Don't wait. The time will never be just right. Napolean Hill
April 2009
April 30, 2009
April 27, 2009
Diva Maverick Mavens Wildest Moment
Tiffany Owens sent these pictures of herself in Bull Fighting school. This is one of the "wildest moments" caught on film of Tiffany's writing career. Tiffany is a freelance journalist and editor who has worked with MSN, MSNBC and AAA publications. Her websites are www.tiffanyowens.com and www.moderndaynomads.com.
Pictures are courtesy of Sandy Huffaker.
April 26, 2009
Jane Lawalata Director of "Chatterbox the Movie"
Jane Lawalata is a director, producer and film editor who trained at the New York Academy of Filmmaking. She directed "Chatterbox-the Movie" shortly after graduating and coming to America from Indonesia four years ago. After our discussion, Jane told me that she was being named "Woman of the Year" by a popular publication in Indonesia. She is currently writing a television script for "Chatterbox-the Movie" and is considering a sequel for the big screen too. Jane is based in L.A. and is currently writing, producing and directing numerous projects. Website: www.chatterbox-themovie.com
Pictures and video courtesy of Jane Lawalata and Chromer Family Films.
Angelia Miller is the founder of Diva Maverick Mavens www.divamaverickmavens.com a new bread of feisty, non-conformist adventure loving adrenaline-high entrepreneur. The tagline is: Empowering Women by Interviewing Empowered Women...Inspiring "You" to Take Action! Casting exceptional dynamic talent for fresh content is the mission of Diva Maverick Mavens.
Link to Jane's interview:
www.divamaverickmavens.com/main/podcast.html
How to Get on TV with Tsufit Author of "Step into the Spotlight"
I will interviewing Tsufit author of the book "Step into the Spotlight
on my new Blogtalk Radio show "Adrenaline Living". The show topic will be about promoting and branding yourself from the Queen of the spotlight herself--Tsufit. Adrenaline Living will premier tomorrow on blogtalkradio Monday, April 27, 2009 at 9:00AM CT. Tsufits websites are www.stepintothespotlight.com, www.spotlightblog.comand www.secretsfromthespotlight.com
Here is the audio link of the Adrenaline Living interview:
http://www.divamaverickmavens.com/main/podcast.html
I started a new twitter account at www.twitter.com/divamaven. Stop by and tell me what you think.
Note- Listening to the playback it actually sounds like I said something I didn't say. Angelia
April 24, 2009
April 21, 2009
April 20, 2009
April 18, 2009
April 17, 2009
April 06, 2009
Ingrid Vanderveldt TV Show Host-- On the Road with IV
*This interview was conducted on Skype while Ingrid was in the drop zone waiting her turn to SKYDIVE...* How's that for a no- excuses attitude. IV is the host of "On the Road with IV" and is the founder of the "Billionaire Girl club".
Photos and videos on Diva Maverick Mavens courtesy of Lyn Graft, LG Pictures www.lgpictures.com.
I read on your website that you were born with "learning disabilities"? Can you tell us about this experience and how you overcame this problem?
Ingrid Vanderveldt
Sure. When I was in the 4th grade my parents were told I had learning disabilities. I was put on a special bus for special kids in a special school. The school boards didn't think that I was going to make much of myself because I was learning disabled. My parents didn't believe it and they fought the school boards to continue running tests. They soon found out that I had hearing problems and once solved- I was able to excel. The thing that I really learned and knew this back then even as a kid was that had my parents not believed in me and that the school boards COULD be wrong. I might not have made any more of myself because other people didn't believe in me as anything other then "learning disabled" so that inspired what is now my life's work which is to seek out other people who aspire to be, do and have more with their lives by sharing my story and the stories of other successful entrepreneurs. Providing the tools, training and learning are available to enable people, anyone can be successful despite what others might have told them (or their environment, background, resources etc).
Would you say that if your parents hadn't been as supportive as they are you might not have been the person you are today?
IV
Without a doubt, it was my parents who taught all of us kids (there are four of us) that we can be anything we want in life --we were and continue to be very blessed that way.
How did you go from architect to TV personality?
IV
I knew ever since I was a kid that part of my calling was to do big things in the world in terms of connecting with as many people as possible to spread the message of "Possibility" and "Hope". The transition from Architecture to TV was a natural progression in terms of knowing that this was a great way to talk to a lot of people in one shot and the transition was actually very natural. When I was an architecture student, I became (was elected) national director of the American Institute of Architecture Students and American Institute of Architects. In this role, I was talking/ working with architects, city planners, politicians and business owners all over the US, Canada and Puerto Rico. I realized that that if I knew more about business and law that I could be even more effective in terms of having an impact with these different groups of people because being very young at the time- I actually had no idea what I was doing or talking about a good chunk of the time so I went to get and JD/MBA. I never finished law school because I was too busy launching new companies. My mentor was a guy by the name of George Kozmetsky who also mentored Michael Dell. It was in working with him and hearing his own success story that I then know- the Universe was guiding me to start making the transition into television. I KNEW that the time/ access I was getting with Dr. K in terms of mentoring was access that other people needed to see so I basically drew upon my Rolodex of mentors to share their stories and we put it on film so we could share it with people around the world and that's how it happened.
What can you tell women about the importance of being mentored?
Ingrid Vanderveldt
There is nothing more important other than that KNOWING your dream is possible then having a strong mentor. Mentors will not only help you get where you want to go, but they will open their Rolodexes to make it happen. They will coach you through challenges that they have seen before and provide value you just can't place a dollar figure on.
Why sky diving?
Ingrid Vanderveldt
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE adrenaline sports.There is nothing more empowering then pushing yourself to your limits and KNOWING that you can do it next to motorcycle racing which btw is the only thing that gets my mind to shut off. Skydiving is one of those sports that is very risky and you fall VERY fast (120 MPH) and you have to allow your mind to be still and think because it's possible your chute might not deploy- or you might have to cut away. You have to KNOW what your plan is to open your second chute and so you can do that. It's incredible mental training for people in business without question. When you handle skydiving well...there is no doubt you can handle tough business situations with grace.
Tell us a story about one of your adrenaline sport adventures?
Ingrid Vanderveldt
Beating Alanis Morrisette and her coach on the race track!!!! She was being coached by my coach. She had a much bigger and faster bike than mine and her original instructor (another women) I think was feeling the pressure of needing to look good for Alanis and certainly given the fact that my coach Todd was working with Alanis and I. Know what I mean...? So anyways. Alanis was easy to beat. I rode faster than she did (grins) but her coach tried to run me off the race track so it was the first time on the track that I knew the only way I was going to beat her coach was by going into a 90 degree turn to the left as fast as I could to stay on her inside. So, I basically rode as hard and as fast as I could, literally felt like I "dumped" the bike left (almost laying it on the ground) and prayed that I would make the turn. I did...her coach couldn't handle the turn and instead went flying off the track into the dirt. I have to admit- it felt pretty good given I knew she was trying to run me off the track. My coach was racing behind us to see what was going to happen. It was nice to WIN!
Tell me about your experience with opening multiple businesses and what characteristics would you say were required?
Ingrid Vanderveldt
Great question! Okay- well first of all the biggest thing is being honest with yourself about what you are good and not good at doing. In my case, I am a great starter, leader, team player but a horrible manager. I am also terrible at being involved with just one thing- my gifts come into play when I basically stay focused on driving business and going from one project to the next. So for me, starting and running multiple businesses is preferred- but I absolutely have to have VERY talented people around me to help make sure that they are run well.
My advice is:
1) Know what you' re good or not good at
2) Get great people around you to support your gifts and stay out of their way to do what they're great at
3) Listen to advice
4) Set priorities
5) Do what you are passionate about
6) Be persistent
7) Have a great mentor
8) Know that anything is possible
In this economy, people are facing bankruptcy and depression, can you speak about your experiences on this subject?
Ingrid Vanderveldt
I have faced both and its horrible. I've never filed for bankruptcy but I did go broke. And depression I have dealt with twice and the thing I have told myself is that "its okay". When you are pushing yourself to the limits, sometimes things are going to go so completely sideways that it just hits you from the side and its understandable that we get depressed when things go horribly wrong such as going broke- whatever. I DO KNOW that from experience. I have overcome both and I know that anyone can. Even in the darkest hours, I know that I just need to hang on a little longer and all of the sudden one sliver of light will come through and then another and then another and it will pass...it also helps to have VERY supporting, loving people around. Its also a good time to dump anything that is NOT working or moving you in the direction you choose to go.
What is your most cathartic experience to date that brings you back to fighting form for the corporate world?
Ingrid Vanderveldt
Hmmm. There really have been so many. Lets see...I actually thought this past fall. Truly for the first time in my life, I was worried that I wasn't going to "make it". My engagement ended (good thing- boys can be trouble - as can we!!!). An investor did a hostile takeover and I lost all my business money trying to save the company which ended up in lawsuits and I lost my "home" (the one I had with my fiance). In terms of coming out of that- and there was more- but to sum it up. I guess it really came down to just accepting that maybe I wasn't supposed to be RICH RICH in the dollar sense (which is funny as a founding member of the Billionaire Girls Club). I realized I am here because I have been called to do something great and when I REALLY believe that and follow that KNOWING...things seem to have a way of working out and when I FINALLY internalized that sure enough...opportunities stated coming back into my life out of no where and now that seems like an eternity ago. Does that make sense?
Your a believer of social networking tell me about your business and clubs and how you marry these concepts?
Ingrid Vanderveldt
So yes- I absolutely believe in social networking because just like we are texting right now and connecting with one another. People learn from one another when they can talk and share stories and ask for advice and in social networking its takes all the ego out of things: simply, in text formats etc. It allows people to build community focused around topics of interest so that's why I love it so much- we really get great things done this way.
Any parting words of advice for women entrepreneurs and what contact info would you like in the article?
IV
Thank you so much for asking. I really first of all want to thank you Angelia for doing something so great for women. In showing others that anything is possible beyond that. I would love to encourage women to be strong. We have been given voices and gifts to be great. It is in all of us. There are women just like you and me that in coming together- will continue to change the world.... In fact, I am working with a newsgroup from CNN, factually speaking- women are the ones that are redefining emerging countries and setting the new standards in the world for how things are done. There is no better time than now to do what you have been called to do. I wish you the best of luck and please feel free to email iv@ingridvanderveldt.com or call 310-945-8659 if we can be helpful to you...love to all!!!!
www.lgpictures.com, www.ontheroadwithiv.com, and www.billionairegirlsclub.tv
IV will be launching her new website soon and you can follow her by visiting the websites above.
IV
I also want to thank- SKydive Miami for letting me office out of their location so I can do things like this and my other business in between throwing myself out of planes. Love you all xoxoxoxo.
Angelia Miller is the founder of Diva Maverick Mavens www.divamaverickmavens.com a new bread of feisty, non-conformist adventure loving adrenaline-high entrepreneur. The tag line is: Empowering Women by Interviewing Empowered Women...Inspiring "You" to Take ACTION! Casting exceptional dynamic talent for fresh content is the mission of Diva Maverick Mavens. The interview is in the original transcript form with minimal editing to preserve the integrity of the content.
Glitter Girl Isa Isaacs The Fire Dancer
Isa Isaacs was an Computer Science executive who has had one of the most dramatic career changes I've ever heard. Isa is a Poi dancer, aka Fire dancer, philosopher and entrepreneur of Temple of Poi.
Pictures and videos on Diva Maverick Mavens courtesy of Isa Isaacs.
What kind of upbringing did you have that contributed to the career path you are currently pursuing?
Isa Isaacs "Glitter Girl"
My mother was in education. Her career culminated as the superintendent of a school district in NYC. My father was an engineer who worked for Grumman. When I was a child, I can recall being asked what I wanted to be when I grew up. I had said I wanted to be a Teacher, to which my mother said, "No you don't." I then decided I wanted to be an engineer, like my dad, to which he said, "No you don't." Computer science was a good alternative to both of those, relying on my math and analytical skills. I later discovered that I had a unique ability to convey technical concepts to people (teaching technique) which started my integration of both those professions.
Why did you study Systems Engineering and was it a passion?
Isa Isaacs "Glitter Girl"
I actually studied computer science in school because I had initially intended to get a degree in communication and history with a double minor in music and journalism. After my first semester in school, it became clear to me quickly that there was a subjective element to writing papers and I felt somewhat dis-empowered by the experience of pursuing a major that relied on that so I switched to computers. I fell in love with computers when I was in HS taking an AP bio class. I used a Mac 512 at the time. It was amazing. In college, I wanted to type my papers so I got involved with the computing department. Back then there was no windows based computing, so everything I did was on terminals. because of my abstract thinking skills, I just found I was good at it and then I ended up dating quite a few people in the computer science department. From there, I fell more and more in love with computers and just saw that they were the wave of the future. at first, it simply seemed like a practical choice. Through time, I discovered I had a natural ability and was good at it, so I got more and more interested in my work and things evolved from there. I wouldn't say it was a passion at first; however, I would say it became one. Music -- piano, specifically was my first passion really.
How did you find dance, movement and performance art? How would you compare your passion for art, dance and music with engineering?
Isa Isaacs "Glitter Girl"
I found dancing when I was invited by some co-workers at a computer company I was working for in 1998 to go to a party they were throwing in a park. It was electronic music (which was my concentration within my music minor in school) and I had an amazing time. It was a subculture I'd never seen before. Thus began my adventures into the off beat world I now live in. I don't really see my passion for art, dance and music as separate for engineering. I see a natural structure in everything -- it's part of my innate ability to explain complex things to people, by being able to reverse engineer things. My work today is very much about creating the structures for learning by reverse engineering the complex patterns one performs and teaching them in steps to people. I attempt to integrate my life as much as possible -- to harness all my skills and talents, stay alignment with my values and honor all my boundaries while being a walking example of the ideals I want to see more of in this world.
What advice could you give someone who like to try something new such as movement? What would you tell them about the flow experience?
Isa Isaacs "Glitter Girl"
That is very context specific. If they have never done movement before, I'd need to assess their current level fitness and their relationship with their body. Assuming they are reasonably fit (no major injuries, chronic pain or anything like that)... Flow is an opportunity to connect with parts of yourself you may not be aware of -- on a body level, as well as in your mind and spirit. Through flow practice we help artists learn where they are not flowing and through various practices, help them unblock themselves. We all have flow in our lives -- some things just feel "right." I think of that as where we're flowing. Those places where we feel a bit "off" or "stuck," that is energy that is not flowing through us, around us or within us. Our work helps people by having them move in ways they likely have never moved before. As they begin to explore new patterns of movement, new "energy" flows through their body. Some people relate to this on a mystical level... some don't. On a physical level, you could say you're pumping blood through your body in muscles that may not normally be used. My own experience is that it is a metaphysical experience as well and through learning new patterns of movement (thinking, being, experiencing as well), we create new paths in our body, mind, spirit and soul through which life can express itself. YMMV.
You've spoken of losing weight? How has dance supported your body in staying flexible and strong?
Isa Isaacs "Glitter Girl"
I was a klutz. If you met me when I was a teen you would NEVER have thought I would be who I am today. I had no confidence in my ability to move and I bumped into things all the time. I literally tripped over my feet. What I think was actually going on was I was mentally stuck and in a construct of thinking (akin to the matrix) that had me limit my own potential. I didn't think I had capabilities that I realized, through ongoing practice, I actually did have. Finding dance and flow allowed me an opportunity to explore my body, mind, spirit and beliefs in a free form environment without structure. I don't necessarily do well with "some" plan someone else designed that doesn't allow for my own freedom.The free form and organic nature of dance allowed me to let go and be free. Through this freedom I found joy.
What advice can you give to others on pursuing their dreams or an unconventional hobby?
Isa Isaacs "Glitter Girl"
The joy was so inspiring I just kept going back and dancing more... practicing, if you will. As I tell my clients, "The practice is to return to the practice." Until I found dance and flow, I never actually had a practice, other than piano. piano, though, is such a rigorous, well defined art form there was little room for me to expand into the unknown which is what "I" needed for my growth. Different people have different needs. I think the most important thing is to find a practice (or series of practices) that work for each individual and then "return to the practice." Faith. First and foremost, one must believe one can accomplish what one is setting out to do. I realized through time it wasn't about getting it right the first time, it was about, again, "returning to the practice." Perhaps that really is the whole secret to life -- I believe it is -- to just "return to the practice" -- of living, breathing, being, growing, changing, allowing...If one is pursuing one's dream, they must remain in the practice of that pursuit. same thing with an unconventional hobby. Compassion is also a good piece to offer oneself-- it helps when things don't go the way you wanted and a good support network. Eliminate the people from your space who can't see your vision and don't support you. It's dead weight and will literally weight you down. Of course, patience. Rome wasn't built in a day... most dreams are not either. Except winning the lottery, perhaps... lol. Getting clear on what your dream is. They call it "well formed outcomes" in NLP. What will you see, hear, feel, taste, and smell when you have achieved your dream? And then the other piece is what I call "the mountain metaphor": Remember that no matter where you are on the journey -- on the mountain if you will -- you always have a choice. You can focus on where you want to go, where you have been, and where you are. Holding all of those equally allows you to have perspective. Keep a record of your thoughts. It's so useful even if in the moment it may not seem useful. It could be pictures, video, audio recording, blogging and even old fashion journal or collages. All of these have helped me see my world. Actively pursue your growth. No matter what you know, remember that continued growth provides continued inspiration and my own preference as a life philosophy is the Flowology Mindset™,which is the cornerstone of the school.
It has 3 basic principles:
1. Leave your judgment behind. Learning to differentiate between assessment (what worked and what didn't work) versus what is "good" and "bad" is such an enormously useful thing. When I got that, my whole world opened.
2. Choose your language consciously and make it empowering. There is ever reason in the world to be positive in your thoughts. Negative thoughts are cancers of the mind.
3. Compare yourself to yourself through time.
Everyone is unique so everyone's journey is unique. I also recommend getting a copy of Kosmic Consciousness by Ken Wilber and listening to that. I also recommend the 4 agreements and the 6 pillars of self-esteem and a coach not a therapist, a coach. Someone you're accountable to. This could be professional (which often works best because money makes things happen when we have to spend it) or even a circle. I circled with all entrepreneur women and it really helped us all.
Building a business around fire dancing would raise the brows of most people. How did you get the support you needed to start this business? How do you handle criticism?
Isa Isaacs "Glitter Girl"
First, I had a lot of "haters" -- so many disbelievers. I think in their hearts that just didn't think they could do it so what they were expressing when they said, "You can never do that" or "Whose going to pay for poi lessons", "I can't do that" and "I wouldn't pay for poi lessons." I couldn't hear that at the time though. It was really really hard. I pretty much gave up a whole community of friends for YEARS until they started to get what I was doing and in the international community -- good god -- what a mess. I have had 4 different threads written on the largest international forum about me. I guess that infamy is sort of a good thing... the old "no publicity is bad press" thing and it is a rough day to wake up and have hundreds of comments all about you strewn about the internet when people have decided who you are and what you're about. I can say now, 7 years into it, if i'm not ticking people off, raising eyebrows or making people take notice, then I'm not really doing anything innovative, fresh and new.
When you're a trail blazer, people will always be at your heels. Some of them will want to attack you -- it's the way of the human ego but the really beautiful thing is that some of them -- even if they are a select few -- will just adore you and you'll have a unique opportunity to change their lives for the better. The cult of personality on the negative side can be just as challenging... How do you stay real with people when you're creating such a splash in the water? What I did was find the few trusted people who saw me, got me, and were willing to stand by me and then I just kept the faith. As for the criticism, I spent many hours crying, venting, writing emails and trying to understand why people couldn't understand where I was coming from and then I just pursued personal development work so I could understand them better and gain more compassion and then I did a 10 day silent meditation retreat using Vipassana which was invaluable. I studied NLP, Integral thinking and Spiral Dynamics which helped me to understand how to enter people's worlds better and I cried a lot. It is very sad to be judged by people you've never met. I can laugh at it all NOW because what can people really say? I've been doing this 7 years and I've been successful. What exactly can you criticize? I feel like I could fold the company today and I would have won at the game I was playing. I made a difference, changed people's lives and have done something NO ONE really believed I could but when I was getting all the criticism... gee. It was not so easy to stay positive. It required that very first thing I said before: faith. I had to have faith in myself, in my vision, in my work and in the undeniable difference. I was making in my client's lives. I started collecting the positive feedback from the clients and as the testimonials on my web site and Yelp grew, so did my ability to let the negative feedback wash away. I also realized I needed to dis-identify with what people were saying about me, so I did some massive development work around my ego. I shaved my head (fully bald) for a period of 6 months simply because I knew it would be hard to do and I wanted to dis-identify with my hair as the defining aspect of my femininity. My commitment to my own evolution was my saving grace in all of this. When all else failed, I just focused on growing and learning, in hopes that it would help me find the answers. I am certain it has. Just a few weeks ago, I got into a conflict with someone in the community who insists that i'm not contributing to the fire community because I make money off it. I simply refuse to take on that attitude and I am comfortable enough in who I am, what I value and what I'm up to in the world to look at him now and smile compassionately with love and say, "There you're at." and let it go. This is not something I could do 3 years ago. Again, I just returned to the practice of growing, expanding, opening, learning and flowing into a greater understanding of truth.
How do you market for your dance classes? What has been your biggest obstacles?
Isa Isaacs "Glitter Girl"
My biggest obstacle has been the lack of awareness of what it is. People seem to think it is fire walking if they have any idea about it at all (unless they've been indoctrinated). If there are half a million fire dancers world wide, I'd be surprised. What is that, 1/100th of a percent of the world population? That's NOT many people at all, really. I mean the Yoga market in the US alone is 16,000,000. I wish we had that many fire dancers in the US. and then within the category of fire dancing, there's lots of different tools, so Poi is an even smaller number. Still, it is growing -- I think flow arts are now where yoga was in the late 70's/early 80's. I think it's just a matter of time before it hits the tipping point. In terms of marketing, it was all "word of mouth" in the beginning. then Craigslist then I got a web site. Now it is mostly internet and referrals, with about 15% coming from direct marketing opportunities -- performances, articles, contact with me. Internet including: web site, yelp, blog and lots of work on SEO. I also offer referral credits. If a client refers another client for a series class, the person that recommended the new student gets a $15 credit on a class that means half a class off.
Classes are $30 a session for 80 minutes.
Tell me about the Temple of Poi classes and performances? And any other advice you would like to offer women?
Isa Isaacs "Glitter Girl"
Temple of Poi offers over 40 different types of Poi classes for artists from beginners through professionals. In addition, we have computer based learning available for anyone in the world and some free lessons posted on the temple of Poi blog. Our work is about helping artists (our primary demographic is non full time professionals, of which there are few in the world anyway) develop a greater sense of self expression through the art form. We also offer hoop, fan and staff classes, though on a far more limited basis. As for advice for women, stop reading the ads and articles that bring you down, surround yourself by what inspires you, get rid of your TV, live life fully and passionately and if you're having body image issues, get help. Learn to love your body as it is for what it is in THIS moment. It will be carrying your spirit this whole life, so being at odds with it is not useful. I have this theory that our mental health dictates our physical health (there are studies out there that speak to this). I have not had health insurance since I left my corporate job.
I choose that because I believe insurance is a way of getting out of being responsible for my body. I am the master (or mistress if you prefer) of my body. I choose preventative care rather than reactive care. I haven't taken a prescription in a decade. I listen to my body. When I'm stressed, sad or simply not feeling good, I deal with it. I don't repress it. I allow the sensations to arise and I am present. I think stifling them is really what causes illness... --- dis - ease. When we are uncomfortable there is a dis-ease within us which I think is what causes the illnesses we carry around. Balancing it all... that's the trick with proper nourishment -- food, rest, love, support, nurturing, oxygen, celebration -- all of that is just as important as our job. Getting it all together is ideal.
Anything else you would like to address and include the contact info you would like included in the article?
Isa Isaacs "Glitter Girl"
I touch on this ... Integrating one's life. I see this a lot in the world where people have a job that they go to and it is one aspect of their life and then they have the rest of their life which they are passionate about. They spend more time at their job than they do in the rest of their life. How exactly can that generate comfort, job and the best, fullest, richest, most thriving life possible? I don't think it can so I am an advocate of integrating work and play, business and pleasure, life and our job. I think in terms of my purpose and passion, not my work and play because when I am passionately living my purpose, I am playing in my work. I advocate that everyone finds that for themselves. There's a good podcast out there put out by Personal Life Media called "Money, Mission and Meaning" that might help. In an effort to help empower more women, I'd like to extend a discount offer for access to the computer- based training program and a set of Poi to anyone reading this article. Regular price would be $120. For your readers, I'd like to offer it for $40 plus S&H to their location.
Isa Isaacs "Glitter Girl"
Web site: http://templeofpoi.com. Computer based training: http://gotfiredancing.com. My name: Isa "GlitterGirl" Isaacs. The offer would be at: http://templeofpoi.com/divamaverickmavens.php
Angelia Miller is the founder of Diva Maverick Mavens www.divamaverickmavens.com a new bread of feisty, non-conformist adventure loving adrenaline-high entrepreneur. The tagline is: Empowering Women by Interviewing Empowered Women...Inspiring "You" to Take ACTION! Casting exceptional dynamic talent for fresh content is the mission of Diva Maverick Mavens. The interview is in the original transcript form with minimal editing to preserve the integrity of the content.
April 05, 2009
Dez Bartelt of Best of Both Adventures--World Traveler
Dez Bartelt is a world traveler and environmentalist who runs an adventure vacation company for women. Dez in currently traveling around the world and in 2010 she will be traveling around the world in an environmentally- friendly expiation vehicle for her world environmental adventure project. Dez's interview was conducted in a remote location in Patagonia.
Pictures on Diva Maverick Mavens courtesy of Dez Bartelt.
When did you begin traveling?
Dz Bartelt
Fifteen years old. I backpacked around the US. No, Mom did not know. They thought I was at a summer camp. I was climbing all around the US.
Do you think you got your spirit of adventure from your parents?
Dez Bartelt
My mom yes.
How?
Dez Bartelt
Well that's hard. She was not a climber or anything like that. However. When she wanted to do or see something she did it. She told me to do what I wanted to do as long as I was safe.
How has this philosophy helped you with your present day business?
Dez Bartelt
The thing is I hope people let go of all the issues that hold them back. They have to know there is more to life then work. People want to explore but they tend to hold back. I try and help them understand nothing should stop them for life.
Tell me if you could encourage a woman who did not have this kind of support, what advice would you give her?
Dez Bartlet
Well lets see. Life will not stop for them. If they don’t live it. It will pass them by. They can go back to the 9 to 5 job but if they take some time to explore their inner adventure. The 9 to 5 will be like a cake walk so will the day to day with the kids and husbands.The 1st step in the support is to sit down and say what I have wanted to do. Surf, ski, travel to a different country. Then start to research. There so many vacation packages on the world wide web now a days for women to take an adventure. They don’t have to go with someone like me but they need to do the research. Traveling with a company like "Best of Both Adventures" will make their trip so much easier and less stressful. We have a group of women and they bond and that make a life time trip.
I read that you do white-water rafting, sea kayaking, ice climbing, and skiing, as well as teaching wilderness survival techniques. Tell me about these hobbies?
Dez Bartelt
Well, I would not call them hobbies. Most of them I did as a pro.
Tell me about being a pro?
Dez Bartelt
It takes lots of hard work. As a woman in the world of extreme sports it’s not easy. However it is fun and life changing.
What has been your biggest challenges in business and with being a pro in these extreme sports?
Dez Bartelt
In the past when I was sponsor. It was making sure the sponsors had the same beliefs and ideals as I do. I would not work with companies that did not work to help the environment. I would not work with companies that did not support women. Now days, I guess it is the same. I was lucky there were very few women pro climbers so I could be a little strong in my beliefs. Funny story. Last week. I went to buy a new pair of climbing paints. It was in a north face store. I happen to have a dress on. Not looking like a climber I guess. When I asked the sales guy if they had some alpine paints. He asked for whom. When I said me. He started to chuckle. That was always very hard for me in the past and also in business. I pointed out that he may want to look in his North Face books as he might come across a picture of me in them.
What advice can you give for a woman running into this kind of chauvinism?
Dez Bartelt
Just as long as she knows who she is. she can do anything. Chauvinism is insecurity.
Good now tell me how you started Best of Both Adventures for Women and why?
Dez Bartelt
I had a co-ed adventure company before hand. But I found the women on the trips held back. I found that Insecurity frustrating as heck. I went home and told my husband that I was changing directions. I’m going with only women's trips. Women need their time. They need to feel the support of other women. They need to feel strong and I wanted to help with that. "Best of Both" means best of both worlds. You can be a mom, a wife, etc. and be adventuress as well.
How have you overcome insecurities to open several successful adventure travel companies? How did you fund your business ventures and travels?
Dez Bartelt
The one thing in life for me is there is no such thing as "NO". When I put my mind on a project-- look out. As for money to fund my companies, I have said this so many times and I will keep saying it: Do what you love and want to do. You don’t have to have bucket loads of money to start. You just have to know and to work hard. You have to live it. In time all the hard work will pay off. I have never taken a loan to start any of my company’s. I started my first one with $500 and lots of hard work. I would not say what I’m worth today but I could stop working if I wanted to. However, to this day I still work every day. I spend as much time as I can with all my trips and I give most of it to charity and the environment but getting back to money. Today there is so much funding out there for women who want to start their own company. They just need to research and they need to work hard.
Speak to me about passion... I hear so many women willing to settle back and live a lack luster existence of day to ordinariness.
Dez Bartelt
That's a good one. You can not make someone have passion. You can help light a fire but if they don't keep it going then the flame will burn out. I don't even know what it means to live a lack luster existence. My husband asked me if I wanted to take time off--not work so hard, retire let other people run the companies. I asked him why. What would I do? Sure a little time is fine. But god. I’m on this earth to live it. If we don’t have passion to try new things be adventurous then why are we here. I’m not trying to change the world. I just want to enjoy all that it has to offer and that includes work. Even if you have a 9 to 5 five days a week job. Don't keep the job unless you’re going to give your best.
Tell us about your company? Give me some parting advice for women entrepreneurs and anything else you wanted to include and the contact info you want used in the article?
Dez Bartelt
First, don’t do "it" unless you love it. Never take "No" as an answer just take a new direction. Be patient. Don’t do it just for the money never do "it" just for the money. Do "it" for yourself. Money is just the icing. Keep it small and let it grow slowly. Don’t forget to take "me" time. Go outside and look around. Enjoy the sites. It will not be easy but nothing ever should be. What fun would it be if it was? When it’s easy you tend to sit back but when it’s hard you get in there and work. As for my parting words on what's new with me. I’m starting a new project. The 1st stage is. I will be traveling around the world starting in March for one year. I will be going to just about every country. I will be writing about the travel obstacles women face and how to get past them. In the second phase of the project beginning in 2010, I’m developing a world environmental adventure project. I will be traveling by a complexly sustainable expiation vehicle. It will be made of completely recycled martial and it will run off its self. It is a one million dollar vehicle and about a three million dollar project. I will be traveling to show the world that you can have fun with extreme adventures but you can also do it by helping the environment at the same time. We will be stopping in all the countries and the main cities showing off the new technology and what each country has to offer. The proceeds will help women start new projects.
Dez Bartelt
Contact info. www.bestofbothadventures.com. 787-823-0610. dez (at) bestofbothadventures.com.
Angelia Miller is the founder of Diva Maverick Mavens www.divamaverickmavens.com a new bread of feisty, non-conformist adventure loving adrenaline-high entrepreneur. The tag line is: Empowering Women by Interviewing Empowered Women...Inspiring "You" to Take ACTION! Casting exceptional dynamic talent for fresh content is the mission of Diva Maverick Mavens. The interview is in the original transcript form with minimal editing to preserve the integrity of the content.
Fran Capo Comedian, Explorer & Ripley's Guinness World's Fastest Talker
Fran Capo is listed as a world record holder with Ripley's and Guinness World Records for being the fastest talker in the world; in fact, Fran has three world records. She is the co-host of the "Live it Up TV Show" a comedian and an adrenaline-high author who had the first ever book signing on top of Mount Kilimanjaro...
Pictures and Videos on Diva Maverick Mavens courtesy of Fran Capo.
How did you get started taking adventures?
Fran Capo
My mother always told me that nothing was impossible....so when I saw something that someone did that I liked I figured I could do that too. I started with simple things like skiing, whale watching and then loved the adrenaline rush and worked up to bigger things from there.
In one of your articles I read that women were as inclined to take adventures as the men in your life, can you explain your theories on this?
Fran Capo
Actually, I do many adventures that the men in my life would not do. I'm always more of the daredevil, not them. For instance, my present boyfriend Steve of 10 years, has run the marathon with me, done combat aircraft, gone to see the polar bears and slept in an ice hotel...but he won't dive with sharks, skydive, or zip line.
What was sleeping in the Ice hotel like?
Fran Capo
It was fantastic...a constant 22 degrees in the ice hotel. It was near Quebec Canada. Everything was ice, the bed, the chairs, the glasses you drank out of....it was funny though they had a wooden door to keep people out. I thought boy all they would need is a match to get in. Most people stay one night. In March when the weather gets warmer they bulldoze the entire hotel into the water and then rebuild it again the following year. Artists from all over the world compete to build a room in the hotel.
And Kilimanjaro? Did you have to train for the mountain?
Fran Capo
I was writing a chapter in my book, Adrenaline Adventures: Dream it, Read it, Do it!. The chapter was about a rock repel that I had done years earlier. I was checking to see if the outfit was still there. I spoke to this guy and in passing he said, "Have you ever climbed a mountain?" I started doing some research and found out that an 83 year- old woman climbed Kilimanjaro so I figured if she could do it, I could do it. Of course, I didn't realize she was in a wheelchair and got airlifted up there..anyway...I decided that if I was going to climb a mountain it would have to be one with a name...I mean who wants to climb Mt. Bob....so my son and I began to train...by bike riding....we rode bikes for 42 miles in a day and then 50 miles and then the following weekend we did 100 miles in one day..figured we were ready. They say that it depends on the altitude sickness if you make it or not. It's above 15,000 feet when it starts to affect you. Some marathon runners in great shape don't make it up...depends on your body. IT was the hardest challenge to date. Winds were 45 mph, and it was -15 degrees.
What did the mountain teach you?
Fran Capo
That with determination once again...nothing is impossible. Also as a motivational speaker I didn't want to just give people a cliche in life as in..."you can make it to the top of any mountaintop." I figured if I was telling people that I better darn well be able to practice what I preach. It was also a great challenge for my son, who was one of the youngest climbers to date at the time he was 15.
What has been your greatest adventure?
Fran Capo
Going down to the wreck site of the Titanic. When I finished my climb to Kilimanjaro the picture of me doing a book-signing up there circulated around the world because I got a record for doing that as the only and first author to do the highest book signing. Anyway, Brian Day O'conner, emailed me out of the blue, and told me he got permission to go down to the wreck site. You go in the Russian Mir submersibles (the same ones from movie the Titanic....) It's only 7 feet inside. You go down 2 1/2 miles...12, 340 feet down. You are down there for 10 hours, no bathroom....you see the bow, the stern, the debris field with cups labeled White Star on the ocean floor...its very surreal. Only 108 people in the world have gone down to the wreck site, more people have been to outer space. We found out recently that we were the last civilian voyage to go down...no more are allowed since Ballard (Who discovered the wreck 94 years ago) is now trying to place a virtual museum there instead. We saw life forms that are not commonly seen, everything there is albino as they have never seen the light of day. I also broke a record there as well (My 3rd world record) as the only author to do a book-signing down by the wreck site of the Titanic....and I became and ordained minister so I could say the first ever non-denominational prayer by the site.
Tell me about your philosophies on fear?
Fran Capo
People always think that I don't experience fear...I do...but this is the choice you have in life. You can either let fear paralyze you, or motivate you. I choose to have the fear and do it anyway. Plus, once you break through a fear of something it always stretches you further to do greater things. More than 90% of things people fear never come to fruition anyway....Plus the people who do things because of fear and the people who don't do things because of fear go through the same thing. Only the people who fear and do it...fear it only once and then they have the feeling of accomplishment. The people who fear and don't do it...re-live the fear many times, and always wonder in their lives if they should have made the choice to do it. Thus never getting that feeling of satisfaction or accomplishment. Once I decide, I am going to do something I put the fear aside and just concentrate on how to accomplish my goal then I visualize it accomplished and that I'm happy doing it.
Were you always a fast talker? Why the world speed talking record?
Fran Capo
Again, that goes to my philosophy of just say yes and figure it out later. I was working as a comic on a radio show in NYC. Kidding around one day I told the disc jockey that I could do a really cool Mae West Impression, but I called the character June East (Mae's long lost sister)...he flings the weather and traffic copy at me and the red tally light goes on...so I do the impression. A women from the Daily news happens to hear me, calls the station and says that she is doing a story on weather and traffic people, and how long have I been doing it. I wasn't going to say 30 seconds, so I said a while. She asks what I plan on doing next, I said...."AH breaking a world Record" She says for what? I say....I have to tell her later...I run out buy a Guinness book, see fast talking, call her back and tell her. She asks how fast a talker am I and I tell her the record is 552 wpm... and that I'm at 550, the last two words are a killer. She prints it in the paper, the next day the Larry King live people call me up and ask me to go on his show and break the record. I call Guinness, they tell me to do something from Shakespeare or the bible...I had the 91st Psalm that my mom had taught me...practiced for 5 hours till the limo came, and that night on the TV show I broke the record doing 585 wpm... I re-broke it at the Guinness Museum in Vegas doing 603.32wpm in 54.2 seconds...or 11 words a second or 7 miles an hour. I'm also listed in the Ripley's Believe it or Not book, and the Record holders republic book. I now do a lot of spokesperson work for corporations that have products that have to do with speediness. I also do corporate impostor work going in and pretending that I am a nervous salesperson etc....I get hired to do that to break up sales meetings. Kids love it at schools too.
With the just jump in mentality how do you fund some of your more expensive adventures?
Fran Capo
I get sponsorship. For example when I climbed Kilimanjaro I got Masterfoods and my publisher at the time, Authorhouse to sponsor me. I then did a book-signing at the top. Because of my stand up comedy, motivational speaking and world records I can guarantee a sponsor that I will mention their name on radio, or in the press (if they are a major sponsor). I also write for www.travelingmom.com (I'm adventure mom) and for Warner Brothers under "Fran's World)...I can always guarantee them press.
What advice could you give to women about sponsorship?
Fran Capo
You have to have a hook. My hook is my world records. You have to let people know what is special about what you are going to do, and what you as a personality bring to the table for them. You have to find your special talent and let it shine. Also one other note...learn to tie in all you do. I do motivational speaking...I have my "Dare to Do it", Creativity in Marketing, The Secrets of Publicity lectures I teach (and have on books and CD's). I also do Success Made Simple seminars with Fitness Celebrity John Basedow. I always find a way to tie in my adventures, comedy, etc to all I do. This way each one becomes another stream of income and you make your life your "passion" and get paid to do it.
Have you raced cars?
Fran Capo
I have driven race cars at the Bertill Roos school. The funny thing was we had a few hours of training, I was the only woman, and also the only one who didn't know how to drive a stick. They had to use 22 pillows so my feet would touch the pedals. I'm 5 feet 2 inches.
What advice can you give to women about creative marketing and publicity?
Fran Capo
Make a list of all you do. Brainstorm which things you can make as a marketing angle. Find a way to use that angle several times...i.e. humor in Parenting, humor in business speaking, humor in everyday life....write articles about it, blog about it, create products around it. Learn to be entertaining and informative...people always remember the funny commercials during the Superbowl. People like to be educated and entertained at the same time. Be the first, the best, the biggest, the smallest, the fastest, the slowest, etc. I have a 3 cd set called, "The Secrets of Publicity" that is a good starting point for anyone who wants to market themselves or their product. It is a simple to understand format, tells you how to develop a press kit, how to get booked on radio and tv shows and how to have the producers ask you back. It's available on my website, www.francapo.com.
What mini adventures would you recommend to the "petite diva"?
Fran Capo
Swimming with dolphins, panning for gold and hot air ballooning.
Tell me about your business, Fran and what makes you different from other speakers?
Fran Capo
My background is as a stand up comic....so my stage presence is different than traditional corporate speakers. I am able to improv on the spot and bring up something that happened that day to bring my point across. I always speak from the heart. People say I am exactly the same person on stage as I am in person. I am not afraid to tell an audience if I'm scared, hurt angry etc. People laugh and relate. I am a stand up comic, 11 time author, keynote motivational speaker, adventurer, spokesperson, radio host, TV host and writer.
Any parting words of advice and what contact info would you like to include?
Fran Capo
For booking information go to my website, www.francapo.com (it's very comprehensive and people will get a kick out of it.)
Parting words: Live everyday as if it's your last and one day you'll be right. Enjoy every moment on this planet. Say I love you to all that matter, and be thankful every morning for all you have. Never do anything in your life that you wouldn't want to appear in the headlines of a newspaper and teach your kids that nothing is impossible. I would also like to tell people that my new book, "Hopeville the city of light" is now available in e-book format on my website. All my books are available in my bookstore on my website...www.francapo.com. That's about it.
Angelia Miller is the founder of Diva Maverick Mavens www.divamaverickmavens.com a new bread of feisty, non-conformist adventure loving adrenaline-high entrepreneur. The tag line is: Empowering Women by Interviewing Empowered Women...Inspiring "You" to Take ACTION! Casting exceptional dynamic talent for fresh content is the mission of Diva Maverick Mavens. The interview is in the original transcript form with minimal editing to preserve the integrity of content.
Sandi Serling PR, Biker and Extreme Sport Enthusiast
Sandi Serling is a biker and extreme sport enthusiast. She and her friend have recently biked across country. Sandi owns a PR company and has worked on numerous TV shows and is currently working on her own TV pilot.
Pictures on Diva Maverick Mavens courtesy of Sandi Serling.
I see that you went skydiving. Tell me about your experience?
Sandi Serling
That experience changed my life. I turned 47 and decided I would do something outside my comfort zone on each birthday. As I was falling 120 miles and hour I felt alive. I thought to myself, how do I top this? And I said, learn how to ride a motorcycle.
Define comfort zone?
Sandi Serling
Being safe. I have a magnet in my office that says, everything is sweetened by risk. I don't believe in putting myself in harms way, but I definitely believe in exploring new experiences--something that makes my stomach flip. It's amazing how you grow from those kinds of experiences. It's spiritual and powerful at the same time.
Why motorcycles and explain to a lay person what is a V-Twin?
Sandi Serling
Wow. That's a big question. It's going to take me a minute. I rode on the back of a motorcycle when I was 13. The feeling of freedom, wind in my face and the connection to everything around me, stayed in my memory. It was locked up until I went sky diving and then that feeling of freedom came to the surface again and I couldn't let it go. It is the ultimate feeling of freedom, one with the elements, never knowing what you're going to find around the corner or who you're going to meet, but it's always an adventure. Just riding to the grocery store is an adventure. And being a woman on a bike opens a lot of doors. A "V-Twin" is simply a kind of engine. It has a certain sound. I am having a love affair with my bike. When I hear the sound of the pipes, it's melodic and soothing to me. They are also VERY loud--I want to make sure others hear me on the road.
What doors does this hobby open for you?
Sandi Serling
People are surprised to see a petite woman on a large motorcycle. The bike weighs 635 pounds and I weigh 120. The day I bought the bike, there was a man buying the exact same one and he was about 6 feet tall--well over 200 pounds. People are amazed to see my size and the bike and they ask lots of questions. It opens up the door to conversation and I find myself learning from people I would most likely never have the opportunity to meet. When my best friend and I rode our bikes to whistler to celebrate my coming of age --50 -- we got the best seats in the restaurants and great rooms in hotels. People were intrigued by us. It's interesting.
What is your best advice for success?
Sandi Serling
Passion. You've got to feel it, breathe, and consume it. If you're not passionate about something in your life, you're stagnant. When I have passion for a project, I won't stop. And everytime there's a hitch along the way, I look at that as a challenge not as an obstacle. I also suggest you surround yourself with talented people capable of doing things you are not able to do-- a strong team can take you far.
Give an example?
Sandi Serling
I'm currently working on a television pilot. I have the best producer, director, editor and shooter. They have strengths, vision and creativity in areas that compliment mine. This project couldn't move forward without them. We're a team and each feels passionate about this project.
How do you find time for your PR agency, family and a television pilot?
Sandi Serling
That's a GREAT question. First of all, I have an incredibly supportive family. Each is an entrepreneur so they appreciate my drive. I have had the PR agency for over two decades and love the world of PR. It's something I have a strong gut instinct for. The TV combines all my passions. I've worked on TV shows in the past so it's a natural evolution.
Please elaborate?
Sandi Serling
I was one of the publicists for the TV series Babylon 5. I promoted the California Raisins when they came out and worked on a multitude of shows with my clients.
Elaborate now on your own pilot and the kind of support you get from your family?
Sandi Serling
Unfortunately, I can't really talk about that one in detail. BUT, it is taking up a bit of my time and they are my champions. They see the value in it and they see my eyes light up when I talk about it.
What advice can you give to other women who have a similar dreams?
Sandi Serling
If you have a dream, you must go for it. Another saying i have up in my office is never never never give up. I am a strong believer you can make anything happen. I am surrounded in my office my imagery, quotes, photos etc... that inspire me. Another quote is: Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars. Life is short. You have to grab life by the throttle and don't look back.
What other characteristics do you believe have been helpful in your success and your families?
Sandi Serling
I want to be a good person, first and foremost. I believe in celebrating a multi-cultural world. I will avoid spending time around negative people because you get sucked into to their negative take on life. I love being surrounded by creative people --they inspire me. I am also an avid weightlifter. I workout everyday. It centers me. It helps me stay fit but also makes me feel strong physically and mentally. I can walk in a meeting and feel powerful.
As a PR professional, what is the best advice you can give to women entrepreneurs?
Sandi Serling
Know exactly what it is you are striving for. Be clear on your message and your goal. Be unique and figure out the value and contribution you're making with your product, service etc... surround yourself with a trusted team. Never take all the credit. Share the kudos and you'll get much further.
Work through the fear because anything worth doing is going to fearful. You must believe in yourself.
Do you think you would have gotten this far without support?
Sandi Serling
Absolutely not. It's important to share ideas and get feedback. When you have people who believe you in, you are energized. It is important to me to be there for others the way they have been there for me.
What has been your greatest challenges and blessings?
Sandi Serling
Learning to ride the motorcycle continues to be challenging and that's one thing I absolutely love about it. It's a never ending learning curve. I like that. It keeps me alert. My greatest blessing is my family and close friends. I am one lucky woman.
Tell me about your business and what makes it unique?
Sandi Serling
I have never looked at a project and thought it is impossible. For example, I wanted to get a client on Oprah. It was a perfect fit. I never questioned it. It happened. I asked a client for a top 3 wish list. She said, "The Wall Street Journal, The Today Show and People magazine". Her product was a great fit for all three and we got all three within two months. I could have told her the Wall Street Journal was a long shot but I didn't. I suppose you would call me more of a guerrilla marketer or publicist. I try to find the perfect fit. One more thing that is very important. I decided several years ago that I was only going to work with clients that are "hug-gable." I wanted to get away from big egos and work with people who really believed in what they were doing. I made that very conscious decision and have had the very best clients. They have become family to me.
Before ending this interview is there anything else you would like to mention or anymore advice you would like to impart to woman? Please enclose the contact info you would like to use in this article.
Sandi Serling
Just be true to yourself and follow your passion. It's critical to happiness and fulfillment.
Contact information
Sandi Serling: sandi@serlingpr.com.
Angelia Miller is the founder of Diva Maverick Mavens www.divamaverickmavens.com a new bread of feisty, non-conformist adventure loving adrenaline-high entrepreneur. The tag line is: Empowering Women by Interviewing Empowered Women...Inspiring "You" to Take ACTION! Casting exceptional dynamic talent for fresh content is the mission of Diva Maverick Mavens. The interview is in original transcript form with minimal editing to preserve the integrity of the content.
Captain Karen Kahn What does it take to be a Professional Commercial Airline Pilot
Captain Karen Kahn is a professional commercial pilot with Continental Airlines, professional speaker and author of the book "Flight Guide for Success."
Pictures and Videos on Diva Maverick Mavens courtesy of Captain Karen Kahn and Christie Communications.
Did you come from a family of pilots?
Captain Karen M. Kahn
No, no one in my family flies and my parents were dead set against my flying.
Tell me what makes a person go against their families wishes to pursue their dream?
Captain Karen M. Kahn
After my first lesson, I was passionate about flying and wanted to do for a living what I'd found I loved to do anyway. I realized that doing for a living what you'd like to do for fun was my goal in life...and flying fulfilled that goal.
Did your family teach you about goals?
Captain Karen M. Kahn
Not really. I think mine were always at odds to theirs. They wanted me to be a nurse -- and years later I discovered how squeamish I really am! I think flying was considered to be too "bus driver" like and not intellectual enough for their tastes. I, however, found it fascinating and I became excited about learning all I could about my new world of flight. I only wish I'd found my passion while in college so I could have attended an aviation college or, at very least, received some college credit for all the av courses I took.
Where did you get the drive to pursue your dreams without the support of family? Friends, self...
Captain Karen M. Kahn
I think I was determined to do for a living what I loved to do anyway and kept my focus by immersing myself in aviation. I did take various menial jobs to pay for my lessons, but that thought of flying was always on my mind. I quickly figured out that I wanted to be out at the airport and finally got a job working as a dispatcher, bookkeeper, administrative assistant in order to take advantage of employee flying discount rates.
If you had any words of advice for women who don't have a healthy since of self-esteem or a support network, what would that advice be?
Captain Karen M. Kahn
Find a passion and go for it. Don't let others tell you that you can't achieve your goal...only YOU decide what you can achieve. There ARE folks out there to help you. You just need to find them by participating in your passion -- to whatever extent possible. For example, I never had a mentor, per se. I had a passion and kept in contact with anyone who I thought could help me. I was probably a bit pushy, but how else will folks know what my goal is and that I'm working hard to achieve it? My book talks a lot about how you can find someone to help you and how to convince them that you're serious about your passion.
Tell me about flying and I don't mean commercially. What does it means to you personally?
Captain Karen M. Kahn
It means freedom, to go where you want, when you want. It means instant gratification and immediate feedback to bolster your sense of accomplishment. I love the fact that you're constantly learning and that we are eager to discuss our mistakes so we can learn from them and from others. I always joke with passengers who exclaim "look it's a woman Captain! that when they find me an airplane that knows the sex of the person who's flying it, I'll quit." For now, it's very much equal opportunity, assuming you're qualified -- and that's the key, being well-qualified at what you do.
I see you fly helicopters, gliders and seaplanes. Tell me about how it feels to fly in these?
Captain Karen M. Kahn
Helicopters are great fun, but very unforgiving. You have to pay close attention to what you're doing. But I love their maneuverability -- I'm a snoop at heart and love to fly in places that airplanes can't go. Gliders are very peaceful, although no as quiet as you might suspect. The wind noise can be substantial. Seaplanes are great fun, but I've not flown one for many years. However, a vacation to some water land in the summer, like Alaska, would be great fun. I quickly realized that if you wanted to fly for a living, you had to acquire the skills in that part of aviation that employs the most pilots, rather than just the most fun part that probably uses pilots only part-time. That's not to say there aren't jobs in those areas, but the preponderance of jobs are in the transportation business which is mainly reserved for airplanes, the bigger the plane the farther they go.
What advice would you give to women who would like to learn to fly non-commercially?
Captain Karen M. Kahn
It's a wonderful idea to learn to fly. Most of us, myself included, started out doing it for a hobby and found we loved it so much that our dream was to make a living doing it. There are lots of ways to learn, which I discuss in my book, but it begins with taking that first step and going out to your local airport. Flying isn't a particularly difficult endeavor. It takes concentration and adherence to many rules and regulations. However, most women make better pilots since they are good at following instructions and can talk about their mistakes and learn from them. The advice in my book is meant to women and men. All of it work for the person who just wants to fly for fun, as a hobby. That's probably a great way to start out as there's no pressure, just the pleasure of learning a new skill.
What is the biggest misconception about being a professional pilot? And what personality trait is most important to develop for success?
Captain Karen M. Kahn
I think the huge salaries and the great glamor of the job. The salaries have declined dramatically over the past 10 years as we tend to pay for the mistakes of management. The glamor is rather limited at the end of many 16 hour days when you're expected to do your best even though you're dead tired and everything is going wrong. The most important personality trait needed for success is a positive outlook (once employed you're being paid to fly instead of vice versa) as well as the "I want to learn" attitude. Pilots will help you achieve anything you desire if you show them you're ready, willing and eager to learn. Be positive, friendly, open and pro-active. Don't be afraid to say "I don't know, but I'll find out and let you know the answer."
How do you handle stress management?
Captain Karen M. Kahn
Lots of deep breaths, reminding myself about the "big picture" and what my goals are. I often tell my co-pilot, after a long delay, " I can't go home until tomorrow (or whenever I'm through flying)" so this delay is just part of the game. Time is money, the more time, the more money -- beside they actually PAY me to do this job! It's one of the few in the world which you can't buy your way into. On the practical side, I drink lots of water, try to get plenty of sleep and exercise. Eat sensibly (I have to wear the same pair of uniform pants 8-10 days per month) and recognize that the older we get, the more slowly we need to move -- no more going at it like you're killing snakes. Good music on my iPod is another great help for stress, as is a good hot bath at night in my hotel room. Taking time for myself is important. Also, I remember that I'm not required to "act like one of the boys." I'm required to use good judgment, think before I act and remember who pays my salary.
Define balance?
Captain Karen M. Kahn
Nothing in excess, making sure all things and consequences are considered so I won't be saying later, "gee, I wish I hadn't done that." Good balance requires good planning and judgment. As I like to say, "learn from the mistakes of others...you'll never live long enough to make them all yourself!"
What might a beginning flight student be expected to learn and what might they be surprised at having to learn?
Captain Karen M. Kahn
How to plan ahead and remember you've got your life and your passenger's lives in your hands. As I like to say "how will it (your action) sound at the (NTSB) hearing." If the answer is not good, then don't do it!
What kinds of people would not be suited for this type of work?
Captain Karen M. Kahn
I think they might be surprised that judgment is a learned skill, particularly in flying. It's comprised of knowledge, and experience, and gained by studying the mistakes of others, asking their advice, posing what-if scenarios and knowing you can never be completely right...or wrong. Types of people NOT suited to flying are the impetuous ones who are flagrant rule breakers. The reckless and the careless will do very poorly in our business. We say there are no old, bold pilots. We survive in a very structured environment, even if you're just flying for fun. You endanger everyone else if you can't follow the rules.
Tell me about speaking?
Captain Karen M. Kahn
I enjoy speaking about my passion and how anyone can live their passion if they follow some common sense guidelines. My book has lots in it about marketing yourself (for whatever may be your passion) as well interviewing and networking. I like talking to groups about what I've learned over 31+ years of working in a world filled with men. How to excel at what you do, how to deal with setbacks and adversity, how to be proactive and plan ahead for your own success. Luck is when preparation meets opportunity -- a great guideline I very much endorse. I have a talk I enjoy called "Workplace Secrets to Success" that helps to empower women who work in worlds filled with men. Learning about how they think and how you can deal with the gender differences is a fun and fascinating adventure. I'm also very big on clear communications -- whatever your field. It amazes me as to how much mis-communication exists in our world, especially my workplace, where it's so crucial to our success.
What parting words of wisdom do you have for women who want to pursue a career as a pilot or any other male-dominated field?
Captain Karen M. Kahn
Learn your trade well, learn to laugh at yourself and keep showing your colleagues that you're ready, willing and eager to learn.
Captain Karen M. Kahn
CaptainKarenKahn.com, 933 Cheltenham Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93105 805-687-9493 fax 805-687-6226 e-mail captainkarenkahn@cox.net website www.AviationCareerCounseling.com.
Angelia Miller is the founder of Diva Maverick Mavens www.divamaverickmavens.com a new bread of feisty, non-conformist adventure loving adrenaline-high entrepreneur. The tag line is: Empowering Women by Interviewing Empowered Women...Inspiring "You" to Take ACTION! Casting exceptional dynamic talent for fresh content is the mission of Diva Maverick Mavens. The interview is in original transcript form with minimal editing to preserve the integrity of the content.
Angelia Miller is the founder of Diva Maverick Mavens www.divamaverickmavens.com a new bread of feisty, non-conformist adventure loving adrenaline-high entrepreneur. The tag line is: Empowering Women by Interviewing Empowered Women...Inspiring "You" to Take ACTION! Casting exceptional dynamic talent for fresh content is the mission of Diva Maverick Mavens. The interview is in original transcript form with minimal editing to preserve the integrity of the content.
Angelia Miller is the founder of Diva Maverick Mavens www.divamaverickmavens.com a new bread of feisty, non-conformist adventure loving adrenaline-high entrepreneur. The tag line is: Empowering Women by Interviewing Empowered Women...Inspiring "You" to Take ACTION! Casting exceptional dynamic talent for fresh content is the mission of Diva Maverick Mavens. The interview is in original transcript form with minimal editing to preserve the integrity of the content.
April 04, 2009
Jean Newell Love My Pup bags and QVC Diva
Jean Newell is an adrenaline- high entrepreneur who has appeared on QVC several times with her Love My Pup bags.
Picture and Videos on Diva Maverick Mavens courtesy of Jean Newell.
You've said you were a real estate agent. How has this job prepared you for what you do now?
Jean Newell
A Real Estate agent is considered an independent contractor so we were basically running our own small businesses . We had to do all of our own marketing and sales.
What challenges did you face as a young entrepreneur marketing your new product? And getting funding?
Jean Newell
Thank you for the "young" I was 57 when I started but as a "new" entrepreneur you'll find even with all of the business books and magazines they don't really prepare you for where your road will take you. As far a funding, that is a challenge. I suggest to aspiring entrepreneurs that they look into all types of funding available before they need it. If they are still employed, they need to look into loans while they can qualify for them. Most banks what at least 3 years in the business.
What piece of advice can you offer to people who have an invention they want to market?
Jean Newell
Make sure there is a market for your invention. Have focus groups of people who would be potential clients look at a prototype or explain the concept with them. Always protect yourself with confidentiality agreements.
What characteristics do you require to make your product a success? Please elaborate as much as possible with an example?
Jean Newell
Ironic that you would ask fo that as I just sent the same information to my local newspaper for an article.
Ifeel there are 6 traits all successful Entrepreneurs should have:
1) The Strong believe in self
2) Drive and a "can do" attitude
3) Leadership qualities
4) Quick thinker and a multi-tasker
5) Able to delegate when necessary
6) The will to survive. "No" can not be in your vocabulary
What has been the biggest obstacles to your success?
Jean Newell
Not having a formal education in business, marketing, finance, manufacturing and distribution. I have proven it can be done without this education, but it's much more difficult to be learning as you go along. When you're forced to learn something fast it's amazing what you can accomplish.
How did you land QVC?
Jean Newell
I tried unsuccessfully to summit my product The PUP (personal utility pouch) 5 times through HSN and was turned down all 5 times. Yet the independent agents for HSN all thought it was a perfect product. I then got an agent for QVC and they accepted it immediately. Which should prove the point not to give up if some people don't see your vision. Should be 5 times through HSN. Sorry I have a little Dyslexia.
Your doing great. What is the best and worst part of being a entrepreneur?
Jean Newell
I have to laugh when people say, "Oh you can make your own hours". That's true I'm just trying to figure out how to get 27 hours into a 24 hour day. As a entrepreneur you will work longer, harder and for a lot less income then you ever did before. However that old expression - if you do something you like you'll never work a day in your life- couldn't be truer. If you believe your product, service or business will truly be a benefit to society, you won't be watching the clock. The worst part of being an entrepreneur is "the road less traveled". You really don't know if you're doing the correct things at the right time for your business. You just have to rely on your gut feelings and go with it.
For women entrepreneurs that suffer from Dyslexia, what advice can you give to them?
Jean Newell
Make sure you have a good spell and grammar check installed on your computer. I don't think Skype has that ability so I'm a little nervous.
Tell me about the PUP?
Jean Newell
The PUP is an acronym for Personal Utility Pouch. The PUP is a unisex designed, wearable organizer for travel, work or play. It measures about 6x9 inches and can be worn around the waist, over the shoulder or across the body. I created it while I was still working as a real estate agent to hold all of our little electronic devices in one place. Necessity was certainly the mother of invention as I was tired of calling my own misplaced cell phone to find its whereabouts. I soon discovered it wasn't just me but all of the associates in my office were misplacing either their cell phone or palm pilot, digital camera, pen etc. The PUP was our professional tool belt.
Do you have any parting advice you want to give to women? Anything else you would like to say that wasn't previously covered?
Jean Newell
Don't let anyone tell you "you're crazy" for wanting to pursue your dreams. Now that's not to say you shouldn't do your homework and make sure your idea has merit but friends and especially family may not be encouraging. They are only trying to protect you from failure. Go to the Small Business Administration in your area. They have free courses on marketing, starting a business, computer skills, etc. They have free mentoring programs too. Take advantage of all of the Women's Business Centers. You need to be around other people who will encourage you as well as tell you the truth. Family may not be the best source for that.
Contact info?
Jean Newel
For free business tips and audio links for aspiring entrepreneurs www.newcomarketing.com; for product information on the PUP or giZmo bag www.lovemypup.com. My business phone number is 321 751-4537.
Parting advice...
Jean Newell
Just remember it's all very simple.....just not easy!
Angelia Miller is the founder of Diva Maverick Mavens www.divamaverickmavens.com a new bread of feisty, non-conformist adventure loving adrenaline-high entrepreneur. The tag line is: Empowering Women by Interviewing Empowered Women...Inspiring "You" to Take ACTION! Casting exceptional dynamic talent for fresh content is the mission of Diva Maverick Mavens. The interview is in the original transcript form with minimal editing to preserve the integrity of the content.
April 01, 2009
Kim Cameron Lead Singer of Side FX band
Kim Cameron is a professional singer who has traveled internationally. She has also entertained the troops and wrote a touching tribute to the men and women at war.
Pictures and Videos courtesy on Diva Maverick Mavens courtesy of Kim Cameron and AMP3 Public Relations.
Let's lay little ground work. Did you come from a musical family?
Kim Cameron
No I did not.
If your family wasn't musical then how did you develop a love of singing and music?
Kim Cameron
Well, my father loved rock and roll. He used to turn on the Rolling Stones, Cat Stevens, Elvis and we would dance for hours in the living room. My mother was a big church goer and really pushed me towards the love of a choir. So, I guess, my family inspired me to some degree, but my first true introduction to music was when I was given a clarinet to learn.
Why the clarinet?
Kim Cameron
I suspect, it was because that was what my family could afford. I initially wanted to learn how to play the flute, but there were too many girls who had already signed up for that instrument, so, band teachers being band teachers, and wanting a balance, pointed me a different direction.
How many years between playing the instrument to actually studying voice did it take?
Kim Cameron
Well, not many. I actually did both. I started band in the 2nd grade and finally finished the 'band' route by the 8th grade (only because my school at the time would not allow me to do both singing and band) and starting singing in the 4th grade.
Did you receive accolades or awards at an early age singing?
Kim Cameron
I never entered a contest -- I cannot think of one that was offered, but I was always chosen as the lead for whatever I tried out for : Musicals, bands, performances, etc., even starting out when I was in 4th grade. I was Little Buttercup in the pirate play--- the name escapes me...Pirates of Penzance.
How did you come to study IT in college instead of music? Or did you?
Kim Cameron
Oh no. I studied Broadcast Journalism. The study of music was never in my mind - could not figure out how I would make any money with a music degree. IT--well, I just fell into that one. My first job -- I was a radio personality.
...a radio personality. Tell me about your first job?
Kim Cameron
Well, being on the radio was great fun and a great bore at the same time. You are basically talking to yourself for 6-8 hours each day. Sure, you play music in between, but you still talk to yourself. But, that was not the reason I left radio. I left radio because I could not afford to stay in that profession. With student loans to pay and an apartment, car, $11,000 a year was not going to cut it.
So, let's talk practicality and making dreams happen. Is that why you took the IT job?
Kim Cameron
Dreams and IT--unless I was the head of Apple, in my mind, never go together. I went into IT purely for the financial gain. What I realized, after sweating it out for 15+ years, the money was not worth it. When you come home every night and wonder why you are doing something full time+ and it does not give you that feeling of fulfillment and happiness....well, it's time to change. And, as a strong woman, I had two choices: live with being unhappy or make my dream happen. I really only had myself in the way. So, I launched.
So, what would you say was your biggest obstacle. What it finances, health, mindset or something else?
Kim Cameron
Hmmm, finances are an issue, but it would be wrong to blame it on the finances. If you really want something bad enough, you can work a budget to make it work. No, I would say mindset. Pushing aside those feelings that bring you down, those side comments by people who say you should just be happy with what you have, those inner voices that tell you--this will be really, really hard--are you sure you want to try it?
In the email your brother-in-laws illness seemed to inspire you into action. I would like to address this because illness can be devastating and can kill dreams and the will.
Kim Cameron
Ahh, but that is what can also force you to act in a way that you would never act. You see Angelia, it's not just that I want to do music full time, it's that I have to. There is a force in me that will not calm. I can honestly say that force was awakened with my brother in law, but it persisted after his recovery into a discovery of myself and of others. What I have found is when you truly pursue your dreams, or rather, your passion, your mind opens up to people. You listen more intently, you feel more deeply, you have left the baggage you once carried around at the door and now can more freely move and interact with others. Now, pursuing your dreams does not come for free, mind you, but I have found rewards in the pursuit itself. I have never had that feeling before.
There is a quote by Henry David Thoreau, "Go confidently...live the life you always imagined." Do you regret not going confidently into the future sooner or is there something to "divine timing."
Kim Cameron
Great question. I wish I had come to my senses about 10 years ago. However, I am not sure that I would be as talented. And by talent, I am looking at the whole package -- so 10 years ago, I was performing in a cover band having a great time, but it never occurred to me that I could write songs. Today, I have no fear of writing songs, singing songs, marketing my songs, leading a band, etc. Besides the singing part, 10 years ago, I could not have done what I have done in the last year.
Which leads me to the question of balance and making things happen? And then tell me about your music I have been listening to you on YouTube, Kim.
Kim Cameron
Balance. Well, I am still working on balance. I have used my business experience and applied it to my musical venture. As with any start up business, you have to have product or there is nothing to sell. So, I focused this first year on product. Now that I am starting (almost) year two, I will focus on marketing. So, I guess, I have had to 'balance' the right things based on where the business is at. Of course, there is 'home' balance as well. Unfortunately, that is not quite balanced yet--but I am working on it. My significant other and I have trimmed our weekend get aways almost entirely and I have been working most nights between performances or in studio with my producer for the last 6 months-- so that has been hard. The positive side, my significant other can see that the major 'development' effort (at least for now) is largely completed, leaving more time for us to refocus. As far as my friends, well, so far, they have been extremely supportive. So, about the music. The first album is made up of stories -- stories of people, friends, family that I know. I have gone back to the basics -- music / songs should be about telling a story. There are so many great ones to tell. I believe it makes it much more interesting. Contradictions has so many emotions - sorrow, force, love, passion, sadness. My next album - which is nearly complete, will be very happy and upbeat by comparison. It will be called Turning Point. I really did not realize how happy the album was until recently. I guess that is a reflection of my state of mind and again, represents my general feelings about pursuing your dreams.
If you could talk to women all over the world at once about pursuing there dreams, what advice would you give to them through your music and life. What wisdom would you impart today?
Kim Cameron
Never let someone tell you that you cannot do it. I am just incensed when I listen to people at times. Women are great listeners, so when people tell them they should not 'go for it', they have a tendency to back way down or stop altogether. I say, keep going. What is the worst that can happen? Nothing? Well, if you are not pursuing your dreams, then you have nothing right now - so there is no reason not to try. We all hold our own crystal ball.
Before I end this interview tell me the contact info you would like in the article for gigs buying a CD and then tell me about the tour in Asia?
Kim Cameron
Sure. admin@sidefxband.netis a good contact. You can buy our full album "Contradictions" or just individual songs on
Amazon and iTunes or through our website, www.sidefxband.net. Asia- well, in November, I performed at the America-China Woman's Business Leadership conference. The CEO of the organization and I hit it off. She also was inspired by my story and offered to help me take it to China this fall. Currently, she is gathering a host of sponsors who would fund the trip to China - I suspect it will be about 3 weeks total. In addition, the Philippine community has taken a liking to the music. My Scattered video is now on MTV Philippines and we are looking at a short tour this spring.
Thank you, Kim, your interview has been inspiring.
I just wanted to add that if anyone has any press/booking inquiries for Kim Cameron, they can feel free to direct their emails to Termeh Mazhari at SideFX!
- Name: Termeh Mazhari
- Email: sidefx@amp3pr.com
- URL: http://www.amp3pr.com
Angelia Miller is the founder of Diva Maverick Mavens www.divamaverickmavens a new bread of feisty, non-conformist adventure loving adrenaline-high entrepreneur. The tag line is: Empowering Women by Interviewing Empowered Women and inspiring them to take Action! Casting exceptional dynamic talent for fresh content is the mission of Diva Maverick Mavens. The interview is in the original transcript form with minimal editing to preserve the integrity of the content.
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