“You never know how strong you are until being strong is all you have.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A:I am passionate about helping people empower themselves to become the best version of themselves personally and professionally. I am currently working on building my hypnosis business.
Q: How does hypnosis work?
A: How the hypnosis process works is first I explain what hypnosis is and what it isn’t to make you as comfortable as possible. I ask for permission to hypnotize you. Then, you get into a comfortable position, either reclining in a chair or lying in bed. You would close your eyes and I would talk to your subconscious mind. You don’t have to talk at all. I do all the work.
Hypnosis is a state of physical muscle relaxation and focused concentration. It is a lowered state of brain activity, in which a person is highly receptive to suggestions. You are not asleep.
It can be over Zoom or over the phone. It doesn’t need to be in person. It is 100% safe. I could set up a Zoom session with you to do a free subconscious block removal session so that you could experience hypnosis. No two people experience it the same way. If you enjoy the experience, you can decide for yourself if you would want to purchase any sessions. I have a really good referral program. If let’s say [your friend] Sally wants to purchase a session or package deal, you would get a free session to use for yourself or that you could gift to someone. There is no limit to the referral or expiring time.
Q: How did you first discover hypnosis?
A: I first discovered hypnosis from a lady who was also in one of the network marketing companies I was in. She was blowing away the sales. So, the owner had her speak on a sales call. She was using hypnosis, not in a brainwashing way, but in a positive way to market the products.
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: I was brought up in a loving middle class family of four. I’ve lived in Washington state my entire life of 54 years. I have an associates degree in marketing management. I am a Certified Professional Hypnotist and Certified Subconscious Block Removal Specialist. I am a domestic violence survivor. I basically just had one day when I had enough of the abuse (mental) and a switch flipped in my head. I divorced my husband and never looked back. My son was 16 when that happened. He’s now 29. I work with adults who have developmental disabilities for my work. I love photography and dogs. I have been involved in network marketing for 30 plus years.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: Something valuable that I have learned is basically summed up in this quote: “You never know how strong you are until being strong is all you have.” I pride myself on my determination and my desire to be the best version of myself that I can.
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: Feminism means to embrace all the beauty and things that make you a unique soul.
“…take pride in your skills, even if they have nothing to do with your career. Hobbies and passion projects are vitally important to living a fulfilling life. I recommend dance, but I am pretty biased.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A:I am passionate about so many things—it can feel overwhelming at times! This year I have expanded my container to focus on identifying as an artist, and I have thrown myself into my dance practices, returned to performing as a belly dancer, and picked up fire dancing again (an art form I learned in my 20s and had gotten away from). I’m also passionate about rock climbing and maintaining good physical, mental, and emotional health.
Most of how I spend my free time is dedicated to self growth, personal development, movement, fitness, and connecting with my community. I’m currently putting energy towards passion projects, including more workshops and retreats on nervous system regulation and somatic experiencing, and creating a rock climbing program for my patients who have a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. I’ll also be working on a duet choreography with one of my dance girlfriends to be performed at a show in April!
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: It’s funny because I am doing a lot of IFS (Internal Family Systems) work personally around my younger years and recognizing patterns I hadn’t been previously aware of. I am the youngest of five, and I spent a good deal of time as a child playing outside in the nearby patch of forest we had in our suburban neighborhood. My parents were big on road trips, so my passion for travel and nature was ignited at a young age, as we camped and visited many of the beautiful national parks the U.S. has to offer.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A:Three things come to mind. 1. I’m seven years sober and went through some really tough years of struggling with alcoholism and not understanding what addiction was or how to work with it. If you’re struggling with addictive behaviors or patterns—get help! Life is so much better on the other side, and there is no shame in addiction. It truly is an unfathomable disease. Help is out there and recovery has been such a huge gift in my life.
2. Working with my nervous system through Somatic Experiencing has been life-changing. These tools are basic human skills we should all learn from a very young age. How to self-regulate, how to identify sensations and separate them from emotions, how to feel anger without it being explosive. I strongly encourage anyone and everyone to learn some of these tools. I personally offer online programs, in-person retreats, local workshops, and countless free resources providing education on these topics because I believe we ALL have a right to live an embodied and empowered life.
3. Find hobbies you love and dive into them. Be inspired, be ignited, take pride in your skills, even if they have nothing to do with your career. Hobbies and passion projects are vitally important to living a fulfilling life. I recommend dance, but I am pretty biased.
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: Such a good question! The first thing that came to mind for me was “equality.” And not equality in the way that a woman needs to be able to do everything a man can do and vice versa, but strength and power in our own right, for men and women. Can we please celebrate our differences and see the power and wisdom in both?
I’d like to see a world where women are regarded as subjects, consistently and without having to ask for this repeatedly, rather than being objectified. Feminism is the ability to be soft and vulnerable in our strength, and have good support from men who have done their work to hold and cherish the vulnerability. I want to run around naked in my loincloth under a full moon, live for weeks in the forest out of my backpack, and yet still have access to my softness and gentleness.
MORE FROM DR. ALICE: I have a free training on nervous system regulation if anyone would like to check it out. They can access it here: Heal your Nervous System, Heal your LIfe
Thanks for reading!
Connect with me here:
Dr Alice Kerby, PT, DPT, SEP, Doctor of Physical Therapy, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner
“When we stumble, it’s crucial to rise again, recondition our thoughts, and renew our mindset daily.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: Ever since I was a child, the world of fashion has captivated my imagination. My dream career as a fashion designer was ignited at the tender age of 10, a passion that began with my love for drawing. My grandmother, a talented seamstress, played a pivotal role in nurturing this interest. She would create beautiful clothes for me, instilling a sense of style and creativity that has lasted a lifetime.
In middle school, I eagerly chose art as my selective subject, further honing my creative skills. Learning to sew in 7th grade home economics was a pivotal moment; it allowed me to connect with the fabric of my dreams, even if my path diverged from fashion design itself. My love for the arts encompasses its uniqueness, nature, and style—elements that inspire me every day.
Though I did not pursue a career in fashion design, my artistic journey has brought me to an exciting new role as a makeup artist and entrepreneur. This path has allowed me to collaborate with a diverse array of talent, including models, fashion designers, photographers, and hair stylists. I have coordinated and led various events, immersing myself in the vibrant world of beauty and creativity.
As I continue to navigate this journey, I realize that, while the dream of owning my own business is strong, I equally enjoy the thrill of working behind the scenes. Each experience fuels my passion for creativity and the arts, reminding me that every step I take is a brushstroke on the canvas of my life. I am excited to share my journey as I embark on creating a holistic business inspired by my personal experiences, particularly my battle with breast cancer. The Essence of S.A.W. holds a deep significance for me, as it is a tribute to my beloved grandmother, Sylvia Ann Williams, who raised me, and my Aunt Gloria D. Vann, who was like a mother to me. Having returned to Delaware in 2023 after spending a transformative decade in Atlanta, I am eager to channel my experiences into meaningful community work.
My mission is to support individuals in their broken places, helping them to conquer their challenges and discover the unique strengths that reside within them. I envision collaborating with local churches and community leaders to reach those who are often overlooked or stereotyped, simply because they don’t fit societal expectations.
Currently, I am developing a program aimed at empowering both male and female youth mentoring program to regain stability in their lives. While I am in a preparation phase due to an upcoming medical procedure, I am filled with hope and determination for what lies ahead. Stay tuned for more details as I prepare to launch this initiative in 2025—it’s going to be a year of transformation and empowerment!
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: Reflecting on my early years, I recognize that I had a stable upbringing largely due to the unwavering dedication of my single grandmother. She worked tirelessly to provide for me, instilling core values that shaped my character. Attending church was a non-negotiable part of my life, though as a child, I often viewed it through the lens of obedience rather than spiritual understanding. It wasn’t until later that I truly began to appreciate the depth of my relationship with God, moving beyond mere compliance to a genuine connection.
My relationship with my biological parents, however, was fraught with estrangement, leaving me to navigate a path filled with emotional pain. This unresolved trauma followed me into my adolescent years and young adulthood, influencing my decisions in ways I didn’t fully comprehend at the time. I faced challenges, including domestic violence, both physical and emotional, which tested my resilience. Yet, through these tribulations, I have emerged stronger and more self-aware. My hope is that youth will see the greater in themselves and not their pain.
Today, I celebrate a significant milestone—almost 3 years cancer-free. This victory is not just about surviving; it’s a testament to my growth and determination to conquer life on my terms. I recognize that I am still a work in progress, but I have a clearer sense of identity and purpose. I know who I am and whose I am, and I am committed to embracing each day as an opportunity for further growth and healing.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: In life, we often encounter challenges that test our resolve and determination. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of never giving up on oneself. It’s essential to build a deep, meaningful relationship with God, as this connection provides us with direction and guidance through life’s tumultuous journey.
Every setback we face should not be viewed as a failure, but rather as an opportunity to learn and grow. When we stumble, it’s crucial to rise again, recondition our thoughts, and renew our mindset daily. This process of self-reflection and personal growth is fundamental to overcoming life’s obstacles.
Moreover, self-love and self-care are vital tools for maintaining balance in our mind, body, and soul. In a world that often tries to define us, it’s imperative to remember that we are not what others say we are. Taking the time to discover who we truly are can be transformative. Engaging in practices such as prayer, meditation, and affirmations allows us to connect with our inner selves and embrace our unique identities.
My story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of self-discovery. I hope that by sharing this, others may find the strength to navigate their own journeys, embrace their true selves, and cultivate a life filled with purpose and positivity.
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: Feminism, at its core, is about advocating for equality and ensuring that women’s voices resonate in discussions that directly impact their lives. It’s a movement that champions women’s rights and highlights critical issues such as reproductive rights, which empower women to make informed choices about their own bodies. Addressing domestic violence is another crucial aspect, as it seeks to protect the most vulnerable and create safe spaces for all women.
Moreover, feminism emphasizes fairness and social justice, advocating for a society where everyone, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities and rights. Workplace issues are equally significant; the fight for family medical leave, equal pay, and protection against sexual harassment and discrimination is vital in creating equitable work environments. By raising awareness and fostering discussions around these topics, feminism aims to dismantle the systemic barriers that hinder women’s progress and ensure that their voices are not just heard, but valued and respected.
MORE FROM TIJUANA: After two decades away from my hometown, I’ve returned to Delaware with a wealth of experience and a desire to connect with local talent. During my time in Atlanta, I cultivated a diverse network of professionals in the fashion and creative industries, and I am eager to establish similar connections here. I invite all models, coaches, fashion designers, seamstresses, photographers, hairstylists, and marketing professionals from the Delmarva area, as well as those in DC, Philadelphia, and New Jersey to join me in networking. Together, we can create opportunities and invigorate the creative scene in Southern Delaware. Let’s collaborate, share ideas, and bring our talents together to inspire and elevate our community.
“…what others say about you is their garbage, not you.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: [I am passionate about] respecting the humanity of children. As a marketing guru once said, “You should just delete everything from your website and write: ‘Treat them like human beings, treat them like human beings…on infinite repeat.'”
I am currently working on: a semi-autobiographical novel about a women who can communicate with water, a parenting book that is essentially a brain dump of all that I’ve learned over the past almost 50 years, and I am learning just how well I can paint (it turns out I’m a very talented beginner). [Additionally, I’m working on] healing me [because of] an abusive marriage that I was ‘groomed’ for by the parenting my folks did and from the world around me.
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: Have you read Down Girl? That. What has impacted me the most, it turns out (why I married the idiot in the first place, and why I’ve been standing on the neck of my business for 20 years), is ‘trying to win my dad’s approval,’ which is never going to happen and has nothing at all to do with being loveable or worthy of approval. A freeing discovery.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: [I have learned] that what others say about you is their garbage, not you. And that critical voice in your head? That’s also them, not you.
You CAN reprogram your thinking, love yourself, and be your whole full potential (I’m working on that part…).
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: [Feminism, to me, means] seeing women as whole real people, in the same way I believe children need to be recognized as whole, real people.
[It also means] not “going to be people if or when…” or, as we see in our culture of patriarchy everywhere: not real people ever, at all.
MORE FROM LINDA: I live near Vancouver, BC, Canada, but I lived in Victoria, BC (the provincial capital) for 50 years (where I’m from…as well as getting my dad in the divorce, he also got the city.)
Thanks for reading!
Connect with me here:
Let’s meet online for a talk family session, click here.
“One of the most valuable things that I’ve learned is never take time for granted. When we are young, we don’t have a lot of foresight on this, but when we are older, it’s important to not sweat the small stuff.”
Q: What are you passionate about?
A: My passions are definitely staying in the world of God. This has been really helpful in my journey with life. My interests are empowering women of all ages, educating them on healing from within and using holistic natural ingredients when it comes to skin care. [Promoting] the mindset of all women being created equally and that we are all beautiful. My current work has been my biggest platform: TikTok Skin Care Renewed LLC. This has become both a passion and a job. Currently, I’m working on content creation when it comes to skin care, gut health, and having a bit of fun at the same time.
Q: What were your younger years like?
A: Growing up on Long Island and in New York City, I had the best of both worlds. The Italians were on Long Island, while my Spanish side of the family lived in the South Bronx. I grew up attending Broadway shows, Barbizon modeling school in nyc, always taking train rides into New York City to get our hair done or to watch the Rockettes. It inspired me to watch women dress up and feel beautiful. I’ve attended Catholic schools and public schools growing up.
Q: What is something valuable you’d like others to know?
A: One of the most valuable things that I’ve learned is never take time for granted. When we are young, we don’t have a lot of foresight on this, but when we are older, it’s important to not sweat the small stuff. Every day is a new day and a new beginning, and it’s never too late…whether it is trying something new or becoming a better you!
Q: What does feminism mean to you?
A: Feminism, for me, can be best described as a movement advocating for the rights and equality of women, reproductive rights, and social justices for all women. It’s definitely something I feel very passionate about.
MORE FROM ANGELMARIE: I was born in Amityville, New York…yes, where the haunted house is located! [She laughs.] I typically have that reaction from people when asked. Yes, I have that “New York sass and spice;” however, that has made me who I am today, which I am very grateful for.
The Woman Wednesday Blog 