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Calandra Gantt. The Princess of Praise. She is a minister of the Gospel and an  International Award-Winning Gospel Recording Artist, songwriter, teacher, instrumentalist,  producer,  Radio/TV Host, businesswoman and now author. Her desire is that when you leave  her presence you are empowered and encouraged. She is a native of Atlanta, Ga and currently  resides there with over 20 years in the music industry and arts arena.

 

2020 #145-UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ AUTHOR Taisha’ Nichole

Taisha’ Nichole O' Neal (Taisha’ Nichole) was born and raised in Canton, Ohio. She is the daughter of Rhonda C. Conner and Edward O'Neal attended Timken Sr High School(2002).

Upon graduation she was awarded a musical scholarship to attend Benedict College in Columbia, SC for both concert choir and the award winning gospel choir.

Taisha’ obtained her degree in Communications/Broadcast in December of 2006.

Taisha has had the honor of putting out two singles “Vessel “ and “Love Story” which are on all digital music outlets. She has graced the stage with many greats such as Ricky Dillard, Blanche McCasllister Dykes, Chrystal Rucker to name a few. 

Along with singing , she also pursued her career as a hair stylist and founded Salon Eklipse in 2011. Taisha is a member/ educator of the Association of Cosmetologist and Salon Professionals. She has also been on tour as the celebrity cosmetologist and make up artist with the hit theatrical play. “Before You Say I Do”, where she had the pleasure of working with Jackie Cristy of Basketball Wives and Leon of the hit musical drama film, "The Five Heartbeats" alongside Kiki Hayes and Venessa Belle. Taisha’ has done hair and makeup for several other theatre plays, movies, tv shows and other celebrities and is not a stranger to the industry. 

In 2019 She was a  recipient  of the “20 under 40” SC Black pages award along with many other awards and certifications over the years. 

As a Speaker Taisha’ Nichole has been a guest speaker on  “The Erica Latrice Show” AmplifyHer LLC, “A Rich Life”  with Alisha Richard and has hit the tour stage with “Girl it’s Your Life Successes Tour l” Go Girl Be Great LLC, with Lori Pelzer. 

Taisha’ is the visionary of the previous F.R.O.G. Lounge ( Fervently Rely On God),The Make Over LLC Non Profit,  Make Over Women’s Conference(an annual conference) geared towards empowerment of women, Where the goal is to promote beauty from the inside out. She also hosts an annual concert for the homeless at transitions shelter. She is an active and licensed Life Coach and an author of the book “Silent No More” and co Author in an anthology that she was led to publish entitled “I wish I knew: A made over women anthology”. Taisha’ Nichole also retails her own affirmation flat irons(2), eyeshadow pallet, makeup brushes and hair line.

 

She is a member of the Order Of Eastern Star and a proud member of the illustrious Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority INC. She is the mother of three beautiful children Ziyian, Synai and Coreyjon Jr. Her ministry will profoundly touch the hearts of all who encounter her. 

Www.TaishaNichole.com 

Taisha@taishanichole.com

 

2020 #144-UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ AUTHOR Alvin "Surreal" Surrency

My name is Alvin "Surreal" Surrency, I am 39 years old and I am conscious poet. I am the author of the books Full Circle and also Intimate Triangle. I've also acted and co-produced in five short films based on my poems. As a person who is always reading and paying attention to current events, I have much to write about. My platform is writing about real life and all of the challenges that we face on the daily; especially being black in America. I'm not a person to fill the world with more hate, we have enough of that already. My writing are the reportings of the bias and unjust system that we live in. My poems express the pain and suffering that too many people go through. If anything, all of my writings are based on the facts of life and also the facts that are being hidden from the masses. I strongly believe in research and learning something new or foreign. In this Age of Aquarius/ information, there's no reason to be ignorant to what's going on within your government and also in your community.


I do base my being and purpose on the backs and shoulders of Nat Turner, Huey P. Newton and Tupac Shakur; all of these individuals saw enough hate in their life to actually research, act on the situation and do their part to change the world for the better.

I strongly believe that we all have a purpose on this earth and I do know that my purpose is to enlighten all of my brothers and sisters. My words are raw, direct and cut-throat, just like the world is; so there's no need to sugar coat anything. I do hope that my words will open and expand your mind to a higher level of consciousness. Giving you a deeper and truthful look at the chaotic world we live in. Again, my sole purpose is to enlighten. Peace and blessings to YOU

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2156322764469819/

 

2020 #143-UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ AUTHOR Je'Quita Zachary Johnson

Je’Quita Zachary Johnson is the author of two children’s books, Gary the Greater Gator and newly released, I Am PRETTY! For over a decade she has been a passionate teacher who loves to make learning FUN!

She’s a highly qualified teacher in the state of Georgia with Specialist degrees in Educational Leadership and Teacher Leadership. She has a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, a Bachelor’s degree in Music and Business and a Reading Endorsement.

Teaching is one of the most rewarding things that she has ever done. Je’Quita enjoys seeing her students experiencing purposeful learning that can be applied to their lives. As a Behavior Intervention Specialist, she is currently assisting students with building stronger social and emotional learning skills, with the goal of preparing them for success in school, home, and life!

In 2019, Je’Quita became a Certified Therapeutic Art Life Coach and a Certified Confidence Coach. She understands the psychology behind how to use art therapy to change limiting patterns and beliefs. Je’Quita uses art therapy techniques to help others to increase their happiness, manage their emotions in a positive way, and feel more confident!

www.jequita.com

 

2020 #142-UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ AUTHOR Domo Jones

  

Hey!! My name is Dominique and I’m just a girl trying to share my story. I titled my first autobiography #DamagedButNotDead because although I may look different or function differently than the average person, dont count me out...I still have value! I’ve also started a business “WalkingByDesign” which customizes medical aids and accessories. In a addition I’ve recently opened an online store called “Salve” which promotes my motto “Don’t let the disability fool you”. I’m a business owner with a disability and a fighter with muscle weakness. Don’t let the disability fool you...I contradict every rule out there!!

My life is one roller coaster that you feel you’ll never get off of. After you get in the groove then there’s a sudden turn that throws you off again. I've been through so much at a young age that most probably would've given up on a long time ago. I want to encourage those who deal with medical challenges that there's still a future for you. You're circumstance doesn't make you, it creates you. Walk in confidence...it looks good on you! You're circumstance doesn't make you, it creates you. Now...who am I?! One word: BRIGHT!! And I’m not just talking about my skin tone lol I love colors, nails, backpacks, glasses, high top dunks and fruit snacks!! I love my life and I’m grateful everyday that I’m able to beat the odds. Yes I have a disability, but does that mean my life is over. I just customize it to fit me. Don’t let the disability fool you! So now that you know me, you know we’re friends forever, right?!
oh and thee most important things you need to know: I love earmuffs and I love YOU!!

https://www.facebook.com/domo.jones1

 

2020 #141-UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ AUTHOR Chanda W Johnson

Chanda W. Johnson is a mother of two beautiful daughters, a newly published author of a children’s book “Generation Next: A Journal of Life”, a blogger, and an entrepreneur of two companies Naturally Rayna; a company geared towards children that offers children accessories, natural haircare products, natural hair care maintenance information and more. She is also the owner of CJ’s Designs & Customs which offers a huge variety of custom designs such as graphic publications, wedding coordinating, t-shirts, tumblers, bows and more. Her newest project is to start a non-profit organization Mommy & Me for single mothers.

 

She is a leader and loves to encourage and motivate others. Being a registrar at a charter school, gives her time to mentor and encourage students of all ages. During her spare time she loves spending time with her children, networking, traveling, attending church and worship, promoting, crafting, singing and listening to music, reading, and blogging.  By writing her prayer is to touch the hearts of those who read her words, to inspire and motivate them.

Contact Info:

Phone: (850) 570-3886

E-Mail: chandawjohnson@gmail.com

Website: www.chandawjohnson.com

SOCIAL MEDIA:

FB, Instagram, & Twitter:    @chandawjohnson

                                                @naturallyrayna

                                                        @cjsdesignscustoms

                                           @1momnme

 

2020 #140 -UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ AUTHOR Lavette Shirley Elee P.A.

Lavette Shirley Elee is a Board-Certified Physician Assistant (PA) and has been since 2012.  She holds a Bachelor of Science in Molecular and Cellular Biology from Kent State University and a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Kettering College of Medical Arts.  She is currently working to obtain her Doctor of Science in Physician Assistant Studies at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) with a concentration in Education.  

Lavette has spent much of her career as a PA working in high risk communities in North Carolina.  While most of that time has been spent in urgent care, she does have experience in primary care and psychiatry as well.  She is passionate about educating the “leaders of tomorrow.”  Lavette aspires to establish a nonprofit organization to support minority women who desire to become medical providers.  She has volunteered her time to those with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) in Portage County and is ardent about the protection of vulnerable communities.  

Lavette is the author of the book, “I saw my PA today.”  Her motivation for writing this book was twofold.  First, her desire to address children’s fears in going to medical facilities.  Second, was her desire to introduce PAs to the younger generation in hopes to inspire a desire to enter the medical field.    

Lavette is a wife and the mother of two boys, Za’kari, who is 2, and Zion who is 17 years old.  In her free time, she enjoys singing karaoke, traveling, and kickboxing.  She believes that life is what you make of it, and if you put out positive vibes into the world then they will be returned 100-fold.  She is currently working on two additional projects that she is incredibly excited about.  

For more information please follow her at: 

https://www.facebook.com/Lavette.writes.childrens.books/ 

www.instagram.com/mrs_elee1

www.twitter.com/lavetteshirley

 

2020 #139-UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ AUTHOR Mel Dau

Mel Dau (Melvin’s Daughter) was born in Vicenza, Italy but raised in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. She is the baby girl and only girl of three. She has  always had a love for books beginning with the Baby Sitter’s Club, R.L. Stine, and Christopher Pike. She dabbled in writing as she grew up but never took it as seriously as she should have.

Mel Dau graduated from from Wando High School, then later matriculated to Benedict College (BSW) and Webster University (MHRM). She is a mother of a teenage daughter, a HR Professional, and a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

Her love for Urban Literature did not arrive until Mid-2016.  Reading over nine-hundred books from 2016 to 2017, she was obsessed with reading--an obsession that helped her cope with her father’s illness and death.  In March of 2018, she decided to finally come from behind the veil and submit a short story which resulted in her first Book, Khiaere and Phy: A Charleston Love Story being published under Queens of Lit Presents.  Under Queens of Lit Presents, she successfully published fifteen titles that were all debuted in the top fifty on Amazon Top one-hundred.

In May of 2020, she was signed to her new publisher B. Love Publications where she continues her growth as an author. In July of 2020, she became a Best-Selling Author with her erotica title Pet the Kitty. In August of 2020, she established Mel Dau Publications, LLC to further grow her ever-growing empire.  Her purpose as an author is to provide her readers with her E³ formula- to Entertain, Encourage & Educate. Penning in a lane all her own, her Informational Dramas fulfills her purpose with every release. Her overall desire is to use her fiction catalog to help change at least one person’s non-fiction reality. 

AuthorMelDau@yahoo.com

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMelDau

INSTAGRAM:  AuthorMelDau 

WEBSITE:  Www.meldausmania.com 

PURCHASE BOOK:  Amazon.com/author/meldau

 

2020 #138-UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ AUTHOR Tiesha N Bryant

Being a parent is an adventurous journey. But by the grace of God I made it this far. Being a teen mom was never my dream, but it was definitely my reality. Pregnant at 13, mom at 14... Whewww Hunty!!! I did it though with 3 simple steps!!! I chose resiliency over regret and I’m ok with being imperfectly perfect.  

When I started this project, I thought about every intervention/ counseling session I’ve had with the many youth I serviced. I thought about how I got to the point I am in my life after being pregnant at 13. I graduated in the top ten percent of her class. I was unstoppable, as a young single parent, I continued my education receiving a bachelors and master’s degree in social work. According to the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy, only 38 percent of girls who had a baby before 18 have high school diplomas. I often thought that to be true, I was told I would not be successful and debated giving up. I became very discouraged; however, I knew I had to make a better life for my daughter and myself. I don’t take any of my struggles or successes for granted; I call it an honor and privilege. I have trusted God every step of the way and truly believes anyone can exceed in life with hard work and determination. My daughter is currently a 14 year old business woman and not a "baby momma" and I'm married to the best man ever. 

I thought about the tears I’ve seen parents shed because they really are at their breaking point. I thought about all the parents who “have it together”. To learn the three simple steps I used, purchase a copy of Imperfectly Perfect: Three Steps on the Parenthood Journey, regardless the age of the child, regardless how perfect you think you are. We all have room to grow.

The book focuses on the PARENT in PARENTing. I can’t tell anyone how to be a parent, but I take honor in coaching parents on this parenthood journey. It’s an interactive book filled with resources and information whether you’re the parent of a newborn, toddler, active almost first grader, or entering those terrific teen years. Moms and dads alike can benefit from this book.
Grab a pen and get ready to embrace being the best imperfectly perfect parent.

I can be reached at www.tieshanbryant.com.

 

2020 #137- UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ AUTHOR Shelly Lee

My name is Shelly Lee.  I am a Christian Inspirational Author.  I am a single parent of 2: daughter 26 and son 23.  I grew up in a small town called Bon Wier, TX; located near Kirbyville, Newton, and Jasper TX. I graduated from Newton High School in 1992.  I graduated from Lamar Institute of Technology in 1996.  I graduated from Lamar University in 2015. I have been employed with Lamar University for 14 years as an Administrative Associate.

I enjoy reading, writing, and helping others. I have a passion for single parents. The name of my business is Pen.Paper.Publish. I help ordinary people like me become self-published authors. I am an author of 2 books currently: God Spoke and I Listened and The Sheldra Series-An Unknown Love-Book One.  I am currently working on my 3rd and 4th book.
In addition to being an author, I am a speaker, ghostwriter, book coach, and proofreader

Let me help you birth and deliver your book.

 penpaperpublish7@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/shellygrif

 

 

2020 #136-UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ AUTHOR Shawnee Palmer, LCSW, LAC

 

 Shawnee Palmer, LCSW, LAC  Alpines Empowerment Agency / Love & Serenity Wellness

After working in healthcare for many years, Shawnee developed a desire to become more active in helping people overcome the challenges in their lives. This desire soon transformed into a passion, which led Shawnee to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Addiction Counselor. She named her private mental health practice Alpine’s Empowerment Agency, both as a tribute to what she works with her clients toward—self-empowerment and overcoming their challenges—and after her grandmother, who has been a spiritual guide and angel for Shawnee, guiding her life long after she’s passed.

Alpine’s Empowerment Agency provides a private space where individuals and families can receive counseling to uncover and address the root causes of the problems they face today. Shawnee has a passion for working with individuals who battle with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, anger, low self-esteem, and those who are grieving a loved one or having difficulties adjusting to a sudden life change. Through her agency, Shawnee strives to serve as her grandmother did, as a guide to those who are struggling in life, bringing them to a statement of acceptance and contentment. 

Not only does Shawnee work with those in need of mental and spiritual healing, but she also aids in physical wellbeing. Shawnee is the owner of Love & Serenity Wellness, which is a company that provides natural, chemical-free hair, body, and skin products. Within this company, Shawnee incorporates her talents in the mental health sector by also providing books and consultation services that aid in healing, understanding, and gaining wisdom that guides individuals to fulfill their true purpose in life. With this business, Shawnee strives to work with new and aspiring entrepreneurs, teaching them how to reduce the barriers in their life, gain the knowledge that they need to be successful, and obtain the resources that they need to gain a sense of serenity and love for themselves as they venture out on their financial journey. 

Shawnee knows that everyone has the potential to achieve their goals.  She’s made it her life goal to help others overcome the barriers and traumas that stand in the way of their life purpose. 

Shawnee is an author releasing her book, “Shifting Your Mindset: A Guide to Overcome Depression, Anxiety & Trauma” October 2020. The book focuses on identifying ways to change your perspective on life. As a mental health therapist, Shawnee wrote scenarios based on her own life experiences to give the readers a great idea of how they can overcome many life obstacles--from unhealthy relationships to abandonment issues. Available for pre-order on Amazon Kindle and the Love & Serenity Wellness website.

 

Website: www.alpinesempowermentagency.com & www.loveandserenitywellness.com 

Book links: Pre-order on Kindle in all countries: https://amzn.to/323YhzC

For a paperback copy, pre-order here: https://bit.ly/31gG7eZ

Social Media: Facebook/Instagram @LoveAndSerenityWellness & Twitter: @LoveSerenityW