Merry Christmas From AKC

Hey Guys!

I hope everyone is having a Merry Christmas. Remember the reason for the season and I hope your are spending it with the people closest to your heart.

Seemed appropriate being that it's 70 degrees in VA today :) 

Thank you for your support in 2015. I'm so excited about all the great things to come in 2016.

Have a blessed one!

<33 AKC

One on One with Attention Kills's Arize'

 Attention Kills is a captivatingly gritty urban web-series centered in the DC area. It encompasses unique personalities, interesting plots, and a loyal fanbase.

So, let me tell you guys the story. A few months ago I was at brunch with a few of my friends and a met a fellow DC creative named Arize'. He manages his own sports management company and is creator of Attention Kills, a DC web-series. I'm always a supporter of filmmaking and entrepreneurship. Therefore, one day out of simple curiosity, I watched an episode of Attention Kills on Youtube. Just that quick, I was hooked. The show definitely has the "binge effect," you know where you plan on watching one episode, and end up watching one season. The characters can make you love and hate them in a matter of minutes.

Fans and newcomers should enjoy our conversation below because, Arize' spoke passionately and truthfully about his goals and ideas for the show. "People who aren't familiar with us just have to pick an episode. They will want to go back and watch what happened before. I wrote it that way on purpose," says Arize'.

I'd like to know what you guys think! Check out our interview below and watch the series! Send me your feedback!

<33 AKC

Happy Thanksgiving From AKC

Hey Guys!

I COULDN'T LET THE DAY PASS WITHOUT SAYING HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO EVERYONE! THANKS FOR READING AND FOLLOWING MY BLOG. I HOPE YOU SPENT TODAY WITH LOVED ONES AND TOOK A MOMENT TO REFLECT ON THE BLESSINGS IN YOUR LIFE, BIG OR SMALL. ALSO, I HOPE YOUR MACARONI AND CHEESE WAS AS GOOD AS MINE. ;) haha xoxo - <33 askKirbyCarroll

AKC Review: CREED

Check it out one of my friends, Jill Doctor, attended the CREED screening in Los Angeles on behalf of AskKirbyCarroll.com. Check out her review, and let me know if you guys go see the film this week. I want to know what you think, tweet me your feedback @askKirbyCarroll.

-- <33 AKC

I loved it! I liked that it was still the Rocky story, just a fresh chapter - not a total reboot or remake. They did a really good job of making it current and relevant for this generation, while still incorporating footage/info from past Rocky movies. It didn't feel

cheesy in any way. Michael B. Jordan is a great actor - and great to look at!! I thought it was cool that they also twisted the story, so that Adonis (who's played by Michael) has a different background than Rocky. Adonis started rough, in foster care and juvy, but then is raised in wealth by Apollo's widow (who isn't his mom but basically adopts him). Rocky fought to make money and a name for himself to pull himself up. Adonis has everything he needs, but he fights because it's in his blood - BUT he doesn't want to get by on his dad's name. So he's sort of a street kid, but then not at all. Gives him more depth as well. Rocky as a character is also well used - the film is definitely not focused on him, but he's a good dose of comic relief and very real as a person to compliment Adonis's story. 

The other thing I liked (as a feminist!), is that the "new" Adrianne, who's name is Bianca, is very also real and has actual depth. She has her own goals and struggles and is a stand alone character. This movie definitely doesn't pass the Bechdel test (in fact there are basically no scenes with 2 women in them), but at least they gave the "girlfriend" role a lot more complexity than usual. 

And final thing - it was shot amazingly well. There were multiple one-shot long takes - like Adonis walking from the locker room all the way into the ring - that were really well done. The fight scenes themselves were amazing. I was flinching and cringing the whole time. You really feel a apart of the action! And the music was great too. They incorporated the old theme song with Adonis training and running through the streets of Philly followed by kids on motor bikes and it legit gave me goosebumps. 

Such an awesome movie! And they leave it open to keep the series going. I definitely wouldn't mind seeing more of Adonis/Michael in the ring ;)

Creed comes into theaters November 25, 2015.  

- Jill Doctor 

The Arts Comes to Hampton Roads

Sunday, November 15th I attended an event called the Arts. It took place in Newport News, VA at the Virginia Living Museum. The event highlighted a great deal of local talent which included painters, musicians, models, cosmetologists, chefs and more. It was hosted by popular radio/media personality Dominique da Diva of 103 Jamz/106.5 The Beat.

 The museum was full of artsy professionals and VIP's. It had catered food and a full stocked bar. What I enjoyed  most was the environment. There was so much going on and it provided for a really captivating experience. There was a fashion show, live band, painting, body art and many vendors. Whatever your interest or mood, there was something for you.

Hampton Roads has always had a connection with the arts. Musicians like Pharell and Missy all hail from the area. However, it is not always thought of as the most artistic or entertainment driven area. But, the young creators of the event reminded me of that energy! My hometown still has an overload of talent. We just need a platform! Check out some of the pictures here.  Tag and share your favorites!

 -- @AskKirbyCarroll
of @AKCLLC

Indie Artist Spotlight: Marquita Cheron

Sultry Sounds is a showcase created by Leah J of FreshDaily Inc. At the DC event audiences enjoy live music, drinks and good company. Marquita Cheron is a creative artist who performed at a past showcase. Her strong vocals and soulful lyrics make her a great feature for Indie Spotlight. 

Marquita Cheron has been singing since the age of twelve. Though she grew up around the arts, her mother danced and her father sang, she didn’t grow up thinking she had the skill. It wasn’t until sixth grade when her teacher put her into a national broadway play that she realized her talent. Marquita is a native of the DC area and has a genuine passion for her hometown. As a lover of the DMV myself, I asked for her opinion on the realm of entertainment in the area. “I think the support is different than in the West Coast and New York. The hustle of New York causes others to do it and respect it. But, I think DC is moving into a positive direction. I wish it would have happened years ago, but it’s coming back now," she said. Marquita reminded me of the Harlem Renaissance and the significance of the DC area during that period.

Speaking of periods, I was very intrigued by the timeless artists that Marquita said inspires her. She named Whitney Houston, Jasmine Sullivan, Anita Baker, Brandy and Rachelle Ferrell. “I really admire Rachelle Ferrell’s ability, from holding to hitting high notes.” It was clear that she had a passion for musicianship and the art of singing. She explained that her process for producing songs came from different personal and non-personal life experiences. “Sometimes, I’m in an awkward phase with a song or chorus. I may have the melody without the lyrics or vice versa. I'll sit at a piano and play chords or hear a track and it tells me how to create it.” Marquita is a clear creative so I found it interesting when she said that if she wasn’t pursuing singing she’d be a lawyer. She explained later that it is because she truly cares about others and always got in trouble for defending her peers when she was younger!

I really like the positive vibe of her songs which is why I wanted to share Marquita Cheron with AKC readers. It’s not every day one hears music that is enjoyable and promotes positivity. Her songs are uplifting and catchy. “Love makes the world go round. When things happen and something gets rough you have to get through it. That’s not just in my songs, that’s life,” she says. 

Check out Marquita Cherron below and let me know what you guys think! 

—@askKirbyCarroll (IG/Twitter)

@AKCLLC (IG) <333

@MarquitaCheron (IG/Twitter)

https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/emotions-can-interfere-single/id999160531

www.reverbnation.com/marquitacheron

www.soundcloud.com/marquita-cheron

One on One with Dream: The Urban Musical Star SIERGIO

As soon as Empire goes off make sure you log onto www.theurbanmusical.com and continue the vibe of good music and entertainment. September 23, 2015 is the premiere of Dream: The Urban Musical, a web series that features talent in the Atlanta area. This week I had a conversation with SIERGIO who plays the main character of Chase, a hungry and ambitious young man who has dreams of becoming an actor and singer. During the series Chase gets the opportunity to pursue his dreams while struggling to balance family, romance and the temptations of the industry. SIERGIO says he has a strong connection to the character because he is also a big dreamer and is no stranger to hardships. 

The series was created by talented celebrity director Theshay West who realized his skill and knack for performance when he was working as an extra. SIERGIO made a connection with the crew and was later invited back to become a main character. He spoke about the amazing chemistry with the other actors and how they are a big family.  When asked why audiences should tune into this series he explained the relatability and talent. "We all have a dream whether it's to act, sing, write, fashion design or start a non-profit everyone is a dreamer," he said.   

SIERGIO has been making music for years and is a very talented performer. In my opinion, his music gives you the feel of the old RnB we all miss with a contemporary flow and style. Currently, he's working on his LP "Songs for the Jeep." He emphasized how close and personal this project is to him. His hope is that it speaks to at least one person. SIERGIO grew up in Chicago and is a graduate of THEE Clark Atlanta University. 

Check out the trailer for Dream:The Urban Musical and let me know what you guys think of it! 

Twitter/IG: @Siergio 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SiergioMusic

Twitter/IG: @TheUrbanMusical

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheUrbanMusical/

TheUrbanMusical.com

 #WatchDreamAfterEmpire 

-- <33 AKC

A.K.C. LLC Press Release

Hey Guys!

As you know I'm a firm believer in passion and entrepreneurship. 

Therefore, I've really been working on growing A.K.C. LLC. I'm sending out my press release this week. I'd appreciate it if you all can share it with your network, and I'd love to hear feedback. I'm really excited about this. 

In advance, thanks for the support and continuing to read my blog! As corny as this sounds I really hope these posts encourage others to go after their dreams and aspirations. Some things I do to make a living. AKC articles are simply a fun way to inspire others.  I hope its working. :) 

-- <33 AKC 

A.K.C. LLC Press Release 

________________________________________________

(HAMPTON ROADS, VA)-SEPT. 14, 2015-A.K.C. LLC is an emerging media company serving the Hampton Roads, DC area and beyond. The goal of AKC staff is to create compelling, unique and marketable content for clientele. AKC staff specialize in promotional and creative video, public relations and the curation of entertainment.  

The first element of the company is the creation of promotional and creative video.  Clients who wish to create a video promotion go through a host of three meetings.  The first determines the need of the client and goals of their campaign.  The following is a brainstorm session where various solutions and ideas are presented.  Finally, the last meeting serves as simply a wrap-up. Budget and marketing plan is agreed upon and the creative process begins.  The second  element is public relations.  AKC contains a collection of writers, bloggers, radio personalities, actors and more.  These individuals vary in experience and personality. The team works to find exposure opportunities through online, radio, television and live event exposure. The company believes that luck is when preparation meets opportunity. AKC clients are talented and have worked very hard for their positions. AKC works to ensure they get the luck and exposure they deserve. “The DMV area has so much talent. It is my hope to use my passion for entrepreneurship to highlight the talent of the community,”says creator Kirby Carroll. 

 AKC also produces content through web-series, short-films, exclusive interviews and television. In order to schedule a consolation or view their content interested parties should visit the website online at AskKirbyCarroll.com 

info@askKirbyCarroll.com

@askKirbyCarroll

Talent of the Month: Dominique Da Diva

It's important to dream but it's also important WORK.  August's talent of the month is someone who I really feel embodies that idea.  She's  grinded really hard to get where she is, and now she's one of the biggest radio personalities in the Hampton Roads area! What is your dream? What is your passion? I challenge you to go after it!

Check out Dominqiue's bio below!  

From her humble beginnings at WBTJ-Richmond 106.5 THE BEAT, Dominique's charismatic personality, passion for music & ability to captivate an audience immediately shined through. A native of Richmond, VA Dominique is a graduate of Virginia State University with a B.A. in Mass Communications Radio/Television. Joining the esteemed Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated while at VSU gave her a renewed focus in the importance of teamwork and accountability in her own community.

Her favorite saying may be that "being a 'Diva' is just an attitude, but it's more than just a catchphrase. She models that quote after the way a young woman carries herself with respect, confidence and poise. She embodies  a "Diva" personality, making it less about singular success and more about knowing your worth and never settling for less. "Every woman should add DIVA to their name!"

You can currently catch her on air on WOWI- 103 JAMZ in through out the VA Beach area Monday-Saturday 10a-2p! & also in her hometown of Richmond, VA during the weekend on WBTJ-106.5 THE BEAT. Catch her while you can! This diva has her focus on being the next multi-media queen!

IG/Twitter: @dominiquedadiva


-- <33 @askKirbyCarroll 

Talent of the Month:Ronnique Murray

Ronnique was born & raised in Washington, D.C.  She trained in classical ballet throughout her youth, Ronnique has studied a wide range of styles including Jazz, Pointe, Lyrical, Praise, Tap, Hip-hop, African, swing & Modern.  Ronnique was a member of Donna Apperson ‘A company’ ensemble for five years throughout Maryland. This experience exposed Ronnique to a range of musical styles—which continues to inspire her to this day.  Since 2006, Ronnique has performed extensively as a soloist throughout the metropolitan area including performance in Apperson’s show solo debut Haunted at the LaPlata College of Southern Maryland.  She was also invited to perform at the Virginia Beach Health & Dance Conference and LilyVonn dance company in 2009.  Ronnique has had the opportunity to perform in works by Daniel Gwirtzman (‘Volcano’)file:///Users/Kirbycwright/Desktop/Screen%20Shot%202015-07-05%20at%207.36.03%20PM.png, Judith Steel (‘Night Chatter’), Rodney Williams (‘Fix Me’) at the Grace Street theater in Richmond, VA as well as Scott Putman (‘Equalizing the Lines: Prelude to a new dream’), a work performed in Richmond: 34: VUU student sit-in Thalheimer project which was headlined under singer John Legend.  In 2010, Ronnique was featured in a reconstruction of the seminal work ‘Shelter’ by Jawole Willa Jo Zollar, Founder of The Urban Bush Woman Dance Company which aired in a documentary on PBS station.  Ronnique has a BFA in Dance& Choreography from Virginia Commonwealth University.  Ms. Murray has choreographed as well as co-choreographed for various dance competitions, showcases, pageants, and volunteers at local middle/high schools teaching workshops.  She began her professional teaching career as a High School Dance Teacher at Fairmont High School located in Fairmont, NC and currently teaching at various public school systems in the MD/VA instructing Jazz, Modern & Hip-Hop.  Ms. Murray debuted her one woman show titled "The MENstrual Show" in March 2015 in Washington, DC as well as her second work "Ugly Disposition: The Ronni Kitt Story at The Howard Theatre in Washington, DC.  Ronnique is now working with Clancyworks Dance Company, Roger Lee Dance Company, LLC & various choreographers and continuing to present choreographed solo/ensemble work in the metropolitan area. Ms. Murray is a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

Check out her work here: https://vimeo.com/131383930

Her new work Ugly Disposition: The Ronni Kit Story will be presented in a showcase in Washington DC called GLIMPSE on Wed. July 18, 2015 at 7PM 

--AKC <33

Indie Artist Spotlight: Twan Swanson

Check out my Q&A with indie Ohio artist Twan Swanson. 

1. When did you get started in music?

Twan Swanson (L)

    - Originally my Madre set me up for Piano lessons when I was probably 9 or something. But as of now I've really been doing music with a focus and goal, consistently for 2 and a half years. Going to buy medicine from my local pharmacist, he and a friend of his were making beats, I was always curious to see what I could come up with, creatively, with music. I saw that time as an opportunity to do so. Ever since that day I've been doing music with a focus on a daily basis.

2. What inspires your music?

  - Life inspires my music. Feelings, emotions, ideas, theories. Things I feel should be said or need to be. Lack of artistry in music now a days, lack of soul. I only write songs in moments that come naturally. I try not to force any part of the process. 

3. Your music seems a lot more conscious than other artists, agree or disagree? 

  - if by conscious, you mean aware of our surroundings, real life, then I would say I'm very conscious. I feel any music made  is conscious in some matter, everything is apart of life, everything is real, even being fake. People can be really fake. I think my topic of music may just be an aspect or an angle a lot of people haven't put together in the way I have, with Glances of Gold especially.

4. Whose style influences you?

  - Bob marley, Kanye, Jimi Hendrix, Andre 3000, Eminem, Dr. Dre, Pharrell, Pharcyde, Francis and the Lights, James Blake, Key Wane, and Mos Def all inspire me.  There are a lot of people who influence my style, my homies from Ohio, friends from college- a lot of influence.

5. Name an artist with a similar style. 

 I don't think there's anyone with a similar style. If anything I would say my style would have to sound like someone else's because I released music after everyone out now!  But, even with that I don't think my style is similar to anyone's that much. There's so many different moods on Glances of Gold that people, depending on their preference of music will say. I've gotten Currensy, Wiz, James Blake, Kanye, Chance the Rapper, Big Sean. It's all over the place. 

6. What makes you different from the many other indie artists?

  - I'm different simply off the fact that im trying to find my own center and not try to be like other people or impress other people. 

7. How can we hear your music and keep up with you?

  IG: air_swanson

  Twitter: arucker_oh

https://soundcloud.com/twanswanson 

-- <33 AKC

Talent of the Month: Taylor Terrell

I'm starting a new segment called Talent of the Month.  On the first of every month AskKirbyCarroll.com will feature a young professional who is doing positive things in his/her community or career.  The first one goes to the talented Taylor Terrell. #AKCTalent 

Taylor was born in Atlanta, raised in Conyers, Georgia, and now welcomes Middle Georgia as her new home.

She got her start in news at 41NBC as an intern in May 2013. Taylor’s passion to tell stories that matter landed her a full-time position as a multimedia journalist with the station.

You can wake up with this Georgia peach as she co-anchors Daybreak in the morning, and 41TODAY.

Before being promoted to morning anchor in September 2014, Taylor produced, filled-in as anchor and reported for the Sunday night newscast at 11 p.m.

Taylor graduated from Georgia Southern University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Public Relations, and a minor in Journalism.

She is an active member of the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ).

When she’s not working hard to find Middle Georgia’s news, you can find Taylor cooking, traveling or spending time with close family and friends and taking a lot of pictures.

She welcomes all ideas and stories. If you have any, let her know at tterrell@41nbc.com. Look for her on Facebook: Taylor Terrell and Twitter: @_taylorterrell. 

If interested in interviewing or booking Taylor leave a message here.

-- AKC <3

Pain Into Power: A Talk With Alissa R. Jones

When Alissa was just eleven years old she was sexually abused for the first time.  The pain and hurt she felt was unimaginable.  She hated coming home and had many thoughts of suicide.  Today she is the Founder and Director of SWV, Survivors with Voices.  SWV is a non-profit foundation created in 2012 to help individuals cope with the affects of sexual abuse.

As a child Alissa's parents went through a divorce.  Her mother was not financially stable and made the decision to lease their basement.  The room was rented by a man who would eventually take advantage of her.  For months she tried to deal with the abuse alone before finally confessing to a friend and counselor.  When the news got to her mother it was obvious she was not happy Alissa shared her story.  It would be years before Alissa discovered that her mother had also been abused and was still dealing with her own issues.

Alissa spoke to AskKirbyCarroll.com about how SWV has greatly and positively changed her life.  She has written two books that talk about her story.  One is a novel, the other is a workbook on how to remove the anger of abuse.  Writing has been very therapeutic for her.  In fact, in order to truly forgive her mother and move forward she wrote her a letter.  She recommends  this tactic to anyone having issues with forgiveness.  Her mother has passed away, but they mended their relationship before her death.

April is National Sexual Abuse Awareness month.  SWV has composed a campaign called "Survived and Revived."  The campaign will consist of self defense classes, webinars, testimonies and more.

Event Info

 There are chapters in numerous cities including Orlando, Cleveland, and Houston.   We can help their efforts by participating in the campaign and purchasing the books and merchandise on http://www.survivorswithvoices.com/ .

You never know what people are going through or where they've been.  I admire individuals who transform their pain into power to help others.  How can you use your story to help someone else? Sometimes simply being an ear to listen speaks volumes.

Alissa advises anyone who has been abused to speak to someone you trust and reach out to the foundation. 

Stay In Touch With Alissa at the plugs below.

Twitter: SWVFoundation 
FB: Survivors With Voices


---AKC 
@askKirbyCarroll/@askNowShow  

Event Recap: Fashion at the Mansion 2

Sunday, March 29, 2015 I attended The G Concept's Fashion at the Mansion 2 in Mitchellville, Maryland.  The event was held at the beautiful Newton White Mansion and featured Ola Raphaeal and 6 other local designers.  Fashions were very diverse from urban street wear to exquisite gowns.

During breaks there were performances, networking, and vendors.  A portion of all ticket proceeds went to support the United Way of the National Capital Area.


 The United Way provides relief of social issues affecting the community and works to solve the root of those issues. Their focus lies in education, financial stability, and health.  

Check out Fashion at the Mansion 2 photos provided by A3 Entertainment here. 

For more information about upcoming events follow our social media sites and subscribe to askKirbyCarroll.com.  

IG: @AskNowShow
@askKirbyCarroll (personal page) 

FB: AskKirbyCarroll.net 

-- AKC 

Meet Miquelle

Miquelle West has loved fashion for as long as she could remember.  Today that passion has led to amazing opportunities.  She's worked under her mentor Patricia Fields and styled for some of the biggest names in entertainment including Beyoncé and Madonna.  Take a look at our conversation here. 

By Kirby Carroll Wright
I Am JMARiiE Staff Writer
Kirby@iamjmariie.com

Celebrating Women's Month With the SuperGorge Society

On Sunday, March 22, 2015 I attended SuperGorge Society's Women's Month Brunch, at Opera Lounge in Washington D.C.  It was such an inspiring and exciting event.  The creators of SuperGorge Society, Loreal Danee and Ashley Silva, provided delicious food, drinks, vendors, and entertainment provided by WKYS's DJ Quick Silva.

Photo Cred: the District Insider 

 However, what really captivated me was the panel that followed.  It consisted of RnB Diva of LA's BRAVE, WKYS's Angie Ang, Love and Hip Hop's Ashley T. Moore, Celebrity Makeup Artist Danielle Lewis, and Singer and Song Writer Sevyn Streeter.    

Even with all the talent and strong personalities on stage; the event still felt like a comfortable girl talk session.  Self image, heart-break, family, and financial struggles were all  topics the women discussed.  Each of the ladies explained how they faced adversity and trials in their career before reaching their individual levels of success.  Sevyn touched on the fact that she had been in two groups which fell through prior to becoming a solo artist.  She also spoke on how difficult it is to be a brown-skinned girl in the music industry.  I've always admired her writing and vocal talent and it's so cool to see her finally getting the shine she deserves. 

 Brave discussed how originally she despised reality television before joining the cast of RnB Divas LA.  But, after praying and talking to God she decided to try and change that negative stereotype.  Angie Ang discussed the power of work-ethic and never accepting less than you deserve.  She is one of the best radio personalities in the Washington DC area, and it was interesting to hear how humble her beginnings were, from interning to even turning down a similar position. Ashley Moore was quite the character and kept making everyone laugh!  She explained how important it is to control your image and brand.  She was not very happy with her portrayal on Love and Hip Hop.  But, from that platform she's gotten a bigger audience and made quite a name for herself.  Finally, Danielle emphasized the negative power in comparing yourself to others and how much that is hurting us as women.  I mean, how true is that? Don't we all look at Instagram sometime and think "maybe I'm not doing good enough?"  Women must learn to embrace their own inner and outer beauty. 

Emotion and power was strong in the room.  There was even a running joke about "not crying." What stuck out the most to me, was the discussion on work ethic.  That can't be taken away from you.  Whether you're skinny, fat, light, dark, ugly, pretty, or an alien it belongs to you!  No one can take away your passion and drive.  All of these women are very successful, attractive, and genuinely happy.  So I asked myself, "what do these diverse women have in common?"  Then I realized they all mentioned God, hard work, and loved ones.  With those things, I really do believe we can all reach our individual goals. 

I really love seeing women, especially women of color, working together and uplifting each other as a unit.  Let's make sure we support more of the SuperGorge Society's events.  Also check out the plugs below.  I'm actually really hype about Sevyn and BRAVE's album! Sidebar, did ya'll hear the EP's? I was really vibing!  Ok, I'm done, check the plugs and pics below. :) 

SuperGorge Society (creators of event and hosts):

@IamSuperGorge 

@LorealDanee 

@ashleybrittney 

Event's PR Company:

@MontagePR

Panelists:

@Sevyn 

@goangie

@bmorebrave

@dlewisbeauty 

@ashleytmoore 

Cutest Couple Award: Ashley SIlva and Husband DJ Quick SIlva

BRAVE and Myself 

Angie Ang and Myself 

--AKC

<33 

@askKirbyCarroll

@askNowShow #AskNowShow 

Take the Challenge with Mielle Organics

I recently made the choice to chop off my permed hair and joined the number of countless other women who have made the decision to embrace their natural hair. Last week IAM JMARiiE spoke with Monique Rodriguez, CEO of Mielle Organics. We spoke about entrepreneurship, her decision to go natural, and the power of using organic ingredients.

Monique has always had a passion for beauty. However, the decision to become an entrepreneur is rather new. A while ago Monique went thru a major life altering experience. “I remember thinking I could have died not living my dreams,” she says. After that encounter she promised to dedicate herself to her goals while putting all trust in God’s hands. “In order to be an entrepreneur you must keep God first, and always write down your plan” she says.

In the past it seemed that so many women were opposed to wearing their natural hair. But today, many women are embracing their true texture. Monique attributed this to the fact that they are becoming more conscious and aware of the state of their hair.

There are so many products that promote hair health and growth. What makes Mielle Organics different is the ingredients used in the products. Many of her competitors use ingredients that are linked to cancer and eczema. Monique’s background in science and healthcare make her equipped to create beautiful and healthy hair. She recommended we use her avocado hair milk as a daily moisturizer. She also recommends protective styles such as twists, braids, and even scarfs to maintain styles, especially if you’re active.

Mielle Organics has had great reviews on Instagram and Youtube. The vision of Mielle Organics is to educate, excite, and empower women. The products are available in- store in North Carolina, Maryland, Florida, and Chicago and online at www.miellleorganics.com. 

@MielleOrganics will be sending me products soon and I'd love to #takethechallenge with you guys! In order to qualify to win you must be following the new web-series @askNowShow on Instagram and @MielleOrganics.  More information will be available soon! rmation will come later. 

-- AKC

Carson Byrd Speaks on the Ask Now Show

What news is important to you? Where do you get information that is relevant to you?  Is it your local television station?  Perhaps you use an app on your phone, or maybe you're old school and still read the newspaper.  Whatever the method,  our generation needs to be aware of the issues and decisions that affect us and the world surrounding us.

On this segment of the Ask Now Show, I spoke with a friend and colleague named Carson Byrd.  We discussed how to be more aware of current events and issues impacting our generation.  In order to take over the world we must first understand it.  

Take a listen to our conversation as we speak about ways to become more informed, the power of the masses, and Carson's powerful brand Just Know I'm Workin.

You will like this one I promise!

-- AKC 

Sahara Speaks on Role Models & the Power of Mentorship

Everyone has that person who has drastically helped them develop into the person they are.  Whether the contribution was career related, educational, or personal there is someone who is essential to their development.

Mentorship is so necessary in today's society.  I am thankful for my mentors who have kept me grounded and taught me the power of hard work.  Some of these people I speak to every day while others I've never met.  But it is good to have a tangible and intangible person whose story inspires you and encourages you to reach your full potential.

With the craziness of today, this is really needed for the youth.  I spoke to the talented and beautiful Sahara on this segment of the Ask Now Show.  Sahara is a sixteen year old Youtube phenomenon that has grown in popularity.  This is due in large part to her bubbly personality and amazing song covers.

We spoke about the power of mentorship, the importance of role models, and what's next for her career.

I challenge you to actively seek out someone whose story inspires you.  I also challenge you to be a mentor to someone else.  You are never too old or young!

-- AKC