Painting A MASTERPIECE- "THE PAINTED PRETZEL" owner: RAVEN THOMAS Shares The Recipe To Success

If you were asked “WHY SHOULD I INVEST IN YOU” what would you say? Imagine having your one shot, having all of the stars align, and all the right people in the room to make your wildest dreams and ambitions come true, and they simply ask you “WHY SHOULD I INVEST IN YOU? That’s the very question that the owner of THE PAINTED PRETZEL Mrs. Raven Thomas found herself facing in an episode of ABC’s Shark Tank. From that moment on, everyone watching was instantly locked in both with their business minds, but probably more so with their hearts. We all know THE SHARKS are amazingly vicious when they grill you to find out the specifics of your business endeavors, while figuring out how they can make a profit after partnering with you, but even Robert Herjavec, Daymond John and Mark Cuban couldn’t deny the answer they received from Raven Thomas and soon you’ll know exactly why.

The toughest task that I face is attempting to capture the emotion, adulation, and business savvy that these interviews contain. Imagine THINKING that you know what’s in store, that you’ve “done this” before only to have your mind completely BLOWN! Attempting to catch up with the founder of THE PAINTED PRETZEL was no easy task, but it was apparent that learning more about this woman, and her success principles was an absolute must. Rather you have a home based business or a Fortune 500 company, one thing is certain; everything rises and falls on leadership. The principles in which company leaders believe and hold themselves accountable to, will be a direct reflection on how the company performs. Knowing this simple truth, it is easy to see why THE PAINTED PRETZEL is poised for phenomenal growth.

There are only two words that I can think of to describe RAVEN THOMAS: DEDICATED & COMMITTED. After I listened to Raven tell me what her normal day is like both as a mother, and a business owner, I was left with a burning brand new law in business: “you can always do more”. I won’t necessarily tell you her story, the interview will do that more than sufficiently. But before you take a listen, (you knew this was coming didn’t you?) grab a sheet of paper, and on one side of the paper, write down your 3 biggest personal hurdles rather it’s belief, procrastination or whatever they may be. On the other side of the paper, write down what those hurdles are keeping you away from. Listen intently to this interview, and I challenge you to hear those questions answered. Oh, and if you haven’t already tasted THE PAINTED PRETZEL, you are cheating yourself of some extreme greatness!



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Putting It All Together, Reading Into The Minds of 2 Groundbreaking Authors!

I’d be telling you a complete lie if I said I wasn’t nervous at the attempt of pulling this one off, but when you have two AMAZINGLY TALENTED AUTHORS with great personalities, releasing books close to the same time, why not give it a shot right? After a few cups of strong coffee, I sent off the emails. Reaching out to Veronica E. Kelly and Kevin Carr was one of the smartest moves I ever could have made for two reasons: 1st because I believe that no matter what technology or device is ever introduced, people will always have to read. 2nd reason being that when most people think of leaving a legacy they have one of two thoughts, either I’ll make enough money to take care of the next generations, or I’ll write a book about my experiences. After speaking with them both, I’m convinced that if you don’t obey the fire that burns within you, you’ll literally die full of dreams, knowledge and a gift that could have blessed countless others. The written word is now, and has always been how the next generation will remember us; it’s timeless.

Take the story of Ms. Veronica E Kelly. Talented alumni of Columbia College that found herself like many of us today, working at a job that had absolutely nothing to do with what she studied, but doing what she had to do to make ends meet. There was a shift in her mindset which you’ll hear in this interview when the proverbial last straw dropped right on the camel’s back (yes I’m full of cliché’s) She decided to do what most people are scared to death of…follow her dreams. What followed has been nothing short of a snowstorm of inspiration, rave reviews, and something even more important for Veronica, a sense of accomplishment. I’ll tell you now, in my opinion, there are very few fiction writers that are able to be as creative and still write in that rare visual mode than Veronica E. Kelly. Her 2 books "DON'T TELL YOUR COUSIN" and "I Should Have Told Her" are all over amazon, selling out quickly, and I have a feeling that this is only the beginning.

Then there’s Mr. Kevin Carr, a gentlemen that I have tons of respect and appreciation for. He took a totally separate, but equally as important road to creating his book "If Men are Dogs". After a life changing experience, Kev’s (wait, you can’t call him Kev yet… just me- HA!) ANYWAY, this experience left Kevin not only curious it also left him with a sense of responsibility that spawned a 2 year research on his topic. Now I won’t tell you everything, but I will say this there aren’t a lot of men that are willing to tackle the subjects, and underlying reasons for those subjects that Kevin is. When you talk about fun, growth and a must read, you’re talking about Kevin Carr.

Now you’re probably asking why didn’t I have 2 separate interviews. The truth is, I felt like so many people have a story to tell, and don’t know how to go about it, as far as the process, the editing, the publishing that like I said earlier, they die with the wealth still inside of them. I want to draw that out of them, out of you. Can you imagine if books like “The Purpose Driven Life” and “Woman Thou Art Loosed” had never been written? What if there was never a “Think and Grow Rich” or Time Magazine? The world is starving for more GOOD authors. In this interview there are two of the strongest, up and coming authors that I’ve come across and from their stories alone, I’m sure that someone will be able to sit down and create a masterpiece, it’s not about competition, it’s about letting the story be told. If you or anyone you know is debating, procrastinating, or even sitting on a book that’s already written, I challenge you to listen to this interview and not think: “Wow, maybe I can do that too” both Veronica and Kevin tell their thought processes, as well as the steps they both took to create “their contributions”, after listening, the decision to tell your story is yours alone. I hope you truly enjoy this interview.




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CHERYL PULLINS - Does SO MUCH MORE than Mentor Women...

I’ve always believed that in life, people will treat you exactly how you present yourself. For that very reason, when I reached out to Ms. Cheryl Pullins, I expected nothing short of greatness, and she DID NOT disappoint. Cheryl is much more than an author, speaker and mentor, Cheryl is has a quality, and a skill that towers over all of those mere titles; Cheryl is transparent. The first 10 seconds of being on the call with her, I knew I was speaking to someone that was not only capable, but willing to walk through the preverbal fire with anyone she works with.

Sometimes I say you’re in for a treat, but with the interview that you are going to listen to below, I must admit, you are in for the full dessert. Cheryl opened up on many topics, and put so much thought and valuable information into each answer that she gave, that I can confidently say after you listen to this interview, something inside you will definitely change for the better. Rather you’re a fan of her “VICTORIOUS LIVING” series, or have attended one of her “WOMEN’S ENTREPRENEURSHIP ACADEMY’S” One thing is for sure, Cheryl has the information that you need, if you’re looking to change your life. Why? Because she’s been where you are; guaranteed. If you want to talk marriage, she can do that, if you want to talk corporate America, she can do that, stressed out wife/mom: check! Starting your own business-yep! I can go on and on about her living resume, full of quotes and lives that she’s changed, but you have to experience it for yourself.

Before you click play and listen to a truly dynamic woman. I challenge you to write down the top 3 concerns that you have facing you currently. Not because I bet that Cheryl has an answer, but because I am sure that she will challenge your current state of thinking, and allow you to see things in a positive light (of course assuming that you don’t right now). This interview, like many before it is catered to the entrepreneur, but because we deal in reality, and all of the outside influences and distractions, Cheryl Pullins stands out as a transparent leader, that will stretch you, draw the greatness out of you, and be your best friend while it’s happening. After you make your list, write down ONE DREAM; because at the end of the day, that one dream will be what pushes you to take that first step. I present to you Ms. Cheryl Pullins.



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Jared Joyce INVENTS...The Fastest Interview Ever! -The "FIVE MINUTE FURNITURE" Shark Tank contestant speaks Inventions, Sales, and WORK ETHIC

IF YOU WATCHED the episode of Shark Tank with Mr. Jared Joyce and his patented “FIVE MINUTE FURNITURE” you’ll know that we are officially in for a treat. If that was your first introduction to Jared, it probably goes without saying that you had a strong opinion one way or the other. Personally, when I watched it, I understood him turning down the deal that the sharks were offering, but what I didn’t understand was why he didn’t budge a little, remember the old saying “you’ve got to give a lot to get a little” (or maybe that was just something my father used to tell me). Either way, I personally was impressed with the posture that Jared Joyce displayed. For those of you that don’t understand “business posture” it’s not just standing straight up, and speaking clearly, it’s all about the passion, delivery, and confidence in which you present your BRAND. Ladies the simplest way to put it, it's the way you feel coming fresh out of the beauty shop, with your favorite outfit and brand new heels on! Fella’s imagine yourself fresh out of the barbershop, gym, with a pocket full of money! That’s what stood out to me the most: his quiet (or not so quiet) confidence. Jared Joyce definitely left an impression.

Once I was able to catch up with Jared, it was apparent that he was much more than an inventor. I had no idea that he would not only grant an interview, but also teach an impromptu class on the process of invention, methodologies of creating capital, and the work ethic that it takes to get, and KEEP investors that are willing to work with you for the long haul. This interview that you are getting ready to listen to has been dubbed “the fastest 30 minutes ever” by both Jared and myself. If you are a truly interested in the mindset of an entrepreneur, the invention process then you might want to stop reading now, and go ahead and start listening.

In every interview that I’ve ever been fortunate enough to conduct, there’s something that sticks with me…permanently! One of the things that Jared Joyce said that I think every entrepreneur should remember is that “ALL ACTIONS ARE CUMULATIVE” I’d explain it, but the way he connects the dots, and talks about the process, as well as the NEW PROJECTS, and how they all work together even before the Shark Tank episode, are simply something that I'd want you to hear first hand. Jared also discusses in this interview his new partnership with Edison Nation where they are working to get his “FIVE MINUTE FURNITURE” to market, and recently launched is the “Wal-Mart Get On The Shelf” contest in which he has submitted 42 inventions to get… well “on the shelf”. I sincerely hope that you enjoy, learn and grow from this impactful interview.




Here's Jared’s Top 10 Favorite’s List (out of 42 products he submitted) for the Walmart "Get On The Shelf" contest. You can vote daily.

Round 1- March 7 to April 3, 2012; Round 2- April 11 to April 24, 2012.
Round 1 narrows submissions to Top 10, Round 2 decides Top 3 Winners!

Thanks for your support! Please share this post!

1. "TITAN Water Bottle"
http://www.getontheshelf.com/product/2701/TITAN-WATER-BOTTLE
2. "The ERGO-CB"
http://www.getontheshelf.com/product/3492/The-ERGO-CB
3. "Personal Ice Cube Tray"
http://www.getontheshelf.com/product/3446/Personal-Ice-Cube-Tray
4. "World's Best Root Beer Float"
http://www.getontheshelf.com/product/3480/World's-Best-Root-Beer-F
5. "Screw Bit Screw Holder"
http://www.getontheshelf.com/product/3457/Screw-Bit-Screw-Holder
6. "Cheer Bands"
http://www.getontheshelf.com/product/3472/CHEER-BANDS
7. "Tool & Vacuum Power Grid"
http://www.getontheshelf.com/product/3489/Tool-&-Vacuum-Power-Grid
8. "The Ultimate Framing Hammer"
http://www.getontheshelf.com/product/3483/The-Ultimate-Framing-Ham
9. "Upward Arc Faucet"
http://www.getontheshelf.com/product/3464/Upward-Arc-Faucet
10. "Vemo"
http://www.getontheshelf.com/product/3494/Vemo

Also see: www.edisonnation.com

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She Makes the "Brickhouse" look average!- Anowa Adjah of POWERHOUSE PHYSIQUES LLC explains the importance of your core:

Alright fella’s calm down, calm down! At first sight, you can’t help but to be impressed with the 5”10 200lb Anowa Adjah. You’ll soon find out that there is much more to this proud Nigerian Powerhouse My personal first impression what that she was not only amazingly fit, but you could tell that she was dedicated, committed, and passionate about her personal training routine. Anowa is breaking down every single fitness stereotype that could be attached to the full figured women and the physical fitness industry with her POWERHOUSE PHYSIQUES campaign.

During our time together, Anowa laid out her visions, goals, hurdles and all of the things that drive her to Hustle Harder. She is aggressively and successfully making a name for herself in the billion dollar health and wellness industry, and drew an amazingly transparent line between what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur, as well as being successfully committed to living a healthy, fit lifestyle. She tells how in the exercise world, your core is everything, well when you’re in business for yourself you have to have a core as well. Your core is the thing(s) that you must work on continuously so that everything else has a strong base.

It is my sincere hope that while you listen to this interview, you are able to look at all of the things that Anowa has overcome, and identify your current hurdles; what’s stopping you, who has told you “no”, what do you have to work on, both physically and in business. After all, health is the best form of wealth that there will ever be. The future is amazingly bright for Anowa Adjah and the POWERHOUSE PHYSIQUES brand. There is more than an adequate supply of powerful information here in this interview, and I could tell you everything… but it’s better to hear it from the one and only: Ms. Anowa Adjah!




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GREATNESS Is The MOTTO!!! -An In Depth Look Into The Mind of Tony Gaskins Jr.

THE best part about typing, is that you can never actually be speechless, but if you asked me to tell you about this interview with Mr. Tony Gaskins Jr, that's exactly what I'd be...speechless! I started out with a clean sheet, and 10 of the best questions I could possibly think of, what I ended up with was something reminiscent of a college student’s notepad, that was about 2 days away from double major midterms. The amount of notes that I took, the different shades of highlighters, and the pure scribble that only I will ever understand is a testament to the respect, and humility that I have for Mr. Tony Gaskins Jr. I can confidently say that THIS INTERVIEW WILL CHANGE SOMEONE’S LIFE. I no longer believe that it’s a rare thing to find someone who is successful, that is willing to share all that they know. What I believe in turn is that the “successful” people of the world are an open book, as long as their time is invested, not wasted.

Tony Gaskins invests in people. I knew that this interview would be not only a blessing to everyone that listened in, but something that I hope you can listen to and from that point on, it becomes a single point of reference for the moment that you knew your life changed: that’s how powerful this interview is. I envisioned the whole thing, and from the moment that I was able to get in contact with Tony, it was evident that we were going to mesh well together. We literally talked about EVERYTHING! I mean we covered relationships and what women mistakenly look for, we talked about Mr. Gaskin’s “3-F” philosophy, and we also spoke in depth about entrepreneurship while actively working on a relationship. You can literally take your pick from different topics, and match them with something that you’re going through personally, and I think we addressed it.

While you listen to this interview, I urge you not to listen to find out about Tony, but listen to find out how this interview can help you in whatever area that you’re currently not feeling as if you’re living up to the potential that GOD has for you. At the end of the day, there may or not be something burning inside of you, chances are, however that if you’re on this site, there’s a “next level” that you want to reach. I believe this interview can point you in the right direction, or at the very least help to suggest key steps, and a thought process that you can start implementing immediately to fuel you towards your dreams and goals. I am honored to present to you Mr. Tony Gaskins Jr.




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The Learning Curve- Howard Jean Teaches How To "Be The CEO Of You"

Often the focus for business and entrepreneurship is focused on the hard work, the sacrifice, and “the grind” so to speak, while I ABSOLUTELY love those aspects, I have to be honest, if I only focused on the hard work, I’d be doing you and myself a disservice. So what’s the other part you ask? It’s education. The sorry excuse that a dreamer will give you sounds like this: “Well Richard Branson, Steve Jobs, etc… didn’t go to college, I don’t need it either” and to a point, you may be correct, but for the record, here’s my official stance: In anything you do, you’re going to need to learn the ropes, and you can either learn the easy way, or the hard way… It’s completely up to you.

When I reached out to the incomparable Mr. Howard Jean, I knew that I was reaching out to someone that lives up to his title of “EDUCATION REFORM LEADER” on a daily basis, but I had no idea how engaging, how approachable, and how positively insightful he would be. We all know that politics and education can be a “touchy” conversation, but this was the complete opposite. I want you to get ready for one of the most impactful interviews that seamlessly crossed the lines between education and entrepreneurship, politics, and music, and still manages to be fully loaded with motivation, inspiration, and FLAT OUT KNOWLEDGE.

Howard Jean, is an educator whose sincerity and passion to his craft has opened countless doors, for himself and those that he works with. What I’ve found most impressive is that he knows that the opened door for “him and his” isn’t enough. He works tirelessly to give back to students of all ages, while spreading the message of education, and showing the living proof, that with the proper education and work ethic, you not only afford yourself the choice to work in any area, for any company that you choose, but you can also be an amazingly successful entrepreneur as well. My personal goal with this interview is that you are able to make a decision if you’re on the fence about returning to school or not, and that you’re able to “pull the trigger” if you’re looking to get started in the roller coaster world of entrepreneurship. Howard Jean is proof that with the proper education, mindset, and work ethic, there is nothing that you can’t do…VERY WELL.




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