Bailey Overstreet, Sports Reporter

Bailey Overstreet is leaving her purposeful mark in the media as a Sports Reporter.

She was born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma and she is a proud graduate of Oklahoma State University

Please provide a brief description of your profession, specialization, or business services that you offer. 

“I am a sports reporter in Dallas covering the Dallas Mavericks, Dallas Wings, SMU football and basketball.”

What inspired you to enter this profession, and how did you know it was your purpose in life? 

“I played basketball growing up, but I fell out of love after my senior year of high school. I struggled in school and didn’t know what I wanted to do. I was kind of lost. I was going through some personal things and honestly, I didn’t even know if I wanted to go to college.

“Fast forward, I attended OKSTATE and I had a friend that was two years older than me. She took me under her wing. She was in Journalism. I went with her around the campus, saw what she did with OKSTATE TV and I loved it.  Back then, I thought fell out of love with the game of basketball, but honestly, I missed it at this point. When I was around OKSTATE TV, shadowing my mentor with different  projects, I loved it and knew this was my passion because I was around the game again.”

What challenges did you face during your journey to success, and how did you overcome them? 

“I still face challenges and I am nowhere I want to be in my career.  I’ve set the bar high for myself. I am in a male-dominated in the industry but I came to break stereotypes. I have the vision to look past temporary things. God allowed me to go through challenges because He was preparing me for what I was becoming and where I am going.”

What advice would you give to Black Women who are pursuing this profession? 

“My biggest advice to a black woman pursuing this profession is to go for it. Don’t let anyone tell you can’t do anything. Let your light shine. Make connections, go to networking events, talk to everyone you get to the chance to talk to! Keep smiling and don’t give up because I promise you its all worth it in the end, we are in this together!”

If you would like to follow or connect with Bailey Overstreet you can follow her on Instagram @baileyoverstreet_.

Janel Barksdale, CFP, CPLP, Janel Barksdale Enterprises, CEO & Roses and Thorns, Founder

Janel Barksdale, CFP, CPLP, embodies what it means to be a true Warrior Woman! She is ”Walking Fearlessly in Her Purpose” and empowering women through her business Janel Barksdale Enterprises Organization: Roses and Thorns.

She was born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in the mid-west. Due to her father’s job, her family moved every two years which taught Janel how to adapt quickly and embrace change. She attended the University of Missouri -Columbia (MIZZOU) located in Columbia, Missouri.

Please provide a brief description of your profession, specialization, or business services that you offer.

”I have a training firm that I launched in 2018 and I also founded a non-profit organization in 2016. Janel Barksdale Enterprises offers customized training programs for corporations.  We provide training that inspires, uplifts, and excites participants.

As part of JBE, I also serve as a keynote speaker, panelist, and workshop presenter. I have authored several books with many more to come.

Roses and Thorns is a women’s empowerment organization that has the mission of transparent conversations that transform, liberate, and empower the lives of women.  We gather monthly for food, fellowship, and fun.”

What inspired you to enter this profession, and how did you know it was your purpose in life? 

“I entered college as a journalism major.  I was working at a bank that at the time was led by a woman.  She inspired me to transition into banking. In banking, I held several positions that lead to me becoming a Regional Manager: overseeing several branches.  I found that I spent most of my time training my team. I soon discovered that training was a part of my job that I enjoyed the most.  It wasn’t long before I transitioned into a training role. 

That was over 20 years, and I have been training ever since. The more I created content and trained workshops, the more I knew that I had discovered my purpose.  This led to me establishing a training firm to provide customized training programs, filling a gap in the industry.

I founded the non-profit women’s organization, Roses and Thorns, to establish a community for women to gather and support one another through life’s roses and thorns.”  I am the mother of a daughter and it is important to me to example for her what healthy sisterhood looks like and the importance of a supportive community.

What challenges did you face during your journey to success, and how did you overcome them? 

“The biggest challenge that I have faced has been TIME.  I’ve had to learn how to get it ALL done. It is a simple recognition that you can’t get everything done at the same time. We live in a world of multi-tasking which isn’t always effective. You must make choices. I say NO as often as I say YES, sometimes even more often.  What I learned to do is prioritize and use my time and energy effectively.”

What advice would you give to Black Women who are pursuing this profession? 

“The guidelines that I have in place have served me well.  While they are basic, they require discipline to do intentionally and consistently.

1. Put God first in all that you do.

2. Don’t compare yourself to ANYONE. 

3. Don’t allow failure to stop you.  Let failure develop your next action.

4. Don’t feel like you have to have ALL of the answers; just make the next right move.”

If you are interested in Janel Barksdale Enterprises’ amazing services or connecting with women through Roses and Thorns, you can visit https://janelbarksdale.com/, and you can also follow Roses and Thorns on Instagram @rosesthorns225.

Lauren Cain, Crunchy Boutique, CEO

Lauren Cain is a purposeful woman that is empowering women to seek natural remedies to take care of their children through her business Crunchy Boutique, Crunchy Mama DFW, and Crunchy Mama Cakes.

Lauren Cain was born and raised in Southern California. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Texas at Arlington and Azusa Pacific University.

Please provide a brief description of your profession, specialization, or business services that you offer. 

“I am an entrepreneur. My family and I own Crunchy Boutique, natural parenting, and sustainable living store. I have a blog that focuses on motherhood, DIY projects, and things to do in the DFW area. I am also a specialty baker. I bake paleo, keto, vegan, and/or gluten-free cakes and treats. All of my baked products are made without refined sugar.

What inspired you to enter this profession and how did you know it was your purpose in life?

“My mother is my biggest entrepreneurial inspiration. Everything I know about business I owe to watching and learning from my mom. My purpose is to be that same kind of inspiration to my own kids. I am showing them the power in owning something. The power in being your own boss!”

What challenges did you face during your journey to success and how did you overcome them?

“I still feel like I am on my journey. I don’t feel like I’ve made it just yet, but I’m on my way!”

What advice would you give to Black Women who are pursuing this profession?

“Do it! Find your passion and find your motivation to turn that passion into your paycheck. We need more black women entrepreneurs and there is no reason why you cannot become one. You can do this!”

If you are interested in purchasing products from Crunchy Boutique you can visit their website https://crunchyboutique.net/store/Summer-Essentials-c28525002 and you can also follow them on Instagram @crunchy_boutique.

Desirae Ofori, DeKelis Art Studio and Sincerely, Mrs. Mommy, CEO

Desirae Ofori, MA paints with a purpose while encouraging women to embrace their journey as a mother.

Desirae Ofori was born and raised in Miami, Florida. She is graduated with her Bachelors Degree from Southeastern University and she obtained her Master of Arts in Licensed Mental Health Counseling from Webster University. She is the proud owner of DeKelis Art Studio and Sincerely, Mrs. Mommy.

Please provide a brief description of your profession, specialization, or business services that you offer.

“I’m a full-time artist, creating fine and functional abstract artwork. I mostly work with acrylic paint, alcohol inks and resin to seal artwork. I also offer one on one classes, paint parties, live demonstration, and art talks.  I also have a Mom lifestyle brand – Sincerely, Mrs. Mommy with a blog and podcast.”

What inspired you to enter this profession and how did you know it was your purpose in life?

“I’ve always been into art and creating different things over the years. My family and friends have been influential with my growth – they keep asking me to create things I’ve never done before or said ‘you could do that!’ and then I try it. Next thing you know, I have a new skill!

I decided to leave my careers as a Mental Health Counselor and Long Term Care Case Manager because of the high levels of stress I kept finding myself under. In 2017 after suffering several panic attacks, depression, anxiety, etc. I was worried that I was on the brink of a major nervous breakdown and was concerned about my mental health.

I was already juggling my art business and blog as side hustles – they brought me joy. At the end of 2017, after a suggestion from a friend, the support of my hubby, and a push from God, I decided to pursue both art and blogging full time.”

What challenges did you face during your journey to success and how did you overcome them?

“There are many challenges that come with Entrepreneurship. If it’s something you’ve never done before, it is a big learning curve. One of the biggest challenges has been finances. I have concerns about making a living, being able to contribute to my household, buying art supplies, etc. Knowing that I have my kids to support, keeps me motivated. I push forward by trying different products, different styles of artwork, accepting new and out of the box opportunities to put myself out there. I focus on finding (and being discovered) by the target audience who wants and values what I have to offer.

Other challenges include self-doubt and second-guessing my ideas. However, with both of these challenges, I try to remind myself that this is a God-given gift, I have something unique, and that if I keep putting in the work, be strategic, listen to God’s voice and trust His leads then one day it’ll all pay off. I also look back at the opportunities I’ve had by being an artist, and I am pretty proud of how far I’ve come. I know the sky is just barely scratching the surface of how far I can go as a professional artist.”

What advice would you give to Black Women who are pursuing this profession?

“You don’t have to wait until you quit your job to pursue a career as a professional artist. Start now with what you have. Start painting. Start creating. Build a portfolio. Take classes. Join online groups related to what you want to create.

This is the best time to experiment when making money off your creative work is not a necessity. When you start selling your work save some of it and invest the rest back into supplies. Go to art shows, art festivals, craft fairs – basically go where the people who are doing what you want to do are.

Just being around other creatives brings me a lot of inspiration and motivation. It really lights my fire and reignites my passion for what I do when I feel like I’m lost. Lastly, believe in yourself. Everyone could say they believe in you and love what you do – but it won’t come through in what you produce if you don’t believe it yourself. Believe in your potential and capabilities first, and let their validation be the icing on the cake.”

If you are interested in purchasing beautiful artwork from DeKelis Art Studio you can follow them on Instagram @Dekelisartstudio and on Facebook at DeKelis Art Studio.

Also, if you would like some encouragement and helpful tips on motherhood, you can follow her blog on Instagram @sincerlymrsmommy.

Francheska Oubre, Lead Stylist and CEO of Gwenadette Styling Company

Francheska Oubre is bringing purpose to fashion with her business Gwenadette Styling Company.

Francheska Oubre is a native of Plaquemine, LA, but she currently resides in Baton Rouge, LA. She is currently studying Theology in the bachelor class of Hope Bible Institute.

 Please provide a brief description of your profession, specialization, or business services that you offer.

“African American and Louisiana culture is the driving force behind Gwenadette Styling Company. We specialize in showcasing melanin skin in its many fascists and forms. Exposing women of color to options that are not typically broadcasted in modern media.

African American and Louisiana culture is the driving force behind Gwenadette Styling Company. We specialize in showcasing melanin skin in it’s many fascist and form. Exposing women of color to options that are not typically broadcast in modern media.”

What inspired you to enter this profession and how did you know it was your purpose in life?

My mission and purpose are to magnify the image of black culture, spiritual enlightenment, southern heritage, and also, women empowerment to audiences across the globe. Gwenadette styles from the inside – out.

My mother and grandmothers inspired me to start this company. No matter the situation, they never left the house without looking their absolute best. Down home, southern women with dignity and grace. Believed in the theory, “I don’t look like what I’ve been through!” “Pick yourself up every day and look like something while you’re doing it.” In retrospect, when you look good… you feel good!”

What challenges did you face during your journey to success and how did you overcome them?

“My biggest challenge when I started my company in 2018, was that many people in the black community had no idea what a personal stylist was or does. Many women of color have been convinced that our skin tone is not compatible with every color of the rainbow… a complete misconception. It’s our goal to not only reprogram the mindset but to highlight the strengths of obtaining a mahogany complexion. Our styling blog( IG/FB @gwenadette) reveals tons of tips on how to accent your style, closet organizing, tone comparison, and many more.

What advice would you give to Black Women who are pursuing this profession? 

”My advice to other young African American women is to find your “thing”. That thing that gives you liberty, peace, and a purpose. Once you’ve found that, life is worth living.  Make your days count, don’t count your days.  Every day is a new opportunity. A new chance at your purpose. Pursue it aggressively.”

Follow @gwenadette on Instagram and Facebook or visit the website www.gwenadette.net for styling tips and sessions. 

Dr. Kendra Mayes, Kingdom Fitness, CEO

Dr. Kendra Mayes is honoring God with her temple and empowering others to live a healthy lifestyle through her business, Kingdom Fitness Inc.

Dr. Kendra Mayes was born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, Master in Management, and Doctoral of Management from the University of Phoenix. She is also a Certified Personal Trainer and she obtained her certification from the International Sports Science Association.

Please provide a brief description of your profession, specialization, or business services that you offer.

Kingdom Fitness is a faith-based organization designed to promote fitness and a healthy lifestyle. Our motto is “A Fit Life is a long life” which is based on the biblical principle found in 3rd John 1:2. The soul purpose of the program is to reduce the obesity rate among youth and adults through a curriculum that includes physical fitness, nutrition, and education.

Proverbs 27: 17 says “Iron sharpens iron, so one person to another”, at Kingdom Fitness we believe that by providing a user-friendly, cost-effective, and fun fitness environment for all ages overwhelming health risk such as hypertension and type- two diabetes that seemingly plagues the minority community will be reduced!  We want to aid the Kingdom of God and the body of Christ in being more confident, healthier and fit for service.

Kingdom Fitness/Dr. Kendra Mayes offers a combination of cardio, toning, interval training, and strength. Dr. Kendra Mayes is licensed in the format of Zumba fitness, Zumba Toning and is a certified R.I.P.P.E.D instructor. She is a certified Fitness Trainer and Nutritional Specialist through the International Sports Science Association. And has continued education through the Aerobics and fitness association of American for strength training, stretching and cool-down techniques. Kingdom fitness is heavily stitched into the DFW Metroplex by way of promoting fitness via Facebook, Instagram, YouTube. Dr. Mayes is the Fitness Director for First St. John Cathedral where her primary function is to keep the body of Christ active and model. In 2016, Dr. Kendra Mayes became a trained Blue Zone ambassador for the Fort Worth Blue Zone project which was initiated by Mayor Betsy Price. Dr. Mayes has championed the cause of health and wellness within the local community in which she serves and has spearheaded the Blue Zone project for both Kingdom Fitness, Inc and First St. John Cathedral 

What inspired you to enter this profession and how did you know it was your purpose in life?

 

“I was no stranger to fitness and the principals of healthy living, I simply refocused and went back to the basics! I did not want to be on blood pressure medication forever, so improving my quality of life through maintaining a healthy diet and getting reacquainted with my fitness regimen was no longer an option. Not to mention graduating with my doctoral degree, I wanted to be in the best shape of my life!

Those baseline goals lead to the motivation and determination to maintain my total lifestyle change. I was introduced to Zumba fitness and encouraged to become an instructor. I fell in love with the movement, music, and energy that the format encouraged, and used it as a platform to increase my knowledge about fitness programs that would help not only myself but the community in which I serve to become active, motivated, and engaged in physical fitness without becoming bored.

This quest lead to the birth of Kingdom Fitness, INC. in 2014 and several additional fitness format certifications including Zumba toning, RIPPed strength and endurance training, and then becoming a personal training.  An additional component that enriched both my personal journey and client experience was nutrition because it is the cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle change. And since you cannot outwork a bad diet. I invested time in becoming a specialist in fitness nutrition because ultimately, to achieve the desired results, you must master your food and understand how to develop healthy sustainable habits.”

 

What challenges did you face during your journey to success and how did you overcome them?

 

“The journey of health and wellness has been smooth because I am determined to succeed. Before launching a fitness brand and business, I took the time to clearly understand both the mission and vision of health and wellness which is to improve your quality of life. I fully understood that I would be branding a lifestyle change. With that thought in mind, I ensure that every platform that I interact with has a health and wellness component that acts as a form of accountability and encouragement. I also have a weighty responsibility to be a living example for my clients so those interactions aid in reinforcing healthy practices within my own life.

One of the major success techniques that I implement is the principal of time management because it’s easy to get involved in the business of helping others and if you are not careful you will resume old habits that lead to unsuccessful patterns in your life.

 

The keys to staying on track and minimizing the struggle are to apply time management, organization, and personal discipline. For example, setting aside time to make your personal meals, workout times, and goal setting times is paramount. Through these practices, you can maintain your journey while meeting the demands of multiple professional endeavors.”

 What advice would you give to Black Women who are pursuing this profession?

“I would encourage any woman interested in launching a health and wellness business to educate and arm themselves with the proper health and wellness knowledge to create a sustainable program. Learning about the plethora of activities and foods, that can be incorporated to help your clients reach their goals is extremely important. It’s also equally as important to identify and understand your target audience to ensure that you are providing the services they need. Remember that you are your brand and your story should exemplify inspiration, enthusiasm, transparency, fun, excitement, and truth.”

If you are interested in the services that Kingdom Fitness Inc. offers or if you would like to book Dr. Kendra Mayes as a personal trainer you can visit their website http://kingdomfitness-dr.com/ and you can also follow Kingdom Fitness Inc on Instagram @Kingdomfitness_drk.

Tan Taylor – Johnson, Luxxe Events, CEO

Tan Taylor-Johnson is walking in her God-given purpose as an Event Planner and she is creating beautiful events to celebrate life’s amazing moments.

Tan Taylor-Johnson is a proud native of Hammond, La. She attended Southern Louisiana University.

Tan Taylor-Johnson is the owner and founder of Luxxe Events LLC. She decorates and plans events throughout Southeast Louisiana. She has been hosting and decorating for over 8 years.

Additionally, she has a beautiful family that includes her twin daughters Ti’Ja and Ta’Ja. Also a handsome son Ty’Lin and the love of her life LeDarrell. She is dedicated to her family and her life literally revolves around those four.

Please provide a brief description of your profession, specialization, or business services that you offer.

“Decorating is my passion and I truly thank God for giving me this gift. My specialties include weddings, engagement parties, baby showers, bridal showers and much more! 

I adore working as an Event stylist professional because I love helping people discover great ideas that don’t cost a fortune!”

What inspired you to enter this profession and how did you know it was your purpose in life?

“As a stylist, you work hard to provide an outstanding event. Creativity is key to your success. As an event stylist, you work hard to bring a memorable atmosphere to Every event. Seeing one’s expression when they enter their venue, is priceless for me! I love being able to bring joy to each one of my customers.”

What challenges did you face during your journey to success and how did you overcome them?

“You will face many challenges but you have to have the faith to know you shall overcome, Just never give up and know your dedication and hard work is never going unnoticed.”

What advice would you give to Black Women who are pursuing this profession?

“There are many moments of ups and downs on this journey but there are so many more Ups. But I always refer to two of my favorite scriptures:

“For we walk by faith and not by sight” – 2 Corinthians 5:7

‘’God will never put more on you than you can bear’’ – 1 Corinthians 10:13

To anyone that’s been battling starting a new journey in life, and want to start a business. Go for it, nothing never fails but a try! You got this!!!”

If you would like to book Luxxe Events for your special event you can follow them on Facebook @Luxxe Events or contact them by email luxxeevents@yahoo.com. Luxxe Events is also located at 1316 W Thomas St Hammond, LA 70401.

Sabrina Willis, She Can Network, CEO

Sabrina Willis equipping women with confidence and encouraging them to conquer their goals.

Sabrina Willis was born and raised in St. Augustine, Florida. Sabrina’s courage and determination has inspired many women to “Slay with Confidence”, discover their own untapped talents and infinite potential.

As the founder of “The She Can Network” and the author of “Confidently Me” E-book, which was published in 2018, Sabrina’s message of inspirations have transformed the lives of many women who have adopted the mindset to “Slay with Confidence”. The She can Network is a community that helps you understand that no matter what you are going through, you are never alone.”

Please provide a brief description of your profession, specialization, or business services that you offer.

“I successfully used my own coaching skills to move myself forward, and realized that is was a fantastic opportunity to help other women going through a similar crisis of confidence issues or direction in their lives. As a result, my Confidence Coaching was birthed.

What inspired you to enter this profession and how did you know it was your purpose in life?

“My extraordinary story of transforming my own life from mental and physical abuse is the inspiration behind my bold mission to teach others that it is possible to do the same.”

What challenges did you face during your journey to success and how did you overcome them?

“This journey has not be easy. One of the biggest challenges I faced was fear of the unknown of what would  happened if I just stepped out on Faith and walked in my purpose. I overcame, by knowing that God has not given us a Spirit of FEAR, and if He gives you a vision he will always give you provision. So what I decided to just do it, and do it afraid… Besides what’s the worst that could happen?!”

What advice would you give to Black Women who are pursuing this profession? 

“The best advise I can give women is to always keep your WHY at the forefront of your mind, while keeping the End of Mind! Never Give up keep striving, keep pushing, It’s OK to RESET and REGROUP!”

If you would like to become “Confidently Certified” or connect with women that will empower you to be the best version of you, follow Sabrina Willis on Instagram @sabrinawillis_

Dynnishea Miller, MS, CHES, Sew Luxe Customs, CEO

Dynnishea Miller, MS, CHES is passionate about educating others about their health and helping them look flawless with amazing hair from her business Sew Luxe Customs.

Mrs. Dynnishea Miller was born and raised in Baton Rouge, LA. She is a proud graduate of Southeastern University where she earned her Bachelors Degree. She also obtained her Masters Degree from the Northwestern State University of Louisiana.

Please provide a brief description of your profession, specialization, or business services that you offer.

”Currently, I fill the capacity of a Health Program Representative for one of Louisiana’s Healthy Louisiana Medicaid plans. My focus is on increasing member compliance in well visits and more. Through strategic planning, community partnerships and outreach, we encourage members to take initiative with their health.

However, wig making is my business. I construct custom-fit wigs to accessorize each personality.

What inspired you to enter this profession and how did you know it was your purpose in life?

”I thoroughly love helping others. Having experienced my own health issues growing up, I find it pertinent to be educated, aware, and to take an active interest in your own health. Therefore, I strive to instill this mindset into those I encounter through my profession and daily life.”

What challenges did you face during your journey to success and how did you overcome them?

”My biggest challenge was actually selecting a path. One can help others in all aspects of healthcare. I chose to be more face-to-face as opposed to administrative.”

What advice would you give to Black Women who are pursuing this profession?

”Make sure you’re passionate about improving the lives of others. If not, you won’t be fulfilled with just a paycheck.”

If you would like to contact Dynnishea Miller about her health care expertise or order a custom wig, you can follow her on Instagram @sewluxecustoms or visit http://www.sewluxxecustoma.com.

Ashley Bryant, MS, LPC, Therapy In Color®, CEO

Developing strong mental health is one of the core essentials of a Warrior Woman which is why we are excited to feature Ashley Bryant, MS, LPC.

Ashley Bryant was born and raised in Little Rock, Arkansas. She obtained her bachelors degree from Southern Nazarene University, a Masters Degree from Langston University, and her doctorate degree from Oklahoma State University. She is also the Founder, and owner of Therapy In Color®.

She is a dedicated mental health therapist and speaker, who has a passion for speaking to others about overcoming trauma and inclusivity in mental health advocacy. She helps facilitate the conversation about mental health and dismantle myths surrounding the subject. 9.8 million Americans will experience a mental illness this year serious enough to interfere with or impact major life activities like developing and maintaining healthy relationships, sustaining consistent income and preserving physical health.

As a thought leader in her industry, the licensed professional counselor and certified rehabilitation counselor, has been featured on TLC’s My 600-lb Life, Us Weekly, Life & Style Magazine, InTouch Weekly, Daily Mail and more. Much like her own impact, Bryant’s fervor to change narratives is widespread. In approaching therapeutic relationships with the theory that with the right support people can learn to heal and replace irrational thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes, she ushers in a fresh freedom and change we all need and deserve. Ashley Bryant utilizes her personal and professional background to bring awareness to issues affecting diverse groups like people of color, and women through her podcast and online platform Therapy in Color®.

What inspired you to enter this profession and how did you know it was your purpose in life?

”As a native of Little Rock, Ark., my journey from adversity to healing began after experiencing the loss of her mother at a young age. Traveling my own roadmap of transition, I fought battles against grief, depression and even suicide attempts eventually recognizing that her life’ purpose revolved around supporting others in their own journey to inner peace.”

What challenges did you face during your journey to success and how did you overcome them?

”Finding balance between work life and personal life has been challenging. The challenging part of being a business owner is not having enough time in the day. I have overcome this by creating balance. I utilize time blocking and prioritize family time and self-care.”

What advice would you give to Black Women who are pursuing this profession?

”Find a great mentor early in your journey.”

If you would like to learn more about the services that Therapy In Color® provides, you can follow them on Instagram @therapyincolor_ or visit their website therapyincolor.org.