2020 Optimal Living Magazine Christian Women in Business Issue

Special 2020 Christian Women in Business Issue 

We Salute 

& Celebrate 

Deshuna 

Elisa 

Spencer, 

kweliTV. 

com 

Kiyonda 

Powell, 

Kiyonda 

Powell 

Studios 

Toshauna 

Giddings., 

Christian 

author & 

speaker 

5 KEY 

BUSINESS 

ETIQUETTE 

TIPS FOR 

2020 

much 

more 

East Orange, NJ City Councilwoman 

Brittany D. Claybrooks

Our Staff 

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief 

Tanisha Hopson Shaw 

Associate Editor 

M. McDonald 

Contributing Writers 

Delonda Adams 

Mishell Ellis 

C-A Washington 

Elizabeth A. Johnson 

Candace Thornley 

Table of Contents 

05 The Publisher’s Perspective 

06 #1 Thing She’s Learned in Business 

07 Christian Women in Business 

16 #1 Thing She’s Learned in Business 

18 How I Met & Married 

My Man of God 

20 Career & Leadership Insight 

23 Christian Women in Business 

Directory 

24 Optimal Life Confession of Faith 

25 Spices of Life Recipes 

Spread the Word & Support our Christian Women in Business Who Give Back! 

Grab your Spring 2020 Christian Women in Business Digital Issue of Optimal 

Living Magazine @ www.optimal-livingmagazine.com for only $1.49! 

Our Scripture Reading of the Season 

2 Chronicles 7: 14 

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray 

and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from 

heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” 

Copyright © 2020 by Optimal Living Magazine 

4 

Subscribe to Optimal Living Magazine: www.optimal-livingmagazine.com

THE PUBLISHER’S PERSPECTIVE 

FIRST CLASS DREAMS REALLY 

DO COME TRUE… 

Twenty years ago, I had the 

honor and privilege of meeting 

Mr. Earl G. Graves, Sr. He is an 

American entrepreneur, businessman, 

philanthropist, family man, and an 

advocate of African-American business 

growth, longevity and prosperity. He is a 

graduate of Morgan State University, and 

yes, he is founder of the legendary Black 

Enterprise Magazine and chairman of 

the media company Earl G. Graves, Ltd. I 

learned everything I know about the life cycle 

of starting and producing magazines from the 

fruits of his labor, as an Editorial intern during 

the summer of 2000. 

Walking through the doors of Black 

Enterprise Magazine for the first time was 

a “first class” dream come true and an 

experience that I will cherish forever. With 

every encounter I made with him, I was 

encouraged to use my natural born gifts 

to encourage other people to do greater 

things. I didn’t know that I wanted to create, 

edit and publish magazines until I walked 

through those doors. All I could think was, 

“Wow, I could have all this one day?” 

Mr. Graves and his staff only chose 6 interns 

out of 600 applicants that year, so I was 

really surprised and honored to be chosen. 

And, I made sure to show my appreciation 

by going above and beyond the call of 

duty to complete my assignments. This 

man ran a tight ship in his offices and it 

showed through every single issue of Black 

Enterprise presented to the world. 

I could probably write a book about all the 

lessons learned that summer. Yet, the biggest 

thing I learned was the power of networking 

with people and businesses of like mind and 

vision. If you aspire to be great, impact the 

world with your vision, talent and ideas, you 

must position yourself to collaborate and 

exchange ideas with people who seek to do 

things in excellence. With that said, I hope 

to see you at our next Christian Women in 

Business Expo & Brunch weekend. Stay tuned 

for more information @ wifey101prayerbrunch. 

eventbrite.com. Hope to see you there! 

Excited to serve, 

Tanisha Hopson Shaw 

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief 

Walk in His Peace! 

Follow Me on @Olmagazine 

Follow me on detoxmylifeweightlosschallenge 

Follow me on optimallivingmag 

Follow Me on optimallivingpublisher 

Subscribe to Optimal Living Magazine: www.optimal-livingmagazine.com 5

The #1 Thing She’s 

Learned In Business 

PART 1 

Paula Horne 

CEO, Owner of River City Flame Hot Sauces & Rubs 

Industry/Profession: Food & Beverage /Condiment 

Location: Richmond, VA 

Website: www.RiverCityFlame.com 

Email Address: Paulah@RiverCityFlame.com 

Favorite Scripture: 

My favorite scripture is: Philippians 4: 4-7. “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say 

it again: Rejoice! Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. 

Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with 

thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which 

surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” 

What’s the #1 Thing You’ve Learned in Business? 

You’ll NEVER achieve anything in your comfort zone, so get out of it. Do that “thing” 

that makes you uncomfortable but you KNOW will move your business even a little 

bit forward. 

Mrs.Christine Davis 

CEO of Anointed Assistant 

Industry/Profession: Virtual Administrative and Social Media Specialist 

Location : Jackson, MS 

Website & Email Address: www.AnointedAssistant.com 

Christine@AnointedAssistant.com 


(Proverbs 12:25, NIV) & (Matthew 6:25-34) 


One thing that I’ve learned in business is that sometimes our gift from God will do 

more for his children than education. We, as the business owner, need to trust first 

God, and welcome the process that we have to go through to get where God wants 

us to be. Matthew 6 is so true, we do a lot of worrying about things when we are 

business owners, but if we are doing what God called us to do, we are walking in our 

purpose, then God will take care of everything else. 

6 


Optimal Living Christian Women In 

BUSINESS WHO 

GIVE BACK! 

COUNCILWOMAN BRITTANY D. CLAYBROOKS 

44 City Hall Plaza in East Orange, New Jersey 

In January 2020, Ms. Brittany Claybrooks became the youngest 

councilwoman to ever be elected in the city of East Orange, New 

Jersey! We salute Councilwoman Claybrooks and wish her much 

success in her new role and future endeavors. 


OLM: As a Councilwoman, describe what 

you do from day to day? 

BC: As a Councilwoman of the Second Ward 

of East Orange, New Jersey, I serve as a 

member of the legislative body in our City’s 

government. In addition to drafting and 

voting on the policies and ordinances that 

govern East Orange, we are responsible for 

amending and approving the city’s budget, 

allocating funds, and we serve as the 

redevelopment entity. Lastly, the best part 

about being elected as councilwoman is the 

opportunity to inspire and encourage others 

in our community to get invested in where 

we are going as a City! 

OLM: What or who inspired you to become a 

councilwoman for the City of East Orange? 

BC: Whew Lord! There were so many things 

that inspired me to run, but it really started 

when I realized that it was in God’s will for 

me to do so. Over the course of my journey, 

I have had the opportunity to reside in 

some great places after I left my hometown, 

Detroit. However, there was something 

about East Orange that resonated with me 

differently. I knew it from the day I moved 

here. I had already had a career in public 

service and was dedicated to it, but when I 

decided to accept East Orange as the place 

I would ultimately start my real life, my 

investment in the progress of the city grew 

tremendously! Initially, I fought it for a while 

because, well, that’s just what we do as 

stubborn Followers, have our own plans or 

fearful. As I began to pray about the decision 

and the people God sent me that would 

ultimately become my support team and 

circle, it became clearer. Nearly four years 

and a campaign later, here I am. It has been 

a journey of its own in just these first couple 

of months, but I’m ready. 

OLM: Is there something that keeps you 

grounded and focused to press forward in 

making what you do a success? 

BC: I am grounded by a lot; but my relationship 

with God is my true anchor. I have learned to 

trust Him even when it’s tough. Each move 

or decision I have had to make in life came 

with its fair share of sacrifices. But, when I 

know it is really God’s will for me, I adjust 

myself accordingly. It is this way for me in 

all aspects of my life including my work. 

Beyond that, I have always been dedicated 

to making sure that I’m leaving everything I 

do in Public Service better than when I found 

it, even if it’s something small. As a kid, my 

well-being relied heavily on public services and 

I remember what I felt I needed then. As an 

adult, I do my best to remain focused on filling 

those gaps for people who still rely on us today. 

OLM: At the end of the day, how do you 

define success yourself, your family and 

your community? 

BC: On my journey, I have come to measure 

and define myself, my success, my family, 

and my community by what I put into 

them. I firmly believe in giving a hundred 

percent to where I am at the time or season. 

Throughout my life, my success, my sense 

of self, my relationship with my family and 

my community looked different in each 

season. But, I persevered and trusted God 

for the rest. Today, things are still evolving. 

However, things are a lot more stable at 

the same time. I have even more to give 

now in each of these areas, but regardless 

of whether things are high or low at any 

given time, I give it all I have even if it means 

adding or subtracting where necessary. Each 

small moment, circumstance, or encounter 

along the way ultimately adds to the bigger 

picture for me and this picture of life and my 

8 


definition of it is forever a work in progress. 

And that’s the way I believe it should be. 

OLM: How long ago did you start your 

career in politics? 

BC: I started my career in public service and 

politics 9 years ago. 

OLM: What is your vision for giving back to 

the community you serve? 

BC: My vision for giving back to the Second 

Ward and the overall City of East Orange is 

using the platform to create policies and 

processes that help us maintain our strong 

identity as a community, even as we are 

seeking to progress. Progress looks different 

depending on the issue. However, as we 

move forward, whether it is in development, 

safety, or through new health initiatives, I 

believe that who we are and what makes 

us unique should be reflected positively in 

everything we seek to implement or change. 

My vision is to also promote excellence in 

everything we do. Our town is diverse, but 

also one that is predominantly Black and 

Hispanic. The idea that excellence is not 

synonymous with minority is a myth we bust 

daily in East Orange and that is something 

I will continue to stand by. Our people are 

more than deserving of it. 

OLM: Why is it so important for you to give 

back to the people you serve? 

BC: I’ve gotten to the point in my career 

where everything I do professionally reflects 

who I am. And, giving back is who I am. A lot 

has been taken away from us as people. Yet 

in my case, God saw fit to give me so much 

despite it all and I genuinely feel a sense 

of responsibility to give from my own well 

that He has filled so many times over. As the 

saying goes, “To whom much is given, much 

is required.” I have been given much, so now 

it’s time for me to do what is required. It is as 

simple as that. 

OLM: What scripture best describes you, 

and how you live your life? 

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and 

renew a right spirit within me…” 

(Psalm 51:10) It is important to have a 

heavy hustle, but a light heart and to live a 

lifestyle of Servant Leadership. As hard as 

it is at times, I do my best to do it from my 

heart. That is where I start and everything 

else follows. If my spirit is not right, my work 

won’t be right. So, it is important for me to 

do things that refill my spirit so that I am 

always operating with a spirit of love and 

service. 

OLM: What tips would you give a woman 

thinking about entrepreneurship or 

becoming a political servant? 

BC: Be true to yourself and the path God 

has you on, sister. It is literally the only way 

this will work. You may learn everything 

you can, network and workshop with all the 

right people, receive all of the right offers, 

and make all of the necessary money you 

need. However, when things get rough (and 

they will) you must be able to reflect on your 

purpose and what it means to you to have 

started the journey in the first place. It is 

extremely cliché, yet it is extremely real. 

OLM: How can people get in contact with 

you? 

Facebook: Brittany D. Claybrooks 

Instagram: @BrittanyClaybrooks_ 

Or, feel free to stop in our office and set up 

an appointment at: 

44 City Hall Plaza, East Orange, NJ 07017 


DESHUNA ELISA 

SPENCER 

CEO OF kweliTV 

kweliTV celebrates black stories through curated indie films, 

documentaries, web shows, kids programming and live experiences 

from the US and across the globe. Kweli means truth in Swahili. Our 

mission is to curate content that is a true reflection of the global black 

experience. Our content educates + entertains, dispels myths, connects 

communities and sparks activism. kweliTV creates a pipeline that pays 

filmmakers of color who have challenges getting distribution despite 

having a successful film festival run so they can produce more impactful 

content with 60 percent of our revenue being allocated to them. 

10 


OLM: What or who inspired you to start 

your business? 

DS: The inspiration for launching kweliTV 

was created out of desperation. I remember 

flipping through dozens of channels and 

shows not seeing anything I wanted to 

watch or could relate to—the black women 

were fighting on reality TV, the “black 

networks” were playing the same tired 

reruns, some laced with stereotypes. I like 

history and if you turn on the HISTORY 

Channel on a month other than February 

you would think that black people played 

no role in history, which is not true. After 

doing my documentary and screening at a 

film festival, I learn firsthand the challenges 

that black filmmakers face when trying to 

get distribution. When I didn’t see the type 

of platform I was looking for—one day it just 

hit me, start my own. 


grounded and focused to press forward 

in making your business a success? At the 

end of the day, how do you define success? 

DS: Success means that we have a 

profitable media business model that 

correctly tells the stories of the African 

diaspora while creating steady income off 

of impactful stories. I don’t believe we have 

to compromise our mission or the type 

of content that we stream for the sake of 

profit. If we change the way little black girls 

and boys see themselves in the media, we 

have succeeded. If we begin a dialogue on 

economic inequality that results in political 

action, we have succeeded. If we are able to 

create content that causes families to save 

more, eat healthier and live their best lives, 

we have succeeded. 

OLM: How long have you been in business? 

DS: I’ve been working on the idea for 

almost 5 years. 

OLM: How do you give back to your 

community or the people that you serve? 

Why is it so important for you to give back 

to the people you serve? 

DS: It’s human nature to wish you were 

in a better position in life or had more 

resources. When I give, it reminds me of the 

people who don’t even have what I may 

at times take for granted. Since starting 

kweliTV, I haven’t had the resources to give 

like I used to given my income and it used 

to really get me down. But it’s not about 

how much you give. It’s the fact that I’m 

able to do something, even if it’s small. I 

believe that we’re all put on this earth to 

serve our community with the gifts God 

gave us. It may not be as routine as giving 

to the homeless. It could be listening 

to a coworker in need or without being 

asked, watching a friend’s baby to give a 

busy mom a few hours to sleep or pamper 

herself. It could be calling that elderly 

family member who lives alone. Those 

small acts go a long way and I’m redefining 

in my mind what it means to serve. 

OLM: What scripture best describes you, 

your life? 

DS: Romans 8:31 - What then shall we say 

to these things? If God is for us, who can be 

against us? 

This work is hard.. I feel like I’m barely 

making it sometimes. People leave you, 

they don’t return your call, they chastise 

you—it’s mentally and psychologically 


draining. Romans 8:31 reminds me that no 

matter who walks away or doesn’t believe 

in my vision, I know that God gave this idea 

to me and He will always have my back. 

OLM: What tips would you give a woman 

thinking about entrepreneurship? 

DS: Do it afraid. A lot of times, we become 

stifled by fear—fear of failure, fear of 

rejection, fear of the unknown. A lot of 

women have told me that I’m brave. It’s not 

that I’m so brave—fear and doubt creeps in 

a lot. I just choose to continue on despite 

my fear and uncertainty. So my advice is 

to stop thinking about entrepreneurship 

and start doing it. Also, keep a close knit of 

friends who are also in the startup struggle 

with you to bounce ideas off of, or to talk 

to for moral support. Some people, even 

your close friends and family, may not 

understand the stress of being a business 

owner and their concern may cause you 

to question if you should be doing it at all. 

Having those entrepreneur friends on deck 

to talk you “off the ledge” have helped me 

tremendously. Well, that and a whole like of 

praying and meditating. 

OLM: How can people get in contact with 

you and purchase your book? 

DS: Anyone can reach me via social media. 

Our handle is @kwelitv for Instagram, 

Facebook and Twitter. Our website is www. 

kweli.tv. 

12 


TOSHAUNA 

GIDDINGS 

Author, How I Discovered Jesus Christ Is Real 

OLM: Who inspired you to write your first 

book? 

TG: This book was written by the inspiration 

of the Holy Spirit. I heard the title of the book, 

not knowing that it was actually going to be a 

book. A few months later, I received knowledge 

of what my assignment was, and instructions 

as it related to the content of the book. 

OLM: When was your book published? 

TG: This book 

was published in 

August of 2019, 

and released on 

November 09, 2019. 

OLM: At the 

end of the day, 

what keeps you 

grounded? 

TG: My past 

circumstances 

keep me grounded. 

The Lord showed 

up at a time when 

I really needed Him. I was either going to 

live or die. So, to look back at my past and 

recognize that I’m alive because of the Lord, 

I am very humbled every day by His grace. 

Additionally, God’s promises towards me 

keeps me focused, and helps me to press 

forward, because of expectations. 

OLM: How do you define success in your 

life? 

TG: Success for me means my purpose being 

fulfilled at the end of my journey. Success 

for me is that I continually impact lives and 

see people that I come into contact with, 

experience God in such a way, that they go 

out and become witnesses as well. 


community? 

TG: Three dollars from every book sold is 

going towards launching a feeding program 

back in Guyana, where I’m originally from. 

So that children that are less fortunate will 

have the opportunity 

to have a meal 

before and during 

school sessions. It 

is very important 

for me to give back 

in this way, because 

I’ve witnessed the 

struggle first hand, 

and during my 

younger years, I 

would’ve experienced 

a little bit of it. Also, I 

was mandated by the 

Holy Spirit to do so by 

a Prophecy I received. 

OLM: What scripture best defines you? 

TG: Philippians 4:11-13 is the scripture that 

best describes me. 

OLM: How can our readers find your book 

and get in contact with you? 

How I Discovered Jesus Christ Is Real is 

available on Amazon.com and Barnes and 

Noble online stores. I can be found on 

social media via Facebook and Instagram as 

Toshauna Giddings or tagpro28@gmail.com 


Kiyonda Design Studio 

Washington, DC 

KIYONDA 

POWELL 

Kiyonda Powell, Principal Designer, 

is a creative composer whose mission 

is to provide each individual client 

and project an exclusively curated 

experience. Kiyonda continues to make 

strides as a dynamic creative designer as 

one of the newest featured designers for 

the Property Brothers platform, Casaza. 

14 


OLM: What or who inspired you to start your 

business? 

KP: I did not plan to start a business, but it was 

the support of family, friends and clients that 

kick started it all. When I started I had clients 

lined up for me and it was truly a blessing! I 

took that as a sign that it was meant for me 

to do this. They all believed in me more than I 

believed it for myself. 


grounded and focused to press forward in 

making your business a success? 

KP: I believe I am blessed with the gift of 

creativity and it is my responsibility to walk in 

my purpose everyday to put this gift to good 

use. I am a driven person. I take the opportunity 

to examine the challenges I have had in business 

and work hard to apply what I have learned 

from those lessons. I have adopted the saying 

that “my missteps in business are not failures, 

but lessons that needed to be learned.” This 

helps me keep things in perspective. 

From a creative standpoint, success is when my 

clients tell me how I have changed their lives 

through creating spaces that reflect their best 

selves. On the business side, success is always a 

work in progress. I work to be strategic with my 

business practices and create ways to sustain 

my business long term. 

OLM: How long have you been in business? 

KP: I’ve been in business for 2 years, after 18 

years in the industry. 


community or the people that you serve? 

How do people benefit from your services? 

KP: I have a strong connection to projects with a 

community presence. I find those projects to be 

the most rewarding. I had an opportunity to speak 

to several classes at a recent career day and I had 

the best time with our interactive design industry 

discussions! I look forward to participating in 

future events. I am currently working on a designer 

showhouse where the proceeds from the event 

will go to a worthy cause. It is my intention as the 

business grows, we will take on more mentorship 

and philanthropic work in the coming years. 

OLM: Why is it so important for you to give 

back to the people you serve? 

KP: To whom much is given, much is required. 

I grew up hearing and experiencing this first 

hand. As an adult, I realized how the sacrifice 

and generosity of others has shaped my life. I 

know that I am fortunate to have many things to 

celebrate with my business in such a short time, 

and I hope to be a blessing to others. 

OLM: What scripture best describes you, your 

life? 

KP: Jeremiah 29:11 -- “For I know the plans I 

have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper 

you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope 

and a future.” Philippians 4:13 “I can do all 

things through Christ who strengthens me.” 

OLM: What tips would you give a person 

thinking about entrepreneurship? 

KP: I didn’t plan for this path I am on now, so I 

find myself sharing with others to not rush into it. 

However, I was told by another business owner 

that the fear is still the same whether you plan for 

it or not. You adjust to this. There are lots of risks 

but enough rewards that make you appreciate it 

all. Get a business coach! Secure your financial 

and legal partners. Plant your feet on solid ground. 

Be prepared to sacrifice. Stay true to yourself and 

your brand. Stay faithful and focused. 

OLM: How can people get in contact with you? 

KP: Please stay in touch via my website at 

www.kiyondapowell.com or email 

hello@kiyondapowell.com. You can also follow 

along with me on Facebook or Instagram at 

@kiyondapowell. 


THE #1 THING SHE’S 

LEARNED IN BUSINESS 

Part II 


My favorite scripture is 4:13. 

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me”. 

Pamyla Floyd 

CEO of Papered 

Industry/Profession : Cards and Gifts 

Location: Jonesboro, GA 30236 

Website: www.papered.co 

Email Address: pam@papered.com 

What’s #1 Thing You’ve Learned in Business? 

Be fair, be honest and don’t lower your prices just to make a sale. Not everyone is 

your customer. 

Janice McMillian 

BeU2theFull 

Industry/Profession: Membership and Online Coaching 

City & State: Wheaton, MD 

Website: www.beu2thefull.com 

Email address: jmariecoaching@gmail.com 


Mark 9:23, “Jesus said to him, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who 

believes.” 


“It has taken me some time to learn this because I was on the “got to hussle, make it 

happen, grind” business strategy. Now I know that business starts in the mind. The 

power is in you to manifest. 

16 


Mrs.Lynda Poole Prioleau 

Owner of Mat-Lyn Designs 

Industry/Profession: 

Fiber Artist--Decorative wall art and embellished garments 

Location: Ft. Washington, MD 

Email: matlyndsgn@aol.com 


Philippians 4:6 says, “Be careful for nothing but in every thing by prayer and 

supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God.” 


Do what you love and the rest will follow!!!!! 

Christine Walters 

Author 

Reflections of What Can Do 

Prayers Gathered Along the Way 

Inspirational speaking on Reflections of What God Can Do. Faith, and hope 

for the hurting 

Books and Faith Based Organization 

Location: Sterling, Virginia 

Email: authorchristinewalters@gmail.com 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinewalters75 


Isaiah 41:10 (NIV) 

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. 

I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. 

What’s #1 Thing You’ve Learned in Business? 

When challenges happen don’t give up, keep striving. The best success comes from 

doing what you’re afraid to do. 


How I Met & Married 

My Man Of God 

First Lady, Lashon Cochy, Life Church Brooklyn, Ny 

T 

his year, my 

husband and I will 

celebrate 16 years 

of marriage. Sixteen years 

filled with laughter, tears, 

triumphs, challenges and 

memories. We each had 

our own ideas of “marriage 

material” until God side 

swiped us on the New York 

Baruch City University 

campus back in the year 

2000, where we first met. I 

was a college student on a 

search for something that 

was missing in my life while 

in a 5 year relationship 

with my boyfriend that was 

slowly ending. 

18 


When I first encountered my husband, 

he was a freshly ordained minister and a 

sophomore in college. At the time, he was 

looking for a wife, which was why he began 

a conversation with my girlfriend I was 

walking with! 

As I look back on that season of my life, 

I laugh about how God worked in us, to 

prepare us for each other. At the time, I 

didn’t know that my soul was searching for 

Jesus! Ernst was settling into His call as a 

young Pastor. We became friends, bumping 

into each other once a semester. We would 

talk about many things, including Jesus 

once he found out I wasn’t saved. I wasn’t 

interested at first, trying to figure out my 

own life. But, then one day it clicked and I 

knew I needed Jesus to figure out my life. 

My then friend led me to Christ. 

Jesus began stripping me of unhealthy 

relationships, establishing His love and 

acceptance of me. I was excited about 

trusting Him with my love life. As a newly 

saved young woman, I was pleading with 

God to get closer to Him and the very first 

clear direction He gave me was to break 

up with my boyfriend. One of the hardest 

things I had to do was to break up with my 

boyfriend of 5 years. I loved him. He was 

a good guy but he wasn’t a saved guy. I 

had to trust God with my love life, even if 

that meant I wasn’t going to get married 

at 25 (or so I thought). The breakup was 

hard and emotional but despite the tears 

and moments of loneliness, at the center I 

felt the peace of God. I knew I did the right 

thing and that sustained me. After a while I 

was enjoying my single life. I was getting to 

know my God better, no interruptions, no 

hindrances. 

Ernst was a good friend encouraging me to 

press deeper into Jesus. Months went by 

until the Lord showed me in a dream that 

Ernst had the Lords approval. I remember 

waking up from that dream thinking, “ Lord, 

I’m not trying to get into a relationship”. I 

was enjoying my single season with God. 

But soon after my feelings started to change 

towards him, and came to the surface, I 

loved him and wanted to marry him. I knew 

Ernst was different because I never had 

the desire to be married or thought to stay 

married to any other man. 

One year after being friends, we were 

courting. One and half years after courting 

he proposed to me after a New York City 

Broadway play, dinner and a limo ride. 

One and half years later, we were married 

at the tender age of 25. After 16 years of 

marriage, I have learned one thing that 

remains true. Let God lead you in your 

marriage and your single life! There were 

many things we needed to grow in and are 

still growing in individually and together; 

from communication to sex. Marriage is a 

living breathing relationship that grows and 

evolves with unique nuances in respect to 

each couple. The Holy Spirit can show you 

what to do and how, but we need to keep 

our hearts constantly open and engaged to 

hear him. 

First Lady Cochy is a loving wife, mother 

of 3 beautiful children and a native New 

Yorker. She is a graduate of New York 

business school at Baruch City University of 

New York. Today, she co- pastors alongside 

her husband Ernst Cochy at Life Church in 

Brooklyn, NY, which they launched in 2010. 

She will release her first book entitled “He 

Sees You” in 2020. 


When most people hear the word 

“etiquette,” they think about butlers, 

white table clothes, crumpets, and of 

course, the accompanying nasal tone while 

strutting pinkies and sipping tea. This is why 

most people feel that etiquette is for “those 

people,” only to be emulated at special times. 

With this in mind, I challenge you to reshape 

your views and consider how etiquette is 

simply facilitating a comfortably shared 

experience in a congenial manner. With this 

definition, you will soon realize that etiquette 

is for all people, always; including you. 

20 

Career & Leadership Insight 

5 KEY BUSINESS ETIQUETTE 

TIPS FOR 2020 & BEYOND 

Seems easier said than done. Especially 

in workplace situations when you feel the 

stakes are high. This is why it’s imperative to 

simplify all of those preconceived notions 

and take ownership of what etiquette means 

to you. Being calm, cool, and collected is 

the only way to manage such high pressure 

interactions with ease. So. here are a few 

great tips you can use with ease: 

1. Know your role. If you are the one 

organizing the meal and inviting the 

guest(s), you are the host/hostess for 

this event. With that being said, it is your 

responsibility to lead the meal in a way 

that makes everyone comfortable. You 

should be familiar with the restaurant’s 

level of service, dietary restrictions of 

your guests, menu favorites, location, 

and any other nuances that will make 

By: Mrs. C-A Washington 

your dining choice a glowing success. 

Another key component of hosting that is 

often overlooked is table placement. As 

the host/ess, ensure that your guest(s) 

of honor enjoys the seat with the best 

view and least amount of aisle traffic. 

This includes securing a table within the 

best section of the restaurant, as private 

booths or water feature views often 

require early requests. 

2. Smile, you’re on camera. Your next 

leadership role begins simultaneously 

with being seated as your knowledge of 

napkins, place settings, and the passing 

game will quickly move the meal forward 

in a gracious way. Again, this is your 

event and it’s your job to know what’s 

appropriate, as your guest(s) will be 


watching you for cues if they are unsure. 

Even more important, should you be 

accompanied by someone else from your 

firm, this is a great way to showcase your 

ability to represent the organization with 

class, so be sure to brush up on these 

things ahead of time. 

3. Take charge. As the host/ess, make your 

guest(s) feel comfortable by offering 

entree suggestions, appetizers, and 

desserts to demonstrate that you truly 

enjoy the offerings and that they have 

full reign to try whatever they would like. 

In other words, if you have to hold your 

breath and hope that they opt for a salad 

because that’s the only affordable item, 

you’ve selected the wrong establishment. 

Another way to take charge requires 

understanding the libations expectations 

of your firm and guiding the meal 

accordingly. Although you personally 

may not care to partake in spirits (other 

than the Holy Ghost), you should always 

be prepared to communicate your wishes 

without being offensive. 

4. Practice the 6 P’s. This means posture, 

pitch, pace, protocol, presence, and 

panache all count, as it is imperative 

that the others at the table know that 

they have your undivided attention at 

all times. Refrain from checking phone 

messages, whispering, slouching, or 

looking elsewhere while conversation 

takes place. Within this same realm, 

never talk with a mouth full of food or 

make audible sounds while you eat, as 

either faux pas will immediately shift 

attention away from what you’re hoping 

to accomplish. The best way to avoid 

such critical errors is to eat in small bites. 

This ensures that you’re ready to chime 

in to the conversation as needed, without 

awkward pauses due to chewing a mouth 

full of food. Slowing down in this manner 

will also set the tone for a more leisurely 

experience that encourages open and ongoing 

dialogue instead of a rush to finish. 

5. Partner with your server. One of the 

easiest ways to ensure a successful 

dining experience is to communicate 

the importance of your visit with 

management and your server ahead of 

time. Throughout the meal, maintain this 

partnership with the appropriate utensil, 

napkin, and other non-verbal cues to 

keep him or her abreast of what should 

and should not be happening during each 

phase of the meal. 

As the host/ess typically covers the check, the 

most impressive component is how seamless 

you handle this final act. Again, your server 

should know ahead of time and be in concert 

with the method you choose to take care 

of the bill in the most discreet fashion; yet 

ensuring dessert and coffee options are 

presented before wrapping up. Finally, don’t 

forget to show gratitude for all your server 

did to create a stellar experience. Be sure 

to thank them with 25% to 30% or more, as 

building a solid relationship is always a key 

component of effortless etiquette. Now take 

these tips and go forth and host with grace! 

C-A Washington is the President and CEO 

of Polished to Perfection, a boutique firm 

dedicated to working with organizations and 

executives who want to convey excellence 

with civility, style, and charm...every time. Her 

book titled, The Art of A.R.C., will help you 

better understand your personal brand, while 

equipping you with the strategies you need to 

stand out in today’s economy. 


CHRISTIAN WOMEN IN 

BUSINESS DIRECTORY 

Are you a Christian Woman in Business Who Operates in Excellence & Gives Back to 

Her Community? Get your business recognized and listed for a nominal fee in future 

issues by writing: editors@optimal-livingmagazine.com. 

Malikata Blakey 

Owner, Bridging the Gap 

Developmental Services 

Industry:Special Needs Child 

Developmental Services 

Phyllis D. Booze, Founder 

My Heart’s Desire Consulting and 

Services, L.L.C. 

Industry: Health & Wellness 

Kayren Cathcart 

Owner, The Paper Polisher 

Industry: Editing/Proofreading 

Yvonne Coston 

Owner of Living the Life 

I Dance About Accessories 

Industry: Home Decor 

Danielle Craddock 

Founder, Girls Inspired & Ready to Lead Inc 

Industry: Empowerment 

Eboney Crump 

Owner of ALOTO 

Industry: Personal Success Coaching, 

Leadership Development 

Dr. Arnita Fowler 

Founder, Lamont Dottin Foundation 

Industry: Missing Persons Advocate 

Allison James- Frison 

Founder 

Girls, Live, Laugh, Love, Inc. 

Industry: Training & Mentorship for Girls 

Ashley Moore Ellis 

Owner, Pieces of Jam 

Industry: Artist 

Carol Rodgers Hill 

Author, What Every Woman Wished 

She Had Known at 15 

Industry: Women & Girls Empowerment 

Dr. Jessica Houston 

CEO, Founder 

Expecting Victory 

Industry: Training & Development 

Dr. Wallena Gould 

Founder, CEO at Diversity in Nurse 

Anesthesia Mentorship Program 

Industry: Leadership & Development 

Wendye Savage 

Author, What’s In Your Purse? 

Industry: Empowerment 

Shalonda Scott 

Owner of Sho Sho Couture 

Industry: Baking & Event Planning 

C-A Washington 

Author, Speaker, Etiquette Coach 

Industry: Career Development 

M.A.W. Consulting, L.L.C. 

Owner, Michele A. Williams, Ph.D. 

Industry: Technology accessibility for 

people with disabilities 

22 


OPTIMAL LIVING 

CONFESSION OF 

FAITH 

I am anointed in Christ and I am a joint-heir with Jesus. 

I am more than a conqueror. 

I am a doer of the Word of God and a channel for His blessings. 

If God be for me, who can be against me? 

I am blessed coming in and I am blessed going out. 

As I speak this confession, my enemies are fleeing before me Right Now! God has 

commanded His blessing on my storehouses. He has opened His Good treasures 

and I shall lend and not borrow. I am the head and not the tail. 

He has given me power to make wealth. 

I dwell in the secret place of the Most High. 

I have His protection and provision. 

God is my refuge, and my fortress. 

I am not afraid of the snare of the fowler. 

Make no mistake, no Evil shall befall me and no plague shall come near My 

dwelling. 

God has given his angels charge over me and they are bearing me up in their 

hands, lest I dash my foot against a stone, as declared in Psalms 91. I Peter 2:9 

establishes I am a chosen generation, A royal priesthood, a holy nation. 

I am a peculiar person called out of darkness Into His marvelous light. 

I Peter 2:24 states, “ I have been healed by the stripes of Jesus.” 

*Cancer, sugar diabetes, heart disease, sickness, afflictions, infections, mental 

illness, or any other disease can not enter my body. I am without spot or blemish, a 

mighty prayer warrior, the righteousness of God, saved, and washed in the Blood of 

Jesus.* 

“No weapon formed against me shall prosper, and every tongue which rises 

against me in judgment You shall condemn.” Father God, I pray that those who read 

this confession choose abundant life, peace within their hearts, wisdom driven faith 

strategies for the days ahead and prosperity in their houses according to 

Psalms 122:6-9. 

May these words add a special blessing to your life today. Keep walking, talking, 

praying, exercising and speaking life into every adverse situation in your life. 

Stay connected with us @ www.optimal-livingmagazine.com 


3 DAY JUICE 

CLEANSE 

BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER 

DAY 1 

2 Apples 

2 Cups red gropes 

handful of kale leaves 

1 Cup blueberries 

1 Cucumber 

1 ginger 

2 Apples 

2 Oranges 

5 Pineapple chunks 

1 beet 

1 bunch of spinach 

handful of kale leaves 

1 mango 

1 peeled lemon 

5 carrots 

4 celery stalks 

1 sweet potato 

kale leaves 

1 ginger 

DAY 2 

2 Apples 

2 cups strawberries 

1 cup blueberries 


kale leaves 

1 cup cranberry juice 

2 Apples 

1 pear 

1 cucumber 

1 bunch of spinach 


1/2 cup cranberry juice 

3 pears 


3 cucumbers 


kale leaves 

DAY 3 

3 Apples 

2 oranges 

5 pineapple chunks 

1 cup strawberries 

1 cup cranberry juice 

3 apples 

3 carrots 

2 tomatoes 

1 green bell pepper 

1 celery stalk 

1 beet 

3 pears 


3 cucumbers 


kale leaves 

24 


RIVER CITY FLAME SPICY 

SHRIMP DIP 

Makes about 2½-3 cups 

Ingredients 

How to make it 

● 

● 

● 

● 

● 

1½ pounds small to 

medium shrimp 

½ cup finely 

chopped scallion or 

other green onions 

8 ounces cream 

cheese, softened 

½ cup mayonnaise 

Dash River City 

Flame Spicy Celtic 

Sea Salt (Jalapeno/ 

Habanero Sea Salt) 

Bring 2 quarts water to a boil. Add the shrimp, cover, and as soon 

as they’re curled and pink (about 1 minute for small shrimp, 1½ 

minutes for medium), drain them into a colander and toss to help 

them cool. When they’re no longer hot, put them in the work 

bowl of a food processor fitted with the chopping blade. Add the 

scallions and pulse until they’re finely chopped. 

Whip together the cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth, 

then fold in the shrimp and scallions, then season to taste with 

River City Flame Spicy Celtic Sea Salt. Mix well, cover, and chill at 

least 1 hour to allow the flavors to blend. 

TO ORDER River City Flame Sauce & Rubs 

Contact US at www.RiverCityFlame.com | 804-223-8318 


RIVER CITY 

FLAME 

COCKTAIL 

MEATBALLS 

FOR THE MEATBALLS: 

EATBALLS: • 2 lbs. ground chuck 

• 1 cup breadcrumbs 

d chuck 

• 2 large eggs slightly beaten 

crumbs • 2 tablespoons Sweet Chili Sauce 

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce 

slightly • 2 tablespoons beaten minced onion 

ns Sweet 

• ½ teaspoon 

Chili 

River 

Sauce 

City Flame Spicy 

Celtic Sea Salt 

ns Worcestershire Sauce 

ns minced FOR THE onion MEATBALLS: 

River Preheat City oven Flame to 350F Spicy and line a Celtic baking Sea Salt 

sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, 

combine ground chuck, breadcrumbs, eggs, 

FOR THE CRANBERRY 

PEPPER JELLY SAUCE: 

FOR THE CRANB 

10 oz. jar Hot P 

12 oz. jar Chili S 

1/3 cup River Ci 

8 oz. can Jellied 

2 tablespoons d 

juice from ½ lem 

• 10 oz. jar Hot Pepper Jelly 

• 12 oz. jar Chili Sauce 

• 1/3 cup River City Flame Hot Sauce 

• 8 oz. can Jellied Cranberry Sauce 

• 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar 

• juice from ½ lemon 

through. Remove from oven. 

*While meatballs are cooking, prepare the 

sauce. 

EATBALLS: 

chili sauce, Worcestershire Sauce, onion and FOR THE SAUCE: 

salt. Mix until all ingredients are incorporated Combine all sauce ingredients in a crock 

n to 350F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a la 

but do not overwork the mixture or the 

pot. Stir until well blended. When meatballs 

s, eggs, meatballs chili will sauce, be tough. Form Worcestershire into 1½ inch are cooked, Sauce, place onion them in the and sauce salt. and Mix u 

meatballs and place on the prepared baking simmer on high for 1-hour or until sauce has 

verwork sheet. Leave the at mixture least 1-inch space or between the meatballs thickened. will ENJOY! be tough. Form into 

meatballs. *Cook at 350F for 10 minutes Note: frozen meatballs will work as well. Mix 

king sheet. Leave at least 1-inch space between meatballs. *Coo 

then turn each meatball over. Cook another the sauce and put them in the sauce and 

all over. 10-15 minutes Cook or another until meatballs 10-15 are cooked minutes simmer on or low until for 1 hour. meatballs are cook 

tballs are cooking, prepare the sauce. 

UCE: 

l sauce ingredients in a crock pot. Stir until well blended. When 

TO ORDER River City Flame Sauce & Rubs 

nd simmer on high Contact for US at 1-hour www.RiverCityFlame.com or until sauce | 804-223-8318 has thickened. ENJO 

n meatballs 26 Subscribe will to Optimal work Living as Magazine: well. Mix www.optimal-livingmagazine.com 

the sauce and put them in the

2020 Optimal Living Magazine Christian Women in Business Issue

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