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By Robert White,  Editor-In-Chief Summer Chamberlain’s journey into the deep blue began in 2016, during a seemingly ordinary vacation in the Bahamas. What started as a spontaneous decision to join a group of scuba divers turned into a passion that would eventually lead her to a whole new career. Chamberlain, who spent two decades in the military as a recruiter for doctors, nurses, and dentists, found solace beneath the waves. Scuba diving became more than just a hobby; it was a way to escape the high-pressure demands of her job and immerse herself in an environment where the only sound was the gentle rhythm of her own breath. After completing her initial open water certification during that trip, Summer’s love for scuba diving only grew. She continued to pursue her new passion, progressing through the ranks of diving certifications. "When you start, everyone begins as an open water diver," she explains. "From there, you can advance with more training in deep dives, underwater photography, and decompression techniques." As she mastered these skills, she ventured into specialized areas such as shipwreck diving, night diving, and nitrox diving, which allows divers to extend their time underwater. Her dedication led her to Xcalak, Mexico, where she spent an intense month in 2021, living aboard a boat, diving three times a day, and studying for hours in between. The rigorous schedule paid off when she became a Dive Master. In 2022, she took the final step and became a certified scuba diving instructor, a title she now proudly holds while based in upstate New York. For those interested in learning scuba diving, Summer recommends beginning with classes at Tioga County Scuba Academy, where she currently teaches from June to October. The Academy is still in its early stages, with a website on the way, but prospective students can contact her directly via email. Diving is not without its challenges, as Summer is quick to point out. "People with claustrophobia don’t always adapt well to scuba diving, partly because of the weight of the equipment," she notes. Being a strong swimmer is also crucial, as the sport demands a certain level of physical fitness. "There’s a test where you have to swim eight laps in a pool and tread water for ten minutes. Some people float on their backs, but it’s important to be confident and safe in the water." Despite the challenges, the rewards of scuba diving are immense. Chamberlain’s story is a testament to the transformative power of pursuing a passion. From the structured life of military service to the serene depths of the ocean, she has found a way to balance both worlds. And now, she is eager to share that experience with others, guiding them through the journey of becoming certified scuba divers and, perhaps, finding the same peace she discovered beneath the waves. For more information about Summer Chamberlain and Tioga County Scuba Academy, keep an eye out for their upcoming website or reach out to Summer directly via email. summerchamberlain@yahoo.com

By Robert White,  Editor-In-Chief In a crowded marketplace dominated by giants like Airbnb and VRBO, it can be challenging to carve out a niche. Yet, in 2018, Alex Alioto, along with his co-founders Ben and Jim, did just that with Whimstay —a unique travel marketplace focused on solving the problem of expiring inventory in the short-term rental market. What began as a solution for a problem faced by Ben, a successful entrepreneur who owned multiple short-term rental properties, has evolved into a disruptive force in the vacation rental industry. Whimstay’s origin story is one of entrepreneurial spirit and the willingness to take risks. As Alex recalls, “Me, Ben, and Jim sat down at a small table, opened a computer, and the inbox was at zero! We literally started from zero. I personally had a huge wave of fear wash over me, but then out of nowhere, a flash of inspiration just hit me—‘contact the North Lake Tahoe Chambers of Commerce.’” This pivotal moment led to their first listings and set the ball rolling for Whimstay’s growth. The core idea behind Whimstay is simple but innovative. Unlike traditional platforms that list properties far in advance, Whimstay caters to travelers looking to book accommodations within 30 days or less. This approach complements, rather than competes with, larger platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. “We take care of travelers that are doing 30 days or less,” Alex explains, highlighting how Whimstay fills a crucial gap in the market. Whimstay's strategy of building strong relationships with professional property managers has been key to its rapid expansion. By focusing on these partnerships, Whimstay has been able to scale quickly. As Alex puts it, “If you are a host, we work with professional property managements. They use software to distribute their properties. They have more properties that they manage, so it was worth it to make one call and get 100 listings instead of having an individual host.” The company’s growth has been further accelerated by strategic agreements with industry leaders like Expedia Group and Booking.com . These partnerships have added an impressive 250,000 new listings to Whimstay’s platform. “We have a supply department, and that team is the one that brought us these great agreements and got the listings that we wanted,” says Alex. These collaborations are a testament to the value Whimstay brings to the travel marketplace. Looking to the future, Whimstay has ambitious plans. While expanding their listings remains a priority, the company is also focused on perfecting its product. “Experience is always on the roadmap,” Alex notes, “but right now, we want to project what we are doing and really focus on the product and making sure the engineering is perfect. Our focus is to get one million bookings a day.” Whimstay's journey from a fledgling startup to a significant player in the vacation rental industry is a story of innovation, resilience, and the drive to solve real-world problems. As the company continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to offering a unique and valuable service to both property managers and last-minute travelers. With its eyes set firmly on the future, Whimstay is poised to continue redefining the landscape of short-term vacation rentals.

By Robert White,  Editor-In-Chief Michael Mota is not just an entrepreneur; he is a force of nature in the business and entertainment worlds. As the Founder and CEO of Atom Media and VirtualCons , Mota has built a reputation for innovation, resilience, and a relentless drive to succeed. His journey, which began in humble beginnings in Rhode Island, is a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to seize opportunities when they arise. Growing up in Rhode Island, Mota was instilled with the values of hard work and dedication by his immigrant parents. He pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Rhode Island College and later earned a Master’s degree in Administration from Providence College, initially setting his sights on a career in education. Mota’s journey took a pivotal turn when he was offered a position with a congressional campaign, leading him to the world of marketing. This experience opened doors that would shape his future, including his introduction to Alex and Ani, a brand that would soon become a household name. During his time with Mediapeel, a mid-sized advertising agency, Mota played a critical role in securing Alex and Ani as a cornerstone client. His foresight and strategic thinking led to Mediapeel’s acquisition by Alex and Ani, where Mota was appointed Vice President of Marketing. Under his leadership, the brand experienced unprecedented growth, earning a spot on Inc. magazine’s “5000 Fastest Growing Companies” list and solidifying its position as a global powerhouse. Mota’s impact was not limited to just one brand; he also spearheaded campaigns for prestigious clients like The Smithsonian Institution and Benjamin Moore Paints, driving annual sales from $500,000 to over $22 million in just two years. In 2014, Mota founded Atom Media Group, a full-service marketing agency that has continued to thrive under his leadership. Atom Media, named by spelling his last name backward, has maintained a loyal client base, allowing Mota to continue his journey as a successful entrepreneur. But Mota didn’t stop there. His passion for entertainment led him to create unique experiences like “A Night with the Sopranos,” an exclusive event featuring cast members from the iconic show, and SopranosCon, a convention that drew over 15,000 fans and 55 cast members. This event, created “for the fans, by the fans,” was a massive success, further cementing Mota’s reputation as a visionary in the entertainment industry. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought new challenges, but Mota’s entrepreneurial spirit prevailed. He quickly adapted by launching VirtualCons, a platform that allowed fans to connect with celebrities through meet and greets, live performances, and more—all from the safety of their homes. This innovation demonstrated Mota’s ability to pivot and thrive in even the most challenging circumstances. Mota’s journey has not been without controversy. Recently, he made headlines by hiring Donald Trump’s attorney, Peter Ticktin, to sue the Boston Globe for what he describes as a “witch hunt” against him, involving 17 false and defamatory articles. Despite these challenges, Mota remains focused on his businesses and continues to push forward with his characteristic resilience. His story serves as a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship requires not only vision and determination but also the courage to navigate and overcome obstacles. His insights into the world of business and entertainment are invaluable, offering inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs who, like Mota, are ready to take risks and make their mark on the world. For those interested in learning more about Michael Mota ’s journey and his latest ventures, an interview or feature story is a must-read.

By Robert White,  Editor-In-Chief SIDEGLIDE , the dynamic Israeli DJ and producer, has just dropped his latest music production, "Woka Wiki," a track that pushes the boundaries of Latin indie music. Known for his electrifying performances and innovative sound, SIDEGLIDE has already made waves across Europe, and with this new release, he is poised to capture the attention of music lovers worldwide. "Woka Wiki" is a testament to SIDEGLIDE's exceptional talent for blending diverse musical elements into a cohesive and exhilarating experience. The track is a vibrant mix of Latin rhythms and indie influences, showcasing his ability to create something truly unique and infectious. It's no surprise that his work has garnered praise from industry heavyweights like Adam Port of Keinemusik, further solidifying his place as a rising star in the global music scene. The release of "Woka Wiki" follows the successful conclusion of SIDEGLIDE's tour in France, where he captivated audiences with his charisma and innovative soundscapes. His ability to connect with fans through his music is unparalleled, and his latest track is a reflection of his continued evolution as an artist. With "Woka Wiki" now available on all major music platforms, SIDEGLIDE invites listeners from all corners of the globe to experience his fresh and exciting take on Latin indie music. As he continues to break down barriers and expand his reach, SIDEGLIDE proves that his art knows no borders, resonating with a diverse and ever-growing audience. For those looking to explore a new and invigorating sound, "Woka Wiki" is a must-listen. SIDEGLIDE 's latest release not only cements his reputation as a talented producer but also highlights his ability to innovate and inspire through his music. Listen to "Woka Wiki" here: https://fanlink.tv/wokawiki .

By Robert White,  Editor-In-Chief The landscape of real estate appraisal is traditionally a male-dominated field, but trailblazers like Deb Clark are breaking through those barriers and setting new standards for innovation and inclusion. As the founder of Wyoming-based Mountain West Valuation and Eval.com , Deb is not just making waves in real estate but is also paving the way for other female entrepreneurs in industries often seen as unwelcoming to women. Deb's journey into real estate appraisal was anything but conventional. A native of Canada, she spent her early years working as a bartender, first in her teens and then through her 20s. After relocating to the United States in 2003 and eventually settling in Wyoming in 2006, a chance meeting with a real estate appraiser sparked her interest in the field. That encounter led her to a new career path in real estate appraisal, where she faced the challenges of navigating a male-dominated profession head-on. Despite the obstacles, Deb credits her bartending background with helping her develop the confidence and tenacity needed to succeed in a room full of men, saying, "As a bartender, you see the best and worst in people, and sometimes all in the same night." Deb's commitment to hard work and her natural leadership abilities quickly became evident as she progressed in her career. Working alongside mentors and colleagues who supported her growth, Deb eventually took over the agricultural appraisal firm where she had been trained, transforming it into a highly successful boutique business. In 2020, Deb launched Eval.com , a groundbreaking platform designed to streamline real estate evaluations for lenders. The service quickly gained traction, serving over 3% of the banks across the country in just a few years. Eval.com fills a crucial gap in the market, providing accurate, timely evaluations to banks for low-risk loans, where full appraisals aren't necessary. This innovation has created an estimated $25 million annual opportunity, reshaping how evaluations are conducted nationwide. But Deb's ambition doesn't stop there. Her latest venture, Blakbird , aims to democratize the world of appraisals even further by creating a platform for collectors of all types to appraise their valuables. From antiques to rare collectibles, Blakbird will use cutting-edge AI and computer vision technology to ensure users can accurately assess the value of their treasures. As Deb puts it, "Blakbird will stop $70,000 vases from ending up on Goodwill shelves." The app is set to launch in September 2024 and promises to be a game-changer for non-professionals looking to understand the value of their possessions. As one of the few women in a male-dominated industry, Deb has faced her fair share of challenges, but she’s never let that stand in her way. Drawing inspiration from her mother’s advice that she might have to work harder to succeed, Deb has embraced her role as a leader and innovator. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that with determination and integrity, it’s possible to carve out a space in even the most exclusive of industries. Deb Clark is a force to be reckoned with—leading not only in real estate appraisal but also in innovation, technology, and female entrepreneurship. Her story is one of resilience, creativity, and trailblazing leadership, qualities that make her a standout figure in today’s business world.

By Robert White,  Editor-In-Chief Tony Zorc's journey from a successful tech entrepreneur to a political comedian might seem unexpected, but it’s a natural progression for a man who’s always sought to shake up the system. Known by his stage persona " Congressman Curly ," Zorc blends humor with hard-hitting political commentary, giving Americans a comedic yet eye-opening look into the dysfunction of Washington, D.C. Before he became " Congressman Curly ," Zorc was deeply involved in the world of tech and accounting. As the founder of a successful accounting tech company, Zorc and his wife built their business together, thriving in the corporate world. But as Zorc became more aware of the political landscape in the U.S., he felt a call to serve his country in a different capacity. He initially set his sights on Congress, believing that what Washington needed was honest, capable individuals to fight the good fight. However, after navigating the murky waters of political campaigns, he quickly realized how deeply entrenched corruption and partisanship had become. Zorc’s run for president as an independent gave him an insider’s look at the red and blue sides of the media machine, and what he found was alarming. "The system is really corrupt," he says, reflecting on his campaign experience. While his run for office didn’t land him in the White House, it did open the door to something entirely different: comedy. What started as a dramatic political commentary video took an unexpected turn. The video, intended to expose the realities of the political system, struck viewers as comedic gold. It wasn’t long before Zorc recognized the power of humor in delivering his message, leading him to transform into " Congressman Curly ," a character inspired by the likes of the Three Stooges, with his own unique twist. "Most Americans feel like something is wrong, even if they can’t quite put their finger on it," Zorc explains. Congressman Curly embodies this sentiment, using absurdity and wit to shed light on the dysfunction that plagues Washington. Through Curly’s comedic sketches, storytelling, and sharp political satire, Zorc reveals how the establishment often works against the very citizens it claims to serve. But Zorc's brand of comedy isn’t just about getting laughs—he’s using it as a tool for unity. "Congressman Curly is focused on comedy but also an educational approach to show the country what’s really going on," Zorc explains. By blending entertainment with truth, he hopes to cut through the noise of division and bring Americans together, if only for a shared laugh. Zorc’s performances are not your typical stand-up routines. His show, An Evening with Curly , promises a mix of music, comedy, and political satire that’s as entertaining as it is enlightening. Audience members are treated to a multi-layered experience where Zorc not only pokes fun at the dysfunction of Washington but also offers insights on how everyday citizens can navigate—and even thrive—in a system that seems rigged against them. With several shows already under his belt in Washington, D.C., Zorc is now gearing up for more performances across the country. His unique brand of political comedy is gaining momentum, with upcoming shows planned in Florida, Virginia, and beyond. Each performance is a blend of storytelling, humor, and a behind-the-scenes look at the political machine, all delivered by the charismatic and irreverent Congressman Curly. Tony Zorc’s journey from tech entrepreneur to political comedian may be unconventional, but it’s a testament to his unwavering dedication to shaking up the system and finding new ways to reach the public. Through his alter ego, Congressman Curly , Zorc continues to blend comedy with a call for change, proving that sometimes, laughter really is the best medicine—even for something as serious as politics.

By Salva Herrero,  Contributing Writer The music industry is on the cusp of a groundbreaking evolution, where human creativity is seamlessly merging with advanced technology. Leading this innovative wave is Ravyn Lyte, an AI-driven artist, DJ, and champion of uplifting energy. Her debut single, "11111 (Just Be the One)," marks her ambitious foray into the next generation of music. Ravyn Lyte is from Ibiza, Spain, famous for its nightlife. Immersed in the island's exciting music scene from a young age, she forged a deep bond with the sounds that define Ibiza. As a teenager, her curiosity led her to explore the island's nightlife, where she found inspiration in the beats of local DJs. Eventually, she got her hands on a second-hand turntable and began crafting her distinct sound in a makeshift bedroom studio. Ravyn Lyte represents a new era in the music industry, where human ingenuity and artificial intelligence coalesce. The rise of AI-powered artists like her signals a significant shift in how music is conceived, produced, and experienced. The creative force behind Ravyn Lyte, Marcus "Bellringer" Bell, a music futurist, played a pivotal role in integrating AI into the music world. Bell's journey into AI began after a voice-related setback during a recording session, leading him to clone his voice using AI, which sparked new creative possibilities. "With AI, I could create visual art, sing in a female voice, and use automation tools to accelerate the creative process. That's how Ravyn Lyte was born," Bell shares. But Ravyn Lyte's work goes beyond technological innovation; it carries a mission of social impact. Her music is designed to inspire and bring people together, merging human creativity with technology to produce something extraordinary. Her debut track, "11111 (Just Be the One)," explores themes of love and acceptance, touching on the universal desire to belong. Produced by Sean Myer and Marcus "Bellringer" Bell, with guidance from the iconic Nick Halkes, the track features a futuristic drum and bass soundscape that echoes the emotional nuances of modern relationships. As an AI-powered artist, Ravyn Lyte prompts intriguing discussions about the future of music and the role of technology in creative industries. Her music, created with input from neuroscientists, includes elements intended to foster peace and healing, offering a calming experience in an often turbulent world. Bell reflects, "What if every time you listened to music, it had a soothing psychological effect?" This approach seeks to counterbalance the negative emotions that music can sometimes evoke, particularly among younger audiences. Ravyn Lyte is more than just a musical experiment; she symbolizes the potential of AI to amplify human creativity and address social issues. A portion of her music proceeds will support nonprofits like White Hall Arts Academy, which provides music education to underprivileged communities in Los Angeles. "Their impact on families, not just kids, is incredible. Many schools struggle to maintain music programs, and we want to support that through this project," Bell explains. In the coming months, Ravyn Lyte intends to further push the boundaries of music, challenging traditional concepts of singing, songwriting, and production. As an AI-powered artist, she is at the forefront of a movement that blends human emotion with technological innovation, offering a glimpse into the future of the music industry. "11111 (Just Be the One)" is available through Bellringer Productions, and fans can connect with Ravyn Lyte via her website  and social media  platforms.

By Salva Herrero,  Contributing Writer In the culinary landscape, luxury, gourmet, and healthy often exist in separate spheres. Luxury dining might conjure images of rich sauces, decadent desserts, and hefty price tags, often at odds with healthy eating principles. Gourmet cuisine can be synonymous with intricate presentations and rare ingredients, seldom prioritizing well-balanced nutrition. However, there's a growing movement to bridge this gap. CEO of Chez Graze Dhana Bunel is among those leading the charge in encouraging people to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor. Beyond that, she’s also taking the necessary steps to ensure that her company has a holistic and eco-friendly approach that teaches people to uplift one another and value the world they live in.   Dhana promises that, as a caterer for companies and particular events, Chez Graze is unlike any other in the industry. It has three main objectives: prioritizing a healthy balance in its food, preserving the environment by lessening the extreme activities that often lead to waste, and empowering a community by providing livelihoods.   Nowadays, Chez Graze is already working with a significant group, which Dhana can’t disclose yet. However, it’s also working with many other companies and businesses like Iris Optic, REMAX, BNP Paribas, Naturacoeur, and Maptitetchemise, among other brands, to take care of their corporate and private events. Prioritizing a healthy balance in food   “At Chez Graze, we are particularly proud to say that our tables and boards are as beautiful and tasty as any gourmet food could be. All this dimension on keeping our goal to serve healthy food is a priority,” the CEO said.   The brand creates charcuterie boards and tables for various events while emphasizing fruits and vegetables as the stars of the platter. Despite this healthy take, Chez Graze offers other charcuterie options like cheeses, edible flowers, bread, and unique accompanying sauces.   Dhana shared that she created Chez Graze with the gastronomic “French touch” because eating healthy yet delicious food can benefit the body and mind, impacting one’s overall health.   As she continues leading her company forward, Dhana plans to create new proposals that will add more healthy and delectable options to their menu.   Preserving the environment   Chez Graze goes beyond being a luxury gourmet catering service. With Dhana at the helm, she ensures that it’s environmentally conscious to assist in the bid for sustainability and promote a similar approach among its clients.   Dhana secures her company’s contribution to environmental preservation by creating meaningful partnerships with the appropriate stakeholders who share a similar vision. First, there are local producers like organic farmers to lessen the impact on the carbon footprint and promote the local economy, companies that produce eco-friendly alternatives such as reusable plastics or gas-free vehicles, and local government units that share a similar eco-friendly vision.   Empowering communities through livelihood   Besides being the CEO of Chez Graze, Dhana is also an influencer who encourages her community of women and mothers to embrace their uniqueness and be brave enough to take chances that could help them become financially independent.   Dhana supports them in the latter by providing livelihoods for them in Chez Graze. She knows how society can judge and expect women, especially mothers, to be present for their kids while maintaining a career. With her and her company, Dhana promises that women can achieve whatever they set their sights on.   She believes it’s never too late for women to start a career or assume a secondary role, especially if they can prove themselves capable in a male-dominated industry like the culinary landscape.   “I am putting the first stones for something that can build new foundations in this deceptive economics and help mothers and entire families to become financially independent with Chez Graze,” Dhana concluded.

By Robert White,  Editor-In-Chief On September 7, 2024, NFL superstar Josh Norman teamed up with the International Polo Tour® for a cause far greater than any game. Held at the breathtaking Sunset Polo™ Fall Ball in Middleburg, Virginia, the event marked the 10th anniversary of the International Polo Tour's support for We Will Survive Cancer  (WWSC). The charity event, which brought together celebrities, athletes, and philanthropists, raised critical funds and awareness to support families financially impacted by cancer. “This year’s Fall Ball was incredibly meaningful,” said International Polo Team Founder and Captain Tareq Salahi, known for his appearances on The Real Housewives of DC . “Marking the 10th year of our relationship with We Will Survive Cancer  is something we’re immensely proud of. Having an NFL great like Josh Norman join us on the polo field, along with generous sponsors and donors, made this event truly spectacular.” The night kicked off with a Celebrity Opener, featuring Josh Norman (former Buffalo Bills, Carolina Panthers, and Washington Redskins player) going head-to-head with Tareq Salahi in a highly anticipated polo match. Norman, despite never having played polo before, impressed with his natural ability. “He was a natural,” Salahi remarked, adding that Norman hit with nearly 100% accuracy during their training. Though Salahi’s International Polo Team won by a narrow one-point margin, Norman's performance left a lasting impression, and he was honored with the We Will Survive Cancer  Angel Award immediately after the match. Reflecting on his experience, Norman said, “I had a great time—thank you for having me. It was a first-class event, and playing polo was definitely a bucket-list moment for me. Now, let’s go beat cancer with the mallet!” The event's success extended beyond the excitement of the match. The charity’s founder, Gayela Bynum, expressed her gratitude, saying, “We Will Survive Cancer is so grateful for the International Polo Tour, Josh Norman, and the community’s generosity. The event was a tremendous success.” Among the evening's highlights was the award for the Best Playing Pony , which went to Maya Bagatelia . She received a solid jade horse trophy valued at $5,000, donated by Siam Gems & Jewelers. Polo Team USA’s Nizar Zakka, who also serves as the President of Hostage Aid Worldwide, was named MVP after a thrilling match in which his team defeated Emerald Cruises 11-5. In another closely contested game, Stella Artois edged out Michelob Ultra with a score of 7-6. The 10th Anniversary Sunset Polo™ Fall Ball was more than just a celebration of sport; it was an evening dedicated to making a difference. The funds raised will support WWSC in helping families navigate the challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis, providing assistance with everything from childcare to transportation for treatment. Josh Norman’s appearance, alongside the International Polo Tour® team and a host of sponsors, made the night unforgettable. As the event wrapped up, the shared goal was clear: to continue supporting the fight against cancer and lifting the burden on those who need it most.

By Robert White,  Editor-In-Chief In today’s fast-paced, ever-changing business environment, leadership and organizational development are more crucial than ever. At the forefront of this domain is Dr. Laurie Cure , Ph.D., a renowned executive coach and CEO of Innovative Connections. With a career spanning over 30 years, Dr. Cure has built her reputation on helping organizations harness human potential to drive strategic success, and her influence extends far beyond consulting rooms, appearing in top publications around the country. Before founding Innovative Connections , Dr. Cure started her journey in the medical sector, focusing on business development and strategic marketing. However, her passion for understanding human behavior and leadership drove her to pursue further education. Earning a doctorate in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, Dr. Cure delved into how individuals show up in the workplace as leaders, navigate cultural and organizational change, and engage in effective recruitment and assessment. This blend of strategic planning and human psychology laid the foundation for the future of her consulting work. With Innovative Connections, Dr. Cure set out to create a consulting firm that helps organizations leverage their talent, manage change effectively, and build a culture of accountability without sacrificing productivity. “The work that I do is really to say that there is a role in the world supporting leaders and focusing on the business side,” she shares. Her approach emphasizes bringing together top talent to support clients in achieving their goals while also fostering growth within her own team. One of Dr. Cure's key insights into organizational growth is the importance of trust and teamwork. For entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses beyond a solo operation, she advises that success often hinges on the ability to extend trust to others and allow them to become an extension of one’s vision. Initially, she contracted work before realizing that an employment model better suited the company’s needs, allowing for consistent business functions and the ability to bring in contracted expertise for specific changes or new directions. However, growing a business, according to Dr. Cure, is not just about building a team; it’s about establishing the right structures and understanding the people behind them. “What we find is that in most problems that businesses have, it’s about the person and the structure that is putting them in place,” she explains. This focus on human dynamics within organizational systems is at the core of her consulting philosophy. Dr. Cure’s contributions to the field also include her book, Leading Without Fear , where she explores the often-overlooked role of emotions in business. The book is based on the idea that fear, when acknowledged and understood, can become a powerful force for progress. “We think emotions are a little soft,” she notes, “but the data in emotions is critical in driving the way we feel in business.” By examining how fear can be harnessed rather than avoided, Dr. Cure provides leaders with tools to navigate uncertain spaces—something particularly relevant to entrepreneurs stepping into uncharted territories. While Leading Without Fear  is a few years old, Dr. Cure envisions releasing a second edition to update its insights and continue the conversation around emotional intelligence in leadership. Her work as a Meta-coach for the Daniel Goleman Emotional Intelligence program further highlights her commitment to integrating emotional understanding into the fabric of organizational success. In addition to her consulting and coaching, Dr. Cure has served as faculty at various universities, sharing her expertise with future leaders. Her role as an educator, combined with her consulting practice, makes her a trusted voice in strategic planning, talent management, change management, and leadership development. Through Innovative Connections , Dr. Cure not only supports leaders in their professional journeys but also offers a different way to think about how businesses can be led. By advocating for the power of human potential, emotional intelligence, and strategic structures, Dr. Laurie Cure is redefining the path to organizational success. Whether she is coaching an executive team, conducting research, or facilitating cultural evolution, her work consistently emphasizes the critical intersection of strategy, people, and purpose.

By Robert White,  Editor-In-Chief Finding healthy drink options for kids can be a challenge, especially when the allure of sugary, mainstream sodas is so strong. Enter Sodee Pop , the brainchild of Kamaree Oldham—a mom and nurse who knows the importance of what we put into our bodies. Created as a guilt-free soda alternative, Sodee Pop is a breath of fresh air for parents seeking clean, tasty drinks they can offer their children without worry. Kamaree's journey to creating Sodee Pop began at a family gathering when her toddler, then 2 ½ years old, noticed everyone enjoying soda. Like many parents, Kamaree found herself caught between her child's curiosity and the lack of a healthier soda option. When she reluctantly allowed him a sip of soda, it sparked an idea. “I was so upset that there was not a healthy soda option for kids,” she recalls. From that moment, she set out to create a soda that was not only fun and flavorful but also free from all the "junk" typically found in mainstream sodas. Sodee Pop's mission is straightforward: to provide a clean soda that parents can confidently give to their children. Free from high fructose corn syrup, artificial dyes, and chemical preservatives, Sodee Pop is a refreshing option that aligns with Kamaree's commitment to natural ingredients. Even the root beer flavor is clear, signaling the absence of artificial colors. Initially available in Orange Fizz and Root Beer, the lineup is soon expanding to include Lemon-Lime Squeeze, with additional flavors like Watermelon and Grape in development. Kamaree's venture is more than just a business; it’s a passion project that embodies her dedication to creating a product with "purpose and soul." Starting Sodee Pop in the past year, she was fortunate to have the support of her stepdad, a co-packer, which helped launch the brand more smoothly than most new food ventures. Together with her mom, Kamaree developed the initial flavors in the kitchen, ensuring each was organic and clean before moving forward with production. However, like any entrepreneurial journey, Kamaree’s path with Sodee Pop has had its share of challenges. “Nobody cares about your business more than you,” she says, emphasizing the hands-on effort required to overcome obstacles like ensuring barcodes are scannable, choosing the right cans, and perfecting label colors. Despite these hurdles, Kamaree is driven by a larger mission: to give kids great options for snacks, drinks, and foods that are natural and free from unnecessary processing. Sodee Pop is currently available in 8-ounce cans, a kid-friendly size that also appeals to adults seeking a healthier soda option. The brand is making its mark online and through small stores while working to expand its reach into larger retail outlets. Kamaree's ultimate goal is not to suggest kids drink soda every day but to provide a guilt-free option that parents can feel good about when they do. Sodee Pop represents more than just a new drink on the market; it embodies a movement toward healthier, more conscious choices for our children. With its all-natural ingredients and flavors crafted with care, Sodee Pop is redefining what soda can be—a clean, refreshing treat that both kids and adults can enjoy.

By Robert White,  Editor-In-Chief Carrying multiple drinks without spills has long been a challenge, whether you’re running an office coffee order or carting drinks for the kids. Bevee , a premium drinkware brand, is here to solve that problem with their upcoming 6-Drink Carrier, set to release in October 2024. With a comfort grip handle and an innovative cup-gripping mechanism, this carrier is designed to make transporting beverages an effortless task. The story of Bevee began with a simple but frustrating experience for founder Natalie Boyatt, a former pharmaceutical representative and single mother. While working in corporate America, she found herself tasked with delivering a 10-drink order from a coffee shop. The flimsy, overloaded carrier she received was an accident waiting to happen. “I knew there was a need for this idea,” says Boyatt, who immediately contacted a patent lawyer. Encouraged by the support for her concept, she embarked on a journey to create a high-quality, reusable drink carrier that could safely hold multiple cups, bottles, or cans of varying sizes. After nearly seven years in development, the original 12-Drink Bevee Carrier hit the market in 2022. This patented product quickly gained traction for its ability to securely grip drinks with silicone inserts, ensuring no-spill transport. It also featured folding and locking mechanisms for easy storage, making it an essential tool for busy professionals, parents, and event organizers alike. Bevee carriers are made from 100% food-grade, eco-friendly materials, underscoring Boyatt's commitment to creating a product that is both practical and sustainable. Customer demand for a smaller, more compact carrier soon followed, prompting the development of the 6-Drink Bevee Carrier. The new design retains the features that made the original a success, including its comfort grip handle and cup-gripping mechanism, but offers a more streamlined option for those who don’t need to transport as many beverages. Ideal for everything from coffee runs to tailgating, this carrier is available for pre-order in four stylish colors, priced at $44.99. “The Bevee 6-Drink Carrier is ideal for the office, the beach, the minivan, the tailgate, soccer games, or any place you’re looking to carry drinks better,” says Boyatt. “It’s designed for a person to be able to deliver multiple hot or cold beverages quickly, efficiently, and with no spills. Whether you’re hosting a picnic in the park or driving a car full of kids to practice, Bevee saves you time, hassle, and messy spills.” Boyatt’s entrepreneurial journey has been anything but easy. In 2021, she left her corporate job to fully commit to bringing Bevee to market, even cashing in her 401(k) and selling items around her house to fund the venture. When the initial launch faced setbacks, Boyatt persevered. She reached out to casinos and resorts, personally delivering the Bevee Carrier for managers to try out. Despite early struggles, her persistence paid off when the brand went viral on social media in late 2023, gaining over 15 million views from customer and influencer-generated content. Bevee’s rise to success was further cemented when Amazon took notice. After launching on the platform in November 2023, sales saw a significant boost, with drink carriers ranking in the top 0.1% of searches. Since then, Bevee has become a bestseller on Amazon, with plans to expand internationally. With the release of the 6-Drink Carrier, Bevee is set to continue its momentum into the upcoming holiday season, offering a perfect gift for those looking to streamline their drink-carrying game. Bevee’s commitment to innovation, practicality, and quality makes it a standout in the drinkware market, proving that sometimes, the best products come from solving the simplest problems.