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From Lab to Legacy: How Dr. Isfahan is Redefining Black Hair Care Through Science

Written by Tajala Kelly on . Posted in Education, Health and Beauty, Lifestyle, Uncategorized.

Dr. Isfahan, Founder

When Dr. Isfahan first experienced intense scalp irritation and thinning hair from years of chemical straightening, she didn’t just look for a quick fix—she looked deeper. At the time, she was a biomedical scientist conducting clinical autoimmune research at Vanderbilt University, studying diseases like sarcoidosis that disproportionately affect Black women. As she witnessed firsthand how poorly understood conditions impacted her community, a thought struck her: Could the products we use every day be silently harming us?

That question led to the birth of Alodia, a science-driven hair care brand grounded in clinical research and cultural understanding.

 

The Science of Self-Care

A graduate of Morehouse School of Medicine and a self-described chemistry lover, Dr. Isfahan merged her personal experiences with her scientific background to build products that are both effective and safe. What began as an effort to heal her own scalp evolved into a movement to elevate Black hair care with ingredients that nourish at the cellular level.

Unlike traditional products that often rely solely on oils or cosmetic ingredients, Alodia incorporates bioactive compounds—think niacinamide and peptides—that stimulate growth, balance the scalp microbiome, and reduce shedding. “These ingredients aren’t just surface level,” Dr. Isfahan explains. “They work at the molecular level to improve scalp and hair health in ways many brands simply don’t offer.”

Breaking Down the Myths

From the beginning, Dr. Isfahan noticed a dangerous trend: mainstream and even some “natural” hair products were not created with the specific needs of textured hair in mind. Many were packed with protein, leading to breakage, or they relied on harmful chemicals under the assumption that Black women were less concerned about innovation or science.

“One myth I hear all the time is that Black hair doesn’t grow,” she says. “Another is that we don’t care about ingredient quality or packaging. That couldn’t be further from the truth.”

Alodia aims to dispel these myths not just through products, but through education.

Building Community, Not Just a Brand

Before stepping into retail spaces like Target and CVS, Alodia spent years cultivating community. “We didn’t have venture capital or outside funding in the beginning,” Dr. Isfahan shares. “We had to be intentional.” That intentionality showed up in pop-ups, farmers markets, and a thriving Facebook group where thousands of women connect, ask questions, and receive science-backed education about hair and scalp health.

As a founder who comes from a working-class Brooklyn background, Dr. Isfahan is now paying it forward. She’s building a STEM pipeline initiative in partnership with Morehouse School of Medicine to expose young students—especially Black and Brown youth—to careers in science and medicine. “STEM changed my life,” she says. “It showed me the world beyond my block.”

What’s Next: Aging Beautifully & Expanding Impact

Alodia isn’t chasing trends—it’s solving problems. From the current Scalp Therapy line to its best-selling Length Retention products, each formula targets specific concerns with clinical precision.

The next launch? Aging Beautifully,  a line designed for women 40+ who experience hair thinning and brittleness as they age. “We don’t talk about aging in Black hair care enough,” says Dr. Isfahan. “This line is about embracing change while nourishing the scalp through it.”

She’s also exploring holistic wellness offerings—retreats, stress-reduction workshops, and fitness integration—because as she explains, “hair health is full-body health.”

A New Standard for Black Beauty

Alodia products

For Dr. Isfahan, this is bigger than business. It’s about rewriting the script of what Black beauty looks like, feels like, and deserves. Her approach is rooted in transparency, empowerment, and education—not gimmicks.

“I’ll never promise that our oil can fix scarring alopecia,” she says. “We’re not here to sell dreams. We’re here to support real health.”

And that’s exactly what she’s doing—one scalp, one strand, and one science-based solution at a time.

 

A New Chapter of Advocacy: LaToya Dwight’s Fight for Fibroid Awareness

Written by Tajala Kelly on . Posted in Education, Health and Beauty, Uncategorized.

LaToya Dwight

There are moments in history when the right woman rises at the right time—rooted in truth, led by grace, and unwavering in her mission to bring others along. LaToya Dwight is that woman. A businesswoman, wife, mother, and survivor turned advocate, LaToya has emerged as a bold voice in the fight for menstrual equity and fibroid awareness, especially for Black women.

LaToya’s work is not about spotlight—it’s about service. It’s about standing at the intersections where silence and suffering have lived for too long and saying, “Not anymore.” Through her nonprofit, Pad the Pandemic Foundation, and her signature event, Run F.A.R. 5K + Sneaker Gala, she has created a platform that doesn’t just raise awareness—it raises the standard.

More Than a Run—It’s a Movement

The acronym F.A.R. stands for Fibroid Awareness and Resources, but the meaning goes deeper. It signals LaToya’s commitment to walking beside women on their healing journey, pushing them to go farther than pain, farther than fear, and straight into community, education, and empowerment.

This year’s Run F.A.R. event brings the mission into the heart of Atlanta with a more accessible paved course and a one-mile fun run for children. With every step taken, attendees honor the stories of women who have suffered in silence, often misdiagnosed or forced into unnecessary hysterectomies without being given safer, less invasive options.

A Truth Many Women Carry Quietly

LaToya’s advocacy is deeply personal. She was once the woman in the doctor’s office, blindsided by a fibroid diagnosis and given surgery as the only solution. “I took my pain and turned it into passion… I felt alone, I felt confused, I felt as though my body had betrayed me. Knowing that I had those feelings at that time, it encouraged me more to be able to tell my story so that I could potentially help the next woman who may possibly walk in my footsteps,” LaToya Dwight shared, reflecting on the moment that sparked her advocacy. She didn’t have a roadmap. No blueprint. Just questions, confusion, and a deep feeling that there had to be another way.

Instead of retreating, she rose.

And in her rise, she began illuminating the silent crisis that so many endure—prolonged menstrual cycles, anemia, and limited access to safe menstrual care. These are not just health issues; they are equity issues. And LaToya tackles them with the clarity, compassion, and courage of a woman who refuses to leave others behind.

Centering the Black Community

Black women are three times more likely to develop fibroids. That statistic is not just a number—it’s a call to action. Through health screenings, hygiene kit giveaways, and partnerships with organizations like Effect Fitness and medical professionals across Atlanta, LaToya is bridging the gap between what’s common and what’s actually normal.

She challenges the toxic “organic” branding that misleads consumers and promotes truly chemical-free menstrual products, helping women make informed, body-safe choices. Her efforts don’t stop at awareness—they prioritize early detection, education, and autonomy.

Boundaries, Balance & Becoming

Upcoming events flyer via Pad The Pandemic instagram

In a culture that celebrates the hustle, LaToya teaches the power of pause. She has mastered the art of saying “no” without guilt and “yes” with intention. Whether she’s planning major events, running a business, or raising a family, she does so with honesty, accountability, and boundaries that protect her peace.

And in that balance, she’s discovered something many of us strive for—a version of herself that’s not only surviving, but fully thriving.

A Legacy in Motion

LaToya Dwight doesn’t just advocate. She mobilizes. She empowers. She equips. Her work reminds us that change doesn’t always come from grand speeches or big stages—but often from the quiet strength of a woman who decides to turn her pain into power.

Through the Fibroid Pandemic Foundation and Run F.A.R., LaToya is building a legacy not just of awareness—but of action. And in doing so, she’s giving women everywhere permission to reclaim their health, their voices, and their wholeness.

To learn more or get involved:

Because healing is not a finish line—it’s a lifelong run. And thanks to women like LaToya Dwight, none of us have to run it alone.

Ashwin Gane on World-Building, Silence as an Instrument, and Rising “Way Up” in Music

Written by Tajala Kelly on . Posted in Entertainment, Music, Uncategorized.

Ashwin Gane

During our recent conversation, genre-defying artist Ashwin Gane let us into his world—a world that blends cinematic trap, mythic imagination, and raw, thoughtful introspection. From charting on Billboard to building sonic universes inspired by samurais and Zen gardens, Ashwin is carving a lane that’s deeply intentional and fiercely original.

Building Worlds, Not Just Beats

When asked how he creates songs like Way Up and Energy, Ashwin was quick to explain his immersive creative process.

“I picture the scene in my head first. I see the world, then I build the music around it,” he said. “I’m not just vibing in the studio. I’m world-building.”

He distinguishes between tracks like Way Up, which is cinematic and mythic, versus Energy, which leans into R&B but still carries a visual texture. For Ashwin, each track starts with a vision, not just a vibe.

Silence Is Power

A self-proclaimed Dr. Dre disciple, Ashwin carries a deep respect for minimalism in production.

“Silence is an instrument,” he quoted. “A lot of people overcompensate with sound. I do what’s necessary—for the music, and in life.”

He explained that over the years, his instinct has sharpened. He knows when to pull back and let the music breathe, a discipline developed through trial and error.

Heritage and Hustle

Ashwin’s background is a blend of Metro Detroit energy and Tamil heritage—though he prefers not to lean on those labels for artistic validation.

“I don’t think about it consciously, but being a child of immigrants, being Tamil, Catholic—those values are in me. They shaped my work ethic,” he explained. “You’ve got to be better than the competition just to be seen.”

While he’s open to pulling inspiration from global cultures, Ashwin is also cautious not to perform authenticity he doesn’t deeply understand. “I’m an expert in hip-hop, R&B, and Western classical. That’s what I know.”

From Feedback to Fuel

Ashwin embraces criticism and sees it as a tool for refinement.

“Someone told me I was moving too much on stage. I didn’t get defensive—I fired my choreographer and got someone new. Now my stage presence is stronger because of it.”

It’s this approach—tough skin, open ears—that continues to shape him as a performer.

The Alignment Era & What’s Coming

Ashwin teased an evolving arc in his musical journey, hinting at a trilogy, with Twilight Tales just the beginning.

“This era is about alignment—with my audience, with the world,” he said. “The next phase is called the Cold World. It’s not pretty, but it’s real. After that, we’ll return to fantasy—bigger and bolder.”

He envisions something like a rap opera, layered with mythology and cinematic structure. “Think Lord of the Rings meets Old Testament—but in rap form.”

Staying Grounded Through the Highs

Despite his Billboard-charting single Regretted and TikTok traction, Ashwin says accolades don’t sway him.

“I was already striving for greatness before any awards. Recognition is nice, but it doesn’t change my path.”

A Vibe for Every Mood

Asked which tracks are best for a night out with the girls, Ashwin gave three recommendations:

  • Energy – a feel-good anthem

  • Got It – a confident, body-positive bop

  • Way Up – a celebration of personal ascension

“Way Up makes you feel like a million bucks. That’s the point—I want my music to speak to the human experience: power, independence, celebration, and growth.”

Final Thoughts

Ashwin isn’t just here to drop tracks—he’s here to challenge norms, build immersive narratives, and inspire listeners to win, no matter the odds. As he said:

“If you want to be a winner, listen to Ashwin Gane.”

With his next chapter promising a deeper dive into mythology, human resilience, and sonic elevation, it’s safe to say we’ve only seen the beginning of what Ashwin has to offer.

Ashwin Gane

Millionaire Moves: Reclaiming Black Wealth, One Family at a Time

Written by Tajala Kelly on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Carter Cofield (left) & George Acheampong (right)

This isn’t just financial literacy—it’s a cultural revolution. Meet the movement turning strategy into security and dollars into dignity.

There’s something sacred about knowing your worth. And there’s something even more powerful about learning how to grow it, protect it, and pass it on.

For far too long, Black families have been locked out of generational wealth—not because we lacked brilliance, but because we lacked access. Because the systems weren’t designed for us to win. But now, there’s a shift happening. And at the front of that shift is Melanin Money—a platform turning financial strategy into freedom.

From Scarcity to Strategy

When Carter Cofield and George Acheampong came across a study projecting that Black wealth could hit zero by 2053, they didn’t panic. They planned.

They knew the reality: both men came from humble beginnings. Carter from a 3-bedroom house with nine people on the South Side of Chicago. George, from a similar struggle. But they also knew this—wealth is not just a number; it’s a mindset. And mindsets can be transformed.

So, they made a bold promise to the community: help 100,000 Black families build a net worth of at least $1 million each.

The goal? Close the racial wealth gap by $100 billion. And they’re well on their way.

Meet the Advisors You Didn’t Know You Needed

Together, Carter (a CPA) and George (a financial advisor) built Melanin Money to serve as a one-stop shop for wealth building—tax strategy, investment guidance, business planning, and real accountability.

But this isn’t just about theory. One of their clients—once on food stamps in 2018—is now worth over $5 million. With five children, she’s built a million-dollar legacy for each one.

That’s not a fluke. That’s the power of the right guidance.

Making It Make Sense—for Us

Where others speak in numbers, Carter speaks in truth. He breaks down Wall Street wisdom with real-world clarity. Think: explaining the stock market through a Jordan sneaker sale. Explaining taxes through everyday spending.

And it sticks. Because when people understand, they believe. And when they believe, they act.

“If you don’t find ways to make money while you sleep,” Carter says, “you’ll work until you die.”

That kind of wisdom doesn’t just spark action—it lights a fire.

 First, We Shift the Mindset

Most people think wealth starts with income. But Melanin Money teaches that it starts with intention.

Their most powerful lesson? Pay yourself first. Not just with money—but with discipline, consistency, and vision. That simple shift—from reactive to proactive—has helped thousands move from surviving to thriving.

And they’re not just reaching the top. They’re bringing the community with them.

Wealth Feels Better in Community

Through free weekly classes, free content, and their Melanin Millionaire Club, they’ve taught over 22,000 people how to invest and build wealth—without gatekeeping.

They also lead by giving: from food drives in Cabo to scholarships, their foundation reinvests into the people who need it most.

Because this movement isn’t about flexing. It’s about freedom.

“People will do more for recognition than they will for money,” Carter explains.

Wealth Weekend flyer with Morgan DeBaun, Terrance J, and Pinky Cole as Special Guest

“So we’ve built celebration into our strategy.”

At Wealth Weekend, their annual conference, clients aren’t just learning—they’re being honored. For building real wealth. For maxing out IRAs. For hitting 7-figure milestones. For choosing discipline over distraction.

Visibility with Purpose

They’ve been featured on national platforms, from Steve Harvey to Forbes. But they don’t lead with the press. They lead with impact.

“Whether we’re on a big stage or a quiet one, the mission is the same: 100,000 Black millionaires. That’s it. That’s the work.”

And the work is working.

Final Word:

This is more than financial literacy. It’s about ownership, pride, and power. It’s about shifting the cultural narrative—one family, one account, one mindset at a time.

And if you’re ready to take your first step? Start where thousands have already begun:

Check out the Melanin Money YouTube channel and begin building the wealth your last name deserves.

Building Dignity from the Ground Up: Mark Schuster and the Blueprint for Community-Driven Development

Written by Tajala Kelly on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Mark Schuster, CEO of Wingate

WHEN LEGACY MEETS PURPOSE

It doesn’t take long in conversation with Mark Schuster to understand you’re speaking with a man not merely constructing buildings, but reimagining belonging.

With the calm confidence of a seasoned leader and the humility of someone who still listens more than he speaks, Mark doesn’t tout numbers or accolades. Instead, he talks people. Culture. Dignity. The kind of values not often listed on development blueprints—but maybe, just maybe, should be.

This is the ethos behind Cypress 595, the fifth phase of Atlanta’s transformative City Lights Campaign, a 1,500-unit affordable housing development redefining the old Fourth Ward. But to tell that story, you have to go back further—to the man who believes in people first, profit second, and purpose always.

“REAL ESTATE ISN’T JUST LAND. IT’S A LIFESTYLE.”

Mark’s journey began in 1977 at his father’s firm. By 1990, he broke out on his own, fueled not by ego, but by a quiet fire for doing things differently. “I always believed in getting my hands dirty,” he shared. “Real estate gave me that.”

Over the decades, his firm Wingate expanded to 18 states—but stayed rooted in one central value: culture over clout.

At Wingate, the receptionist and the project manager have equal voice in the room. Insurance, HR, and property management all sit at the table when a new build is discussed. “We try to run as horizontal as possible,” he explained. “Because everyone touches the mission. Everyone matters.”

And when it came to City Lights—everyone was seen.

CYPRESS 595: NOT JUST AFFORDABLE. EXCEPTIONAL.

Located in Atlanta’s historic Old Fourth Ward, Cypress 595 is not a back-room add-on to a gentrification push—it’s the centerpiece.

Wingate didn’t bulldoze the past or displace the people. They honored both.

“We didn’t want to disrupt families,” Mark said. “We relocated them nearby, to properties we owned. Same schools, same bus routes, same community.” And when the buildings were ready? Those families were invited back first.

That’s what leadership with heart looks like.

Caption: Before the skyline changed, the people were prioritized. That’s the Wingate way.

THE HEARTBEAT BEYOND THE BRICK

Mark’s mission didn’t end with housing. It expanded to Operation PEACE, a nonprofit investing over $2 million into after-school education and youth development. Children from Wingate’s properties gain access to IT programs, mentorship, and a chance to dream bigger.

And when a staffer asked Mark to sponsor a teen basketball team? Not only did he say yes—Wingate employees now scrimmage the kids regularly. “We lost, of course,” he laughed. “But those games spark real conversations about college, careers, and life.”

It’s not about scoring points. It’s about creating pathways.

TECH, TRUST, AND TOMORROW

Wingate also brought smart tech into the fold—not to flex, but to serve. Residents can access online resources through in-building business centers. Security systems link with Atlanta PD. And yes, there’s even a robot named Wingate patrolling the grounds like a friendly neighborhood transformer (who unfortunately needs a few mechanical check-ups).

It’s innovation that uplifts, not intimidates.

SO, WHAT’S NEXT?

As Cypress 595 opens its doors, Mark’s eyes are already on what’s next: the final phases of affordable units, a major market-rate expansion, and replicating this success from Maine to Miami.

But even with national ambitions, he remains deeply local in spirit. “We love affordable housing,” he said simply. “Because it lets us provide not just homes—but hope.”

CLOSING THOUGHT

If you ever wondered what it looks like when real estate becomes a vehicle for justice, equity, and empathy, look no further than Wingate. Look no further than Mark Schuster.

Because when the foundation is built on dignity—every door opens wider.

JEFF NELSON: THE VISIONARY BEHIND THE VIBE — HOW BLAVITY BECAME A MOVEMENT

Written by Tajala Kelly on . Posted in Uncategorized.

Jeff Nelson, COO Blavity Photo by Riki Brewer

Yo, if you ever needed a reminder that Black brilliance hits different when we build together, let’s talk about Jeff Nelson—co-founder of Blavity and one of the sharpest minds in the culture game.

You might know Blavity as the go-to platform for Black millennials but let me put you on to the story behind the story. Jeff Nelson didn’t just stumble into greatness. He built it, brick by digital brick, with heart, hustle, and a vision that never quit.

Back in the day, before the stages and sponsorships, Jeff met Morgan DeBaun in college—he was her RA! From that moment, he saw her magic and pulled her into student government as his VP. That bond turned into a business blueprint, and together, they sparked something that would turn into a cultural wave.

Fast forward, and now Jeff is the behind-the-scenes master operator. As COO of Blavity, he’s the tech whisperer, the one turning ideas into impact. From AI-driven apps to strategizing event tech, he’s the guy making sure Blavity doesn’t just show up, it shows out.

Let’s talk Blavity Fest—the new crown jewel in the culture calendar. Jeff calls it a “big block party around the city,” but make no mistake, this is luxury meets community meets turn-up. From Kirk Franklin and 2 Chainz to Marsei Martin and Keith Lee, this year’s lineup is stacked with voices that move the culture forward.

What makes Blavity events special? According to Jeff, it’s that intentional energy. They don’t just throw events—they design exp

Official flyer for Blavity Fest 2025

eriences. “You can be an exec by day and hit the afterparty by night,” he says. It’s about honoring every facet of the Black identity.

And listen, if you’re a content creator, talk show host, DJ, or someone with a vision and a mic—Jeff says tap in. Blavity has open applications, partnerships, and a Creator Collective that’s linking talent with major brands. They’re not gatekeeping the game—they’re opening doors.

The future? Oh, it’s global. Blavity’s touching cities from Houston to Paris, Miami to Martha’s Vineyard, building a real-world network to match the online movement.

So here’s the vibe: Jeff Nelson isn’t just operating a company. He’s architecting culture. And if you’re about your purpose, your people, and your power—it’s time to take notes and take up space.

Article by Tajala Kelly

Interview powered by The ReCap Report

Dr. Tanika Long: Building Bridges of Hope in Barnesville and Beyond

Written by Tajala Kelly on . Posted in Business, Education, Entertainment, Health and Beauty, Uncategorized.

Dr. Tanika Long, CEO

Sometimes all it takes is one moment — one post, one realization — to change everything.

For Dr. Tanika Long, that moment came during the height of the pandemic.

Scrolling through Facebook, she saw a post celebrating Black history moments from her hometown, Barnesville, Georgia.

Right there, in black and white, was her name — the first and only African American woman from Barnesville to become a physician.

And it hit her: If I didn’t even know that about myself, how would the next little girl know what’s possible?

That spark lit a fire.

It wasn’t enough to have made it out — she had to come back, full circle, and show the next generation how to dream even bigger.

That’s how Full Circle of Hope was born.

More Than Just a Scholarship — It’s a Movement

Launched in 2022, Full Circle of Hope is Dr. Long’s love letter to the town that raised her — and her challenge to every child who’s ever been underestimated.

“We’re teaching kids that no matter where you start, no matter what your circumstances look like, you can still win,” she said. “It doesn’t matter if you grew up in the projects or had a teenage mom — your story isn’t over.”

Through scholarships, book drives, financial literacy carnivals, and holiday giving events, FCOH is rewriting the narrative for families in Barnesville and beyond. It’s about more than money — it’s about breaking cycles, planting seeds of hope, and watering them until they bloom.

The Gala That’s Bigger Than a Party

FCOH Streets team

Every year, Full Circle of Hope throws a gala — but this isn’t just another fancy night out. It’s a celebration of impact, growth, and the dreams that are just getting started.

This year, they’re turning up even more.

For the first time, the gala is moving to the metro Atlanta area — Eagles Landing Country Club in Stockbridge, Georgia.

With a live DJ, surprise guests, a VIP mixer, and 102.9’s very own Vassier Serrano hosting, it’s about to be a night to remember.

But at the heart of it all is purpose: raising money to not only support new scholarship recipients but also bless former recipients with continued scholarships. Because dreams don’t stop after freshman year — and neither should the support.

Why You Should Care — Even If You’ve Never Heard of Barnesville

You don’t have to be from Barnesville to feel the mission.

You just have to believe that every child deserves a shot, no matter their zip code.

“You never know where the next game-changer, the next leader, the next life-saver is coming from,” Dr. Long said. “It could be from a small town like Barnesville. And if we don’t invest in them, who will?”

Want to help? You can sponsor, donate, or grab your ticket at givebutter.com/FCOH2025Gala.

The Message Every Kid Needs to Hear

Before we wrapped our conversation, I asked Dr. Long what she would say to every student she’s reaching through Full Circle of Hope.

Her answer was powerful:

“Don’t let anyone count you out based on where you come from. What they see as weakness — that’s your superpower. Own it. And once you make it, reach back and lift somebody else up too. That’s how we change the world — together.”

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJHagAuuYb1/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet

 

Blueprints, Not Handouts: How Star Chapman Engineers Community Wealth

Written by Tajala Kelly on . Posted in Business, Education, Influential People, Top 10, Uncategorized.

In a world that too often confuses profit with purpose, Starsheema Chapman is carving out a lane where both can not only coexist—but thrive. Hers is a mission rooted in dignity, driven by lived experience, and charged with a purpose that echoes through every community she touches.

“I came from public housing. I didn’t have a trust fund, a Rolodex, or a roadmap—but I had a knowing,” Chapman tells me, her voice steady, resolute. “I knew I wanted more, and I wanted to bring people with me.”

That conviction led to the creation of Star The Accelerator, a business that’s more liberation blueprint than startup course. Alongside her husband, Star also co-founded First Choice Care, a thriving home care agency in Kinston, North Carolina. But let’s be clear—this isn’t just about entrepreneurship. This is about emancipation.

“When you build something for your people, you’re not just breaking cycles—you’re building altars.”

Star’s course doesn’t just teach clients how to start businesses—it teaches them how to reclaim their time, their finances, and their futures. From navigating EINs and licensing to mastering Medicaid billing and team training, she’s holding doors open and handing out keys.

“Mentorship saved me,” she says. “And now I do the same. I’m not gatekeeping, I’m giving game.”

That game includes a full A-to-Z playbook: client intake systems, staff policy manuals, and even branding and marketing strategies. The goal? To fast-track success for women and men who, like Star, weren’t born into access but were called to impact.

And Star doesn’t disappear once the check clears. Her alumni know her by name, and many still call her years after they’ve launched—some now earning six figures, thanks to her guidance.

“We don’t toss you to the wolves. We walk with you,” she insists.

This model of communal success isn’t just good business—it’s radical in a world built on individualism. It’s James Baldwin in motion: “You have to go the way your blood beats.” And for Star, that rhythm has always led back to community.

From back-to-school drives to HBCU scholarships, from food banks to future children’s books for foster youth, the Chapmans’ commitment is comprehensive. Their forthcoming series—The Brotherhood and Sisterhood of the Traveling Suitcases—is a love letter to foster children who deserve more than a trash bag to carry their belongings.

This is the work of people who see, who feel, and who act.

“It’s one thing to survive the system. It’s another to rebuild it for others. That’s the Star Accelerator difference.”

—a sentiment worthy of Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s unapologetic truth-telling.

Looking forward, Star has her eyes on franchising First Choice Care, turning it into a plug-and-play model that helps others leap over the hurdles she once faced. Education programs, policy updates, and private-pay expansions are all in the pipeline, proving once again: she’s not just responding to the moment—she’s shaping it.

“I’m building something bigger than me,” she says. “Because when you empower one, you empower many.”

Follow the movement: @StartheAccelerator

Enroll or learn more: www.startheaccelerator.com

Mindfulness, Mayhem, and a Meditating Llama: Emotional Intelligence Coach Emily Morash’s Neuroscience-Driven Guide to Unfunking Leadership

Written by Tajala Kelly on . Posted in Business, Education, Influential People, Top 10, Uncategorized.

If you’ve ever walked out of a meeting thinking, “What just happened?”—this book is for you.

If your team is talking in circles, burnout is the norm, and your Slack thread is a silent scream—this book is for you.

And if you’re a leader who wants to do better but feels like you’re winging it every day—this book was made for you.

Meet Emily Morash—keynote speaker, coach, former nonprofit executive, and the brilliant mind behind Unfunk Yourself: Leading Mindfully in the Midst of Mayhem. In a lively interview with The Recap Report, Emily opened up about her unconventional journey, the science behind her work, and why it’s time for leaders to stop reacting on autopilot and start leading with purpose.

This isn’t your typical leadership manual. Unfunk Yourself is part self-awareness deep dive, part neuroscience lesson, and part pep talk from your no-nonsense best friend. Oh—and the cover features a meditating llama surrounded by chaos. Because of course it does.

From Nonprofit Firefighting to Focused Leadership

Before the workshops and keynotes, Emily spent 20 years managing nonprofit teams—where limited resources, high stakes, and chronic miscommunication were a daily reality. “I worked in small nonprofits, big ones, corporate-style nonprofits—you name it,” she said. “And no matter where I was, the same problem kept showing up: people couldn’t talk to each other effectively.”

That experience sparked a realization: strategy doesn’t matter if your team can’t communicate. So, she made it her mission to teach leaders how to slow down, tune in, and build teams that actually work.

Why Leadership Feels So Funked Up

According to Emily, the root of most leadership chaos isn’t incompetence—it’s biology. Our brains are wired to react emotionally before we process things logically. That’s why a sharp email can feel like an attack. Why meetings spiral. Why feedback becomes conflict. “We’re constantly scanning for danger, even in the boardroom,” she explained.

The result? Leaders are often making decisions based on assumptions, stress, or past experiences—not the present moment.

The fix? Mindfulness. But not the Instagram-quote kind. Emily teaches a grounded, practical version of mindfulness: being aware of what’s happening inside you and around you, in real time, without judgment. And yes, it’s harder than it sounds—but her book makes it feel doable.

The Tools: Mindful, Practical, Game-Changing

Unfunk Yourself offers more than reflection—it gives you actionable frameworks to shift how you lead:

  • The Communication Compass: Helps teams understand how they speak, listen, and process. Because not everyone communicates the way you do—and that’s okay.
  • The Identity Trap: Reveals how internalized “shoulds” and assumptions shape your leadership style—and how to break free from them.
  • The Mindful Leader Practice: The centerpiece of Emily’s method—a hands-on approach to cultivating awareness, empathy, and intentional action.

Each tool is grounded in research, brought to life with real client stories, and wrapped in just enough humor to keep things human. One skeptical reviewer summed it up perfectly:

“I regret to inform you that I enjoyed this book.”

Insight with a Side of Sass

What makes Unfunk Yourself special isn’t just the frameworks—it’s Emily’s voice.

She’s smart, compassionate, and unapologetically herself. “I take my work seriously,” she told us, “But I don’t take myself seriously.” That philosophy shines through every page, making the book as enjoyable as it is useful.

And yes, the meditating llama on the cover? That’s intentional. It’s a symbol of what it means to be a grounded leader in a chaotic world. “That llama is me,” Emily laughed. “Learning to stay centered while everything’s on fire behind you.”

Ready to Unfunk?

Whether you’re leading a team, navigating a career pivot, or simply tired of chaotic leadership culture, Unfunk Yourself is the no-fluff, full-heart guide you didn’t know you needed.

Grab your copy and explore the tools at www.unfunkyourselfbook.com.

You’ll find free resources like communication assessments, guided meditations, reflective journals, and pep talks to keep you on track.

Because leadership doesn’t have to be soul-sucking.

With Emily Morash, it can be mindful, bold—and just a little bit funky.

Sonder Health Plans Optimistic About Entering Savannah Market

Written by Jaira B. Williams on . Posted in Business, Education, Featured, Health and Beauty, Uncategorized.

Sonder Health Plans Hosts Introduction Reception for Prominent Community Figures in Savannah to Discuss the State of Healthcare 

Georgia’s premier health insurance company, Sonder Health Plans hosted a Market Introduction Reception in the Savannah community on May 17th at the Thompson Hotel Savannah. The meeting was led by CEO Suzanna Roberts, Sonder executives, and respected Savannah native Chauncey Mayfield Sr.

This successful event was curated with the hopes of informing prominent figures, medical professionals, community tastemakers, and other influential Savannah professionals of the Sonder imprint, possibly servicing the metro area in the future.

During the reception, Sonder Health Plans delved into the state of healthcare for Georgia seniors. They addressed heart health, diabetes, and shared their mission of protecting the health of Georgians statewide. 

CEO, Suzanna Roberts expressed excitement at the possibility of becoming a trusted healthcare partner in the community. She’s confident that if they are approved to enter the market, thousands of seniors would benefit greatly from the comprehensive plans and “extraordinary savings Sonder provides its citizens.” 

 “Providing Exceptional Care for Georgia’s Seniors”

 Sonder is dedicated to creating plans focusing on chronic conditions and affordable monthly benefits to keep their members healthy. With a goal to improve overall health and well-being and a vision to make healthcare “simple, personal and affordable,” Sonder is committed to unmatchable value.

With some plans boasting $0 premiums, specialty copays, and 24/7 nurse hotlines, Sonder is on its way to rivaling larger health plan providers. 

Savannah was their kick-off to statewide information sessions. Roberts and team are working diligently, continuing to raise awareness for the corporation. 

To learn more about Sonder’s insurance plans for Georgia’s Seniors, visit: https://sonderhealthplans.com.