Meaningful Mondays-It's Not How You Start, It's How You Finish

Interview with Shaunsie Reed CEO of the Non-Profit Motherhood Community Inc.

Hello!  Today I want to introduce to you a very special guest and personal friend of mine Shaunsie Reed.  She is one of the most beautiful and precious souls that I have ever met in my lifetime!  She has been such a blessing in my life and has been a huge blessing in the lives of so many others as well.  Shaunsie Reed is the CEO and founder of the non-profit organization Motherhood Community Inc.  Today she will share her story of loss, hope, and blessings.  I hope this story touches you as much as it has touched me and please feel free to share this with your friends as well.

 

So, here we go…and you will need some tissues nearby for this one!

Hi Shaunsie!  Thank you for coming on the blog today to tell your love story about God and His blessings in your life.  I know the beautiful ending and I am crying right now, so I hope people have some tissues nearby. 

When I first met you, I thought you were a supermodel that lost your way onto the runway and ended up in the cubicle next to me.  As soon as you flashed your smile at me, I knew that we would instantly be friends.  You have the kind of friendly persona that welcomes everyone regardless of whether you have been friends with them for 10 minutes or 10 years!  I love you for that.

What is Motherhood Community Inc.?

Gosh you have me cheesing just with your introduction!! And thank you so much for having me on the blog today truly honored to share a piece of my testimony with your audience. Motherhood Community Inc. is a nonprofit organization I started back in 2012 which was originally named Sky’s The Limit Community Development Corporation.

How many girls are usually in a class and how often do you meet?

Typically there are 8-12 girls during MCI’s Life Skills Program and for our annual Mother’s Day Empowerment Brunch it’s about 35-40 girls.

Tell me your story of how you started Motherhood Community Inc. and how God showed His blessings in your life? 

My purpose in starting the organization was to reach back and help young moms pursue life with no regrets like I did. Becoming a mom at the age of 19 was scary and had so many challenges. Now looking back, every dead end I hit, the hurt I endured, the confusion, etc. all of it was a blessing in disguise.

When I became pregnant at the age of 19 I was in my second semester of my first year of college. I felt so defeated and extremely afraid. I was disappointed in myself and was so scared that I stayed quiet about it until I started to show. I always looked as if I had it all together but in reality, I had no clue who I was 10 years ago. Just two weeks after giving birth to my daughter, I became homeless and had to live in a shelter with my newborn baby. While in this shelter I was roomed with four other moms who each had two kids. By the grace of God, I was placed with this group of ladies who were the most mature out of all the moms who lived in that particular shelter. I remember two of the mothers who were in a different room told me I was going to be in there for a long time and no one was going to help me like they said they would. They also told me how long they had been living in that shelter which was over a year, and I immediately felt nervous because this was not the life I wanted. Never in a million years did I see myself living under these types of circumstances.

While living in the shelter with my newborn, I was still taking classes because I had refused to stop going to school. I took classes online the semester my daughter was born and then returned back to taking regular classes the following semester. While completing classes online I would drive back and forth from Los Angeles to North Hollywood to my father’s house to use his computer to submit my assignments and tests (all while driving a car that overheated with my baby in the back seat). One of the most stressful times of my life! Needless to say, a month after being in the shelter I got my first apartment and I graduated with my bachelors four years later.  I took a break from school and went back and pursued my Masters.

It wasn’t until then when I realized this is something that’s attainable. Up until that point, all I saw and heard was mainly negativity and struggle when having children. Completing college showed me you could actually make it after having baby. YOU can succeed after failing, YOU can still live a life that people assume you can’t. And it was in that moment that I said to myself that I want to help other young moms. I did my research on how to start a non-profit and later on became an established 501c3. (I am not condoning teen pregnancy but for young women who are mothers you can still accomplish your goals).

With the help of my mom and my Godmother at the time who were board members, we put on yearly events and donated hundreds of items to underprivileged families and later the organization focused solely on young mothers.

Being a young single mom and trying to date was rough lol!!! After going through a very devasting hurtful breakup with my daughter’s father I knew what I was no longer going to accept. Being a single mom for almost five years, I later met and married the love of my life. He was the complete opposite of what I had always known and went for. We have been married now for three years and together for seven years. We are now the parents of our newest addition.  He is one of the cutest baby boys this world has seen, but our pregnancy journey was not easy. Prior to birthing our son, we lost two boys. We miscarried with our first son in 2014 and had a stillbirth with our second son in 2016. Going through such devasting losses pulled me even closer to God more than I already was.

Your journey has been a long and stressful one to where you are now with God’s blessings on your perfect family that you now have today.  Talk about resilience!  During your darkest and most depressing days, what did you tell yourself and what did you do to get through those times?

I absolutely love this question because my darkest days prepped me and equipped me to handle every trial that comes my way. I have had many dark days and what has been my ultimate strength is leaning on my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I’ve grown to develop a sincere relationship where there is nothing that can waiver my faith. I did not always know God for myself and back in 2010 when I almost died dealing with a situation that I won’t elaborate on (out of respect for the people who committed the betrayal), it was then when I challenged God to show me who He really was because I was so broken. I cried out for help, I spoke I shall live and not die at least 100 times that night and just cried out I am healed, I cried out this will not be my life, I cried out I will have peace and so much more.  My Godmother invited me to church and I had never been in a church such as this. The atmosphere was different than what I was used to. Shortly after I joined that church and from that point on my life was changed forever.

Once I realized how real God was, no matter how tough it gets, I speak life over the situation. I also pray with strategy and I listen to nothing but positivity. I’ve learned how to protect my peace.

What advice would you give to someone who is going through some of the same challenges you have gone through having lost a stillborn baby and being a young pregnant homeless woman?

First and foremost, cry if you need to. Let it all out and then get back up and try your hardest to push forward. Sometimes we feel like we must always be strong because we’re always told we have to be, but that can cause more damage because you’re not allowing yourself to be real for the true healing process to begin. I would encourage them to not stay so quiet. If you need help, ask for it. Find programs that can help you get back on your feet or help with whatever you may need. Feed yourself healing, positive affirmations, things that bring peace. We want healing and peace, but we don’t surround ourselves around it. Get around people who will build you up but reciprocate that same energy in return. If you don’t have people around you, social media is a great place to curate your own community of influential people. Seek counseling if you need it and always make sure your mental health is intact. In this thing called life, you cannot always control what’s going to happen, but the beauty in that is it’s not about how you start, but how you finish. No matter where you are, if you still have breathe in your body, you can still make it.

A Stylish Love Story would like to help your non-profit in any way possible. What supplies does Motherhood Community Inc. need the most?

Items needed the most are gift cards to help mothers in any way possible.

Ok, Done!

If people would like to donate supplies or make a monetary donation to your organization, how can they reach you?

We can be reached at: motherhoodcommunityinc@gmail.com

Where can we find you online?

We’ve been offline for a while but will be active very soon. You can follow us at:

@motherhoodcommunityinc on Instagram

Thank you for sharing your story Shaunsie!  You are one of the most resilient souls I know and your strength and courage have inspired me so much.  May God continue to bless your life!

Self-Acceptance

Photography: Kendra Blair
Hair: Danielle June "Madame Pompadour"
Makeup: Charlotte Paul
Jacket: Kim Kardashian for Bebe Similar Similar
Faux Leather Leggings: Spanx

Boots: YSL Tribute Platform Bootie 

Handbag: YSL Medium Loulou 

Lace Tank: Similar

Hello! How are you doing today? I had some old photos that I never posted from my fall photo shoot, so I thought I would post them anyway.  I usually work full-time and have to do blog photos on the weekends.  How do you organize your photo shoots?  

It's been no secret that things have been pretty tough for me lately.  I have been through a lot!  As perfect as we make our blog photos look online and on Instagram, we all know that this is probably the only place that our version of perfection exists.  Holding onto this unrealistic ideal can be painful in real life. Comparison and competition amongst us can be challenging and can lead to an unhealthy mindset about our bodies and ourselves.  After dealing with an eating disorder for almost 15 years and overcoming it, I now believe that I can be my own best self not in comparison to anyone else.  I also believe that God created us in his perfect image without making a mistake. 

What do you believe?  

For a long time I thought that I wasn't "pretty enough" "smart enough" "skinny enough" or "good enough" to deserve love and happiness.  It was an awful way to live. 

Have you ever felt this way? 

Thankfully, someone close to me had a stern yet caring intervention talk with me about going to rehab and getting help to heal from my destructive eating habits.  I had to leave work for two months, but it was the most important two months of my life.  It changed me in ways I could never have imagined and I truly feel that I owe my life to that center.  

In case you wanted to know where I healed, it was located in Long Beach, CA at a center called Shoreline on 2nd street in Belmont Shore.  So, in case you ever wonder why I love Long Beach so much, it is not only because the people in the community are exceptionally friendly, but mainly because it was the city that housed the center where I healed.  Shoreline is equipped with the most knowledgeable caring therapists and staff that helped save my life.  I'm definitely not the same person I was then that I am now, and I am truly grateful for that experience.  

I also wanted to share with you that I learned radical-self acceptance is...

• Letting go of what other people think.
• The belief that one self has value.
• Acceptance of personal flaws, weaknesses, or mistakes.
• The belief in your ability to overcome challenges.
• Realizing what we can and cannot control.
• Accepting what is right now without judging.

Let me know how you enjoyed this post in the comments below and I hope you have a wonderful week!

With Love,

Joanna 

Meaningful Mondays-I Can Do All Things Through Christ

Blog Interview with Suzanne Snell for MONAT Hair

Hello!  Today I have a special guest I’d like to introduce you to, her name is Suzanne Snell.  I met her at a General Assembly event in Santa Monica, California a few weeks ago and sat down right next to her and said, “hello”.  After chatting for a few minutes I found out that she is an Independent Market Partner for MONAT Global Hair products.  She was so kind, and I even had the pleasure of receiving a few sample hair products from her.  I can’t wait to try them! 

So here we go…

Hi Suzanne! Thank you for sharing your time with us.  Can you please tell us a little bit about MONAT (background/ history/ etc.)? 

Yes, I would be thrilled to share.  MONAT was founded by the Urdaneta Family in 2014.  The founder Luis Urdaneta believes in order to truly be successful you have to invest in the success of the people around you.  MONAT is a multi-cultural family oriented business with the philosophy of honoring family and dreaming big.  The Urdaneta Family came from very humble beginnings and sharing the MONAT opportunity is important to them and so is giving back.

MONAT is a naturally based, botanical, anti-aging hair care product line that is cruelty free and vegan.  MONAT starts with changing your hair and eventually changes your life. MONAT provides a generous compensation plan, an exceptionally nurturing support system, and caring, committed leaders who treat you like family.

MONAT MISSON

It is our mission to help people everywhere enjoy beautiful, healthy, fulfilling lives through our exceptional, naturally based products, a fun and rewarding business opportunity, and a culture of family, service, and gratitude.

To ensure that we’re changing lives in truly positive, meaningful ways, we have core values that are part of every decision we make. Most importantly, we believe that family is always first. And we know that our Market Partners, and their Customers, should be treated like family.

MONAT's growth in the last 16 months has been greater than 700% and as of July 2018 we are ranked 38 in The Top 50 major US companies in the household and personal products industry.  https://www.happi.com/heaps/view/4720

You’ve worked as a professional for many years in other industries, why did you decide to work for MONAT specifically?

I am a Human Resources and Recruiting professional with over 20 years of experience.  I have a Bachelors and Masters’ degree in Business.  I enjoy my profession and make a decent living doing it.  I wasn't looking for something like MONAT. 

Actually, what drew me to it was the products.  Naturally based, with no parabens, sulfates, cruelty free, vegan; I am a pretty natural person so that spoke to me.  I reached out to my friend who was posting about it on-line for samples.  I started with the volume system and my hair responded immediately.  The picture I included is my hair after one week, three pink sponge rollers on air dried hair.  I was hooked!  A year later I use six sponge rollers & am still rolling into work with them in my hair.  The air dry cream is amazing.  I received so many compliments on my hair I decided that it made sense for me to refer people to myself about the products.

How has working for MONAT changed your life for the better?

My hair has never looked better.  The wonderful relationships I am developing.  The extra income.  I never meant to get a side gig but it’s been so much fun, everyone is so supportive of one another, I get to work with people I resonate with, help them succeed in reaching their goals while I reach mine too.  You are working for YOU.

Can you tell me a story about how MONAT hair products have boosted your clients’ self-esteem? 

I am new to the business and my clients are just getting started but everyone has reported positive results.  I have one client with hair loss and he is beginning to see new growth.  Another has invested in a variety of systems and products, like the Eye Wonder Brow & Lash Serum, she tells me "I know it’s working when I remember to use it".  She's my best customer but like anything new you have to develop the habit & be consistent to see results.  We always encourage new customers to take a picture so they have something they can look back at and see the results.

When we spoke, I remember you saying that MONAT products are natural based hair products, can you tell me how they are different than other natural based hair products? 

MONAT's ingredients are naturally-based, safe, pure and sustainable. But with other brands recognizing the power of botanical oils, how is MONAT different?

The answer lies in our rich formulations that make these naturally-based ingredients work in harmony with each other, combining and reacting to pump up their natural properties to take MONAT to the next level.

Here’s a little bit about the science behind MONAT. Our products contain the following 4 primary ingredients:

REJUVENIQE™ Oil Intensive -

MONAT’s invigorating proprietary blend of 11+ unique molecular ingredients, which includes vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, beta-carotene, omega-6 fatty acids, nutrients and amino acids, suitable for all skin and hair types. These ingredients have been proven to mimic the body’s own natural oils to reduce hair thinning, prevent oxidative stress, and add volume and shine. 

REJUVENIQE’s special properties energize and rehabilitate the scalp to visibly repair hair with instant and long-term Age Prevention benefits.

CAPIXYL™ -

Powered with Red Clover Extract, a gentle emollient that reduces scalp inflammation strengthens and thickens hair, and hydrates the scalp to stimulate natural, noticeable hair growth.

Benefits:

-Outstanding clinical results prove a significant decrease in hair loss effect and increase in hair regrowth.

-Higher proven results than the other leading hair rejuvenation brands.

PROCATALINE™ -

Features Pea Extract, a rich source of secondary metabolites, which deliver healthy nutrients to promote hair growth, reduces the production of the (DHT) hormone that contributes to hair loss, plus powerful antioxidants to combat premature thinning, as well as protect color and shine.

CRODASORB™

A powerful formula that packs an intense defense against oxidative stress, protects from the sun’s damaging rays and resultant UVB damage, Cordasorb™ also preserves hair’s natural pigmentation and keeps strands stronger and locks in moisture.

Benefits:

-Protects natural and synthetic coloring as well as gray hair.

-Absorbs high amounts of UVB and UVA light.

-Penetrates the hair, allowing it to protect both the cuticle and the cortex.

-Helps to smooth the cuticle for less damage and breakage.

What are the most popular MONAT products? 

Rejuveniqe oil is our flagship product and infused in most of our products.  Ironically the Men's line is extremely popular with everyone too.  I use the Black 2-1 Shampoo & Conditioner as my first wash.  I have very fine hair and it provides some stimulation for growth before I second wash with the Volume line.  We recently added a beard oil for the guys, but I don't use that one. 

What products would you recommend for someone with dry hair and split ends? 

The Hydration System and our Rejuvabeads Split End Mender. 

If someone who has flat hair and wants more voluminous hair, what products would you recommend? 

The Volume System.  This is my go to.  It includes Revive Shampoo, Revitalize Conditioner, and Root Lifter Spray.  There is also Refinish Hair Spray and other styling products that can assist with volume & hold.

What products would you recommend for a client with thinning hair? 

The Intense Repair Shampoo & Conditioner to start.  This will stimulate growth and repair damage.  We also carry S3 Supplement Support System and an Intense Repair Spray that my colleague swears by that is good for hair loss.

Does MONAT ship globally?

MONAT is currently in USA, Canada, and the UK.  We only ship to those countries but I know there are plans for expansion to other countries.

If we have further questions about Monat products or would like to purchase Monat hair products, where can we find you?  (Twitter, website, email, IG, etc.)

To join MONAT or order products my web site: https://suzannesnell.mymonat.com/ is the place to go. 

Or you can call (310) 907-6971 or email Suzanne90404@gmail.com me directly.  

I am happy to answer any questions, which reminds me, there a hair quiz anyone can take https://hairquiz.monatglobal.com/suzanne90404 to assist with product selection.

Follow my Monat Santa Monica Facebook Page here: https://www.facebook.com/MonatSantaMonica/

My personal Instagram is https://www.instagram.com/suzswizzle/

Thank you Suzanne!  Thank you for your time and sharing Monat products with my readers.  I can’t wait to try these natural hair products!

Thank you Joanna!  I appreciate your interest in what I am up to.  It was so great to meet you!  If there is anything I can do to support you in reaching your goals please do not hesitate to ask! I can't wait to hear about your experience with the products.

Meaningful Mondays-It's Never Too Early or Too Late

"It is never too early or too late to change your life,
or make a difference in someone else's."
-Joanna Joy, A Stylish Love Story

See 10 Ways to De-Stress

1. Light A Candle And Pray, Read the Bible, Or Meditate

2. Go For A Run Or Exercise 

3. Have Coffee With A Friend 

4. Go To The Beach

5. Write A Gratitude List 

6. Pet Your Animals

All of them :)

8. Go Bowling! (This was at the Bolmor)

9. Take A Walk In Nature

9. Gardening

10. Walk Around Town And Take Blog Photos...Of Course!