 Christine Williams is a 7-figure entrepreneur, bestselling author, Featured FORBES coach, and soulful business mentor for women coaches and holistic entrepreneurs who challenges the outdated rules of business. She built multiple thriving businesses from scratch while raising a family of five, and now empowers women to create financial freedom, authentic influence, and lasting legacy—without sacrificing their well-being or values. You talk about helping heart-centered entrepreneurs move from survival mode to sustainable abundance—what was your own turning point that inspired the Soulful Abundance System®? My turning point was that the health and wellness certifications did not teach how to actually attract clients and sell my programs. The only tactic I was taught was to book a discovery session and give a free coaching to sell my program. This felt like a bait and switch to me and out of alignment with how I would have wanted to be treated. Plus, I found that many people needed to have TRUST with you before giving you 1 hour of their time. I quickly realized that without the nurturing required to build trust and safety with a potential client, cold leads don’t buy. So I created a more relationship driven method to serve first, develop trust and safety and lead with value BEFORE inviting someone into a conversation to explore working with me. Many holistic practitioners struggle with visibility and marketing. How does your approach to “Sacred Visibility” help them show up authentically without burning out? Creating Sacred Visibility is not about being on in ALL the places or platforms. It’s about picking the ones where your ideal client spends the most amount of time. We start there with ONE social media platform and ONE email list to build and grow your audience and create a community of people who are interested in the problem you help solve. Burnout happens when there is lack of clarity on where your ideal client is. It’s trying to do too much too soon. So we simplify this process to focus on these 2 places first, before we add on any other visibility levers. Your book promises a business model that’s both values-driven and profitable. What’s one myth about making money in the wellness space that you aim to debunk? The biggest myth I would LOVE to debunk is that as a wellness practitioner, you should not charge for your services. So many wellness coaches and entrepreneurs have a hard time charging for their services because they want to help people. But what they don’t realize is that when they charge for their services, that investment made by the client is part of the accountability they need to show up, have skin in the game to make the changes so that they actually get results. And, there is a difference between being a philanthropist and a business owner. If you want to be a philanthropist and have money to share, you have to have a profitable business. Or you get to decide to be a charity. But a business needs paying clients. How does “Heart-Led Sales” differ from traditional sales strategies, and why is this shift so important for intuitive entrepreneurs? Heart-led Sales is completely different from the traditional sales strategies of trying to convert cold leads to buyers. Instead, we SERVE FIRST, give value, and create a relationship with the potential client before inviting them into a consultation. When this occurs, there is no need to convince, persuade or overcome objections as they are prevented BEFORE the actual sales call. This takes the pressure off the practitioner of needing the “close the deal” and instead shifts it to helping the potential client make an empowered choice in what is the best fit for them. This feels so much better for both parties as the energy is clean and supportive instead of “needing” to get this client- which ends up feeling salesy to the potential client. Which of the six stages in your framework tends to be the biggest breakthrough moment for your clients—and why? Honestly, they all work together. The breakthrough is individual to the client depending on where their struggle is. If they struggle to charge for their services, their breakthrough may come in the ALIGN step where they step into the identity of an empowered business owner who confidently charges for their services and makes a soulful exchange. But they also may have a breakthrough when they realize that making sales doesn’t require aggressive tactics or so the Nurture and Invite steps might serve them the best. Other clients may have a breakthrough when they finally design a freedom schedule that serves their life and business. So it really depends on what my client needs that determines the breakthrough. You emphasize building a business that aligns with your soul. What advice do you have for someone who’s afraid that scaling their business might mean losing touch with their purpose? Scaling doesn’t mean working harder or more hours. Scaling means leveraging your time and getting clear on a business model that is flexible for the way they want to serve. That could look like shifting from 1:1 clients into group programs so you can serve more people in less time. Or a hybrid of both 1:1 and group. It could also mean automating systems that take things off your plate, or hiring out a part time VA to take care of some of the admin. tasks. The key is deciding first on what your energetic capacity is, and then creating a business model to support that. That way you can spend your time doing the things that feel fulfilling and in alignment with your purpose and have time spaciousness in your life. Scaling also doesn't mean you have to turn into a manager of a team. You get to decide as the CEO of your business what parts you want to keep and what parts you want to delegate. And how big or small you want your business to be. Website: https://shineabundancenow.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristineSahliWilliams Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christinewilliamscoaching/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/activateabundance/ Purchase the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Soulful-Abundance-System-Christine-Williams/dp/1967703043
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 Kathryn Starke is a national literacy consultant, CEO, reading specialist, author, and former inner-city elementary school teacher. She has previously written books for children, teachers, and Hallmark movie fans. Starke is the creator of the 9th annual Tackle Reading event supported by the National Football League. She founded Creative Minds Publications to help authors bring their books to life.Twenty years is an incredible milestone. What inspired you to start Creative Minds Publications, and how has your mission evolved over the past two decades? In 2025, I initially started Creative Minds Publications to publish and market my first children’s book, Amy’s Travels. I was an elementary school teacher at the time and never imagined that I would become a published author and now the founder and CEO of an award-winning publishing company. Since my expertise and background is in literacy and education, our mission has always focused on children and teachers and to teach the world to read. Today, we help even more authors bring their books to life As both a publisher and a bestselling author of six books, how do you balance the creative process with the business of publishing? I’ve been fortunate to create a business that thrives on creativity. Personally, I only write books and articles when I am inspired or have an important story to tell. We specifically choose books and authors that I believe our company can creatively market, publicize, or develop book campaigns around to reach new readers. My previous position as a literacy leader in schools prepared me to implement and execute strategic timelines and projects that yield results. I’ve always been organized, disciplined, and resourceful, there attributes that support me in business. What’s one lesson from your journey that you wish you had known when you first launched Creative Minds Publications? I was hesitant of social media in the beginning, and Facebook was the only platform at the time. I didn’t feel comfortable talking about myself or posting the honors, media, and accomplishments I received along the way. I’ve learned, however, that no one is going to know your story or share your story if you don’t do it yourself. Today, I have a company page on Instagram and LinkedIn to let our supporters, friends, and readers celebrate our good news. Your books have made a lasting impact on readers and educators alike. Which book are you most proud of—and why? Thank you for saying that. My goal has always been to provide motivational, educational, and inspirational books for students, families, teachers, and readers of all ages. What I love about children’s books is that they are timeless. There is always a new reader to introduce a book to, and there is always someone who reads a favorite book over and over again. Amy’s Travels is used in elementary school classrooms every school year and is in over 26 countries on 6 continents. My book, A Touchdown in Reading: An Educator’s Guide to Literacy Instruction, was voted among the “best books to teach kids to read” and has helped over 200 schools achieve literacy success. What’s next for you and Creative Minds Publications in this new chapter? Any new projects or dreams on the horizon? To celebrate our 20 years, we are publishing 20 books this year. We are currently taking submissions (no agent required) to be considered one of the twenty new titles while we continue to build our catalogue and expand our imprint. Our goal is to increase the reviews, awards, and publicity for our authors, books, and company. We are committed to helping teach the world to read. What was your inspiration for your first children’s book, Amy’s Travels? I was teaching second grade looking for one children’s picture book to teach all seven continents. When I couldn’t find one, I decided to tell the story of my friend Amy who grew up traveling around the world and lived on five of the seven continents. My students were captivated, and I knew that this educational true story would support students and teachers around the globe. No matter where you live, you learn about the seven continents. What have been some of your greatest moments on your publishing journey? I’ve been grateful for everything on this journey. Amy’s Travels was selected by the California Department of Education for their multicultural book list and was turned into a musical by the Latin Ballet of Virginia. My book, Tackle Reading, launched a philanthropic initiative supported by the National Football League. The 10th annual Tackle Reading event kicks off March 2, 2026. This past spring, I was selected to share my work and introduce Creative Minds Publications on a global stage as a speaker at the World Literacy Summit at Oxford University. How do you decide which books your company publishes? Our company began because of a children’s book, so we love selecting engaging and educational children’s books we feel can make the difference in the life a young reader. We also select creative, talented authors who are committed to helping their book be successful. Recently, we have started curating a line of inspirational Christian books based on the submissions we receive and how popular the titles are among many groups of readers. What partnerships and initiatives have made an impact in your company’s impact? We believe in publishing for a purpose. We use our titles to increase awareness in important platforms including literacy, travel, cultural awareness and environmental issues. We have partnered with a variety of nonprofits, companies, and educational conferences to make this happen. Our greatest partnership to date is with the National Football League to promote a love of literacy with a passion for football. Each March, we kick off Tackle Reading events around the country with NFL teams, NFL Legends, and Hall of Fame players, who all donate their time to read to elementary school students. For the last three years, we have received sponsorship from Dr. Seuss Enterprises and Random House Children’s Books to give the gift of reading in various ways to deserving schools coast to coast. What is your vision for the next 20 years? I’m excited to welcome debut authors, illustrators, and new titles to the Creative Minds Publications family. We are excited to expand our reach and become a premiere publisher in children’s book publishing. We also plan to partner with producers and talent in the entertainment industry to turn some of our popular titles into children’s series and exceptional movies. Website: https://creativemindspublications.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kathrynstarke/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creativemindspublications/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CreativeMindsPublications/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/creative-minds-publications/ Purchase the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Amys-Travels-Kathryn-Starke/dp/0976973731  Gary Gabel is the visionary behind The Constitution Kids, blending historical wisdom with engaging storytelling. His mission is to bring civic understanding to the next generation through meaningful, accessible education. Gary Gabel is an author and entrepreneur known for his contributions to personal development and leadership training. He has authored several books, including: Personal Takeover: Create a Professional Life Full of Optimism, Energy, and Impact Originally published by Career Press in 2003, with a second edition released in 2019, this book focuses on personal empowerment and professional growth. Day One: The First Steps to a Meaningful Life...: Co-written with Tom Buck and published in 2020, this novel explores themes of redemption and personal transformation. The Constitution Kids: This book introduces readers to three fifteen-year-old friends—Alex, Kali, and Roman—each with unique talents, embarking on adventures that intertwine with lessons about the U.S. Constitution. In addition to his writing, Dr. Gabel has an extensive background in entrepreneurship and education:He founded and served as CEO of Great Lakes Strategies, a benefits consulting and administration firm based in Birmingham, Michigan.He co-founded Allecon, LLC, a stock administration firm, and Infinite Learning, a training company. Dr. Gabel has held leadership roles in educational institutions, including serving as Chair of the National Council on Education and Human Development at The George Washington University and as President of the Schoolcraft College Foundation Board of Governors. His academic credentials include an Associate of Arts from Schoolcraft College, a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Michigan, a Master of Arts in Economics from the University of Detroit, and a Doctorate in Human Resource Development from The George Washington University. Dr. Gabel has also been recognized for his entrepreneurial achievements, notably receiving the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2001 for Michigan Service Companies.Through his writing and professional endeavors, Gary Gabel has influenced many in the realms of personal development, and leadership. The Constitution Kids brings history to life through time travel and magical storytelling. What inspired you to use this unique blend of fantasy and education to explore the U.S. Constitution? Many people find it difficult to read the Constitution itself. It is pretty dry reading, yet it is an incredibly important document for us Americans to understand. It serves as the foundation for our country. I felt it was necessary to turn the exploration of the Constitution into a magical adventure and a time-travel quest. I wanted to make history come alive for the reader, one Amendment at a time, which, in fact, would help unlock the magic inside the Constitution. Your three main characters—Alex, Kali, and Roman—each bring a different strength to the story. How did you develop their personalities, and how do those traits help them understand the Constitution in their own way? I felt that the three characters had to have distinct traits that enabled each to play a role in dealing with the historical figures the teens meet. Alex was to be the communicator, Kali the intuitive-empath, and Roman the inventor. Their dynamic as friends provides humor and heart, even in serious situations. That way, I could approach big topics in an imaginative way that feels less heavy. I wanted readers to realize that the Constitution doesn’t have to be cumbersome and boring—the readers just haven’t met the right kids. You introduce readers to powerful historical figures like Ben Franklin, Alice Paul and Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn. Was there one character or moment in history that especially surprised you in your research? I was as surprised as the three teens when I learned that Ulysses S. Grant who led the Union Army and was President twice was actually a slight man, only 5’8” tall, with a meek demeanor. He tells the teens that this actually helped him get things accomplished since he would appear less threatening than a large, tall man would. Also, I found it interesting that the 15th Amendment only applied to men of color, that women wouldn’t get the right to vote until much later, when the 19th Amendment was ratified in 1920. And this caused a major kerfuffle between Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony. Writing a book that appeals to both young readers and adults is no easy feat. How did you balance humor, adventure, and historical depth to keep readers of all ages engaged? A lot of adults who see the title The Constitution Kids automatically conclude that this book is strictly for teens and tweens. Yet, every adult who has read it has said that the telling of the story was ingenious, with the mixture of humor, pathos and adventure to tell the story of the Constitution. As one adult reader said, “I couldn’t wait to get to the next chapter to see who the kids would meet next and where that person would take them!” I felt that having actual historical figures who had a hand in the original drafting of the Constitution and the reason for the various Amendments would bring credibility to each chapter. If young readers take away just one lesson from The Constitution Kids, what do you hope it will be? I would hope that young readers would realize how deeply the American Constitution plays a role in providing the underpinnings for our country. After reading the book, I believe the young readers will feel emotionally attached to the Constitution and feel a need to defend it so that our “American experiment” lives on in perpetuity. Website: https://www.theconstitutionkids.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garygabel Purchase the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Constitution-Kids-Gary-Gabel/dp/B0DNNS5H35  Albin Kaelin, from his experience, instilled a principle: never accept anything that lacks clarity. He strives to shape his life meaningfully for himself and his community. Professionally, he is dedicated to fostering innovations that create sustainable production concepts, transforming waste into valuable "nutrients" for other products. He navigates the old system, embodying responsibility without simply agreeing or disagreeing.From 1981 to 2004, Kaelin served as Managing Director of Rohner Textil AG in Switzerland, where the company garnered 19 international design awards under his leadership. He initiated the Climatex® product line in 1993, pioneering the first Cradle to Cradle® products globally. In 2001, he received the UBS Key Trophy as the “Rhine Valley Entrepreneur of the Year.” Kaelin's roles have included member of the supervisory board of Fein Elast Group in Austria (2002-2007) and CEO of EPEA Internationale Umweltforschung GmbH in Germany (2005-2009) and EPEA Nederland (2007-2009). Since 2009, he has been the founder, owner, and CEO of epeaswitzerland gmbh Kaelin has received numerous accolades, including the CEO Today Europe Award in 2021 and 30 awards in 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025 for his contributions to sustainable manufacturing and innovation. His company, epeaswitzerland gmbh, supports businesses in developing and implementing Cradle to Cradle® design concepts globally. Awards: • 2022 10 Awards: M&A Today Global Awards, Lawyers International and Global 100 > Best CEO of the Year - Albin Kaelin, CEO Today Europe > Manufacturing – Leader of the year. Business Worldwide Magazine CEO Awards > Most Innovative CEO in the Worldwide Textile Industry and > Business Leadership and Outstanding Contribution to Sustainable Manufacturing, Acquisition Int. > Best Specialist Cradle to Cradle Products & Services Provider, CIO Views Magazine and Fortunes Crown > Top 10 Most Inspiring CEO in Business in 2022, World Finance Innovation Awards > Textile Industry epeaswitzerland. • 2023 11 Awards: M&A Today Global Awards, Global 100, Corporate America Today and Lawyers International 100 > Best CEO of the Year - Albin Kaelin, Acquisition International > 2023's Best Specialist Cradle to Cradle Products & Services Provider, Fortunes Crown > The Most Innovative Technology Leaders to Watch in 2023, The European – Global Sustainability & ESG Awards 2023 > Best CEO in the Textile Manufacturing Industry > Best Cradle-to-Cradle Products & Services Innovation Experts > Most Sustainable Textile and Materials Value Creation Leadership. IE 100 > Albin Kaelin - Most Innovative CEO of the Year – epeaswitzerland gmbh – Europe, CorporateLiveWire > Household Hardware Specialists of the Year, Environmental – Leader of the Year: CEO Today Europe (2023) • 2024 9 Awards: M&A Today Global Awards, Lawyers International Legal 100, Corporate Amerika Today 2024 and Global 100 > Best CEO of the Year – Albin Kaelin, Corporate Amerika Today 2024 –Best Specialist Cradle to Cradle Products & Services Provider 2024, IE 100 – 2024 Albin Kaelin - Most Innovative CEO of The Year - epeaswitzerland gmbh – Europe, THE EUROPEAN - Most Innovative CEO in the Textile Manufacturing Industry 2024, Pioneers in Cradle-to-Cradle Innovation: Leading Experts in Textile 2024, Trailblazer Award for Circular & Sustainable Textile Innovation 2024 • 2025: Global 100, Corporate Amerika Today 2025 > Best CEO of the Year – Albin Kaelin You’ve spent decades turning rebellious ideas into groundbreaking innovations. What was the initial spark that led you to pioneer Cradle to Cradle® principles—and how did you convince traditional industries to embrace them? "I'm actually left-handed. When I got to school, I was forced to write on the right. Back then I asked why, but I didn't get an answer. This experience has taught me not to accept anything whose sense I do not understand. I want to shape my life so that it makes sense for me and for the community. In doing it becomes visual how I take responsibility. I work professionally to enable innovations to develop new concepts of production that no longer produce waste, but become 'nutrients' for other products. By showing new ways to the old system, I find my track of interface, where I am neither saying yes nor no and I am confident to bare my responsibility. " From my personal values the 3 principles Cradle to Cradle make sense, when I was first confronted with the concept "it made klick". I immediately knew what to do, it has provided me the roadmap. I am an educated, trained business man, manager from industry, knowing the language, culture, systems of industry. Convincing traditional industries is extremly challenging and contradictionary. The approach is to explain to individuals, managers the concept and don't give up until they can judge according to their own personal values it makes sense. Once they agree to this, the motivation is there to look closer to the concept. Getting a project is the next jump to enable proof of concept. In your book, From Rebel to Radical Innovator, you outline a blueprint for transitioning from linear to circular thinking. What do you see as the biggest obstacle businesses face when making that shift—and how can they overcome it? The biggest challenge is to balance or visualize risks and opportunities, building the trust to go for the adventure. Overcoming resistense to change is a key element, there are change management techniques and behaviours available. We call it "Building a Network of Trust". You’ve received over 30 awards in the past few years alone. Which recognition stands out to you the most, and what does it say about where the world is headed in terms of sustainability? The scoop of recognition is not primarily about me or the company, the most important element is the fact that the topic has reached the surface, its being recognized as an issue for the future. On a personal level it was good to see that some awards been given for up to 3 subsequent years: Best CEO of the Year, Most Innovative CEO of the Year. You emphasize that we should never accept anything that lacks clarity. How has this principle guided your leadership style, especially when navigating resistance or uncertainty in legacy systems? I am guided by my principles: "Innovation and Leadership are the only Survival Strategies" and "If you compare, you start to compromize". I experienced headwind for over 25 years, now the tipping point has been reached and it will become legislation. Remaining firm and consistent is key to gain and maintain credibility. How do you see the role of the consumer evolving in this circular economy? And what can individuals do today to support the kinds of systemic change you advocate for in your work and writing? The retailers who are in direct contact with the consumer resisted to accept the concept for decades. Times are changing, with the digitalization transparency has opened opportunities. In the book there is one example of a retailer in Switzerland, Migros, who has taken the step to move. We are still at the beginning and impact needs to grow quickly. Leveraging the concept is key, but the giant businesses are resisting, want to do it their way. I still feel to be in the David & Goliath position. Website: https://book.epeaswitzerland.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/albin.kalin/ LinkedIn: https://ch.linkedin.com/in/albin-kaelin-65942510 Purchase the book here: https://www.amazon.com/Rebel-Radical-Innovator-Transformation-Circularity/dp/1637352840  Rachel Melvald is a licensed psychotherapist providing coaching, consultation, and design services based upon her expertise in trauma recovery, neuroscience, interior architecture, art advisory services and design.What inspired you to merge neuroscience, psychology, and design into one comprehensive approach to well-being? As a couples therapist, I was seeing couples in high stress conflict and discovered at many points of moving in together, buying/selling real estate, and/or remodeling the deeper wounds of the relationship was revealed. I then became curious as to how the living situation could be a point of entry for transformation and change furthering my interest in how the actual environment can be a solution to our relationshp and mental health needs. I was simultaneously studing architecture and design at Sci-arc and UCLA to learn how physical structure can support our living needs. It was then I finally found a group of researchers through ANFA (The Academy of Neuroscience for Architeture) and was invited to the John Hopkins “Intentional Design Summit” to become a part of a consortium of scientist, architects, neuroscients and designers to learn how Neuro-arts can heal. Neurodesign was then further realized as to how psychology and neuroscience can contribute to healing our lives and environments to allow us to flourish. You emphasize that our environment impacts how we feel and function—what are some of the most overlooked design elements that affect our mental and emotional health? Many people overlook the subtle, yet powerful, impact of sensory input—like lighting, acoustics, and spatial layout. For example, harsh artificial lighting can increase anxiety or fatigue, while natural circadian lighting can regulate mood and sleep. Similarly, poor sound environments—like echoey rooms or background noise—can subconsciously increase irritability or reduce focus. Another overlooked factor is the emotional memory of objects and colors in the space; people often don’t realize how unresolved emotional associations can be triggered by what surrounds them daily. Lastly, the lack of intentional spaces for rest, play, or connection can leave individuals feeling disoriented in their own homes. Can you share a real-world example or case study where neurodesign principles made a measurable difference in someone’s life or work? Yes. One couple I worked with was on the verge of separation. Their shared home had become a battleground—cluttered, overstimulating, and full of unresolved design decisions. Through neurodesign, we first addressed the emotional layout—designating zones of retreat and connection, shifting color palettes to promote calm, and reducing cognitive overload by simplifying the environment. We also introduced sensory-regulating elements like texture, plants, and soft lighting. As their environment transformed, so did their interactions. They reported fewer arguments, better sleep, and even re-engaged in shared activities. The space became a supportive container, not a source of stress. How can someone begin applying neurodesign concepts in their own home without a complete renovation or large budget? Start with what I call “micro-interventions.” Focus on one sensory channel at a time: swap out harsh lighting for warmer, dimmable bulbs; add one tactile element like a soft throw or textured wall hanging; bring in one natural element, such as a plant or stone centerpiece. Next, look at layout: create a nook or corner dedicated to rest, reflection, or creativity—however small. Most importantly, remove what doesn’t support you emotionally. Neurodesign isn’t about perfection; it’s about intentionality. Small changes, when made mindfully, can completely shift how a space supports your nervous system. What do you hope readers take away from NEURODESIGN in terms of how they view and interact with their everyday spaces? I hope readers come away with a new sense of agency—that their space isn’t just a backdrop, but an active participant in their emotional and relational life. NEURODESIGN is an invitation to listen more deeply to how your surroundings make you feel and to respond with creativity and care. Your home or workspace can be more than functional; it can be healing, inspiring, and even transformative. I want people to feel empowered to co-create environments that reflect their highest values and support the kind of life and relationships they aspire to build. Website: https://www.psychitecture.com/
Instagram: @rachelmelvald Purchase the book here: https://www.amazon.com/NEURODESIGN-Art-Science-Harmonious-Living/dp/1962984982 |
AuthorJane Ubell-Meyer founded Bedside Reading in 2017. Prior to that she was a TV and Film producer. She has spent the last five years promoting, marketing and talking to authors and others who are experts in the field. Archives
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