Cover Photo(s) ©Jchatphoto
Meg Delagrange, Born Amish, Miracle Mom, Artist & Modern Marketer
Christina Carr, Carr Eats (Founder + Owner + Chef)
I love food, too.
So, of course, I was instantly drawn to Carr Eats Instagram account!
Carr Eats prepares & delivers healthy meals to match your nutritional and active lifestyle needs. It's my pleasure to connect and introduce you to Christina Carr, founder + owner + chef of Carr Eats!
What is Carr Eats?
In it’s simplest form - Carr Eats is a prepared meals business. Each week we cook + package fresh (not frozen) nutritious, great tasting, fork ready meals. We’re a catalyst for greatness beyond food…! We give you more time to do what you love outside of the kitchen and the belly power to get you there.
What inspired you to create Carr Eats?
I love eating!! But I love feeding people even more. I’m also a big self experimenter (if that’s a thing), so these worlds kind of collided for me when I was playing around with my diet at home; I have to credit my plate for some powerful life changes. Prior to Carr Eats, I was working in pharmaceuticals and I would see all these sick people; it was eye opening to realize how malnourished we are. People are eating and consuming calories but not getting any micro/macronutrients. I got it in my head that if I could show people how good they could feel from REAL food, I could maybe save them a doctors visit… or maybe get them off a few pills. Carr Eats was a personal mission that turned into a business once I stumbled across this huge need.
What do you do outside of work that directly impacts your career?
Fitness. Fitness. 100% fitness!! I've always been physically active but didn’t take my overall wellbeing seriously until a couple years ago when I started Crossfit. We had just finished renovating our house, a period where I did nothing to take care of myself. I wasn't eating great, I wasn't sleeping great, I was always thinking about work... I was a little depressed. Fitness was (really) really low on the priority list. I was at a point where I was sick of hearing myself make excuses. Focusing on what my body can do has given me a new outlook! Fitness has impacted my life in a profound way. What I eat matters. How I sleep matters. Fitness fuels the passion for what I do. I want everyone to experience what it’s like to appreciate their whole-self.
"Fitness fuels the passion for what I do. I want everyone to experience what it’s like to appreciate their whole-self. " -CC
How important is having a daily routine?
For me?! Very!!! No one would ever label me as a spontaneous person. I’m very methodical and enjoy streamlining routines to maximize efficiency. I basically do the same things in the same order daily. I budget time for the occasional variance/exception, but for the most part, I’m very routine. Very organized. It’s a term I’ve coined the “3B” rule. This may sound silly, but I go to the same grocery store weekly - at some point, I realized I was struggling to remember where I parked (like every time). This is a stress I didn’t need and something that had an easy fix! So now I always park in the same lot… 3B! I try to apply this in as many places as possible. As a small business owner, I have a ton going on, so routines save me from mistakes and reduce anxiety. Predictability is good!!
What is one challenge and one lesson you’ve learned from your experience as a founder?
Challenge: Everyone has an opinion.
Lesson: Ditch your ego. Arrogance + complacency are easy traps to fall into. Try to learn + grow from every experience (you will mess up - own that). Collect people in your life that are experts in their field; surround yourself with people who support, motivate and challenge you.
Can you give us one invaluable resource that has helped you in the development and growth of Carr Eats?
Fork Food Lab (Portland, ME). Without a commercial kitchen, I wouldn’t have a food license. Without a food license, there wouldn’t be a business. I’m always thinking about the next step and naturally, that would be to operate my own space, but Fork saved me when I didn’t have a place to go… when I was testing my concept and couldn’t afford to throw down 100k on a build-out. The timing was perfect, they were opening just as I was starting my brand, so it was really a lucky coincidence.
"Maine's Shared Kitchen and Tasting Room"
What are your top two CE memories thus far?
- I love to hear how my meals have changed lives. I have one client who thanked me and shared how her doctor asked what she was doing because she had made such progress in her health. She disclosed that she was off several medications because of my meals and feeling like she was in the best shape of her life.
- This is a recurring memory, but I really enjoy remembering every morning, that THIS is what I get to do today. I don’t think this feeling will ever get old. Literally opening your eyes each day and getting to contribute to a cause that you are personally invested in.
"Love what you do + respect the trust people have in you. You put your health in our hands and we don't take that lightly." CC via Instagram
What is your favorite inspirational/motivational quote?
It’s more of a question than a quote, but its something my father would say to me when I was in a tricky spot. “What are your choices here Chris?” I repeat this to myself constantly. It's a reminder that even in the hardest of times you can create options for yourself. It's a reminder that you always have the power to change your perspective. This has been invaluable on countless occasions.
In one word, describe yourself:
Haha! Let's call it persistent!
To Connect with Carr Eats:
- FB: https://www.facebook.com/carreats/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carreats/
- Website: www.carreats.com
- Email: carreats@gmail.com
- Blog: https://carreats.com/the-blog/
Cathleen Wasielewski, Teacher of Yin Yoga, Meditation, Krama Vinyasa Yoga
Cathleen Wasielewski (E-RYT 200, RYT 500, YACEP) is the real deal. Without question, her teachings will change your life. She has 100% changed mine. I met Cathy at Greener Postures Yoga Studio in South Portland, Maine. Some people you instantly connect with and for me, Cathy was one. A mutual smile and "Hi Jessica" and "Hi Cathy" immediately fills me with happiness, hope and knowing I'm exactly where I am supposed to be. For me to share Cathy's story is an honor. She influences and encourages me to follow my path through her teachings, which has guided me in the creation of Mindbosa.
What inspired you to become a Yoga Instructor?
Inspiration- the “Ah-Ha” moments of being truly present, embodied and in the real knowing of clarity and peace. My very first studio yoga class was it. It was a sweaty Hatha practice where I was completely out of my comfort zone of being able to control anything that was happening at the moment. My body was experiencing a stamina it had never known, my mind was being blown away with the clarity of letting the thoughts just pass through and my spirit was standing back and observing it all with a sense of fun and joy and an element of saying to me “Here you are! Welcome home!”
Before this practice of yoga I had experienced all kinds of physical exercise, dance and had always loved being in my body and moving. This was something different. There was an intellectually incomprehensible energy to what I was feeling and I wanted more. I continued to study yoga asana in its many disciplines and presentations and always found this sense of returning home to balance, peace and clarity. I just kept going and the practice had led me to the deeper layers of spirituality and meditation. Each practice is a new discovery and is a continued inspiration to keep going. Teaching is a way to continue my study and share the conversations with all.
Can you tell us about your educational experiences and personal journey to becoming an Instructor?
I began with heated Hatha practice and over time moved toward a more advanced physical practice. As I longed to learn more I experienced my first heated vinyasa practice. As vinyasa is based in movement with breath I became more interested in learning how this affected my own body as well as the experience of others. I went to experience a week of training with a renowned teacher of Prana Vinyasa Shiva Rea and was in love with the depths she taught. From that time I vowed to explore deeper education. I studied to become a classroom assistant in 2009 so that I could work hands on with students and their bodies to assist in enhancing the energy of the poses. From there I studied with Baron Baptiste in upstate New York for my first teacher training. It was intense and hard and incredible. It opened me up. I continued for 2 more weeks of education in the Baptiste Methodology and also trained in a 200hr Yoga Alliance training in Power Flow. I became certified in 2012 but had been teaching nearly 2 years before that.
I became a kind of training junkie and wanted to experience the teachings of all different kinds of yoga and did so. I trained and studied with Todd Norian, Rolf Gates, Anodea Judith as well as more studies with Roberto Lim and Shiva Rea. My interest in Yin Yoga, a deeper still practice of embodiment through connective tissue work, brought me to study with Josh Summers in 2014 and advanced training with Bernie Clark in the summer of 2016. It has been Mind blowing.
I furthered my education by engaging in a 2nd 200hr certification with Johanna Bell of Sonic Yoga in New York City in 2014 and continued on with Johanna’s Illumina Yoga training to received my advanced 500hr certification in 2017.
I continue to study with teachers of many yoga disciplines to encompass the wider scope of all that is yoga- asana and beyond.
Currently, I am enrolled at the Academy of Intuition Medicine based in Mill Valley, California. This education will continue over the next couple of years. The intuition medicine model uses subtle body mapping based on the ancient philosophy and teachings of yoga to bring awareness to health through understanding energy principles.
When did you realize your passion for yoga and healing would become a career path?
Almost immediately. Teaching is an evolution of a career in healthcare that I practiced for over 25 years. I worked at the retail level as a registered pharmacist for many years and in that time engaged in self and formal studies related to natural and alternative medicines and nutrition. With my love of embodiment and movement, Yoga practice helped me to make the link between health and living healthy and so the process continued with yogic study.
What do you like to do outside of work that directly impacts your practice and teachings?
Study study study …with all the information that I can get my hands on. I love to read and immerse myself both intellectually and experientially.
I live my life. I spend time in nature. I spend time with my family and friends and nurturing relationships. I engage in conversations of all kinds of depth and learning. Life is a platform for yoga. It teaches us about ourselves and how to gain the depth of connection and love.
What is one challenge and one lesson you’ve learned from your experience as an Instructor? Yogi?
Challenge: overcoming fear on all levels. I used to think I wasn’t normal. I seemed to look at the world in a different way than what I perceived other people around me did. I was always working from my feeling sense, nature and the ground. Constructs of our society were so confusing to me in that so many people seemed to do things that they weren’t happy doing. I was afraid of never finding my Self. I thought that I needed to live my life in the way that others did, even though it didn’t feel good. I kept quiet and had trouble finding my voice. I was afraid to be different.
“My challenge was to stop worrying about fitting into other people’s expectations and to speak my own Truth as well as live my own Truth.”
The challenge in yoga practice is the same as life. When I discovered the practices of coming to my mat I came face to face with myself and my fears. I came to Truth by facing them one breath at a time.
How important is having a daily routine?
Daily routine is the mainstay of growth. The practices of yoga are methods to continuously grow our awareness of clearing the clutter that life imparts upon us. Life won’t stop…it will continue to push on us and challenge us and yoga is called a practice because life is continuous and ever-changing. We will continue to grow in spite of ourselves but yoga gives the tools for a smoother ride. A ride of learning our spirits, our capabilities, our strength and our light.
"The practices of yoga are methods to continuously grow our awareness of clearing the clutter that life imparts upon us." -CW
What is one piece of advice you would offer any individual contemplating beginning a yoga practice?
Yoga practice will be everything you always wanted and everything you never wanted. It will feel like bliss and it will feel like the most difficult thing you ever do. It grows your understanding of your Self. There is no wrong way to practice the many and all encompassing aspects of yoga. Yoga is a teaching for personal freedom and love. Keep going!!!!! You will find you.
Whatever yoga practices make sense to you, study that as that is your personal path to your own light.
What is your proudest personal and professional accomplishment?
My proudest accomplishment is in finding my Truth and speaking it by following my own heart and interests. Before teaching yoga I couldn’t even speak in front of a small group of friends without anxiety and fear. Now I speak loud and clear from my heart and Spirit.
What is your favorite inspirational/motivational quote?
There are so many favorites that I have, but I think the one that has been most inspirational for me is a quote that comes from a writing called “The Invitation” by Oriah Mountain Dreamer. The entire writing is a continuing inspiration for me. It says:
“It doesn’t interest me who you know or how you came to be here. I want to know if you can stand in the center of the fire with me and not shrink back.”
“I want to know what sustains you from the inside when all else falls away. I want to know if you can be alone with yourself and truly like the company you keep in the empty moments”
In one word, describe yourself:
Real
To Connect w/ Cathleen:
Class schedule and events are posted on:
Facebook: Cathleen Wasielewski Yoga
Writing/Blog: cathleenwasielewskiyoga.blogspot.com
Niraj Yoga 648 Congress St, Portland, ME.
Greener Postures Yoga South Portland and West Falmouth, ME.
Illumina Yoga on faculty to facilitate teacher trainings at Niraj Yoga 648 Congress St. Portland ME.
Weekly Classes:
Morning Yin Yoga and Meditation at Niraj Yoga. Mondays 9:30 -10:45am
Morning Yin Yoga and Meditation at Niraj Yoga. Thursdays 8-9am
Evening Yin Yoga and Meditation at Niraj Yoga. Thursdays 7:15-8:30pm
Community Meditation at Niraj Yoga. Wednesdays 8-9am by donation
Yin Yoga & Meditation at Greener Postures Yoga, South Portland, ME. Fridays 2:15pm-3:30pm
Special Events:
Intro to Yin Yoga at Greener Postures Yoga, South Portland on Saturday January 20th, 2018. 12:30-3:00pm
Carrie McEneaney, A Maine Mom Running
True story, I met Carrie in February 2001. She trained me to be a server at Macaroni Grill! Back then, I'm not sure I understood what running was and why anyone would want to do it! I'd say we've come a long way since. It comes as no surprise Carrie is a passionate and dedicated runner, mom, wife, friend, and worker. Here's a glimpse of Carrie, A Maine Mom Running.
What inspired you to begin running?
I ran cross-country and track in high school and college, but stopped after graduation. Even though I ran every once in a while, it wasn’t until after the birth of our second son that I really had the itch to start running on a regular basis and compete again. Meeting up with an old high school friend and a couple of her friends inspired me to get out there.
How has running impacted your life?
Running has been a huge impact in my life. It has shown me that I can do hard things and push myself both mentally and physically further than I previously thought possible. It has brought me friendships both in person and through social media that will last a lifetime. It gives me solo time and is a release from the day-to-day crazies which in turn helps me be a better person in all aspects of my life.
What are one challenge and one lesson you’ve learned from your training?
Training your brain is almost more important than becoming physically strong when it comes to running. When your body is tired and you don’t think you could take another step, it’s a huge challenge to focus and fight the urge to stop. But the more you run, the more you practice mental focus, the more you will improve. With running, what you put in, you will get out. If you don’t invest the time, you won’t be fully satisfied with the results. There are no shortcuts.
“ Life gets in the way of training (no regrets), so I have no expectations other than to reach the finish line and have fun along the way. -CM”
What are your top two favorite running memories?
Crossing the finish line at the high school state meet in the 300m hurdles in first place way back in 1994 is one of my favorite memories. Second would be running the Maine Coast Marathon on Mother’s Day in 2015. Even though it was my slowest marathon to date and I had to walk the last half due to a sudden heatwave of over 90 degrees after training all winter, I had the best time just enjoying the journey. Also having my husband and two boys waiting for me at the finish was a wonderful gift.
If you could run anywhere in the world, where would it be?
It’s pretty cliche, but running the Boston Marathon is where I hope to run one day. A close second would be Antarctica or Alaska. I run hot, so running somewhere cold is my ideal place.
What is your favorite inspirational/motivational quote?
"Running is about more than just putting one foot in front of the other; it is about our lifestyle and who we are.” - Joan Benoit Samuelson or more recently, “F*&k yes!” - Shalane Flanagan right before winning the 2017 NYC Marathon (Catch that video HERE!)
In one word, describe yourself:
Positive
"Running has been a huge impact in my life. It has shown me that I can do hard things and push myself both mentally and physically further than I previously thought possible." -CM
Connect & follow Carrie,
A Maine Mom Running Via:
Instagram and Twitter @amainemom
MJ Allen, Founder of Presence of Mind Studio
This is the story of MJ Allen. A courageous, tell-all of her life changing incarceration and how it transformed her life.
What is Presence of Mind Studio?
The mission of Presence of Mind Studio is to be committed to making the life-changing benefits of meditation available to all. Since Presence of Mind has been open, however, it has become something much, much different. The studio has been a place where people have learned to breathe, found simple and routine mindfulness techniques, and yes, people have meditated. People have laughed, cried, and become self-aware while sitting upon a cushion or couch in the studio. It's become a place of stories and transition.....along with healing. For all those reasons, Presence of Mind's mission is beginning to change to one of facilitating people's growth, inner truth, and self-awareness.
“Maya Angelou once said ”You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.” ”
Can you share with us your past?
I was a founder and executive director of a small mental health agency that started in 2003 by a small group of professionals and myself. After the close of a 5 year grant, the State of Maine recommended that we become a mental health agency...we did. The agency was established as a mental health agency in April 2008 and abruptly closed in December 2009....a mere 20 months later. In that time, the agency experienced delayed reimbursement with DHHS. The line of credit was insufficient to cover the costs of the operating the business and, in the end, I made choices that were driven from my ego and pride. Those choices included altering a bank check receipt, scanning and providing to Anthem as proof of payment for the employees health insurance, not paying over payroll taxes to taxing authorities, and tax issue with my personal tax returns. The headlines read as though I embezzled money and that providers went without payment. It is true that providers went without payment. I also went without payment and lost well over $100,000 on top of the $50,000 in legal fees. The tragic loss was that of a great concept and a wonderful program that was built from love and commitment to the people of York County, Maine. At the time I was removed from my position, I actually believed I could not live without the Agency. It was born in my living room, my husband and kids took a back seat to anything Agency related, and I had nearly bankrupted my family to keep the Agency afloat....as it was, I had put our home in foreclosure by diverting the payments into the Agency to keep the lights on and staff paid.
After I was removed from my position on December 4, 2009, I buried my head until the following June when I decided to return to school. I wanted to switch from the administrative side of mental health to the clinical side. In December 2011, I graduated a 120 hour undergraduate degree in Forensic Psychology, just 10 days before I would start a Masters program in Clinical Mental Health and Counseling. It was just 4 weeks after being indicted on 23 counts of theft by misapplication and tax evasion. I had made this whole situation with the Agency worse by continuing to have an attitude of entitlement and had worked full-time and collected unemployment benefits so I had added to the charges that I would ultimately have had to answer for. Through it all, I continued to trudge through, didn't learn a thing and allowed my ego to expand even larger. It was also the same weekend I would be slipped a date rape drug in a glass of wine and experience a sexual assault. My response to it all was to become bigger than life!!! The more I experienced, the bigger my attitude, ego and conceitedness.
From January 2012 to August 2013 was a collision course and I had no concept whatsoever of how hard the crash was going to be. I separated from my husband, lived 2 hours north for most of the week, and still believed that I could never be convicted--I'd done nothing wrong!! In the end, after nearly $50,000 in legal fees and my family's request to please end this whole thing, I took a plea agreement and was convicted for what I'd done. My ego, however, continued to tell me that I wouldn't get jail time---on August 14, 2013--1 day after my 43rd birthday--I turned myself into York County Jail and began what would be a nearly 16 month time in prison.
"The most overwhelming memory of all was the first night. I was alone, everything had been stripped away...literally and figuratively. I was wearing county jail orange clothes, shoes that someone else had worn, and I had no socks. As they say, this was the first day of the rest of my life." -MJ
I remember everything and every moment of August 14, 2013 like it was yesterday. I recall trying to get things in order for my husband so that he could manage the house for however long I was away. I remember saying good bye to friends, my kids, and my dog. I remember standing in my bedroom sobbing and baffled by how all of this could happen to me--why me? I recall the ride with my husband to the jail and how everything in my life seemed to be slipping away. I can still feel what it was like to to leave my husband standing at the door and turning to face my reality...alone! But, the most overwhelming memory of all was the first night. I was alone, everything had been stripped away...literally and figuratively. I was wearing county jail orange clothes, shoes that someone else had worn, and I had no socks. As they say, this was the first day of the rest of my life.
The journey to prison was definitely an eye-opener. I heard stories that were real and raw. I once thought I was a great therapist, what I learned was that I knew nothing about reality...only what the books and the clients share. I met some incredible people along the way, including my meditation mentor. When we first met, I was amazed that someone could spend that much time looking within. I, myself, couldn't manage to get 5 minutes under my belt. I was fortunate to spend most of my 16 months in a pre-release facility with my own clothes, the ability to have pass's into the community with my family, to return to school, and to go to work. Work for me would be a humbling experience at Dunkin Donuts.
While I was in prison, I became interested in meditation and definitely in mindfulness. The anxiety and jumpiness that existed on the outside was ten fold behind the wall. I didn't fear my safety, but the unexpected nearly killed me. Not knowing when someone would start yelling for no reason or we would be told to "lock up" for hours on end. I knew I needed to find a way to quiet my mind and my life. The destruction of my life, a sexual assault, and facing the damage I'd done to my family was with me constantly.
And that, is my past in a nutshell.....
How did being incarcerated transform your life and what would life look like today not having that experience?
The transformation of having been in prison still occurs. First and foremost, I learned that I could actually accept and take ownership of the things I did to cause the situation. When asked by probation, I simply have stated "I will own everything I did, but I will not take ownership of the things I didn't do, but am convicted of so I could begin to put this behind my family". The reality is, I learned a lot about myself, what drives me, where my perfectionistic tendencies and my ego. I also found I had passion for working with women who have trauma histories and bringing a voice to the retraumatization of women through incarceration and how that has impacted the astronomical increase in female recidivism rates in this country. This experience provided me with a purpose for my master's project.
The investigation itself started to provide a glimpse into how people viewed me when I began reading the interrogations of the people who worked for me. That in and of itself, was eye opening. People actually feared my reaction and temper tantrums if things didn't go a certain way. Subsequently, while I was incarcerated, my kids, particularly my youngest, began to tell me what his experience was of growing up with me as his mother. It was the hardest things for me to hear. I recognized that something needed to change and I absolutely had to get my controlling nature and volatile reactions under control. The first few months home were difficult, but I committed myself to my self-care, mindfulness, self-awareness, and daily meditation.
Today, I am able to walk away from conflict and to 'let it go'. I am able to use my voice in a meaningful manner. My kids, husband and I have wonderful relationships that are healthier than they have ever been. I know sitting here today, that had I not had the experience of going to prison, I would have lost everything in my life....potentially, even myself. There were times through all of this that the thoughts of ending my life were very difficult to resist. I would have attempted to be a therapist, I would have done ok, but I wouldn't have been able to really meet people where they are and to guide their ability to look within for the healing and forward movement. I would have naively thought I had a concept of working with people who have addictions, but I wouldn't have been able to fully understand that addiction is not about the substance of choice, it is about something far deeper. All in all, life would have been very, very different and I would have been the same ego-driving person fraught with anxiety and depression, juggling too many balls and scared to death that one of the balls would drop and my world would come crashing down....just as it did!
What is one challenge and one lesson you’ve learned from your experience as a founder?
The biggest challenge I face is getting people to come through to door. Meditation and mindfulness is still not a mainstream tool. Although, I love yoga and especially enjoy the last 15 minutes of any yoga class, but the representation that it is meditation results in people deciding they have done meditation and don't need to come to a meditation studio separately.
One lesson I've learned is to stay true to what I am doing. It was very important to me to offer the group classes as a donation. Because of my history with women who have trauma histories, mental health needs, and incarceration, I understand that professionals suggest mindfulness and meditation, but where do you go? And, when you get there, if you have limited income, how do you pay for it? For me, it is a personal mission to make this tool available to people...no matter their ability to pay.
How important is having a daily routine?
Having a daily routine and building a daily meditation practice is extremely important. I describe that your daily routine is like training for a marathon. You don't go out and run a marathon without training and you don't experience the long-term benefits from meditation and mindfulness without a daily practice. The daily practice is like your training for when you need to be self-aware of your reactions, deal with a difficult situation, or manage the day-to-day stressors we all experience.
By incorporating mindfulness into everyday practices, MJ has undergone a transformational weight loss. Read more here: Essential Living Maine: My Mindful Weightloss Journey
What do you like to do outside of work that directly impacts your practice?
I love to hike!! For me, there is nothing like the feeling I get when I lace up my hiking boots, take Gracie (my English Springer) off the leash, and hit a trail. I find myself, my center and my calm in these escapes. The sound of the birdsong, the smell of the forest, and the feel of the uneven earth beneath my feet keeps me grounded and in the present moment, which then translates into my being present for clients and groups in the studio.
"We made it...47 degrees, 67 mph winds and dense cloud cover" -July 4th 2017
Can you tell us one invaluable resource that has helped in the growth and development of Presence of Mind Studio?
That’s an easy one….the people who surround me every day are the ultimate invaluable resource!! After everything I have been through, I still have people who believe in me. Those people have helped me see the vision and one of them was gracious enough to provide the funding for me to open the studio and pay the overhead costs while clients were finding me.
What is your proudest personal and professional accomplishment?
Aside from being a very proud mother, my proudest personal accomplishment is coming out of prison changed for the better. As I look back, I realize the crossroads that I stood, one was to be the victim and weak, the other to take control and find the silver lining and the strength within myself… I chose to acknowledge and appreciate the strength that existed within me.
"My kids, husband and I have wonderful relationships that are healthier than they have ever been. I know sitting here today, that had I not had the experience of going to prison, I would have lost everything in my life....potentially, even myself." -MJ
My proudest professional accomplishment was attending graduate school and obtaining my Master’s degree despite going to prison in the middle of it. It wasn’t always easy to trudge forward not knowing, and oftentimes not believing, that I would ever be allowed to have my license to practice as a Licensed Professional Counselor, but I still moved forward. As I write this, I am still unsure if I will be granted licensure, but I have not let it deter me from being a champion for mental health needs and prison reform.
I would like to share repeatedly 1 message to the world, on your behalf, what should I share?
The message that resonates with me the most is taken from what a dear professor said to me when I disclosed that I would be leaving and going to prison. He said “each and every one of us are one fine line from being incarcerated on any given day." John's message meant so much to me and has resonated in how I try to conduct my life without judgment of others. One small shift in my life and I could have been addicted to substances, homeless or have taken a life while driving drunk…life can change in a heartbeat, so be kind today and view those we encounter with compassion and understanding.
What is your favorite inspirational/motivational quote?
“Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment” ~~Buddha
In one word, describe yourself:
Determined
"It was a journey of self-awareness for getting these words onto paper for the very first time outside of my own journals. I appreciate the opportunity to share what has brought me to this place in my life." -MJ
To Connect with MJ & Presence of Mind Studio:
Website: www.presenceofmindstudio.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/presenceofmindstudio
Instagram: @presence_of_mind_maine
Chris Marine, Media Planner|Partner MMP & Entrepreneur
After establishing himself at some of the largest media companies in the country, Chris started his own business. He grew up in an entrepreneurial family and dreaming big is in his DNA.
What is Marine Media Partners?
Marine Media Partners (MMP) is an advertising agency specializing in media planning and buying, social media management, and search engine marketing. We’re super proud to be one of the first media buying shops in Maine to adopt using comScore data to help us pinpoint more effective advertising opportunities for our clients. Our goal is to help our clients achieve long term business growth by getting their marketing message in front of the right people. We like to say we’re connecting brand, media and consumer in more meaningful ways.
"MMP MISSION is changing the way brand, media and consumers connect. These three pillars of our culture have an awesome responsibility in helping shape our communities on a local and global scale. Our goal is to help brands connect with their customers in positive and engaging ways for long-term business growth."
Can you tell us about your previous career of working in network & broadcast television?
Working in broadcast news was a dream come true! At my core, I’m a story teller and I take what I learned in that relatively short chapter with me into every aspect of my personal and professional life. I started working at the NBC affiliate in Portland, Maine my junior year of college and started out as an Associate Producer. I worked my way up to being a Multimedia Journalist in a very short time, while being a full time student, where I helped produce newscasts, gather news stories and report live on the air. Being a reporter was by far the most humbling experience. As a reporter you see people at their best and more often worst times and to be invited into people’s homes as a trusted source to share those stories… it still gives me goosebumps thinking about it. As rewarding as it was it did take a toll. When you work in news it not only tests your own stamina but it tests all the personal relationships you have around you as well. I’ve never had a job that took me from the highest of highs to the lowest of lows all in one shift. It’s seriously a rollercoaster of emotions! You’re running off adrenaline all day long. I always got engulfed in the stories I was reporting on and carried them with me far after the work day wrapped up - heck, I still carry those stories I reported on with me. I ended up leaving news for my family and for my own health. Even in my short time of two years I feel like it accelerated my personal and professional development by ten years. Working in news is fast paced and every day presents the demand of learning something new. I’m not sure if I’ve ever been able to shake that adrenaline of broadcast news off. I always have to keep moving forward and learning new things. I thank my time working in news for that mentality.
What has led you to build your own business?
I’m fortunate that I’ve grown up in a family full of entrepreneurs, so that drive to build and create something better has always been a part of me. I struggled for a while to come with an idea that would solve a real problem. After working in news I spent the next several years establishing myself in some of the country’s largest and most diversified media companies in the country such as Tegna, Sinclair Broadcast Group and Cox Media Group working as an advertising rep. I was successful because I genuinely cared for every client as if their business were my own. It was my clients that inspired me to start this agency. In today’s flooded information age there’s never been a greater demand for clarity in advertising. My mission to inform and advocate for the brands I work with was the root of me starting MMP.
"Dreaming. The most powerful of motivation. Don't be afraid to dream big, dream often, and never stop the pursuit of achieving them. And most importantly don't let other people limit your dreams." -Chris Marine via Instagram
How do you stay up-to-date with the changes and evolutions in digital/social media marketing and advancing technology?
It’s not easy to keep up with the current media landscape, that’s for sure. It’s a really exciting time though to be a part of the industry because in many ways it’s going through an incredible renaissance. The word “digital” use to mean online media channels, now digital components are applied to nearly every medium. I have chosen to invest significantly into the same technology and data sources that the national media companies have their hands on to measure even traditional media like broadcast television. Even television which most people consider “traditional” is anything but traditional! It’s measured daily in thousands of households, we can see everything from when someone changes the channel in a program to where they change the channel to. Data is a key indicator today in how we study people’s behaviors and consumption patterns and I pay close attention to that. I treat every day like a class. Along with aggregating and analyzing data I spend at least two hours a day just reading. Reading trade journals, advertising news sties, competitor’s works, and most importantly getting out and hearing from business owners. Business owners will always have the best pulse on the consumer. Meeting and learning from them is the best education.
What do you like to do outside of work that directly impacts your career?
A recent endeavor I’ve taken on which has been instrumental to my personal and professional development has been to teach. I went back to my alma mater at the University of Southern Maine to help students in the media studies program learn more about the advertising industry and the impact it has in our culture and media landscape. I learn so much from all of the students, it’s incredible! So while this class is technically work, like everything else I do, it sure doesn’t feel like it.
What has been the biggest challenge and lesson you've faced so far?
The biggest challenge for me has been learning how to let go of some control in my business. Being a perfectionist isn’t always all that healthy. I like to have my hand in every part of the business from the strategy, media planning and buying, to the campaign management and reporting, but in order to maintain the absolute best service at the rate of growth we’re currently at I know it isn’t sustainable as a one or two person shop. My Italian grandmother always used to say the old adage “Rome wasn’t built in a day”… I have to remind myself of that frequently. And the perfectionist side of me has a challenge with that sometimes.
What are your top 2 most memorable client experiences?
Only two! There have been so many! One of my favorite experiences would have to be when I was working with a local client in Southern Maine and they invited my wife and I down to visit them in Pennsylvania for a weekend where they run their other business. When my client offered it to me, I don’t think he was expecting me to take him up on it and his reaction when I shook his hand with enthusiasm was priceless! I love when I get to dive deep into the story behind a business and the entrepreneurs that bring it to life. It’s inspiring!
If you could work with any brand in the world, what would it be and why?
It’s funny, when I think about who I want to work with I’m not so much dazzled by a particular brand as I am with an actual person and purpose. Sure there are brands that when I see their advertising and try to understand their strategy it totally rocks me and I just fall in love with their message and I think, “dang, that would be awesome to be able and help share that story” but I approach business in reverse. I can literally get just as excited about a project with a local mom and pop shop as I am with the idea of working with a national brand as long as the story is there. When I meet with new clients I’m focused on one thing, finding their WHY. When we stop pitching products in ads and move towards why we’re actually in business… those are the stories that not only resonate with people and move businesses forward, but they move our culture forward. Those are the inspiring brands I want work with.
What is one "I couldn't live without it" App you use?
I have grown dependent on my Apple News app, it’s like my Pandora playlist for news… I finally have it tailored perfectly to my liking.
What is your proudest personal accomplishment?
It has to be my own personal growth. I’ve always been driven to push myself outside of my comfort zone and through doing that I have learned so much about myself, my field of studies and most importantly what I feel is a well-rounded perspective and appreciation for life. When I think about my own personal accomplishment I can’t help but be grateful for my family, friends, colleagues, and everyone that has believed in me along the way. Putting up with a big dreamer like myself is definitely not easy… my wife is a saint! A lot of people -even myself sometimes- think I’m crazy for leaving a very successful and safe corporate job to start my own business, but Elise is always picking me up and dusting me off whenever I start to doubt myself. She never questions it. You need someone like that. What I’ve learned is that life is a team sport and I am so grateful to be surrounded by the best!
What is your favorite inspirational/motivational quote?
“We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.” Walt Disney
In one word, describe yourself:
Passionate
To Connect with Chris & MMP:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marinemediapartners/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mmp_mediapros/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MMP_MediaPros
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/10987296/
MMP Website: marinemediapartners.com
Heather Davis - Executive Director of LearningWorks
What is LearningWorks?
LearningWorks is an education nonprofit in Portland, Maine. We’re celebrating our 50th anniversary this year. Our mission is to reimagine learning through innovative programs that help children, adults, and families realize their potential and build thriving communities. We offer five free programs for people who fall outside of traditional education structures. Those include an afterschool program for elementary school students, a community service program for young people facing disciplinary action at school or in trouble with the law, an English language program for New Mainers, an alternative high school program for kids who have dropped out of local schools, and an AmeriCorps program that provides 100 volunteers to struggling schools.
How did you first get involved in working with non-profits?
My first nonprofit job was at an Audubon Society in Santa Fe, New Mexico! I helped out in the office and worked with kids in an environmental education summer camp program.
At what point did you realize your passion for education would become a career path?
After I finished college, I landed a job working as a writing teacher in an afterschool program in Harlem. I fell in love with teaching, with alternative education programs, and with the concept of using my career to serve a community and advance social justice. I was hooked from that point on and have stayed in education nonprofits and classrooms ever since.
What do you like to do outside of work that contributes to your career?
I like to spend time with my family, be in nature, and read and write. I think all of those things help me learn, grow, and reflect on myself, my work, and my community, which is a source of strength when I’m on the job.
Can you tell us about your most favorite projects?
At LearningWorks, one of our programs is called Service Works. Service Works connects kids who are in trouble in some way – at school, or with the law – with meaningful community service opportunities that help make amends for their behavior and give them a safe, supportive space to reflect on what’s happened and what they’d like to change going forward. The team that runs this project at LearningWorks is really great at coming up with creative and beneficial community partnerships to make this program happen. They do everything from removing graffiti from public buildings and harvesting seaweed for community gardens to serving free community meals at local schools. I’ve been lucky enough to spend a little time with the program at Wayside Food Programs and during a trip to help another nonprofit (Furniture Friends) accept and organize furniture donations for needy families. So much good comes of this work for everyone involved, it always gives me a boost of hope and happiness when I check in with this program.
I’ve also really enjoyed working on our 50 Stories Project to celebrate our 50th Anniversary. We’re partnering with local photographers to tell 50 stories about current and former staff, students, donors, volunteers, and partners who have made LearningWorks what it is today. It’s been so moving to meet all the subjects and learn their stories and the generosity of the photographers and other folks helping this project out has been truly inspiring.
50 STORIES PROJECT || "We are excited to announce our 50 Stories project! This project will tell the stories of 50 current and former LearningWorks students, clients, staff, and volunteers who have been and continue to be an inspiration to us. We are extremely fortunate to have teamed up with local photographers who are generously donating their talent to this project and to the individuals who have enthusiastically agreed to share their stories. We hope you enjoy this journey as we honor our past and invite you to be part of our next 50 years!"
What is your favorite inspirational/motivational quote?
This might sound crazy, but here goes. Honestly, the quote that I always come back to is one from a documentary project my friend Molly did with young people at The Telling Room when we worked there together. She helped a bunch of students go out on the street with audio recorders to ask strangers one question and use the answers to tell a story. One group of students asked people if they believed in Bigfoot. The responses were hilarious and moving. One man went on at length and talked about how learning about myths and legends like Bigfoot opens us up to learning about the world around us. He said, “Grab it and grasp it with energy. Be like astronauts of the world. Be astronauts of the forest and the sea.” I always come back to him saying it because it captures ideas that I like a lot. I loved the spontaneous poetry of it and wish that we could all speak that way more often. I loved the idea of being enthusiastic, diving into things, being creative, being bold, exploring, and leading.
In one word, describe yourself:
Real
To Connect w/ LearningWorks:
Websites: LearningWorks.me || Learning Works 50th Anniversary
Facebook: @LearningWrks || Instagram: @learningworksmaine
Email Heather: hdavis@learningworks.me
Shannon Bryan - Founder of Fit Maine
What is Fit Maine?
Fit Maine is a website dedicated to cool ways to work out and fun, active things to do in Maine. (There's no shortage of either of those things, which means I'm always hearing about and discovering new stuff to check out, write about, and tell others about. And this makes me happy!). There is also a newsletter and an events calendar, plus Fit Maine Facebook and Instagram, all for the purpose of letting other people know about lively weekend activities, running groups, races, moonlight paddles, circus arts classes, easy hikes, etc. That's the whole point - to tell people about this really fun stuff (and encourage them to go check it out for themselves).
What inspired you to create Fit Maine?
I love doing active things in Maine, whether it's taking a kickboxing class, sweating it out at an outdoor boot camp, or finding a stunning new hike or easy-going paddle. I'd go do these things with a few friends and post about them on Facebook (that's what Facebook is for, right? Posting our wonderous adventures?) and I'd get questions from other people wanting to know more: "Where was this class? How much was it? Was it hard? Is it beginner friendly?" I realized there was no resource for this kind of stuff - a single place where you could find about new workouts or running groups or get tips on places to hike or paddle or trail run. So, two years ago, I decided to create it. Add to that the fact that I get a huge kick out of getting other people to go try new things. It makes my heart swell to hear someone say, "I read about that class/hike/group on Fit Maine and went and tried it and had a great time!" That's why I keep writing. These kinds of experiences are life-enhancing. They get people out of their comfort zones. On top of being a ton of fun, this stuff is good for our bods. Sure, some folks prefer to run on a treadmill at the gym, but for folks who'd rather paddleboard or do aerial trapeze, I've got you covered! (I also have a penchant for the kinds-weird stuff, like kitten yoga and goat hikes!)
What are one challenge and one lesson you’ve learned from your experience as FM founder?
One challenge I face is figuring out how to support the site financially. For the first couple of years, I've funded the site myself (I do make some money by selling "Maine is my gym" tanks and tees). And that worked because I believe so much in what I'm doing that I didn't mind spending money to do it. But it also means that a good chunk of my time is spent doing work elsewhere that does make money (and I've been supremely lucky to have work that I also really love doing). So my ability to focus on Fit Maine is limited, although my dream is to be able to do it full time. And I have little experience with sales and monetizing websites, so it's been a challenge to adopt a new skill set that'll help me talk to businesses about Fit Maine and why it's so fantastic and why supporting it has value for everyone (those who read it and the events/studios/gyms/trainers I write about). But I'm embracing the chance to learn new things!
One lesson I've learned is to know my audience. Early on, I wrote a piece about beginner yoga classes and workshops (I know a lot of women and men who are curious about yoga but are hesitant to show up to a class), so this story was one I believed would be really useful. But I included a photo of a woman in crow pose, which is a fairly advanced hand balancing pose. And that clouded the message I was trying to convey - that these classes were for beginners. The photo wasn't of a beginner, so it was confusing, and a dumb move on my part. But that's the kind of thing I think about a lot now: Who am I talking to? What am I talking about? Do the words and images align?
What are your top 2 favorite FM memories?
Just this spring, I went on a hike at Ovens Mouth Preserve in Boothbay and posted a photo on Instagram of a super-cool spot on the trail, where there's a wooden bench overlooking the tidal waters. Someone posted a comment to the photo asking if the trail was kid and dog-friendly, and I said "Yes! Saw kids and dogs on the trail today!" The very next day, that same woman posted a photo on Instagram of the same spot and tagged me in it, saying "thanks for the tip, we had a great time today!" Thinking about that still, makes me grin. I'm overjoyed that I got to help someone find a neat new adventure (it's even better when I get a report back that they liked it!).
Another favorite memory is from last summer when I attended a Bike & Brews event in Gorham. These events have guided mountain bike rides for all levels and end at a brewery. I'd joined the beginner group for a ride on the Gorham trails, and afterward was talking with fellow riders at Sebago Brewing. One woman, I was chatting with found out I wrote about active things to do in Maine and mentioned a speed skating club she's in. My response? SPEED SKATING?! Tell me more! A couple months later I was on the ice in a pair of loaned skates, learning proper form and having a grand time. I love that Fit Maine is an excuse to go do cool things, but it also allows me to meet new people all the time AND learn about other cool stuff I didn't even know about. It's the circle of Fit Maine life!
What is your favorite inspirational/motivational quote?
"Do epic shit." I saw it on a Facebook meme, with a kid in a superhero cape. And while "epic" might conjure visions of base-jumpers or Everest climbers for some people, I think epic is relative. Taking a surf lesson, trying paddleboard yoga for the first time, mountain biking in the woods all afternoon or hiking in some stunning, new-to-you place can be pretty epic, too. The point is to welcome new adventures, to be open to trying new things and even being kinda bad at them. How expert you are isn't the point. Learning something new is thrilling. Exploring Maine, doing things that make you feel strong, engaging in something that's worth talking about over dinner is what matters.
In one word, describe yourself:
Loud!
For more information on Fit Maine please visit:
or follow on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/fitmaine/
and Instagram
Shauna Armitage, Founder of Making Moxie
Jamie O'Sullivan - Salon Owner, Stylist/DJ in Portland, Maine
Courtney Maiorino, Co-Founder of The Thrive Effect
Rob Gomez - Founder of Eastern Shore Training, RRCA Certified Running Coach
What is Eastern Shore Training?
Eastern Shore Training (EST) is an online coaching service for runners of all ages and ability levels.
How old were you and what influenced you to start running?
I first started running in middle school as a member of the school cross country team because I wanted to do a fall sport and I wasn’t really that good at soccer (football wasn’t offered).
Can you give us a bit of your running history?
I stuck with running through high school with the support of my friends and family and had some additional running success when I started attending the Maine School of Science and Mathematics in Limestone. From there I participated on the XC and indoor and outdoor track teams at Bates College until the winter of my junior year when I stopped doing extracurriculars in anticipation of the birth of my daughter, Juliette.
Between December 2003 and December 2006 I really didn’t run or exercise much at all and put on 60+ pounds. In December 2006 my friend and I set a goal of doing the 2007 Chicago Marathon and I’ve been running consistently ever since. Having that three year off period has helped me really appreciate the physical, mental and social benefits that running provides for me.
"A lot has transpired over the last ten years, but during that time running has been a constant that has helped keep me happy, sane, focused and oh yeah, roughly 55 pounds lighter. The process is hard but the results are worth it. Keep grinding everyone #transformationtuesday #runhappy #mainerunning" -Rob Gomez via Instagram @eshoretrain
"Rob has been able to channel this passion into a number of successes in road racing, most notably the New England RunnerMagazine's Maine Runner of the Year in 2013, a win at the 2013 Maine Marathon, two top-40 finishes at the Boston Marathon and a total of five marathons in under 2:25." via EST Website
Photo Credits: Maine Running Photos, TDB2B 10K, WE3PIX
What is the next race on your horizon?
The 2017 Philadelphia Marathon on November 19th.
How does running impact your everyday life?
It impacts everything I do, directly and indirectly. Directly, it is an important part of my daily schedule, something I schedule most other activities around, and I, of course, spend time every day conducting coaching activities. Indirectly, running has played a part in my marriage (I met my wife at a road race) and my social groups (many of my friends are runners).
How important is having a daily routine?
To me, it’s very important, but I’m very much a Type A, right-brained type of person who thrives on having a schedule. Just writing down the tasks I want to complete for the day on a small notepad is a very therapeutic activity for me, even if I don’t accomplish all those tasks by the end of the day.
What is your best running experience?
Running and winning the second leg of the Cabot Trail Relay in 2014 and proposing to my wife right after I finished.
What is your worst running experience?
Watching from the sidelines while the Bates College Men’s XC team qualified for the NCAA Division III National Championship during my senior year.
If you could offer one piece of running advice, what would it be?
When you’re just starting out running or getting back into running from a long layoff, the hardest part is the beginning. Everything gets dramatically better from there.
What is your favorite running app?
Strava. It’s a very efficient and user-friendly app and offers a lot of utility and social networking opportunities.
What is your favorite inspirational/motivational quote?
“Shit happens, and if we want to restrict ourselves to things where shit can’t happen… we’re not going to do anything very interesting.” -Dan Canin, as quoted in the Book “Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why” by Laurence Gonzales
In one word, describe yourself:
Fortunate.
To Connect with Rob & Eastern Shore Training:
Instagram: @eshoretrain
Twitter: @eshoretraining
Facebook page link: https://m.facebook.com/easternshoretraining
Website: www.easternshoretraining.com
Charlotte Warren, FilmMaker/Producer in Portland, Maine
Mia Gardner, LCSW Psychotherapist & Aspiring Author
What are your areas of expertise?
I utilize CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and some strengths-based/positive psychology approaches in my work. I specialize in children, families, and family-centered concerns. I have also done a lot of work within the school setting and am able to support children and their parents around any difficulties in that realm. I had received my Family Therapy Certificate from Boston University’s School of Social Work while completing my Masters. Part of the family work is working with individuals struggling with family stressors and complications. Many people need support in functioning within this realm, especially when major things come up, and I am here to provide that support.
I am also working with young adults, especially in life coaching, who are feeling stuck and are looking to find their way, build their self-esteem, and reach their fullest potential.
What led you to decide to become a therapist?
A combination of personal and professional experiences. Honestly, it started back when I was younger. I am from a small town in the New Jersey suburbs and my parents had been divorced when I was young. Growing up, I was the only one of my friends who had divorced parents so I felt like I could not really talk about it with anyone. I hated the feeling of not knowing what I should or shouldn’t say or not knowing who I could talk to that would understand what I was going through. I told myself then that I wanted to be that person for other people; I wanted to be the one they could talk to when things were difficult.
Of course, I did not know exactly what that meant as an occupation at that time, but as I got older and furthered my education, my path was soon lit up. I took a psychology course in High School and was pretty much sold. I found the information so interesting and useful. It came easily to me and I decided that would be my major and the perfect way for me to support others. While in college, I was blessed enough to be mentored by one of my psychology professors at Sacred Heart University who further guided me down my path. She advised I pursue the counseling side of the profession and go for my masters in Social Work. I applied to Boston University’s program and the rest is history!
Do you believe you were born with the innate qualities to help others or was this developed over time through experiences?
I am someone who believes we are all here for a reason. With that said, I truly see this as my calling. I think that everything from my personality, skill sets, strengths, and experiences have led me to where I am. I believe I was born with those necessary qualities but they have certainly been shaped over time by experiences and fantastic education programs.
I imagine not 'taking work home' with you is a challenge. How are you able to separate work vs home and what do you like to do outside of work that directly impacts your career?
It was certainly difficult at first, but it is definitely a message you receive frequently when you are going through the academic and training piece of the work. If you’re doing your job to the best of your abilities, then you know at the end of the day you did all you could to help and support someone. Another important thing to remember is not all of the cases are going to be successful and that is absolutely out of our power past what we can provide them with. What we do is give tools and support, but the rest is in the client’s hands. I’ve always told myself since beginning the work that if I am able to make a positive impact on just one person a day, (and I would like to think I do more than that!) then I am doing my job.
"I love being able to take even just a few minutes to regroup and set my intentions." -MG via Instagram @sincerelyyourtherapist
As I have become more seasoned, I have learned to prioritize self-care. I have activities I do to transition myself from a work mindset to a home mindset. I have my routine to prepare me before work as far as setting my intentions and getting motivated, as well as after work on my way home to decompress. I also created a blog and account called Sincerely, Your Therapist to show others how I manage keeping a positive mindset, maintain self-care, and promote overall wellness. It’s a helpful tool for me as well since it acts as built-in and mandatory journaling! I also enjoy writing overall as well as physical exercise and being social. I have made it a point to join co-ed soccer leagues to continue playing the sport I love.
What is one challenge and one lesson you've learned from your experience as a therapist?
One of, and I would have to say the biggest, challenge I have encountered is that you can only do so much and the rest is up to them (the client). You cannot help someone who does not want it or is not willing to follow up on the work. We are told as therapists that we should not be working harder than the client; we should each be putting in the effort I order to have a positive outcome. This is hard to accept, especially at first when you are wanting to see everyone improve and have success in their treatment.
The biggest lesson I have learned from being a therapist is it’s okay, and even necessary, to be a little selfish. Hear me out! If we are not able to take care of ourselves and we are not in a good place, we cannot take care of others. At least not the way we should be. Self-care for myself and reinforcing this with clients has easily been the biggest lesson learned. You can certainly make changes without it but they will be short term. Being in a good place with yourself and how you think and feel about yourself is essential in reaching our max potential and any long-term positive changes. As soon as I started making self-care a priority for myself, I noticed a huge difference in my work, in my thinking, my demeanor, and my effectiveness. I have also noticed the same for clients who are able to take this message and be consistent with it. Some see it as selfish if they are putting themselves before others, but the people around you will thank you in the end!
Can you tell us about your aspiration of becoming an author? What is 20 Beautiful Women?
Absolutely! I have always loving writing. I always told myself (and my parents) that I would write a book one day. Writing was an area I excelled in both academically and personally. It was helpful for me growing up to have writing as a tool because it was a way for me to process and express things when there was a lot going on.
20 Beautiful Women is a book created and put together by an amazing woman named Saba Tekle who had a vision of compiling inspirational stories of women overcoming struggles and accomplishing their goals. I had seen her social media post stating that she was getting started on her newest volume of the series and I reached out to congratulate her and tell her how great it was that she was doing this. I noted that I had submitted an excerpt, as she was taking applications for the women that would make up this new book, and she got back to me the same day that I was approved to be one of the chapters in the book! It was so surreal that someone appreciated my story and that now I would be able to begin telling it to a bigger audience.
20 Beautiful Women "20 Stories That Will Heal Your Soul, Ignite Your Passion And Inspire Your Divine Purpose” is a collection of personal short stories from 20 authors, speakers, and life coaches bonding together for the common goal of sisterhood, and to transform women from the inside out."
Having this happen gave me the push to pursue my own writing further and I began writing Children’s Book manuscripts promoting self-esteem, positive thinking, and positive interactions. The themes were inspired by the work I have been doing with children and families. I wanted to reach a larger audience with these positive messages that are so necessary to our youth. This is all in the works so hopefully more updates soon to come! I am very excited by this project.
If you could offer one piece of therapeutic advice to children & adults who struggle with anxiety/depression what would it be?
Honestly, it would be that they are not alone and to seek out supports or services. I could list a number of different interventions but if you are truly struggling with any of these or similar things, you need a professional to support you and get you to a place where you are feeling confident and happy again. There are so many supports in the community as well as professional supports and services. The stigma of therapy is diminishing because of how much more widely it is being accessed and how helpful it is to those that find the right therapist. Most of my client’s now laugh and say, “I think everyone should have a therapist!” Why block yourself from being your best you? If you need the help, the best thing you could do for yourself is advocate for yourself and get the help and support you need. These things are absolutely treatable.
"I'm really appreciating the idea of coming together and empowering each other over comparisons and unhealthy competition. Action is important but it's also important to check in with ourselves and maintain a positive perspective in order to move forward with our ideas and actions in a positive manner." -Mia Gardner via Instagram
What is your proudest personal and professional accomplishment?
There have been many in both realms. I strongly believe in giving yourself credit where it’s due and feel that’s a big part of why I was able to make it to where I am. Personally, I was very sheltered growing up. As I mentioned, I came from a small town in the Jersey suburbs so branching out and moving to a new city and making my own life there has been huge for me. It was completely out of my comfort zone so it’s a proud feeling that I not only did it, but excelled and created a new and wonderful life for myself. I was also a Division 1 soccer player in college which was a big accomplishment for me as well since that was a dream of mine growing up, especially with the name Mia! And yes, Mia Hamm was one of my idols.
Professionally I would have to say getting a spot in my private practice. I always knew it was something I wanted and something I would do, but I saw it being something I would do WAY down the line. I finally stopped telling myself I wasn’t ready and that I had to wait and went for it. It was such a powerful moment to hear that I was chosen to be part of this prestigious private practice group, and at just 25 years old!
What is your favorite inspirational/motivational quote?
While there are many great ones, my all-time favorite is “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain” by Vivian Greene. It’s a quote I came across when I was younger and have come to live by. I love everything about it; the fun of it, the light heartedness, the hope. I feel like it pretty much sums up me and my life. It’s always been something I have kept in mind, and is the reason I have to smile a little whenever it rains. Ironically, it’s also a concept I have based my practice and approach on in helping people to shift their perspectives and focus on the things they can control rather than what they cannot.
"The approach I use with my clients, both therapy and coaching, is a shift in perspective and thinking. It's about recognizing the things you can control and shifting your focus to these things rather than having your focus on the things you cannot." Read More @ SINCERELY YOUR THERAPIST
In one word, describe yourself:
Ambitious
To Connect with Mia
Instagram: @sincerelyyourtherapist
Facebook: @sincerelyyt
Website: www.sincerelyyourtherapist.com
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Mark Anthoine - Finance Professional & Former Pro-Hockey Player
How did you first get involved in finance? Can you tell us about BGA Financial and what you do?
I first got involved in the financial world basically the first job out of my professional hockey career. I was a Business Management major at the University of Maine, so I kind of had a brief overview through multiple directions in the financial and business world. BGA Financial (a merger of the Buckley Group of Portland and Anthoine Financial Services of Auburn) offers the two leaders in the financial services industry. With more than 45 years of experience combined, we focus in the areas of individual insurance planning, disability insurance, employee benefits, employer-sponsored retirement plans and investment strategies. I am a Financial Service Representative for BGA.
"One lesson I have learned is that you should always take advantage of every opportunity no matter what you do for a living. If I have the chance to sit in on a meeting or listen to a webinar, I am constantly trying to make myself better in the financial world."-MA
What do you like to do outside of work that directly impacts your career?
I’m a very social person, so I like to be out and about doing activities with friends. I like attending sporting events, go on the boat at my families cottage, hit the beach, I’m a big movie buff, and I’m basically up for anything, I’m more of a go with the flow type of person. And all of this can be looped into impacting my career because it helps to continue interpersonal skills and relationship building. I believe this type of business places a lot of emphasis on building good relationships and trust with a client.
How has hockey shaped you? Where would you be today without hockey?
I would definitely state for fact that I would not be who I am today without the sport of hockey. It has taken me on a life journey that I could tell stories about for hours. It has taught me about responsibility, time management, work ethic, determination, team work, and how to be mentally tough. Since the age of 17, I have lived in Maine, Illinois, South Dakota, New Hampshire, Florida, Alabama, and Indiana all thanks to hockey. If I wouldn’t have played hockey, I would have graduated high school at 17 and graduated college at 21 and would have probably been able to start a working career earlier, but not have the same life experiences that I do now which help me appreciate what I do and how I can help people. I wouldn’t change a thing.
How important is having a daily routine?
It is important to bring a daily routine into your life because it almost keeps you grounded. Even the smallest things we do daily, impact our outlook on life. It creates good habits, and it is harder to break a bad habit than it is to create a good new habit. In the locker room, if you looked around, probably 80% of the other guys always had a special routine that they did every practice, every game, and every workout. Some guys took it to the extreme, while others kept it as simple as putting on the left equipment before the right. But having a routine, makes tasks become second nature, which in the long run only benefits you as you continue to live life and grow as a person.
"I would definitely state for fact that I would not be who I am today without the sport of hockey. It has taken me on a life journey that I could tell stories about for hours. It has taught me about responsibility, time management, work ethic, determination, team work, and how to be mentally tough."-MA
What are one challenge and one lesson you've learned from your transition from professional hockey to finance?
Haha, one challenge is motivation to work out! I went from being in peak physical shape for a job to relying solely on my own personal motivation to get a sweat in. But it is an important part of life to keep a healthy balanced life in which exercise falls into that. I think the amount of free time is a big difference. I went from going to the rink for a 9:00 a.m. practice and leaving by around 12:30 p.m., so I had quite the amount of free time on my hands. Now I could be at my office at 8:00 a.m. and be out and about till 5:00 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. and I really enjoy my relax and down time so that can be difficult. One lesson I have learned is that you should always take advantage of every opportunity no matter what you do for a living. If I have the chance to sit in on a meeting or listen to a webinar, I am constantly trying to make myself better in the financial world. No different than me asking a coach to get on before or stay after practice to work on some small skills of my game. I saw this “meme” the other day and it might put some thought into what I said, “In order to become the 1%, you must do what the 99% won’t”. I think doing the minimum is never satisfying, so take advantage of opportunities to better yourself.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
That’s a difficult one if I had to say on a broad spectrum, playing four years for the University of Maine Ice Hockey Team and being an assistant captain my senior year was fun. But, broken down, probably scoring two goals and beating our rivals UNH at Fenway Park my Sophomore season in front of 30,000 fans including my best friends and family.
If you could only offer 1 piece of financial advice to our readers, what would it be and why?
I would say that don’t be afraid to ask questions or educate yourself on your financial needs. Everyone thinks they don’t need something, in regards to the financial world, but if you actually took a minute to sit down with someone and look at your needs, whether it be investments or protection/insurance, you would have a better understanding of your “financial pyramid”.
What is one "I couldn't live without it" App you use?
Spotify, easily my favorite app because let’s be honest, what would we do without a little music every day!
What is your favorite inspirational/motivational quote?
I’m a big inspirational/motivational fan when it comes to books and youtube videos. I’ve always like one by Tommy Lasorda, “The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a man’s determination.”
In one word, describe yourself:
Passionate
Mark Anthoine is a Financial Service Representative for BGA w/ special focus in individual insurance planning, disability insurance, employee benefits, employer-sponsored retirement plans and investment strategies.