Woman Wednesday: Lyudmyla


Q and A with Lyudmyla from Ukraine, living in New Jersey, United States

“In the pursuit of looking good, people often succumb to quick-fix treatments, merely masking their “well-being wrinkles,” only to find themselves in need of another remedy within weeks.”


Q: What are you passionate about?

A: One fateful day, as I gazed into the mirror, my heart sank with disappointment. The relentless saga of acne breakouts persisted, echoing a series of disheartening incidents from the past. I had delved into the realm of countless over-the-counter remedies and sought the expertise of a dermatologist, all in vain. The battle for clear skin seemed to elude me. What cut deepest was the irony of my situation—I was a Licensed Skin Care specialist, yet I grappled with the inefficacy of caring for my own skin. Determined to break free from this relentless cycle, I adopted a more aggressive approach, turning to a doctor and resorting to antibiotics. Little did I know that this decision would spiral into a severe allergic reaction, necessitating the intervention of steroids. It was a wake-up call; I needed a better way. Fuelled by a desire for a solution that wasn’t just a fleeting fix but also safe and holistic, my journey led me to the realm of health coaching. Here, I unraveled a profound truth: the skin is not an isolated entity but a reflection of our overall well-being and life experiences. The skin care industry, a multi-billion dollar domain with a myriad of treatments and products, seemed to miss this crucial connection. In the pursuit of looking good, people often succumb to quick-fix treatments, merely masking their “well-being wrinkles,” only to find themselves in need of another remedy within weeks.


Q: What were your younger years like?

A:  In the heart of Ukraine, amidst the challenging 80s, I embarked on a childhood filled with dreams, surrounded by the love of hardworking parents. As the only daughter, their dedication to providing me the best education became the cornerstone of my story. In a quaint mountain township, life unfolded like a cherished tale. Fun-filled summers were marked by laughter, cold river swims, and the exhilaration of skiing through winter wonderlands. Here, I stumbled upon my first high school love, now my forever partner and the love of my life. However, the winds of change beckoned, and my parents, brave souls seeking a brighter future, led us to the land of dreams—the United States.

Leaving the post-Soviet struggle behind, they paved the way for me and my husband to pursue higher education and grasp the opportunities that lay ahead. From the picturesque landscapes of Ukraine, I carried a passion for skincare, a treasure I vowed to share with my new community. The seeds of my holistic skincare journey were planted, and nurtured by the lessons learned in that small mountain haven. Fast forward to the joys of motherhood—two precious babies later, the spark of entrepreneurship ignited. With courage as my compass, I embarked on a path close to my heart, opening my own Holistic Skin Care Shop. It wasn’t just a business venture; it was a testament to resilience, dreams, and the pursuit of radiant well-being. Each facial treatment, every moment spent nurturing the skin, carries echoes of my journey—from the riverbanks of Ukraine to the thriving community in the U.S. Today, I am not just a skin care practitioner; I am a storyteller, weaving tales of self-love and glowing transformations.


Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?

A: Here’s a dose of simple but powerful advice: You’re one of a kind. Embrace everything that makes you, you. Your quirks, your dreams—they’re what make you special. Fear is okay; it’s a sign you’re growing. Don’t shy away from challenges; they’re stepping stones to something amazing. Be brave. Be you. Don’t follow the crowd if it doesn’t feel right. Be brave enough to be yourself, and amazing things will follow. Keep learning. Life is a continuous learning journey. Whether in school or through experiences, never stop soaking up knowledge. Surround yourself well; choose friends who uplift you, support you, and inspire you. Your circle matters. Take care of you. Self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a must. Take time for things that make you happy and keep you grounded. Mistakes are okay. Everyone makes them. Learn, grow, and move forward. You’re stronger than you think. Define your success. Success isn’t a one-size-fits-all. Figure out what it means to you and go after it. Speak up. Your voice matters. Don’t be afraid to share your thoughts and stand up for what you believe in. Kindness wins: In a world where you can be anything, be kind. It’s a game-changer. You’ve got this! Your journey is yours, and it’s going to be amazing.

Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: To me, feminism is about empowering women to chase their dreams, break barriers, and define their own narratives.

Visit my website to uncover the secrets to long-term skin vitality, rooted in natural, safe treatments and stress management. Discover how you can recharge, rejuvenate, and reclaim your glow, just as you deserve. https://getglowingskinnaturally.com/

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Phenix Salon Suites, 1540 Nixon Dr, Moorestown, NJ 08057, Suite 639

Woman Wednesday: Lesley M.


Q and A with Lesley
from Goodyear, Arizona

“…it’s never too late. I didn’t start my business until I was in my 50’s.”


Q: What are you passionate about?

A: My passions include helping women in business with their marketing by implementing SEO strategies to improve online visibility, drive organic traffic, and increase sales. I love figuring things out and finding solutions to move forward in business. As an entrepreneur, you wear many hats and possess many skills. But not all skills come as naturally as others. When I first got started, I thought I was going to be a copywriter – because I love writing and communicating in any way shape, or form. As I was writing for clients and building my business, I discovered that in order to truly get seen and heard online, you also had to incorporate SEO – search engine optimization. I was being told I needed to improve my online visibility, but I needed to figure out how to do it. When I started learning about it, I was confused and overwhelmed because there are so many moving parts including keywords, on-page SEO, off-page SEO, and analytics, let alone having the ability to create and manage a website.

I did what I always do; I dove headfirst into all things SEO and learned, practiced, tried things, failed, tried again, experienced success, and learned some more all as a means of just moving forward. I soon realized that if I can do this as a woman in business, so can others. They just need the right resources and support to do so. Hence, SEO Inkwell Solutions was created for women pursuing their own dreams and passions. I’m now an SEO and Content Consultant who provides resources, online support, courses, consultation, and more in order for women to level up their marketing.

Personally, I’m passionate about making the most out of life, finding joy in small moments, and being grateful every day. I advocate for mental health and wellness constantly encouraging others to do what’s best for their physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, and financial health. I love coffee far too much, enjoy wine not as often as I’d like, spend mornings walking or hiking outdoors, and throw tennis balls to my two dogs daily. I have an incredible husband who supports all my endeavors, two amazing adult children pursuing their own passions, and a future son-in-law I adore with my whole heart.

Q: What were your younger years like?

A: I grew up in Minnesota on a lake before moving to Arizona in my junior year of high school. The move was the first time I ever experienced real, significant change. It was difficult leaving everything I knew and loved to a place that was so very different and quite foreign to me. What I learned is life is always changing, relationships come and go, and the only person I can ever really rely on is myself.

I taught at a public high school and community college for 26 years. Nothing brought me greater joy than helping young people improve…at reading, writing, research, analytic thinking, and life. The pandemic and changing social dynamics facing young people made it difficult to continue, however, and I opted to retire from my teaching career.

Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?

A: Perhaps the most important thing I’ve learned about being an entrepreneur is you MUST be true to yourself first. I spent an entire year working on myself, my mindset, my self-worth, etc. to overcome the imposter syndrome I was experiencing. I also had to learn how to give myself grace and no longer hang on to guilt. Guilt for doing what I want to do, pursuing my dreams, and living each day on my own terms.

Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: Feminism to me means you can live your life unapologetically. You live knowing your gifts, goals, and opportunities are endless and it’s up to you to pursue them knowing you are wholly capable of achieving every dream you have for yourself. It means no longer apologizing for wanting to do your own things and needing to be 100% authentically yourself. I think as women, we’ve been conditioned to believe our purpose is to nurture, serve, and submit to those we love. But the one who deserves that more than anyone is ourselves. Having passions, desires, goals, and dreams is not selfish. Rather, it’s necessary in order to live our best life.

MORE FROM LESLEY: If there is one thing I’d love women of all ages to know, it’s never too late. I didn’t start my business until I was in my 50’s. I loved being a teacher. I thought I was only ever going to be a teacher. But life happens. Things change. And the ability to adapt and overcome whatever obstacles life throws our way is a skill anyone can learn at any time.

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Woman Wednesday: Olivia

*Note: Woman Wednesday is a part of our blog. Each Woman Wednesday post will feature a woman who would like to share information in the hopes of inspiring and motivating other women. Comments are welcome below.              


Q and A with Olivia, from Charleston, SC, living in St Louis, MO

“You will always have a problem if you look for one.”


Q: What are you passionate about? 

A: I am most passionate about people and natural disasters. I love helping women come out of their shells and become the person they want to be.

My obsession with natural disasters came after I lost 80% of my possessions in Hurricane Michael, Panama City Florida, October 10th, 2018. In December of 2018, I partnered with a close friend and helped with the #ComeBackStrongProject. We hosted the event at a local mall in Panama City. We gave toys and supplies to those in need at the event. It was a kick start to my humanitarian efforts. 


In February of 2020, I volunteered in the Bahamas to help with the hurricane Dorian relief efforts with the organization All Hands and Hearts. I plan on volunteering every year going forward. I am also writing a hurricane survival guide for tips and supplies after the storm. 

 

IMG_20200220_112549Olivia has lived in a lot of places; her husband is in the Air Force. She’s lived in Charleston, South Carolina; Panama City, Florida; Atlanta, GA; and St Louis, MO. But her favorite place is wherever she is helping rebuild communities after natural disasters.

 

Q: What were your younger years like?

A: I was born a Buddhist in South Carolina. My mother was born Catholic and converted before I was born. My father was an atheist. His parents were Jehovah’s witnesses. Needless to say, I have much respect for people with different religious views. 
We were not wealthy by any means. We always had the cheapest house in the best school district. My mother and father were very big in our education. Despite the lack of funding, my parents always found ways to share life’s experiences with us. We went on vacations and tried a variety of foods. 
My father was addicted to drugs, and my parents divorced when I was 8. A little about my family dynamics. My mother was 35 when she had me, and I’m the oldest of 3. She didn’t have children in her first marriage. My father was also married previously, but did not have any other children. When my parents were first divorced, my mother went to college. She actually got her double masters while being a single mother of 3 with minimal family help. (That is part of the reason I have the drive that I do. I honestly feel extremely privileged to be able to build my dreams without the same obstacles she had.)   

 

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I started working when I was 15. My father moved back into the house when I was 16 for two years to help my mother co-parent. They weren’t together; they just loved us more than they disliked each other. They were actually friends “sometimes.” I did pageants and went to 6 proms and was relatively popular in my town and city. My dad moved out when I was 18, and I moved in with him when I got out of high school. My father passed away when I was 20, and I paid for his funeral. I was also in an abusive relationship at that time. 
I did a lot and learned a lot on a little, but it is definitely a part of what made me the woman I am today. 
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Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?

A: Never give up. No matter how hard it gets. You will always have a problem if you look for one. Your perception is your reality and sometimes you get in the way of your own growth.

 

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Q: What does feminism mean to you?

A: Equal treatment of men and women. I’m very textbook definition when it comes to this topic. My thoughts have developed over the years and I fear that women are losing touch with their individual power.

 

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Woman Wednesday: Jacqueline

*Note: Woman Wednesday is a part of our blog. Each Woman Wednesday post will feature a woman who would like to share information in the hopes of inspiring and motivating other women. Comments are welcome below.              


Q and A with Jacqueline, Eastover, South Carolina

“There is a purpose in your pain.”


Q: What are you passionate about? 

A: I am the pastor of Healing in the Vessel Ministries and an author. I am passionate about seeing people heal spiritually, emotionally, physically, and mentally. I have a passion and heart for the youth, which has led me to various positions within the ministry and career field.

Since 2002, I have served as youth director, a mentor, and a Sunday school teacher within my local church. I am a former paralegal, educator, and substance abuse counselor. I use my gift of empowerment to transform lives within my ministry and career field. I found this passion as the Holy Spirit began to reveal itself to me through dreams and the doors that God began to open.

I have just currently finished my new book, From Bitter to Better.

 

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Q: What were your younger years like?

A: I have earned a Master of Arts in practical theology from Regent University, Master of Counseling from Webster University, Columbia SC, a Master of Pastoral Counseling from Liberty University, Lynchburg VA, an Associate Degree of Paralegal, graduating Magna Cum Laude from South University and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Francis Marion University, Florence SC.

My family includes both of my parents, who empowered me by their love and prayers. I always had a journal since the third grade, which later led me to discover my gift of writing and becoming an author. My various positions led me to become a pastor as God was calling me into that arena.

 

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Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?

A: I have learned that there is a purpose in your pain. Every tear that I have shed has allowed me to become a more reliable vessel so that God can use for His glory to empower, equip, and encourage His people. I would love for others to learn from my story that God still performs miracles.

 

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Q: What does feminism mean to you?

A: Feminism symbolizes the empowerment of women.

 

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Q: What else would you like others to know?

A: My hobbies include running, walking, meditating, and writing, counseling youth, and working in the community. I am the author of Healing in the Vessel: A Mother’s Love A Daughter’s Journey of Faith, and From Bitter to Better. I am the co-author of several anthologies: Grief to Grind Anthology: How did I lose Myself in a Relationship, Meant for My Good, Women of Power II, Hearing God’s Voice Above The Chaos, and It takes Money Honey. I am an international speaker for the I AM Her Women’s Conference. I am an Amazon bestselling author. I have been featured on the cover of I AM Queen Magazine.

 

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Thank you for reading!

I’d love to connect with you!

Connect with me on Facebook here: www.facebook.com/lenisegoodwin

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Twitter:  Jacquel58497682

Website: www.healinginthevesselministries.com

 


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Woman Wednesday: Lea Ann

*Note: Woman Wednesday is a part of our blog. Each Woman Wednesday post will feature a woman who would like to share information in the hopes of inspiring and motivating other women. Comments are welcome below.              


Q and A with Lea Ann, Jeffersonville, Vermont

“A valuable lesson I have learned through my journey is to just keep working on things little by little and be patient with myself.”


Q: What are you passionate about? 

A: I’m passionate about food, community, and bringing people closer together. I am currently working on my food truck, which is in its 2nd year. Business is doing great and I am expanding quickly. I have always been a chef and I seek validation through my food. But I thoroughly enjoy making people happy with the food.

 

 

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Q: What were your younger years like?

A: My younger years were a mess. My twenties were crazy, but I learned how to focus and work on my goals (even though mentally and emotionally I was very unstable). I have an anxiety disorder that was a graveyard by drug use. Now, I am more centered, but it’s really because I’m so busy. I thrive in high pressure.

 

 

Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?

A: A valuable lesson I have learned through my journey is to just keep working on things little by little and be patient with myself. I have learned a lot and continue to learn a lot about validating my own work and learning to delegate. I can’t do it all myself, and I’ve created this amazing momentum that makes people want to work with me!

My dreams have become my reality through my actions. Learning to love myself and consider myself worthy of a good life, a loyal and loving partner, and family has been a journey that I will continue to travel. Overcoming fear and becoming the person I am meant to be on this planet: spreading love and inclusion, being one with all my brothers and sisters, lifting up the downtrodden, and creating magic.

 

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Q: What does feminism mean to you?

A: Feminism means living in a world where I have access to the same opportunities as anyone else as a woman of color. Feminism means I will fight for everyone to have the same access to resources and respect from one another. A world where liberty is truth. Strength comes in numbers and women lead, guide, and support humanity as it should be.

 

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